After the never-ending 2022-2023 winter here in Utah, we are finally into summer! Utah summers tend to go super fast and there's so much to do here. We've been all over the state exploring, having fun with friends and family, and finding new places over the years. Daylen and I travel a lot for fun and for my photography business, so we get to explore some pretty cool places.
I've compiled all of my favorite summer things to do in Utah to this Summer Bucket List! I'm so excited to share it with y'all. I tried to include all of Utah, but most of them are in northern Utah since that's where I know best. Have something to add? Leave it in the comments!
Bear Lake
The best lake in Utah! Called the Caribbean of the west for a reason. Clear, turquoise water, fishing, boating, beaches, and pretty much everything else you could want from a lake. There are lots of rentals there, cabins, and famous raspberry shakes! They have a Raspberry Days festival in the summer too! We love taking our boat here.
Bryce Canyon National Park
The best national park in Utah (in my opinion)! There is so much to do at Bryce Canyon, and it's not as crowded as Zion in the summer. Click here to see my comprehensive guide on BCNP.
Firefly Park
Did you know there are fireflies in Utah? In Nibley, there is a park called Firefly Park that is dedicated to preserving the habitat of rare Utah fireflies and monarch butterflies. The fireflies are only around at the end of June and very beginning of July, but the monarchs are there longer. Bring a blanket and some snacks and enjoy the fireflies! See more here.
Ogden Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival
Yes, hot air balloons. Dozens of them, taking off all at once and flying through the sky. What could be cooler?! You can even pay to take a ride in one. It's held in August every year, so keep an eye out for the date announcements. Located in Eden, Utah.
Ogden Raptors Baseball
Skip the Salt Lake Bees and head up to Ogden for baseball! The Raptors are such a fun team. They have a great stadium with a beautiful mountain view, and dedicated local fans. We try to go to as many games as we can each year! Watch out for their firework games too.
Snowbird Gondola
Snowbird Ski Resort gondola is open in the summer! You'll take a beautiful ride up the mountain to the very top where you can take photos, have a picnic, hike around, or mountain bike.
Crimson Trail
Up in Logan Canyon, there is a gorgeous trail called the Crimson trail! Hike up into the mountains for the best views around. Difficult at first, then easy once you get to the main trail area. It goes by the Logan River on the way down.
Kanarraville Falls
My favorite slot canyon in Utah! Kanarra Falls is so fun. Not very crowded, and away from the national parks. You'll take an easy hike on a trail and through a creek up to a beautiful waterfall. So gorgeous!
Cherry Peak Horseback Riding
People from all over Utah head up to Cherry Peak during the summer to ride horses! It's almost on the border of Idaho! A beautiful ski resort that has gorgeous horseback riding views.
Lagoon Amusement Park
Utah's best (and only) amusement park! Lagoon is super fun. Lots of rides for everyone, carnival style games, fun eats, a historic pioneer village, full waterpark with slides, and a new 'Biergarten.' They also have frightmares in the fall!
Dugway Geode Beds
If you love rocks you'll love Dugway Geodes! Out in the literal middle of no where in the Utah West Desert, there is a huge collection of natural geodes that formed long ago during the times of the ancient Lake Bonneville. You can easily find many geodes out there! See more about it here.
Ogden Pioneer Days
The best pioneer day celebration in Utah! Utah has it's very own holiday honoring the Utah pioneers. Ogden does it best with a famous rodeo, parade, and fun activities. It's a can't-miss!
Arches National Park
Arches is so fun! Head to Moab for a long weekend and hike to famous Delicate Arch. There's quite a bit to do there! Click here for my comprehensive guide to Arches National Park.
The Gem Studio
Making rings at the Gem Studio in SLC or Provo is a must-do! Such a fun experience. You'll make a custom silver gemstone ring during a workshop and take it home. I can't wait to do this again! It's also a great Mother's Day or birthday gift!
Snowbasin Blues, Brews, and BBQs
This is a super fun festival every weekend up at Snowbasin Resort in Huntsville. Free concerts, lots of craft beers and other refreshments, and amazing food. You don't have to drink to attend, there's so much more to do. Also a great place for mountain hikes! And great views of the valley.
Antelope Island Ranch
A historic ranch on Antelope Island with museums and really cool old time-y pioneer farm tools. You'll also get to see the Great Salt Lake up close and maybe spot a Buffalo or Antelope! Also check out the hikes on the island, and the visitor center. If you want a good salt beach, try Bridger Bay.
Park City Mountain Alpine Slide
I think I did this at least once a year growing up. The alpine slide is pretty famous in Utah and it's SO FUN. There is also a mountain 'roller coaster' that is a blast as well. Make sure to explore downtown PC while you're there! There's lots to see, including the Park Silly Sunday Market on Sundays.
Hill Air Force Base Air Show
Every year around the 4th, Hill AFB in Layton puts on a super cool air show with fighter jets and other cool planes! You can watch from anywhere around Layton, but it's best if you hop on a shuttle and go on base for the festivities.
Kayak in a Reservoir
There are so many reservoirs in Utah! Find one near you and rent or buy a kayak or boat and have a lake day. It’s one of my favorite things to do! My faves: Pineview, East Canyon, Hyrum, Porcupine, Mantua.
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