Summer is flying by, and we’re trying to squeeze in all the fun before school starts. I put together this list of fun, kid-friendly adventures all around Utah—some we’ve done and loved, and others we can’t wait to try. Whether you’re a born and raised local, or visiting our beautiful state, here are some ideas to help get your family out together this summer.
Utah is seriously one of the best places to spend a summer with kids. It has so many national parks to explore, great mountain access, waterfalls, popular lakes and boating areas, the infamous Great Salt Lake.
Summer for us is all about getting outside, having fun, and making memories with our kids. So without further ado, here are 12 Bucket List Ideas for the Ultimate Utah Summer. Don’t forget to drop in the comments what we should add!
Utah’s Ultimate Summer Bucket list
1. Take a hike to Donut Falls
This hike is a classic. Up Big Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, it is 3.3 miles round trip with 538 ft of elevation gain. If you go up early or on a weekday, you can park right at the trailhead. However, when the parking lot at the trailhead is full, (as well as in the winter) you park at the Mill D Trailhead.
Parking here adds about a mile round-trip to the hike. You will cross bridges, see wildflowers in the spring/summer, fall leaves in the autumn, and a snowy trail in the winter. You likely will get your feet a little wet right before you get to the waterfall so be prepared for that. This trail, as well as all trails up Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon, is NOT dog friendly. I would also prep any kids that you can’t swim or wade in the water in the the Cottonwoods.
2. Go Fishing at Cold Springs Trout Farm
A hidden gem in Ogden, only 15 minutes from downtown. A really cool place that does weddings and events, but is also a peaceful spot that you can take kids fishing. It’s an awesome area to run around and explore with great shade and grass. You can often see fish from the side of the ponds if your kids are to little to fish.
They also offer fishing lesson, and for older kids fly fishing experiences. A great place for adult date night, too! Check out their website for more info!
3. Snap some photos at Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats are one of the most surreal and photogenic spots in Utah. The salt flats covers almost 30,00 acres and it a great place to lets kids run around. The wide-open landscape creates incredible reflections—especially after a rainstorm. Shade is slim, so bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. This is also a great place to camp overnight. While you can’t camp directly on the flats there are some nearby BLM land you can camp on for free. Watch the sunset, have some s’mores, and enjoy the stars away from the city lights.
4. Take a tour of Timpanogos Cave
A half-day excursion, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a great summer adventure, especially if you need an escape from the heat. Located in American Fork Canyon along the beautiful Alpine Loop. There is a paved mile and half trail to reach the mouth of the cave, but it is steeeeeep. So pack plenty of water, and suncreen.
You do need a reservation to go in the cave, and I would definitely purchase tickets before hiking up that hill. After your hot hike to the cave, make sure you have layers to wear inside because it is much cooler inside the cave. A very unique and memorable day for your Utah Ultimate Bucket list!
5. Pick your Adventure on Antelope Island
Okay, Antelope Island is underrated in my opinion. It can be heavy on the bugs, but I think it’s always worth the visit. There are many cool things to do on the island like visited “haunted” Garr Ranch, hike Frary Peak, spot heards of Bison, go kayaking, or sailing. It’s also a great place to catch a sunset over the water, and if you’re feeling brave you can get a Buffalo Burger at Island Buffalo Grill. While I haven’t ever tried one, the reviews aren’t bad!
6. Visit a National Park (or five!)
Utah has five National Park options, and they are all great picks—you really can’t go wrong. Plan a weekend (or longer!) to get out and explore them. From the towering red cliffs of Zion to the otherworldly hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, each park has its own unique vibe and must-see sights. You can check out Visit Utah for great resources and ideas, and I’ve also posted a handful of travel guides full of local tips, trail recs, and kid-friendly highlights. Whether you’re road-tripping with the fam or sneaking away for a quick adventure, the Mighty Five make for an unforgettable Utah summer.
7. Find the best Ice Cream 🍦
Create a score card or ranking system and test out some of Utah’s most famous ice cream spots. The most classic competitors are:
You could take day or mini trips to each of these locations, explore, and test out the ice cream.
8. Dig for fossils at the U-Dig Fossils Quarry.
A unique experiences and a little of the beaten path, but a memorable outing. U-Dig Fossils is a huge quarry of trilobites which is an extinct marine crustacean. Put on your archeologist hat and enjoy a day of digging and finding fossils. According to review the staff is terrific and very knowledge! We haven’t done this one yet, but I think my older kids would love it.
9. Ride the Alpine Slide & Coaster
A classic summer adventure tucked into the mountains of Park City. Not far from Main Street, the Alpine Slide and Coaster are a fun way to spend an afternoon with kids and also fun for adults!. You get the thrill of zipping down the mountain, but it’s mellow enough for most ages to enjoy. The slide is long and winding with great views, and the coaster feels like a mini rollercoaster through the trees. It’s the kind of thing you’ll want to do more than once—and totally worth it if you’re already up in the area. Check out their website for prices and waivers: Utah Alpine Slide.
10. Try Rock Climbing
There is a plethora outdoor rock climbing options in Utah. For those wanting to learn the ropes, there are great beginner friendly indoor gyms where you can get belay certified. You can take beginner classes at a gym called The Front. The have a few locations, and are beginner (and non-beginner!) friendly. You could also climb at iRock in Ogden, which is a very kid friendly spot with lots of auto-belay routes. Momentum is another great option.
11. Kayak or Paddleboard at Causey Reservoir
Causey reservoir is a great day trip destination. Launch your kayak or board from one of three main access points—south end, near the dam, or north arm—and explore calm coves ideal for swimming, cliff-jumping, or just relaxing near the water. There are no motorized boats allowed, which is one of the great things about this place. It’s pretty peaceful, but it can fill up on the weekend. Parking/access is free, and make sure you have a life jacket with you in the water at all times!
12. Explore Salt Lake City
Salt Lake has sooo many fun museums and kid-geared activities. Some of our favorites are visiting the Hogle Zoo or Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Plus, there is this awesome pass called the Salt Lake Discovery Pass that give you discounted tickets for lots of great attractions.
I hope this gives you a few ideas to get out and explore our great state. Drop is the comments what else we should add to our Bucket List Ideas for the Ultimate Utah Summer!
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