Here are 10 Unique Day Trips in Utah That are an Absolute Must-Do
By Catherine Armstrong|Updated on May 30, 2023(Originally published May 29, 2023)
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Wondering, “What are the best day trips near me in Utah?” Well, wonder no more! We scoured all over to find the most fun day trips in Utah. From seasonal events and train rides to scuba diving and more, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in the Beehive State.
Head up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird, where you’ll find plenty of recreational opportunities. Take the tram to Hidden Peak, then mountain bike or hike (you can also hike from Snowbird Center). Ride the mountain coaster or alpine slide. Snowbird also has a climbing wall, ropes course, bungee trampoline, and inflatables for kids. Enjoy lunch, dinner, or a snack before heading home. For more information, read our previous article.
Whether you cross the causeway on your bike or start at the island, you’ll find tons of mountain bike-friendly trails for riders of all ages and abilities. Frary Peak and Dooley Knob are not accessible for mountain bikes; bike any of the other trails. The island has restrooms and water; make sure to bring your water bottle and fill it often.
For more information, read our previous article.
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3. Take a Ride on the Heber Valley Railroad (Heber City)
Heber Valley Railroad, 450 S 6th W, Heber City, UT 84032, USA
Heber City is a short 45-mile drive from Salt Lake City. The railroad, with its three steam locomotives, offers a variety of trips along 16 miles of track. Excursions run from 1.5 hours to 3 hours roundtrip. Stop in at the Heber Valley Creamery in nearby Midway for some delicious local cheese before you head home. For more information, read our previous article.
You can boat, fish, hike, and ride your ATV or horse at Bear Lake. It’s also a popular summer dive spot. Right off Cisco Beach, scuba divers find volcanic rock formations and an artificial reef made from submerged cars. Whatever you do for fun while you’re at Bear Lake, don’t forget to grab a raspberry shake before you leave. For more information, read our previous article.
From June to October, visit the campus of Southern Utah University in Cedar City for the Shakespeare Festival. Catch a play or two, take a backstage tour, and learn a little more at a literary seminar. For more information, read our previous article.
Next on our list of the best day trips in Utah is the Ogden Valley. Just 8 miles up Ogden Canyon, you can spend a whole day playing in Pineview Reservoir and exploring Huntsville and Eden. Enjoy fishing, boating, and jet-skiing in the reservoir. For more information, read our previous article.
7. Shop at the Park Silly Sunday Market (Park City)
Every Sunday, from June to September, Park City’s Main Street fills with entertainment, produce, and local artists. There’s something new every week, with different vendors and live entertainment. Bring sunscreen and a hat. It’s cooler in Park City, but you’ll be out in the sun all day. Make sure you have cash if you plan to shop; not all vendors accept credit cards. For more information, read our previous article.
Sundance Resort, located in Provo Canyon, has one of the longest zip lines in the U.S., with 2,100 feet of vertical drop. You can control your speed on this zip line, speeding from 65 miles per hour to a complete stop. Riders must be at least 10 years old. For more information, read our previous article.
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9. Visit Dinosaurs (Vernal)
Quarry Visitor Center, 11625 E 1500 S, Jensen, UT 84035, USA
See real dinosaur bones at Dinosaur National Monument Quarry. Check out the exhibits, murals, and life-size replica dinosaurs at the Utah Field House of Natural History Museum. Other local attractions include the John Jarvie Ranch Historic Site, Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum, and petroglyphs at Dry Fork. For more information, read our previous article.
10. Visit the Old West (Wellsville)
American West Heritage Center, 4025 S.hwy 89-91, Wellsville, UT 84339, USA
The American West Heritage Center is located in Wellsville, 6 miles south of Logan. The 160-acre living history center offers interactive exhibits and activities. Talk to tour guides dressed as Native Americans, pioneers, trappers, and mountain men to learn what life was like in Utah between 1820 and 1920. For more information, read our previous article.
So, does this answer your question, “What are the best day trips near me in Utah?” Do you agree that these are some of the best day trips in Utah? Did we miss your favorite attraction? Tell us!