Known so well for snowfields and the red rocks, many miss the pleasures and experiences Northern Utah has to offer in the summertime. For the informed few, outdoor adventures, amazing food, and sweeping landscapes are theirs for the taking. As more and more visitors come, the unofficial motto ‘They come for the winter and stay for the summer’ is heard more and more and one I now appreciate from my time spent exploring this picturesque part of the state. Here’s a Northern Utah photography snapshot of the diversity on offer as a year-round destination from Salt Lake City to Ogden, Bear Lake and Park City.
Peace, quiet and the perfect hiking trails in Bear Lake Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
World-Class Hiking
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Surrounded by canyons and valleys, Northern Utah offers such a diverse landscape. The best way to take it all in is to hike some of the hundreds of kilometres of trails. The pot of gold at the end of each is typically a tranquil lake or a waterfall all to yourself to sit and contemplate life.
A glassy lake awaits us during a warm hike in the mountains outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Green and gorgeous views around every corner while hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon, outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
A well deserved swim and float in a lake, found during a hike just outside of Salt Lake City Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Breathtaking Views
Once you hike, climb, zip, ride, swing your way to the top of the mountains, the views will have you wishing you never see a car, plane, train or even person again. There is something to be said about sitting in nature, listening to the ambient sounds. In Northern Utah, you will be almost be overwhelmed with both the ways to take in these views and the beauty that lies in wait around each tree-covered corner.
A hot air balloon ride should be top of your list when visiting Park City Utah. It is spectacular. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Taking in the moment floating over Park City Utah during an early morning balloon ride. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Bear Lake Utah is a beautifully peaceful place to wake up, the aquamarine water sparkling in the morning sun. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Chair lifts offer breathtaking views year-round in Northern Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Stunning views over the iconic Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Endless Outdoor Activities
Anything you have ever wanted to do outside in nature, you name it, Utah’s got it. From horse riding to hiking, kayaking, biking, rock-climbing and everything in between.
Kayaking in Bear Lake is a must-do for your Utah bucket list. Image © Chad Case Photography and Video
Horse riding at This is the Place Heritage Park just outside of Salt Lake City was the perfect way to spend a morning in the mountains. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Olympic Park in Park City Utah is a playground for both children and adults alike. We tackled these runs on a tube. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Taking in the panorama over Ogden after a morning spent hiking and climbing with Utah Adventure Center. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Hiking in Ogden offers a great work out, stunning views and natural wonders like this waterfall. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Bear Lake Utah is the ultimate glamping spot in Northern Utah. We stayed at the amazing Conestoga Ranch. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Mouth-Watering Food
If seafood is your go-to on any menu, Northern Utah has your back. The ability to fly fresh seafood in from around the country daily is a unique offering for a landlocked state and perfect for the restaurants who serve up the freshest of fare. The culinary scene will satisfy even the most discerning foodie catering to everyone from the health nut to those seeking some good old-fashioned soul food.
The food in Northern Utah ranges from healthy farm fresh fare to comfort food favourites. The seafood is something you can’t go past on any menu. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Cosy up in cafes around Northern Utah after a day of hiking and treat yourself to classics like this mac ‘n’ cheese. Image © Steph Ridhalgh
Our road trip through Northern Utah was full of adventure, great food, friendly people and stunning scenery. While many head south to snap photos in the desert, we encourage you to drive north and explore the diverse and very surprising north; suited to anyone from the solo traveller to the whole family. You’ll fall in love just as we have.
The Fit Traveller was a guest of Visit Utah for this trip. As always, the opinions, words and images are authentically our own.
Find more information to help plan your trip to Northern Utah on Visit Utah
Hailing from ‘down under’, Steph Ridhalgh is a journalist, producer, and blogger who suffers from a serious case of geographic schizophrenia.
Currently fulfilling her dream of living in New York, you can usually find her wandering the city streets, camera in hand.