10 Must-Do Winter Adventures In Utah
Winter doesn’t slow down adventure in Utah.
If anything, it amplifies it. Whether you want a quick hike close to town, a dawn patrol powder session, or a weekend camping adventure in the snow, we’ve got something that will fit the bill. Take a look at our list and start making your weekend plans before the spring thaw. (Or roll the dice and wait for the freak April snowstorm that seems to keep hitting Utah.)
1. Hike to Fifth Water Hot Springs
Cold winters call for hot springs. At 10 miles round-trip, this adventure requires decent shoes and some gumption, but there’s a convenient bit of R&R built in at the halfway point. You Cougars: Bring a towel. Learn more.
2. Ski or Snowboard Pink Pine Ridge
If you love Utah powder but you’re ready to ditch the crowds at the resorts, it’s time to hit the backcountry. Learn more.
3. Snowshoe Twin Lake Pass
Get in a great workout and you’ll catch amazing views of Mt. Superior, Mt. Wolverine, Twin Lakes and the Salt Lake Valley. Learn more.
4. Ski and Camp at Lily Lake
If you’ve been looking to get into cross-country skiing and winter backpacking, this is the perfect adventure for you. Ski into the Uintas and set up camp in a beautiful snowy landscape. Probably best to bring a non-beginner. Learn more.
5. Winter Hike the Pfeifferhorn
Hike one of Utah’s most iconic mountains without the typical crowds of warmer months. The views from the summit are as fantastic as the peak’s name. Learn more.
6. Relax at Saratoga Hot Springs
If Fifth Water sounds a little harrowing — hot springs are supposed to be relaxing, right? — skip the hike and drive right up to the springs at Saratoga. Unless you like doing burpees while you get a massage. Learn more.
7. Hike Wall Street in Bryce Canyon National Park
Southern Utah may not be what you think of when you hear “winter wonderland,” but Bryce Canyon National Park gets a decent amount of snowfall at 9,000 ft. After a fresh storm, it’s an amazing place to hike around. If you spend the night, check out Sunset Campground. Learn more.
8. Snowshoe Lake Blanche
Depending on recent snowfall, this hike can be done with or without snowshoes. It’s a great place to spend the day, and even makes a great winter backpacking trip. Learn more.
9. Ski Little Cottonwood Canyon
Didn’t get enough backcountry powder? Get up before the sun, earn your turns, then beat your boss to the office. Learn more.
10. Explore the Icy Shores of Utah Lake
Known primarily as a summer boating spot, Utah Lake makes for a great winter destination to work on your photography or just take in a tranquil sunset. Learn more.
Cover photo: Ryan Vermilion
To learn even more about the region and to discover the best places to eat, stay, and visit, check out Utah.com.
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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