Explore Utah

New home or the ExploreUtah.com blog

2010-11-24T08:34:00.000-08:00

We have moved, please visit us here:

http://www.exploreutah.com/blog/

Utah's Newest Ski Resort Discounting Tickets and Season Passes

2010-11-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

Eagle Point, a new resort in Southern Utah, will open for skiing and snowboarding this season east of Beaver and rates for the upcoming season as well as pre-season discounts were recently announced. Discount rates for early purchase are available through Nov. 18.

Pre-season rates represent a 33% discount off regular rates. An adult season pass is available for $350, and a season pass for children (7-17) and seniors (65+) is $165 during the sale. A season pass is available to college students for only $200, and that price is available all season. Children 6 years and under always ski free with an accompanying adult.

For guests who are uncertain how many days they will visit Eagle Point this winter, there are options for purchasing discounted daily tickets in a pack of five tickets. The 5-Pack is available for $150 for adults, and $100 for children (7-17) and seniors (65+).

"In our inaugural season, Eagle Point is focused on establishing lasting connections and brand awareness with a strong base of ski and snowboard enthusiasts in our core markets of Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Southern California," says Shane Gadbaw, CEO of Eagle Point. "We have established an affordable pricing structure for all of our products, so that guests can enjoy a quality experience for an exceptional value."

Regular season prices are listed online at www.SkiEaglePoint.com. The resort expects to launch its inaugural season Dec. 15.

2010-09-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

CLIMB TO CURE CANCER: THIS WEEKEND IN SALT LAKE CITY

HERA’s Climb4Life fundraiser brings together professional rock climbers, cancer survivors, medical professionals, and those who’ve lost loved ones to ovarian cancer. The Climb4Life has raised over $1 million since 2001.

This weekend hundreds of Utahns will participate in this annual event.

Background: Ovarian cancer kills more women than all other reproductive cancers combined.
HERA is working to change that, funding research and exploring innovative methods of ovarian cancer detection and treatment.

What: An annual fundraising event that facilitates medical research to discover new directions in the detection, treatment, and prevention of ovarian cancer.

Who: Professional rock climbers, local participants and volunteers.

When: Friday, September 17, 8-10 am for best photo & interview opportunities.

Visuals: B-roll from last year’s event is available for television news outlets, as are still photos for all journalists.

Where: Black Diamond Equipment, 2084 East 3900 South in Salt Lake City.

HERA’s Climb4Life is sponsored by Black Diamond, Keen, Montrail, & Boulder Adventure Film Festival. For more information about HERA, visit www.herafoundation.org.

End of Summer Fun from Sundance Resort

2010-08-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

Escape the Summer Heat with our 3 for 30 Deal!
Escape to the mountain for a cool getaway! Hike, bike, horseback ride, go fly fishing in the Provo River, craft a pot in our Art shack or just relax with a soothing massage. We have the perfect package for you and your family.

more information

Big River Opens at Sundance
The Sundance Summer Theatre's production of Big River in partnership with UVU continues a Sundance summer tradition. Buy your tickets online now.

more information

2010 Tree Room Author Series
Purchase your tickets now for the Tree Room Author Series presentation of author Ann Patchett, who will discuss her novel Run . Tickets are $75 and include lecture and discussion, a signed copy of the author's book, brunch in the award winning Tree Room and gratuity.

more information

Music under the Stars at Zoom
Enjoy complimentary live music as you dine on Friday evenings at Zoom from 6pm to 8pm. For dining reservations, call 435-649-9108.

more information

Full Moon Lift Rides
Mark your calendar now for the Full Moon Lift Ride on August 23rd & 24th. Enjoy Sundance by moonlight.

more information

Summer Fun at Utah's Winter Resorts

2010-04-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

From SkiUtah.com

Once the ski season winds down, escape the summer heat with a full range of summer activities for all ages and energy levels at Utah's mountain resorts.

ALTA SKI AREA
Alta Ski Area is open to the public all summer long for hiking and biking. Enjoy a fabulous brunch on weekends at the Alta Lodge. The famous Wasatch Wildflower Festival will also take place July 16-18, 2010.

BEAVER MOUNTAIN
Beaver Mountain, located in Logan Canyon en route to the stunning azure waters of nearby Bear Lake, rents their ski lodge, yurt and four 10-person tents for visitors, youth groups and family reunions all summer long. In addition, Beaver Mountain has a campground with tent sites and RV hook-ups that they rent all summer.

Travel north to Beaver Mountain this summer for a pair of music festivals, to be held on Saturday, Jul. 17 and Saturday, Aug. 14. Each festival will feature several bands and runs from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information, visit www.skithebeav.com.

BRIAN HEAD RESORT
Brian Head Resort offers hiking, biking, ATV rides and dining daily throughout the summer. Weekend visitors can also enjoy scenic chairlift rides, lift-accessed mountain biking, mountain disc golf, concerts and various special events.

BRIGHTON RESORT
Brighton Resort will show its summer colors with a variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy flowers, fresh air and wildlife in beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon.

THE CANYONS RESORT
Enjoy gondola rides, lunch at Red Pine Café, mountain biking, disc golf, hiking and free concerts throughout the summer at The Canyons.

DEER VALLEY RESORT
Deer Valley Resort will open daily for the 2010 summer season on June 18, and continue through Labor Day before reopening for an additional weekend on Sept. 11 and 12, conditions permitting.

Those visiting Deer Valley this summer will enjoy over 55 miles of lift-served mountain biking and hiking as well as scenic chairlift rides. Ride the Silver Lake Express chairlift or drive to the Royal Street Café for a mid-mountain meal on the deck. Royal Street Café will be open June 18 through Labor Day, serving lunch daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The menu features appetizers, salads, paninis, Deer Valley's famous Turkey Chili, specialty entrées and creative cocktails.

PARK CITY MOUNTAIN RESORT
Park City Mountain Resort's family activities include the Alpine Slide, with four lanes available to ensure a new thrilling experience each ride; ZipRider; Utah's only Alpine Coaster; lift-served mountain biking and hiking via both PayDay and the Town Lift; scenic chairlift rides; climbing wall; the Legacy Launcher; Little Miner's Park; horseback riding and more.

POWDER MOUNTAIN
The inaugural Monster Energy Powder Mountain Motocross in 2009 was one of the largest motocross events ever held in Utah. This year's competition on August 19-22 will be by a day longer than last year in order to give racers and spectators more time To join in the excitement.

Powder Mountain will begin Summer Safari 4 X 4 Adventure Tours in mid-June. Guided tours in an oversized four wheel drive vehicle will take guests to spectacular sites over the 10,000 acres within the resort that would otherwise be inaccessible to the public by vehicle.

The 2nd Annual Powder Mountain Hill Climb will be held on June 12. The bicycle race starts at Wolf Creek Resort and climbs 3,300 vertical feet in six miles. Last year's winner made the trek in just over 41 minutes.

SNOWBASIN RESORT
Snowbasin will open for summer adventure on June 26th. Needles gondola will be in operation on Saturday and Sunday through October 2nd, for scenic gondola rides and access to hiking, mountain biking and award-winning cuisine. Snowbasin's single-track trails are well maintained and wind through scenic aspen groves and gladed pines. All levels of riding and available from the base with more than 26 miles of trails that connect to additional Forest Service trails for nearly 50 miles of adventure! Enjoy lower trails with shuttle service back to the base on the weekends.

Snowbasin also offers a 9-hole disc golf course utilizing natural terrain features for the hazards. There are no green fees. Disc golf equipment rentals and score cards are available in the Grizzly Center, where a rental fleet of full-suspension bikes with hydraulic disc brakes are are also available.

Mountain top dining with panoramic views is served at Needles Lodge on Saturday and Sunday, and lunch is available in Earl's Lodge on Saturday. Don't miss the BBQ with live music and cool mountain air in Wildflower Meadow every Sunday afternoon.

Special events at Snowbasin this summer include an endurance mountain bike race on August 28th, the Mt. Ogden 50/100k at Snowbasin. Returning this summer is the XTERRA USA Championships on September 24th and 25th. This extreme off-road triathlon attracts top notch athletes from around the world. Throughout the summer, bike enthusiasts participate in the mid-week race series which alternates between a crit and mountain course each week. For a full schedule of activities and events, visit www.snowbasin.com.

SNOWBIRD SKI & SUMMER RESORT

Snowbird summer activities will begin June 19, including a new Ropes Course next to Chickadee, Wasatch Mining Company Gemstone Mine, Aerial Tram, Peruvian Chairlift and Tunnel, Alpine Slide, four-station climbing wall, ZipRider, Bungy Trampoline, Mechanical Bull and Inflatables.

SOLITUDE
This summer, Solitude Mountain Resort will offer lift served biking, hiking and disc golf Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning in early July.

Scenic chairlift rides and uplift for hiking and mountain biking takes place on Solitude's Sunrise triple chair. From there, visitors may explore miles of single track on Diggler Scooters or mountain bikes, or explore some of the most geologically diverse terrain in the state by foot. Solitude's high alpine course also offers 18 holes of disc golf.

On Saturdays and Sundays, brunch and dinner will be served throughout the summer at Kimi's Mountainside Bistro, or follow a guide on a short alpine hike to the Yurt at Solitude, where a chef prepares a four-course meal while guests watch the sun set on the Wasatch. For lighter fare, the Stone Haus Pizzeria & Creamery is open Wednesdays through Sundays for lunch or dinner, serving hand crafted pizzas, barbeque, Starbucks Coffee, Spotted Dog Ice Cream, salads, snacks and more.

SUNDANCE
Nestled within thousands of acres of Rocky Mountain wilderness, Sundance offers some of the most spectacular hiking terrain in the West. From the rugged peaks of Mt. Timpanogos to lush waterfalls and deep canyon valleys, the terrain is sure to please all types of hikers. And with an incredible array of wildflowers and wildlife, explorers of all ages will find adventure at every turn. Visitors are free to explore on their own or join in on a guided hike.

Sundance Mountain Outfitters takes visitors to some of Sundance's most stunning terrain. Whether guests want to hike from the summit or explore new ground on the back mountain, these hikes are sure to please avid hikers.

Bikers will enjoy the same terrain that makes skiing and snowboarding at Sundance so amazing in winter. Ride the lift up, along with your bike and then experience some remarkable trails. Day passes, twilight passes and season passes are available.

Sundance also offers scenic lift rides, including full moon lift rides, horse backing riding and fly fishing. Visit www.sundanceresort.com for more information and a calendar of events.

UTAH OLYMPIC PARK

Utah Olympic Park's Freestyle Training Pool in Park City is home to several multi-day Freestyle and Freeride Camps throughout the summer season. These camps and programs offered by FLY, AXIS and others provide progressive instruction for those interested in pursuing freestyle or freeride.

FLY Freestyle is a year-round aerial, mogul, and freeride program dedicated to providing a progressive fun training program in a safe environment. FLY is the resident freestyle program of Utah Olympic Park and a Community Olympic Development Program. Private lessons are coached by some of the top freestyle skiers in the country. All ability levels are welcome for ages 7 and up. For more information visit www.olyparks.com/uop/freestyle.asp or call Tim Preston at (435) 658-4220 or John Lobsenz at (435) 694-3528.

Youth Development programs are also offered at Utah Olympic Park this summer in Bobsled, Skeleton, Luge and Ski Jumping. For full information and a program calendar visit www.olyparks.com.

WOLF CREEK UTAH

Guests will never run out of things to do with Wolf Creek Adventures. Summer adventures include horseback riding, guided hikes, geo-cache hikes, hot air balloon rides, mountain and road bike tours, tennis lessons, white water rafting, flat water kayaking, Chuck Wagon Dinners and Wild West Games, lift-accessible bike rides, scenic rides, fishing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and golf.

What's Going on at Sundance this Fall

2009-09-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

2009 Food & Wine Festival
Experience the cuisine of Utah's top restaurants and the wines of vintners from around the world at our 4th Annual Food & Wine Festival! Tickets still available.
more information

Early Bird Gets the Powder
Book your 2010 ski vacation by October 31, 2009 and get the Greatest Snow on Earth for the greatest prices around! The Early Bird Package includes room, breakfast per person daily, 2 all-day lift tickets per day and an upgraded amenity bag for post-ski munching in your room upon arrival.
more information

Harvest Market
On September 26th, enjoy musical entertainment, a myriad of artistic creations, hand crafted jewelry, and Sundance Art Shack artisans' hand-blown glassware and art pieces. Admission is free to the public.
more information

Full Moon Lift Rides
For a truly unique experience, enjoy a Sundance lift ride by the light of the full moon. Join us September 4th, 5th, & 6th from 9-11pm.
more information

Tree Room Author Series
Tickets are still available for the remaining Author Series lectures. Join us September 12th to hear Dr. Paul Ekman discuss his book Emotional Awareness followed by James Orbinski September 19th on his book An Imperfect Offering: Humanitarian Action for the Twenty-First Century.
more information

Night Skiing
Night Skiing is coming to Sundance in December! Buy your season passes now.
more information

General Store Trunk Show
Come meet Olga Lubarsky of the Russian Connection September 5th & 6th and see her collection of fascinating amber jewelry.
more information

Preseason rates at Alta

2009-08-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

It’s time to think about skiing and to have you, your friends and family make your own epic history at Alta! As one of the first ski areas in America, Alta's mountain has always been an amazing place to enjoy the thrill of skiing—from beginners to the powder hounds.

Come and check out all of the options at http://www.alta.com.
Questions? 801 359-1078.

Important Date: September 30, 2009 – Last day for pre-season rates and to purchase Powder Cards.

Palisade State Park unveils new cabins

2009-07-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

For those who like to rough it in luxury, three new cabins will become available at Palisade State Park in Sterling, UT on August 1. Available year-round, the Taylor Made, Bird House and Tripp Lodge cabins have all the comforts of home (they will be equipped with refrigerators, showers and beds) with panoramic views overlooking the park and Palisade Reservoir. From $60 per night.

The 6th Annual Uncle Uncannys Summer Sessions

2009-07-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

For the past 6 years the group known as Uncle Uncannys has been putting on the grass roots festival Summer Sessions. The festival is well known throughout the music scene in Utah, as being truly home grown. Founders TJ Arnovic and Rick Gerber started Summer Sessions to bring Utah’s music scene, friends and family together and enjoy music and the outdoors. Depending on the support of the Uncanny family, most of the festival is run by passionate volunteers and musicians. The festival has had success every year, and now taking the next step in its growth.

The 2009 Summer Session will take place in a new location. Uncle Uncannys is proud to partner up with the Rivers edge at Deer Park in Beautiful Wasatch county, Utah to throw an amazing festival. The new convenient location offers plenty of camping, deluxe affordable cabin rentals, and a great concert area. The Uncanny family has been hard at work planning and booking over 30 of Utah’s own talent and is booking major acts now. View Map of Location

Uncle Uncannys is and will always be about the music, friendships and fun. We will continue to have the best concert production staff and event planners around to ensure a professional, exciting, and safe time. In addition to great music, this year’s plans include artist workshops, food vending, local artisans, a late night bar with special guests, raffles, and kids activities. We look forward to growing this year once again, and to our bright future.

Tickets and reservations available June 20th

For Sponsorships, booking and production information contact:

junwahs@hotmail.com

For Vending Information contact:

drvending@q.com

for more information please see the website at http://www.uncleuncannys.com/

Diamond Fork Hot Springs, May 2009

2009-05-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend 2009 was a washout in most parts of the state. But that didn't mean we had to stay indoors! Me and a couple of other intrepid hikers braved the downpour and visited the Diamond Fork Hot Springsin Spanish Fork on Sunday (yes, in the pouring rain!) And a good time was had by all.

Free Telemark and AT Demos at Alta This Sunday

2008-12-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

Don't take a chance on purchasing a ski or boot without a bit of research. To get exactly what you want, you can't beat a free demo.

On December 14th, Salt Lake City's Wasatch Touring hosts their annual Tele and AT Demo, which features a large array of skis, boots and bindings to try for free for one day at Alta Ski Area. Manufacturers set up large tents at the base of Alta's Collins chairlift, and guests register on the spot with a valid photo ID. They're then free to wander from tent to tent, trying different telemark and alpine touring skis, boots and bindings to their heart's content for no charge other than a valid lift ticket or season pass.

Park City Mountain Resort Trail Advisory

2008-09-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

What: Crescent Chair Lift Construction Update: Trail Advisory for Mid-Mountain Trail and Crescent Mine Grade

Park City Mountain Resort will be flying in lift towers for the new Crescent Chair Lift on Thursday, September 4 and Friday, September 5, 2008. The Mid-Mountain Trail and Crescent Mine Grade will remain open and staffed on both sides of the impacted trail during construction, but temporary closures will take place. During the unloading of lift towers the temporary closure could be five to 15 minutes long.

Park City Mountain Resort asks all riders and hikers to follow any instructions they receive from resort staff. This request is for the safety of riders and hikers as well as our employees. Additional updates will follow as conditions and construction continues.

When: Thursday, September 4 after 1 PM and Friday, September 5 starting at 8 AM (weather permitting)

Where: Park City Mountain Resort – Mid-Mountain Trail and Crescent Mine Grade – Park City, Utah

Experience Sundance by Moonlight

2008-08-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Complete your evening at Sundance with a Full Moon lift ride.

What a great and romantic idea for a fun summer evening. The full moon rides are only offered when there is a full moon (duh!) and those dates remaining for this summer are:

Sept 15, 16, 17
Oct 13, 14

The service runs from 9-11pm. Bring a bottle of wine and some cheese and bread, maybe even a musical instrument and enjoy.

36th Annual Snowbird Oktoberfest

2008-08-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

Festival Includes Live Music, Dancing, Authentic Food, Children’s Activities

Snowbird, Utah – Snowbird’s annual Oktoberfest celebrates its 36th anniversary this year with seven weekends of fun beginning Saturday, Aug. 23. More than 70,000 visitors are expected to enjoy the live music, dancing, authentic German food and children’s activities taking place at Snowbird every Saturday, Sunday and Labor Day through Sunday, Oct. 5.

Oktoberfest features live musical performances each day in the Snowbird Event Center tent from acts including The Bavarians and Salzburger Echo. Visitors will find art for all tastes at “Der Marktplatz,” where more than 35 local and regional artists display and sell handmade arts and crafts. Oktoberfest food includes bratwurst, sauerkraut, apple strudel, pretzels and Bavarian roasted almonds. Local Utah breweries will also be featured.

Admission to Oktoberfest is free. Hours are noon to 6 p.m.

Special Oktoberfest entertainment and activities for children include Shan the Juggler/Magician, Dale the Yo-Yo Man, face painting, caricature artists, and more.

Visitors can also catch the Alp Horns on Hidden Peak throughout Oktoberfest. A Tram pass is $18/day or $12 for a single ride with discounts for children, seniors and with Oktoberfest meal purchases.

In addition, Snowbird will also be offering a variety of summer activities for all ages. The Tram, Peruvian Express Chairlift and Tunnel will be open for scenic rides throughout Oktoberfest. Other activities include the new four-station climbing wall, ZipRider, Alpine Slide, Bungy Trampoline, Kid’s Inflatables, Mechanical Bull, horseback and ATV tours, mountain biking and scooters, and lots of hiking options. All-day activity passes are $36 for adults, $19 for children under 75 lbs. For more information, please visit www.snowbird.com.

For more Oktoberfest information please call the Snowbird Event Hotline at (801) 933-2110 or visit www.snowbird.com. “Stay and Play” lodging packages are also available starting at $75 per person/double occupancy, including breakfast and an all day activities pass. Contact Central Reservations at (800) 453-3000 for more details.

Sundance Food and Wine Festival

2008-08-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Great food, award winning wines, the mountain air, what more could a person want?

When: August 30, 2008, Noon – 4pm
Where: Ray’s Lawn, Sundance Resort

Tickets: are $75 and include access to all vintner and restaurant booths. Please purchase tickets in advance. Last year’s event sold out and this year’s event is expected to be even bigger. Tickets can be purchased by calling 866-717-9089 or email boxoffice@sundance-utah.com.

Read More.

1,200-year-old pit house is discovered in Utah

2008-08-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

A remarkable archealogical find near Kanab, this pit house believed to be 1200 hundred years old was discovered by a road crew. Read more.

OGDEN VALLEY FALL TOURS & EVENTS SCHEDULE

2008-08-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

This list from the Ogden Valley Business Association has some great ideas for fall fun in the mountains.

Deer Valley Events for the rest of the summer

2008-08-13T07:18:00.001-07:00

Deer Valley has put together this list of the goings on at the resort for the remainder fo the summer. Have fun!

Snowbird hosts Uah’s oldest bike race

2008-08-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

30th annual bicycle hill climb and ultra-widowmaker is Saturday, Aug. 16

Snowbird, Utah – For the 30th straight year, some of Utah’s fastest bicyclists will be racing up Little Cottonwood Canyon in the Snowbird Bicycle Hill Climb. The event is the oldest bike race in Utah, challenging riders with a 10-mile course that ascends 3,500 vertical feet.

This year’s race, which takes place on Saturday, August 16, has been re-routed due to construction on 9400 South. Participants will begin at 8 a.m. at the Swamp Lot on 8099 South Wasatch Blvd. and ride along Wasatch Blvd. to North Little Cottonwood Canyon Road and the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon before continuing up to Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort.

“The Bicycle Hill Climb holds a special place in Snowbird’s history,” said Snowbird President Bob Bonar, who has ridden in the race numerous times. “It’s become a summer tradition for many riders and we look forward to carrying on this legacy for years to come.”

Participants who complete the Bicycle Hill Climb have the option of jumping on their mountain bikes and continuing up to Snowbird’s Hidden Peak to complete the Ultra-Widowmaker portion of the course. The Ultra-Widowmaker is a grueling 4-mile climb over 3,000 vertical feet to a peak elevation of 11,000 feet, offering spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley. Both races will conclude with an awards ceremony at the base of Snowbird at 10:30 a.m., featuring prizes, a raffle and live music.

Later in the day, the Tour of Utah bike race will be concluding its fourth day of riding at Snowbird. Heralded as the most challenging portion of the five-day race, the Queen Stage starts in Park City and travels over five substantial climbs and a total of 98.1 miles before ending at Snowbird.

For registration information on the Bicycle Hill Climb and Ultra-Widowmaker, visit www.snowbird.com. Spectators are encouraged to come up to Snowbird to cheer on family and friends. Vehicle traffic in Little Cottonwood Canyon will be restricted beginning at 8 a.m.

Snowbird will also be offering a number of summer activities throughout the weekend, including Tram and Peruvian Chairlift rides, the new four-station climbing wall, ZipRider, Alpine Slide, Bungy Trampoline, Kid’s Inflatables, Mechanical Bull, horseback and ATV tours, biking and hiking. For more information, please visit www.snowbird.com.

DEER VALLEY RESORT OFFERS NEW SERIES OF GUIDED HIKES

2008-07-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Free, guided, historic hikes will be offered by Deer Valley Resort on four Sundays this summer: July 20, August 17, September 14 and 21. Hike organizers will highlight some of the area’s mining history along the way, and participants are encouraged to share their own knowledge of local history, too. Read more here.

July Events in Utah

2008-06-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

SLTrib.com has a list of some of the great happenings along the Wasatch Front for this upcoming holiday weekend. And I have gethered a list of even more stuff for the month of July throughout the state.

Visit Sunnyside to see bighorn sheep

2008-06-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

This story on utah.gov points out that the town of Sunnyside (about 20 miles east of Price) has an active herd of the bighorns. They typically hang out all summer bdfore heading for their winter digs. Best time to see them is late afternoon until dark.

Interesting Outdoors Events

2008-06-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

I just saw this list at SLTrib.com and there are some really interesting outdoor events coming up. Some of the fun things are:

National Get Outdoors Day. A nationwide campaign to encourage families to get outdoors with their children to have some fun and to instill a love of nature and an interest in conservation. Outdoor agencies and outfitters will be showing their wares and children will be able to ride the tram or climb the climbing wall for free. June 14, 11a.m. to 3 p.m, Snowbird.

Paddle demo day. REI will be at Liberty Park with the latest in paddling boats and gear. All skill levels are welcome, no registration required. June 14 from 8 a.m. to noon, southeast corner of Liberty Park.

The 4th annual Swaner Nature Festival. Music, nature walks, an art contest and classes (wildlife photography, GPS101...) June 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, Park City, www.swaner ecocenter.org

The 15th annual Antelope by Moonlight Bike Ride
Ride your bike around Antelope Island (at night) dressed up like you favorite creature of the night. July 18, starting at 10 p.m.

Free Clinics at REI. Throughout the summer, REI will be hosting Best of the Wasatch Hiking clinics and on June 19, Author Greg Witt (60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Salt Lake City)will be on hand to discuss hidden treasures of the Wasatch.

More events for the summer in Utah can be found here.

SUV vs F16

2008-06-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Check out this picture and story. And the people in the car made it out alive.

Wild Outdoors Festival This Weekend

2008-06-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

When: June 6-7, 10 am – 8 pm

Where: Thanksgiving Point’s Electric Park

Admission:

$15 for adults (ages 13+)
$10 for children (ages 3-12)
$10 for senior citizens (ages 65+)

What: This fun festival will highlight all things outdoors. Sponsored by Backcountry-Utah.com, there will be demos, live entertainment, food and some of Utah's top authors signing and discussing their books (I will be there with Backroads of Utah.)

For more info, see http://www.wildoutdoorsfestival.com/

2008 Community Fishing Guide Now Available

2008-05-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

While getting away from it all to a quiet mountain lake or remote reservoir is what fisherman dream of, heading down to the community pond with your kids in tow can be just as enjoyable. And fishing with the wee ones will not only get them outdoors but foster in them a love of nature and a store of fond memories of fun with the family.

Utahs DWR (Division of Wildlife Resources) has a webpage with articles on what you need to know about fishing in Utah and a downloadable pamphlet with directions to the ponds they have stocked with fish for this fun family activity.

Take a Vacation in Utah -- save gas and travel dollars and support your economy

2008-05-29T06:51:00.000-07:00

A recent article in the Salt Lake Tribune suggests that we stay in Utah this summer and keep our vacation dollars in the state. With rising gas costs (and that affects airline ticket prices, too) it just makes sense to stick close to home. After all, we have so much here that you probably haven't ever seen (or haven't visited in a long while.)

The most popular places such as Zion National Park, Arches National Park or Lake Powell are only a taste of the beauty and diversity Utah has to offer. How about some of the lesser-known places like Capitol Reef or the San Rafael Swell?

Need an idea? I have just the prefect book to get you started: Backroads of Utah! And with my article on finding the cheapest gas in Utah, you'll be all set to go.

Find Cheap Gas in Utah

2008-05-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

Gas prices are out of control. So much so that you think twice before going for a Sunday drive, or running into town for a Big Mac Attack. Maybe there should be a resurgence of the corner grocery store so you can get what you need without using gas to get there.

Find Gas Cheap In Utah has a list of links where the prices around the state are at their lowest. Give these gas stations your business; not only to save yourself some money, but to support them so they can continue to offer the lowest prices.

Heroes Among Us - Crandall Canyon Mine Disaster Memorial

2008-05-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

Heroes Among Us is a new memorial to the men who lost their lives in the Crandall Canyon Mine disaster. Former nurse and now full-time sculptor Karen Jobe Templeton was selected as the artist to sculpt the monument that will reside on the road to the mine, in full view of the schoolyard where the families gathered to await news of their loved ones. Read more about the monument and Karen at http://www.sltrib.com/ci_9365045 and visit her website at http://www.templetonsculpture.com/

How to Correctly Pronounce Utah's Names and Places

2008-05-13T08:26:00.000-07:00

Several of the words and place names we Utah'ns say every day might give a newcomer pause as to how they are correctly pronounced. Here is some help with a few of them. I also made an mp3 to help in case you want to actually hear them.

Touring Salt Lake City

2008-05-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Got friends in town and want them to get a great view of downtown Salt Lake City? Or maybe you have lived here for years, but would just love to learn some interesting facts about downtown's buildings and history. Or maybe you are new to town and want to get an overview of what is here.

Here are some of the ways you can tour the city in style.

Nine Mile Canyon Rock Art in peril

2008-05-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

This story on preservation.org talks about how all the trucks going in and out of Nine Mile Canyon for natural gas exploration are causing a drastic increase in the amount of flying dust. That translates to damage to rock art made thousands of years ago.

Despite the fact that Nine Mile Canyon was included on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2004 because historians and concerned citizens were afraid of this very thing happening.

If you care about the rock art (a part of our heritage), send your comments to the Bureau of Land Management today at UT_Pr_Comments@blm.gov and copy the National Trust at crc@nthp.org.

Canyons of the Wasatch Front

2008-04-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where City Creek Canyon or Rose Canyon were? Salt Lake county has several canyons you might not be aware of. Or even if you have heard of them, maybe you don't really know where they are. Here's some help.

I'm Back

2008-04-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

I took the winter off to write a book (Hobby Farming for Dummies) so this website hasn't had much attention for awhile.

But now I have some time again and am slowly filling in all the holes. The Getting Around Utah section is where I am starting and I've put up a few articles there. Check them out!

Utah Ski Resort Closing Dates

2008-04-09T15:38:00.001-07:00

Alta 4/13 (reopen 4/18-20)
Brian Head 4/13
Beaver (closed 3/29)
Brighton 4/20
The Canyons 4/13
Deer Valley 4/13
Park City Mountain Resort 4/13
Powder Mountain 4/13
Snowbasin 4/20
Snowbird 5/26
Solitude 4/13
Sundance 4/5
Wolf Mountain 4/12

Backroads of Utah is out!

2008-04-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

My new book -- Backroads of Utah-- is out!

The official press release follows:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Maurrie Salenger,
Marketing Manager
(612) 344-8154
msalenger@mbipublishing.com
http://www.mbipublishing.com/

Backroads of Utah takes you on a roadtrip through the natural and historical wonders of one of the most beautiful and varied states in America .

Known for its canyons and breathtaking views, its whitewater rivers and Wild West outposts, its tranquil lakes and fantastic rock formations, Utah is one of the most beautiful and varied places on the planet.

Backroads of Utah takes you to every corner of this spectacular state, from Dinosaur National Monument to Rainbow Bridge , from historic squares to outlaw hideaways, from the vaulting natural arches of Arches National Park to the exquisite formations in Timpanogos Cave . Utah , home to five national parks, seven national monuments, and six national forests, has something for every traveler.

Whether you're seeking adventure or the quiet contemplation of nature, an immersion in history or a taste of culture, the backroad adventures charted in this book will take you where you want to go. Theresa Husarik's inviting text and lovely color photographs offer a thorough overview of Utah 's landscapes, its legacy, and its people. With detailed travel directions and maps, as well as entertaining sidelights from the state's history, this handy guide to Utah 's justly famous attractions and lesser-known gems makes a perfect companion for any traveler in the Beehive State .

About the Author : Theresa A. Husarik is a writer, photographer, and Utah resident with a love of travel and the outdoors and nearly twenty years of experience exploring the nooks and crannies of her home state. Her images and articles have appeared in numerous publications worldwide, and since 1997, she has produced about.com's Salt Lake City web site (SaltLakeCity.about.com).

Backroads of Utah: Your Guide to Utah's Most Scenic Backroad Adventures by Theresa A. Husarik
ISBN-13: 978-0-7603-2956-6
Retail: $21.95US · $23.95CAN · £14.99
Softbound / 8.5 x 11 / 160 pages / 125 color & 25 b/w photos, 7 maps
Pub Date: April 2008

Available in bookstores everywhere or through http://www.voyageurpress.com/.

For trade inquiries, contact us at trade@mbipublishing.com or (800) 458-0454.

About Voyageur Press
Voyageur Press, an imprint of the Quayside Publishing Group, features books about nature and the environment, American heritage, country life, crafts, trains, boats, sports, collectibles and travel.

An imprint of the
Quayside Publishing Group
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300
Minneapolis , MN 55401 USA
Phone: (800) 328-0590
Fax: (612) 344-8691

What's One Word for "Skiing and Snowboarding"?

2008-02-16T15:03:00.001-08:00

Come up with one and win great prizes and some notoriety.

Is there one word out there that describes both skiing and snowboarding? The industry is lazy looking for an alternative to the three-word, 21-letter standard. In an effort to coin this new term, Ski Utah and Winter at Westminster, a ski season exchange program at Salt Lake City's Westminster College, have teamed with The Addictionary, an online dictionary of made up "werds", for the 2008 Ski/Snowboard Lingo Contest.

There are two goals and two chances to win: to add to the general glossary of skier and snowboarder lingo and name the best new werd for 2008, and to come up with that one werd - the mighty catch-all, the great equalizer, the big peacemaker - that describes both skiing and snowboarding in one fell swoop. There will be one winner in each category.

The Ski/Snowboard Lingo contest runs from February 4 to March 4, 2008. The winners will be chosen by a panel of celebrity judges, including: Annie Fast, Executive Editor of Transworld Snowboarding magazine; Derek Taylor, Editor of Powder magazine; Nathan Rafferty, Ski Utah President; Kendall Card, "powstash"; Kristen Ulmer, professional skier; and Julian Carr, professional skier.

The prize for the best new werd for "skiing and snowboarding" is a Spring Ski Trip to Utah for two in April '08, sponsored by Ski Utah and participating Utah resorts. The prize for the best new general ski/snowboard werd will be two day passes at The Canyons Resort in Park City, and 10 T-shirts featuring their winning word.

"For years people have had to classify 'skiing and snowboarding' as two separate words," said Rafferty. "We hope this contest might help us find one single word which describes both of these great downhill snow sliding sports."

For more information or to enter the contest, visit www.addictionary.org/Browse/ContestWords/19

Fifth Annual Backcountry Awareness Week is Feb. 4-10, 2008

2008-02-02T08:38:00.000-08:00

Snowbird, Utah – Utah’s unparalleled avalanche education and awareness program continues this winter with the Fifth Annual Backcountry Awareness Week Feb. 4-10, 2008. The event features snow safety clinics, on-snow demonstrations, avalanche transceiver drills and an evening fund-raiser featuring New York Times bestselling author David Oliver Relin.

Three Backcountry Awareness Week clinics will be held at Snowbird Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 9-10. A snow safety clinic with Exum Utah’s Tyson Bradley will be offered from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, and will include an all-day Tram ticket and lunch for $59. From 1-3 p.m. Saturday Eric Murakami of Backcountry Access will lead a free advanced beacon course. Wasatch Backcountry Rescue President Dean Cardinale will conduct a hasty search clinic from 9-11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, that will include an all-day Tram ticket and lunch for $59.

David Oliver Relin, author of the runaway New York Times bestseller “Three Cups of Tea,” is the keynote speaker at the fund-raising evening Friday, Feb. 8. Relin will present his experiences writing and reporting the book, show slides from his travels to the Karakoram Himalaya and discuss the work of Greg Mortenson with the Central Asia Institute and the current crisis in Pakistan.

In addition to Relin’s presentation, the fund-raising evening includes dinner, drinks, a book signing and a silent auction. The benefit dinner will take place in the Cliff Lodge Ballroom from 5:30-9 p.m. A ticket to the event is $75 and tables of eight are available for $700. Exclusive front-row seating is available for $250 per ticket and $1,600 per table. For reservations call (801) 933-2147.

For further information, visit www.snowbirdrc.org. To register for Backcountry Awareness Week clinics or the evening fund-raiser, contact Snowbird’s Activity Center at (801) 933-2147.

New digital map shows landslide hazards in Utah

2008-02-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

An article in the Tribune alerted me to this new map from the Utah Geological Survey that shows areas where landslide hazards may exist throughout Utah.

UGS is charging $19.95 for the map, which is available at the Natural Resources Map & Bookstore, 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City (801-537-3320 or 1-888-UTAHMAP; geostore@utah.gov). The map can also be viewed on the UGS Web site at http://geology.utah.gov/online/m/m-228.pdf.

National Geographic Channel Comes to Utah

2008-01-04T07:51:00.000-08:00

Beginning Friday at 7, the cable channel will air a three-part series, called "Dogtown", profiling the efforts of southern Utah's Best Friends Animal Society to rescue seemingly hopeless dogs, giving them the medical attention they require and putting them up for adoption as pets. SLTrib.com has the story.

Help Us Make Utah Number 44

2007-12-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

Currently, 43 states have felony provisions in place for those who intentionally abuse animals. Our goal is to make Utah the 44th state.

The current law in Utah carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $2500.00 fine for torturing an animal. Help us substantially increase these penalties.

This is an outrage--cruelty is cruelty, whether it is directed to an animal or a human! Animals are family members, no different (in a lot of people's eyes) than a human family member. A simple slap on the wrist (or turning your head all together) when someone is cruel to an animal is the same as saying this cruelty is OK. It is NOT.

Sign the petition at HelpUsHelpThem.org

New Victories for Utah Backcountry

2007-12-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA) has scored another victory in getting the Book Cliffs / Desolation Canyon area designated as untouchable by the greedy hand of developers and oil companies.

The article says "Over the past six years, the Bush administration has shown little regard for protecting Utah’s most spectacular public lands from the heavy hand of oil and gas development, and we’re expecting things to only get worse as time runs out on this terrible legacy of public lands mismanagement. "

But because of the efforts of SUWA and the support of people like you, we have received three favorable decisions on the oil & gas front, and have been able to push back on the administration’s drive to “drill it all.”

Read the rest of the story and voice your opinion.

Skiing should not be dangerous, says a Utah court

2007-12-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

According to an Associated Press story, "Skiers assume the potential for injury when they try to navigate a steep mountainside, but not all risks are inherent, the Utah Supreme Court ruled Tuesday, clearing the way for a lawsuit against [Snowbird Ski] resort...William Rothstein suffered severe internal injuries when he skied into a wall at Snowbird in February 2003. He sued and claimed the resort was negligent."

Let's all just forget about taking responsibility for anything we do, and when things go wrong, find someone to sue. Hey, it's the thing to do these days, and it is easy, and there will always be a lawyer out there that can help you get a lot of money for an injury that results from your own carelessness, or lack of skill, or not being properly prepared, or whatever...

This reminds me of the lawsuit brought against Zion National Park when a Boy Scout outing went bad and several of the participants ended up dying. (I can't find that one online--I think it was sometimes in the mid-90s-- but what a surprise, here is another one.)

Wake up people! Skiing has risks, and so does hiking, climbing, biking, whatever you do for fun in the outdoors. If you are not prepared to take responsibility for taking those risks, STAY HOME. Don't engage in lawsuits like these that could ruin the sports for the rest of us.

Black-footed ferrets released in Utah and Colorado

2007-12-17T06:07:00.000-08:00

According to a story on the Utah DWR pages, ferrets were introduced at Snake John Reef last month in an effort to not only increase their populations, but also to hopefully aid in research to produce a vaccine for sylvatic plague. Similar to black plague in humans, sylvatic plague can wipe out a ferret population.

Utah's ferrets have been dying off due to the disease and officials are trying to stop that. These guys that were released were given a vaccine. They will be monitored, and the effectiveness of the vaccine determined.

Good luck to the ferrets!

Adopt a Horse

2007-12-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

Salt Lake Wild Horse and Burro Center (8605 W. 12600 South, Herriman)
December 8-21
Adoption Times: 9 am - 3 pm
Information: 877-224-3956

Every year the wild horse population is culled and the horses are available for adoption to the public. Even if you can not adopt at this time, the event is a unique and educational, and well worth the drive.

The 2007 event will be held from December 8-21 at The Salt Lake Wild Horse and Burro Center in Herriman. There will be over 100 geldings, one year and older along with six yearlings, all halter trained by the Gunnison Wild Horse Prison Program.

All animals are first-come-forst-served, and can be had for as little as $25!

Pat Bagley publishes Survival Guide for Utah

2007-11-28T08:58:00.000-08:00

A post on DailyCartoonist.com announces a new book by the infamous cartoonist and Utah resident Pat Bagley. They quoted him as saying, "We have a state that is unique; it’s like no other place in the world, and I think the people ought to be warned before they get here." Gotta love Bagley!

Here is one of his cartoons that I got permission from the SLTrib to post.
Check out the book on Amazon.com.

Capitol Reef National Park

2007-11-26T06:09:00.000-08:00

Have you been to Capitol Reef lately? It's one of Utah's best kept secrets. Packed with human and natural history, as well as some great hikes and stunning views, Capitol Reef is a great place to spend a few days. Even in the winter!

New Utah License Plates Released!

2007-11-21T05:33:00.000-08:00

Two new plates, both updated versions of the current SkiUtah (in circulation since 1985) and Delicate Arch ( released in 1992) plates are now available from the Utah DMV. These new plates' designs incorporate Utah tourism's new slogan--Life Elevated.

Resort Openings Report

2007-11-21T05:06:00.000-08:00

I took a drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon yesterday and I must say things are looking a bit bleak. It was pretty cold (my car thermometer said 26 deg) so the snow making machines were going full force. But Snowbird looked sad and Alta not much better.

Where is the Snow?

2007-11-15T15:53:00.000-08:00

Salt Lake area ski resorts were supposed to open this weekend, but mother nature is not cooperating! Not only is there not enough natural snow to allow smooth sailing down the slopes, but it isn't even cold enough to make snow.

Only a handful of the resorts have decided to go ahead and open with limited runs and lifts operating. The others are holding on to see what the weather gives us.

Resort	Expected Opening Day
Alta	TBA
Beaver Mountain	TBA
Brian Head	Nov 22
Brighton	TBA
The Canyons	TBA
Deer Valley	Dec 8
Park City	Nov 21
Powder Mountain	TBA
Snowbasin	Nov 22
Snowbird	TBA
Solitude	Nov 16
Sundance	Dec 7
Wolf Mountain	Nov 22

Fly Into Salt Lake City and Ski Free

2007-11-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

Park City ski resorts (Deer Valley, The Canyons and Park City Mountain) will be sponsoring their Quickstart Program again this year. Fly in today and ski this afternoon. Convert your airline boarding pass into a same-day lift ticket to the Park City resort of your choice. For free! For real!

This is a great way to get visitors to try out the resorts. A lot of visitors come here just for the skiing, but some, who maybe come in for a trade show might not think they have time to check out the slopes and they don't want to put out the bucks for a lift pass if they are only going to ski for a couple of hours. This program helps alleviate that situation and gets people who might not otherwise find out how awesome our snow is onto the slopes.

I wonder if they would accept a bus pass ;->

Email of the Week

2007-10-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

Steve asks: Are there Trolleys for tours in Salt Lake City? Maybe they have wheels on it and are rentable??

Well, Steve, sorry but there no trolley tours. They used to have them but when TRAX was built, they went away. But there other options. But since you asked (and thanks for the idea), I put together this article on Salt Lake City Tours.