Lehi Sports
6 Outdoor Fitness Activities to Try When Living in Utah
If fitness is important to you and you love the outdoors, Utah is an excellent state to live in. Beautiful scenery and some of the best national parks in the country mean it is the perfect place to try out activities that are both fun and good for you.
1- Hiking
Utah is home to five national parks, including two of the best-known and most popular, Zion and Arches. Much of the state is public land, and this provides many opportunities for hiking. Whether you are a beginner looking for a day hike or you’re after a multi-day backpacking trip, you can get plenty of miles in and up your cardio fitness in Utah’s stunning landscape.
2- Downhill Skiing
Downhill skiing gives you both an adrenaline rush and gets you into better shape. Utah has world-class ski resorts to match its world-class national parks, and even if you’ve never hit the slopes before, you can start with lessons and build your way up to the more challenging hills. With so many resorts to choose from, you can tailor your ski vacation to exactly what you’re looking for. For example, if you want to go someplace that doesn’t allow snowboarders or other snow activities, you might enjoy Deer Valley or Alta while if affordability is a priority, Cherry Peak may be right for you.
3- Cross-Country Skiing
If you love the snow but high-speed thrills aren’t your thing, you might like getting fit by cross-country skiing. This is also a great option for hikers who want to get out when the snow is deep. Resorts are one way to get your cross-country skiing in. However, there are also many other options for cross-country skiing in Utah. For example, you can cross-country ski for free on trails in Round Valley, near Logan, and in other locations throughout the state.
4- Rock Climbing
Rock climbing enthusiasts will find plenty of outdoor fitness activities in Utah, with a variety of surfaces and locations available. Zion National Park is famous for the climbs it offers, but there are many other options as well. These include Big Cottonwood Canyon just outside of Salt Lake City and spires in the desert near Moab.
5- Cycling
Whether you are into road biking, mountain biking, or a little of both, there are many roads and trails that offer gorgeous scenery throughout the state. If bikepacking is your thing, you might enjoy the 142-mile ride along the Wasatch Front. Moab has several famous routes for mountain bikers, but there are many worthwhile lesser-known trails as well, including the 24-mile Thunder Mountain Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park.
6- Explore Slot Canyons
Utah’s rocky landscape means you can find more slot canyons there than anywhere else in the world. These gorges cut into the rock by natural forces offer adventures for all levels of explorers. Some are easy day hikes for casual explorers while others, such as the Ding and Dang Canyons, reward more experienced people looking for a challenge.
Whether you are a seasoned outdoor fitness lover or you’re just starting to get into these activities, you are in one of the best states to support healthy hobbies in nature. Try one, two, or all of the above and find new adventures while you get into shape.
