Summer is passing by, and soon, it will be time for back-to-school shopping. But if you’ve delayed getting your kids involved in making the most of the season, there’s still time.
Check with local summer camps to see if they’re still taking registrations. Here are three that were available at the time of this article. Keep in mind they’re likely to fill up quickly.
NHMU’s summer camps
The Natural History Museum of Utah offers camps for grades K–8 that make the most of its exhibits, focusing on LEGO building, digging for dinosaurs, and more. As of this posting, a handful of kindergarten camps and fourth- and fifth-grade camps still have open spots.
Register now—registrations close two weeks before each session or when they are filled.
Explore the many nature-based options for kids and teens at Ogden Nature Center. While spots are filling fast, multiple camps are still taking registrations when you hit “Register Now” on their website.
Camps with availability as this posted included Toddler Tracks (two-hour programs for ages 2–3 and their chaperones) in July and August, and a week-long STEM camp for ages 10–12 starting July 14.
Mojo Village Teen Camp
New to the Uintas this year, Mojo Village offers teens an outdoor experience typical of many other camps, in addition to tools for building confidence and becoming emotionally resilient.
Camp, which runs from July 30 to Aug. 2, is still accepting registrations. Those who register with the code SLMAG200 will get $200 off if they register by July 15.
Summer in Utah is a wonderful time of sunshine, mountain air and endless trails—it can also be hot, dry and dusty. In addition to creating volatile wildfire conditions, the weather can leave your whole body feeling a bit parched and in need of a respite. Fortunately, the Beehive State is full of literal and figurative oases in the desert, with a host of alpine lakes, mountain reservoirs and waterfall-fed swimming holes. Here’s our list of the best swimming spots in Utah. Some of these require a decent hike to get to, while others are just feet from the car, but they’re all perfect for staying cool on a summer day.
Swimming Near SLC
Salt Lake City has swelled into a major urban population center, but there are all types of unique swimming opportunities nearby.
Pineview Reservoir is one of the best spots to take a dip near Ogden and SLC. Photo credit Steve Greenwood.
Burraston Ponds: Just a 30-minute drive south of Provo, in Mona you’ll find Mona Reservoir and the Burraston ponds. (There used to be rope swings, bummer.) But still there are deep refreshing pools of water to plunge into, The Burraston Ponds have a small parking lot and are easy to find just by typing the name into Google Maps. More information at santaquin.gov.
Pineview Reservoir: While not exactly a secret, Pineview Reservoir is one of the best spots to take a dip near SLC and Ogden. The reservoir is ringed by mountains, which provide not only incredible views, but also surprisingly good protection from the wind. Pineview Beach on the reservoir’s west end is flat and sandy and feels distinctly more like a natural lake than many of the dammed bodies of water in Utah.
East Canyon Reservoir: East Canyon is a famous, historical pioneer route for groups from Brigham Young’s Mormon pioneers to the ill-fated Donner Party. You can retrace their steps in a significantly less arduous manner by visiting East Canyon State Park for a dip in the reservoir. The snowmelt-fed water is surrounded by mountains and seems miles further from civilization than the short 25-minute drive would indicate.
Swimming in the Uinta Mountains
The Uinta Mountains are home to more than 1,000 pristine natural alpine lakes. Unlike those in the Cottonwood Canyons, they aren’t part of the watershed so they’re perfect for swimming. Access them all just east of Kamas and Park City via the Mirror Lake Highway (S.R. 150).
The Uinta Mountains are home to more than 1,000 pristine natural alpine lakes. Photo courtesy of UOT.
Ruth Lake: Ruth Lake is only about a mile from the trailhead, which is 35 miles up S.R. 150 from Kamas. Enjoy the mellow hike through open meadows with views of the surrounding mountains like Hayden Peak before rewarding yourself with a dip.
Mirror Lake: The namesake of the famous road through the Uintas, Mirror Lake is easily accessible as it’s right off the road. Because of that proximity, it can get a little crowded from time to time, but the near perfect reflection of the surrounding mountains alone makes it worth the visit. A well-maintained path surrounds the entire lake, so you can go for a nice scenic walk while finding the perfect spot to hop in. Mirror Lake is 32 miles up S.R. 150.
Wall Lake: Start from the Crystal Lake Trailhead (26 miles up S.R. 150), and head up the Notch Mountain Trail for about a mile to reach Wall Lake. Wall Lake is flanked by cliffs of varying sizes you can jump off depending on how daring you’re feeling. The Crystal Lake Trailhead gets a little crowded, but people dissipate quickly as you head up the trail and reach Wall Lake.
Swimming in the Utah Desert
These are the literal oases we were talking about. Utah’s famous desert landscapes are dotted with refreshing, picturesque swimming holes.
An hour away from Zion, Toquerville Falls features several layers of cascading waterfalls. Photo Credit UOT Images.
Touquerville Falls: Touquerville Falls is a wonderful spot to visit after spending a day at nearby Zion National Park. The road out there is a rough, 12-mile OHV trail. It’s passable with most relatively capable 4×4 vehicles, but it’s not one to be attempted in your ’88 Civic or rusted-out Ranger. The road can also be hiked by the hearty. Either way, once you reach the several levels of cascading waterfalls, you know the effort was worth it.
Calf Creek Falls: Located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Calf Creek Falls is named for the surrounding steep sandstone walls, which served as a natural pen for calves. It’s about a three-mile hike to reach Lower Calf Creek Falls with its stunning 130-foot waterfall and a deep swimming pool. Upper Calf Creek Falls takes more effort to reach, but it has a 90-foot waterfall of its own and far fewer visitors. The historic rock art on the stone walls helps the miles pass quickly.
Mill Creek Waterfall: Ever the popular tourist destination, Moab is teeming with people looking to cool off after a long day in the sun, mountain biking or hiking through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The Mill Creek Waterfall Trail is less than a mile from downtown Moab. The full trail is a 7.5-mile out-and-back, but if you just want to make it to the waterfall for a swim, it’s shy of two miles total.
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When your kids start pestering you about being bored this summer, just tell them to take a hike. Then pack some Kind bars, water bottles and bug spray, and get everyone in the CR-V for a little trip. Once you reach the trailhead, your dad joke will finally click. With longer days and sunnier weather, now is a great time to start hitting local hiking trails with the family. Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly hikes in the Wasatch this summer.
Ensign Peak
The Trail: While a bit of a climb for kids just starting out, it’s a short trail — 0.8 miles — and offers plenty of opportunity to rest and look out toward the city below along the way. You’ll see a mixed crowd on your way up (teens hanging out before the prom, moms pushing off-road strollers, marathon trainers, hipsters with their dogs) and historical markers explaining the trail’s historical significance, particularly for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. You can see the pillar at the peak from miles away. Once there, you’ll have one of the best views of the Salt Lake Valley. Getting There: Head north on State Street in Salt Lake City, turn right onto 300 North, turn left on Edgecombe Drive, look for the trailhead on your left and park across the street. Take Note: It’s a short hike, but you’ll want to hang at the top for a while. Bring snacks.
Farmington Creek
The Trail: You can make this a long hike, leading to nearby foothills, or shorten it for a fun, relatively flat, stroll with the family. For the latter, you have several options for your starting point. Personally, we like to eat lunch at the gazebo in Ezra T. Clark Park before taking the park’s short, shaded creek-side path and crossing the street to the trail that runs past Lagoon’s campgrounds. Stay on that path, and you’ll eventually see signs dubbing it “Lagoon Trail.” Don’t worry; you’re in the right place. You’ll hear screams from Colossus and pass Lagoon’s zoo (yeah, we know). You’ll also see horses on private properties. Once the “Lagoon Trail” ends, make a left on 200 West and notice where the Farmington Creek Trail continues across the street. This quaint, shaded path crosses the street again at 600 North, and eventually leads to the duck-filled Farmington Pond. Getting There: Set your GPS for Ezra T. Clark Park on 400 West (just north of State Street and across from Lagoon) in Farmington. Take Note: Catfish are biting in Farmington Pond.
Grotto Falls
The Trail: It’s a pretty sweet payoff for only a .6-mile out-and-back, the trail is easy on smaller legs, and it’s located along the Nebo Loop Scenic Drive, best known for its fall colors, but still stunning in summer. The trail ends with a show-stopping 20-foot waterfall and an open-ceiling cave that are perfect for Instagram. Dogs allowed. Getting There: From Salt Lake, take I-15 South to exit 250, turn left onto Main Street, turn left onto 100 North, turn right onto 600 East, follow the road to Payson Canyon and the Nebo Scenic Loop. You’ll see the trailhead about seven miles up the loop on your left. Take Note: Nebo Loop closes in the winter and usually opens to traffic on Memorial Day, depending on weather conditions. The trail can get muddy, prep accordingly.
Cecret Lake. Image credit Austen Diamond, Visit Salt Lake
Albion Basin/Cecret Lake
The Trail: You know this one, right? While the trail to Cecret Lake isn’t so secret, there’s a reason it’s such a popular summer hiking spot. Albion Basin, where you’ll start your hike, is famous for its stunning array of wildflowers (mid-August is your best bet). On the short trail to the lake (1.7 miles), you’ll likely see moose. At the lake itself, take your time to travel the perimeter and have your camera ready — it doesn’t have a bad side. Getting There: Alta will limit car access to Albion Basin this summer. We recommend taking Little Cottonwood Canyon Road to the Wildcat Base Area in Alta and parking there. Then walk to Albion Basin or hop on one of the shuttles. Get the details here. Take Note: Unlike the rest of the hikes we mentioned, no dogs allowed.
Suicide Rock/Parley’s Historic Nature Park
The Trail: It’s an easy trail with fun payoffs, filled with dogs. Stay left as you head into the canyon, and you’ll come to a shared biking/hiking trail with historical markers, including one for a wine cellar dating back to 1870. Keep heading east, and you’ll reach one of the major spots dogs go to splash. (Bring yours if it plays nice with others.) Once there, look left for Parley’s Trail, which goes over I-215 and connects to a trail offering an overhead look at the heavily spray-painted, yet oddly majestic, Suicide Rock, which clearly states “Sigma Chi rules!” Watch for bikes. Getting There: Park across the street or at Tanner Park, 2760 S. 2700 East, Salt Lake City, and walk up the hill for a minute or two. You’ll see the trailhead on your left. Take Note: Watch out for poop! Luckily, most dog owners are responsible… most.
Wild Rose
The Trail: This trail starts at a park, complete with slides and monkey bars, but don’t let your kids wear themselves out just yet. Toward the back of the park, you’ll see the trailhead that leads to a 2 ½-mile loop that offers a subtle climb and lookout point with a bench to chill out at the end, offering a stunning picture of the valley below. The trail includes maps along the way and much-needed shade during hotter months. Dogs welcome. Getting There: Set your GPS for Wild Rose Trailhead Park, North Salt Lake. The trailhead is on the east side of the park. Don’t be surprised if there’s a wedding taking place. Take Note: While we haven’t seen an actual wild rose here, summer wildflowers are on point.
The cheers of a crowd reach a fever pitch as a flamboyant group of contestants step onto a stage. All smiles and pomp, the team makes an offering to the feral spectators in the form of a choreographed routine. The pre-show display comes to a close as a single brave team member dons a helmet and climbs into an extravagantly adorned soapbox car. With one final show of camaraderie, the team shoves the engineless contraption down a steep obstacle-laden course and prays to the powers-that-be that no injury befalls the driver. Wielding a combination of skill and dumb luck, it’s up to the pilot to navigate jumps, hay bales and general hazards of the road. In an ideal world, they’ll meet the finish line with all four wheels and legendary status. But just as many attempts end in epic crashes and brutal face plants—not without their own brand of glory, of course. This is the scene Salt Lakers will soon experience as the Red Bull Soapbox Race makes its very first appearance in Utah on Saturday, June 14 2025.
About the Race
The event, which first took place in Belgium 25 years ago, makes a visit to major cities each year. Salt Lake is one of only three soapbox races hosted by Red Bull in 2025, and the local adrenaline junkies, engineers and showmen responded in droves to participate. Over 400 applicants—the most of any U.S. Red Bull Soapbox event so far—submitted mock-up car designs, team narratives and general dream-big motivations. 40 teams from Utah and across the country were selected for a chance to conquer the soapbox course, which will take place at the top of Main Street near the State Capitol. In a nod to the Beehive state, track obstacles for this race include The BFGoodrich Rock Garden: a bumpy obstacle course fashioned after Moab’s iconic red rock. More challenges drivers will face are The Sticky Steps, the Smith’s Speedometer and the piece de resistance—a massive jump near the finish line appropriately named The Ski Jump.
Participants have eight weeks to create handmade soapbox cars with plenty of flair. Photo courtesy of Red Bull Content Pool.
Part extravagance and part skill, contestants are also judged on showmanship and creativity. Their handmade motorless vehicles must have steering and braking capabilities, but teams are encouraged to push their cart design to outrageous levels. This year’s cart lineup includes a rainbow snail, a delicate arch, Grandma Sickamore’s white bread, and of course, a technicolor whale. Team members will match their thematic carts with costumes and a 30-second pre-show routine, both of which factor into their overall score.
Meet the Teams
Exactly who you might ask is brave enough to test their mettle, melodrama and engineering aptitude at such an event? I sat down with Utah-based team Dad’s Rat Finks to see how they plan on sweeping the race this Saturday.
Jon Farrington (sumo suit) and his team win first place at the 2024 Red Bull Flugtag event in Tampa.
“We definitely have a triple threat of expertise to bring to this year’s Soapbox event.” Jon Farrington is competing with his family, which includes professional float builder, alumni soap box competitor, and most importantly, his dad—Mike Farrington. Mike raced in local soapbox events throughout his childhood, races that were judged on speed and agility rather than flair. Combined with his award-winning float builds, Mike has applied all his specialized expertise to design a light weight Rat Fink-inspired cart with plenty of panache.
Mike Farrington competed in soapbox races in his youth. Photo courtesy of Jon Farrington.
The family is also well-versed in Red Bull-branded events, as Jon is just coming off a win at a recent Flugtag competition in Tampa—in which participants attempt to fly home-made, human-powered flying machines across bodies of water. “I definitely think I’ve learned some tricks from Flugtag that I’ll be able to apply to Soapbox,” Jon says with a knowing smirk. Though his Flugtag team comprised NASA employees, he’s more excited to compete at Soapbox with his family this weekend. The all-hands endeavor also includes pilot Patrick Farrington, co-driver Ryan Farrington, Pusher Candice Jones and professional choreographer Kaylene Farrington—the latter of which Jon’s believes brings extra star quality to the team. “One thing I’ve learned from Red Bull events is that showmanship gets the most points,” he says.
Dad’s Rat Finks will be donning 3D printed Rat Fink masks. Photo courtesy of Jon Farrington. Rat Fink is the creation of Ed “Big Daddy” Roth.
Dad’s Rat Finks are looking forward to honoring their family’s patriarch with another shot at soapbox history. When asked about their racing goals, three separate answers sum up their approach to the race perfectly. The ever humble champion, Jon is content with bringing home “the memories, to be able to compete with our entire family is something I’ll never forget. It’s been so fun to work together with our partners and even our kids are so excited about it.” Alumni soapbox competitor Mike Farrington has a more pragmatic goal: “I’d like to have a good track time getting down.” And for driver Patrick, it’s more about walking off the track in one piece, “I hope my helmet stays in place…Maybe I’ll add some motorcross gear to go the full measure.”
Salt Lakers can see Dad’s Rat Finks for themselves this Saturday, June 18 at the Capitol Grounds! The Farringtons will take their shot at the course in the middle of the event, with more participant highlights including Dave Kindig and Kevin Scheiel from the hit show Bitchin’ Rides, Red Bull Airforce and World Champion Skydiver Mike Brewer, and Secret Live of Mormon Wives castmember Mayci J. Neeley. The event is free to attend, but event organizers are expecting thousands of spectators, so plan travel accordingly.
What: Red Bull Soapbox Race Where: Utah State Capitol | Main Street When: Gates open at 10 a.m., races begin at 12 p.m.
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Moab, Utah has always been a place of rugged beauty. Nestled in a valley between Red Rock buttresses and the Colorado River, with two national parks nearby, it was a hidden gem until recently. Now, it has become a bustling seasonal metropolis with a busy main drag, packed restaurants, plenty of glamping accomodations, and teeming hiking trails. Moab is different from the dusty little town I remember visiting when I was younger. I have fond memories of just showing up at Arches National Park and getting a campsite. Those days are in the past. And little creature comforts are a travel byword.
Drive just a little ways outside of Moab, and you’ll find plenty of adventurous spaces that are still private and hidden, tucked away and waiting to be explored.
Sophisticated and grounding, adventurous and relaxing, there are still mysterious spots to explore. Even in town, there are quiet culinary oases’ and lux experiences just waiting to be stumbled upon. Here are a few of our elevated luxury-meets-adventure recommendations from where to stay and what to do around Moab.
ULUM Moab’s canvas tents feel more like a Safari caravan experience than mere glamping. Photo courtesy of ULUM.
Two-Michelin Key Accommodations: ULUM Moab
One of two locations given two Michelin keys in Utah, ULUM Moab is located about 25 minutes out of town. A Michelin key is similar to a Michelin star given to a restaurant but for lodging. Two Michelin keys denote an exceptional stay with premier service, stunning design, and a unique location. ULUM is all of those things and more. The resort takes upscale glamping to another level. With a stunning brick-and-mortar lobby, each full Safari tent is spread out from the other for maximum privacy and situated for the best views.
The resort itself is nestled in a Red Rock crescent with a stunning view of Looking Glass Arch in the foreground and Canyonlands National Park in the distance.
Once you check-in, you may not want to leave. The resort offers three contrast bath-style plunge pools ranging from warm to cold, as well as complimentary morning yoga, meditation sound baths, tea blending, plant medicine walks, and homemade soap making. The outdoor yoga platform begs for sun salutations, and the fire pit at night is a place to gather and talk the ins and outs of wanderlust with other guests.
The Lobby Lounge and Restaurant at ULUM Moab blends seamlessly into the landscape, with stunning panoramic desert views. Photo courtesy of ULUM. Chef-curated meals are available on-site at ULUM Moab. You need never leave to experience culinary excellence. Photo courtesy of ULUM.
The “tent” is much more than a place to lay your head. With spacious interiors, comfortable beds, indoor and outdoor lounging areas, private hot showers in each room, and cozy Pendleton blankets, it is less camping and more a home away from home. There’s no driving up to your tent; a private shuttle will deliver you to and from with your luggage and gear. This maintains the level of quiet throughout the entire resort. The best part is the wood-burning stove in every tent. After coming back from a day of adventure, nothing feels better than a hot shower and cuddling up, hair still wet in front of a warm stove. In the morning, in-room coffee makes for the perfect early sip while you watch the sunrise from the porch.
The lobby has mid-century vibes that blend into the landscape, while old cowboy caves and corrals showcase just how long the site has been used and loved. The restaurant serves Southwestern Fare morning and night. There’s also a coffee shop and juice bar on site, which means there’s no need to leave the resort and head into town for food if you don’t want to. Complimentary mocktail mixing (with handcrafted, local flavors like prickly pear) and a trail mix bar round-out service.
Finally, ULUM can help you book any adventures you might want to enjoy, from canyoneering to guided hiking to kayaking. You can even make arrangements to climb Looking Glass Arch.
Arches National Park is just a 40 minute drive from ULUM Moab, which means hiking galore. Just be sure to make your reservation for timed entry during peak season. Photo courtesy of ULUM.
Climb Looking Glass Arch
Looking Glass Arch is on public land with a stunning vista of the entire formation jutting out from the desert, visible from ULUM resort. You might feel inspired to climb it after staring at it for a day or two. While it is a technical climb (requiring a guide if you are new to climbing), it is beginner-friendly. The nice thing about hiring a guide is that they will bring the gear. A guide will ensure a safe experience, from ropes to harnesses to helmets. Even as a relatively experienced climber, it was nice to bring my shoes and harness and let somebody else deal with the heavy rope.
At the 130-foot top, you’ll enjoy an amazing 360° view of the surrounding desert. You can see the La Sal Mountains, and deep into Canyonlands National Park.
Ravens may come over to check you out, but those are likely the only crowds you will experience, as Looking Glass is a little off the beaten path.
The descent is a 130-ft rappel through a smaller Arch to the ground. It is a free rappel and not for those scared of heights. For everyone else, it is a thrilling end to an enjoyable morning. Guest at ULUM can book through the website, but you can also find other outfitters locally.
Paddle Board the Colorado River
The Colorado River just outside of Moab is a relaxing spot for paddle boarding, even for the most inexperienced adventurers. Photo credit Jose/Adobe Stock.
Water is the lifeblood of the desert and the only reason that Arches and Canyonlands exist. There is no better and more relaxing way to experience the majesty of sweeping red rock walls and the power of the Colorado River than to do a stand-up paddle board trip. There are sections of the river that are quiet and easy, away from the famous white water, and are a soothing meditation of balance immersed in positive ions.
Most tours last about three hours and are perfect for beginners. If you are a true beginner, going with a guide is ideal. You will get personalized instruction and gain the confidence to go out on your own. It’s perfect for a small family group, ideally for kids 10 and over.
If you feel particularly confident, most outfitters will set you up with paddle boards, life jackets and a shuttle for an unguided trip.
When You Go: Paddle Moab, 44 W. 200 North, Moab, paddlemoab.com
Wine & Farm Tours in Moab
Off the main drag in Moab, there are delicious ways to get back to the area’s farming roots. Easy Bee Farm is a local CSA that has been providing local produce to families and restaurants for nearly two decades.
During the growing season, they offer tours, seed swaps, supper, clubs, and other events, as well as fresh bread and produce in the farm store. Check their social media (@easybeefarm) for the most up-to-date information. You can also find them at the Arts and AG Moab Farmers Market.
Just a little ways away from Easy Bee Farm is Spanish Valley Winery. Started in 1979 as an experiment and carried on by various owners over the years, this Moab Winery specializes in single vineyard estate bottled wines. In true farm-to-bottle fashion, everything is done on-site, from growing the grapes to fermenting to bottling. During the summer, the winery is open 7 days a week from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tastings are $20 and are available for walk-ins. Vineyard tours are $50 and require a reservation.
We liked the riesling, a unique white wine that is available in both a sweet and a dry finish.
When you go: Easy Bee Farm,easybeefarm.com, Instagram: @easybeefarm; Spanish Valley Winery, 4710 Zimmerman Ln., Moab,moabwinery.com
The area around Moab is a designated dark sky area, which means there is some of the best stargazing in the Western
United States. Photo credit S Quintans/Adobe Stock.
Private Guided Back Country Tour
Deep Desert Expeditions is run by Mike Cornella, who is quite famous in certain circles as one of the creators of the Heyduke Trail. Really, it is more of a route than a trail. Clocking in at over 800 mi long, it’s a Backcountry route that passes through every National Park in Utah, including the Grand Canyon, and avoids all cities and towns.
If spending 60 days on the trail hunting down water feels a bit too adventurous, Mike is standing by to take you on a private tour in Canyonlands National Park or the surrounding desert. He offers a wealth of stories, local lore, geological insight, and adventure with an experienced local guide.
Deep Desert Expeditions can craft a tour designed for your interests. They have you covered from photo and scenic tours to rock art tours to dinosaur and archeology tours. A private tour may be the best way to get into the real backcountry.
When you go: Deep Desert Expeditions,
visit deepdesert.comto plan your trip
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Mojo Village, a new summer camp in Utah, arrives in the Uintas this year. Along with providing teens the outdoor experience typical of many other camps, organizers say they also want campers to build confidence and become emotionally resilient.
Mojo Village co-founder Elizabeth Seeley. Photo courtesy of The Mojo Village.
Co-founders Elizabeth Seeley and James Ure met last summer when Ure helped with the Uplift Family Camp that Seeley runs in Oregon. The Uplift curriculum includes things like mindfulness (which Seeley describes as being present at the moment), polarities (which she describes as balancing seemingly opposite attributes — like knowing when to be cautious and when to be courageous), and discovering an inner compass (which she says helps people be their own leaders and make decisions). Ure, co-founder of Williamsburg Learning and Elevation Outdoors, and Seeley began discussing teaching similar lessons in a camp for teens.
(Find more info about the founders and their backgrounds at themojovillage.com.)
“So we just combined our efforts and our backgrounds to create this opportunity,” Seeley says. “Having the peer-shared experience can be so amazing. And then if you layer on top of that good mentors, adventure and fun — all of a sudden it’s kind of a magical combination,”
While Seeley has worked extensively with teens who have experienced trauma in the past, she said the camp isn’t exclusive to teens with any particular background. “At the end of the day, this is really about giving teens a space where they just get to show up,” Seeley said. “Our tagline is ‘Be you. With us.’ It gives teens this space to just show up as themselves, to feel seen, to feel stretched, to feel supported.”
Co-founder James Ure. Photo courtesy of The Mojo Village.
In addition to emotional growth, organizers promise the fun outdoor camps are known for. The campground has a lake for paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming. Teens will also be able to take part in rock climbing, challenge courses, archery, stargazing and making s’mores around a campfire. “Kids will come away having had a really fun time,” Seeley said.
They will also be away from screens. Seeley says the camp doesn’t have cell reception and while no one will be forced to leave a phone behind, they will have trouble getting service.
“They just get to unplug and totally be present,” she says.
Parents can contact the camp at any time through an emergency line.
Mojo Village hopes to enroll 75 campers ages 14–18. The camp will run from July 30 to Aug. 2. The $797 cost per participant includes meals, lodging and camp activities.
As for the logo with three llamas wearing sunglasses?
“We chose the llamas because they’re a little quirky, a little bold and built for adventure — just like the teens we serve,” Seeley said. “The sunglasses? That’s our reminder not to take ourselves too seriously. And having three llamas? That’s the village. Because raising great kids takes a whole crew — peers, mentors, community. Mojo is about that collective support.”
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It’s time to start planning your summer vacation, but instead of jet-setting to Europe or sizzling on the beaches of Mexico, might we suggest a Southern Utah road trip? Blessed by the Beehive state’s ecological vastness, Salt Lakers can get from mountain views to sweeping red rock vistas in just over four hours—along the way discovering world-renowned hiking, remarkable paleontological sites and a rich tapestry of historical and cultural landmarks.
To spark some staycation inspiration, we’ve put together a series of road trips spotlighting Southern Utah destinations. So wrangle the kids and pack up the Subaru, it’s time for a desert escape.
Roadtrip #1: Zion
Stay
The crown jewel of Utah’s Mighty Five, Zion National Park sees a surge of visitors during the summer months—Last year the park reported 4.9M visitors and was the second-most visited National Park in the country. From April to September, the neighboring town of Springdale is packed to the gills with tourists and No Vacancy signs, but there’s still much respite to be found.
Just twenty minutes from the park entrance, Autocamp Zion is the perfect basecamp for your adventure. Opened in 2023, the upscale glamping resort offers an array of accommodation options, from Airstream suites, to tiny-home cabins to campground options. During a recent visit, I set up camp in an Airstream and fell in love with the spa-like bathroom, functional kitchenette and private fire pit. Autocamp actually has an exclusive partnership with Airstream, so all trailers are made from scratch to masterfully blend modern luxuries and timeless design. The property functions as its own charming community, with a General Store and heated pool to boot, all centered around a stunning mid-century clubhouse.
The communal fire pits at the clubhouse are framed with sweeping redrock views Each custom Airstream comes with a private fire pit and outdoor area.
The property also offers a few different dining options, like local provisions you can grab-and-go for fast adventure fuel, and freshly prepared meals available from The Kitchen. In the morning, I popped into the Clubhouse to mingle with a few fellow hikers and start the day with complimentary granola and coffee. And for dinner, I returned to The Kitchen to pick up a take-and-make feast for two. Utilizing my personal fire pit—fashionably outfitted with a branded grill grate and a fool-proof fire starting kit—my partner and I chowed down on grass-fed sirloin steak, grilled veggies and Yukon gold potatoes. Of course, is it even glamping if you don’t finish off your evening with a s’more? Autocamp takes an elevated approach to the campfire classic with artisan chocolate bars and graham crackers.
Beyond dining and accommodations, Autocamp has perfected a seamless blend of luxury and nature. Red rock views frame the entire property, and every outdoor lounge area is furnished with comfortable Adirondacks. To take your excursions off-site without hopping into the car, AutoCamp Zion also lends guests bikes to cruise around the area. I spent one sunny afternoon riding into Springdale, the ride took me just over an hour and passed through some stunning bucolic landscapes, and even a nearby ghost town—more on that below!
Autocamp Zion 1322 UT-9, Virgin P.S. Utah residents receive 20% best available rates!
It’s Zion in the summer, so expect lines at the shuttle stops and sharing the trails with your fellow hikers (why not show the out-of-towners some Utah hospitality with a “hey there!” or “you’re almost to the end!”). But with the right preparation and mindset, you can still find plenty of moments for communing with nature.
View from Canyon Overlook Trail Many Pools Trail comes alive with waterfalls and streams during rainfall. Slot canyons near Many Pools Trail
The most popular summer hikes have one thing in common: water. The Narrows is a 9.4 mile meander up the Virgin River, complete with chest-deep crossings and plenty of scrambling. Invest in some solid water shoes, a hiking stick and head out before sunrise. Another beginner-friendly hike is Emerald Pools, a collection of three waterfalls connected by a loop. The Lower Pool is the most family-friendly and accessible, while the Upper Pool presents a bit more of an elevational challenge. Make sure to bring your camera and best “chasing waterfalls’ caption, the trail takes you underneath the falls for a refreshing cooldown.
An ethereal waterfall awaits you at Upper Emerald PoolsThe trail takes you beneath a spray of water in the Lower Pools area More waterfalls spotted on Emerald Pools trail.
Other hikes to consider in Zion National Park:
Watchman Trail: A moderate out-and-back trail starting at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Offers stunning views of Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon and the Watchman.
Many Pools Trail: An off-the-beaten path East of Zion National Park featuring slickrock slabs, slot canyons and fascinating sculpted potholes—some the size of bathtubs. This trail is a stunning secret find, especially after rainfall.
Canyon Overlook Trail: A quick hike that ends in a sweeping panoramic view of Zion. This trail is one of the most traveled paths, go before sunrise or sunset for some crowd mitigation.
(We’ve written a lot on Zions, find more in-depth hiking stories here!)
View from the top of Canyon Overlook Trail.
Eat and Drink
There’s a lot of outdoor action for those gritty, long-distance hikers, but those who prefer adventuring with their tastebuds have plenty to explore as well. Springdale offers a bounty of cafes, brewpubs, cocktail bars and upscale restaurants.
Famed for their post-hike beers and sweeping views of the nearby park, Zion Canyon Brew Pub is a great stop for a casual dinner. They also feature live music and a spacious outdoor patio during the summer (zionbrewery.com). Fine dining meets Southern charm at Balcony One, a charming restaurant in Virgin. The menu offers a selection of elevated dishes, from smokey rib pappardelle to carpaccio and more. And if you’re in the mood for a laid-back alternative, their Bourbon and Blues bar next door can fix you right up with a neat glass of whiskey and pub grub (balconyonevirgin.com). Back in Springdale, Spotted Dog prides themselves on thoughtful farm-to-fork ingredients and locally sourced produce, not to mention their extensive 400-strong wine list. The restaurant is part of a boutique resort, Flanigans, which also houses a holistic spa and pool (flanigansresort.com).
And finally, the latest addition to Zion’s dining scene is Cowboys & Angels—a western-style speakeasy hidden in the back of FeelLove Coffee. The swanky lounge specializes in craft cocktails and an impressive whiskey wall. Need helping find it? Here’s a clue: look for the angel wing (cowboysandangelszion.com).
Weird and Wonderful Extras
No roadtrip is complete without a few quirky pitspots—and you’d be surprised at the oddities that await you on your journey south. About an hour outside of Springdale, Fort Zion is a cheesy roadside attraction with western-themed playhouses, gift shops and a petting zoo. It’s a great place to let the kids burn off some energy, but we won’t judge the adults that go for the photo opps and homemade ice cream (1000 W. Hwy 9, Virgin).
For a more authentic glimpse into the Old West, head to Grafton Ghost Town, a hauntingly beautiful remnant of the past. Originally settled by cotton farmers in 1859, Grafton was once home to a tight-knit community of 168 people. Today, only weathered wooden buildings, a schoolhouse, and farmland remain. In the late ’90s, the Grafton Heritage Partnership Project began restoring many of the old homes, preserving the town in a kind of time capsule. Frequently featured in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and In Old Arizona, Grafton is now one of the most photographed ghost towns in the West.
And if you’re searching for an even deeper dive into the region’s ancient history, add Petroglyph Canyon to your itinerary. Located just inside Zion National Park past the second tunnel on UT-9, a short 1.4-mile trail—marked by a log fence—leads to a stunning panel of well-preserved petroglyphs. Park rangers and history buffs have worked to keep this sacred site off the beaten path, so be sure to tread lightly and do your part to protect these invaluable cultural treasures.
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If you grew up in the United States, chances are you participated in organized sports sometime during your childhood. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, just over 60 percent of all American kids aged 7 to 18 suit up to play or perform as part of a team at least once a week. As we get older, however, life—work, kids, etc.—tends to get in the way, leading most adults to abandon their passion for team play in favor of hitting the gym. And since we all know how uninspiring that can be, it’s no wonder that, also according to the CDC, only about 28% of Americans get the weekly recommended 150 minutes of aerobic exercise and two muscle-strengthening sessions per week. What’s more, many Americans suffer from loneliness, including a whopping 79 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds, a condition estimated to have the same negative impacts on life span as smoking 15 cigarettes per day.
Now the good news: an antidote to a sedentary, lonely life may be as simple as signing up for a weekly kickball league. The physical benefits of team sports are obvious: the sprints, bursts of intense action, changes in direction and acceleration and muscle loading provide an efficient combo of aerobic, endurance, and resistance training. But as Dave “Beehive Dave” Marquardt, owner and founder of Beehive Sports & Social Club, has observed, the mental health benefits offered by team play may be even greater. “I can’t tell you how many times someone in one of our leagues told me that they had recently moved to Utah, couldn’t make friends and were considering moving away until they joined one of our leagues,” he says. “Playing an adult sport is a great way to get outside and get some exercise, but the people who play in our leagues love it for what it does for their mental health.”
The focus of Beehive Sports is social activity with less focus on competition. Photos Courtesy of Adult Sports Leagues
For Ben Smith, a Salt Lake City high school teacher and longtime rec league hockey player, the physical benefits he’s reaped from getting on the ice regularly are certainly a plus, but it’s the community he’s built through his rec league that’s kept him at it for the past 25 years. “I think the way team sports are different from exercising on your own is that you are focused on doing your best for the whole group, not just yourself,” Smith says. “My hockey community has been a huge support for me as I have navigated changes in my life. It’s also brought me closer to people whose lives are vastly different than mine in a way that few other community connections can.”
Marquardt, a Utah native, launched what would become Beehive Sports soon after moving back to Salt Lake City 15 years ago. “I wanted to reconnect with my high school friends and so that summer I started a kickball league,” he says. “We had so much fun that we decided to start a flag football league in the fall.” Now, Beehive Sports & Social Club’s spring, summer and fall leagues include basketball, softball, soccer, sand volleyball, cornhole and pickleball, as well as kickball (“Our most popular league, by a wide margin,” Marquardt says) and flag football. In the winter, Beehive Sports’ leagues go inside with volleyball, basketball, dodgeball, futsal (indoor soccer), darts and billiards.
Beehive Sports welcomes whole teams and single players alike and runs play on pitches from Murray to North Salt Lake. Because the teams often meet up at local bars after games, the minimum age to join a team is 21. There’s no age cap, but most players range in age from mid-20s to mid-40s. Last year, 15,000 people played in Beehive Sports’ leagues, all of which are made up of co-ed or women-only teams. “All-male teams tend to bring out the worst parts of sports,” Marquardt says. “The women temper the men on co-ed teams, and everyone has a good time.”
Sand volleyball in Liberty Park. Photos Courtesy of Adult Sports Leagues
Adult Rec Leagues
Beehive Sports is far from the only adult rec league in Utah. Other resources include:
Maybe you never took to “sportsball” and the idea of kicking, bumping, throwing or hitting one around with a bunch of strangers seems terrifying. Rest assured that no experience is required to join a rec league (versus a competitive league). But to give you a little background before you hit the field, the following is a brief rule rundown of the most common rec league sports.
Kickball: Rules almost exactly mimic baseball or softball, except players kick a big, friendly rubber ball rolling on the ground to them by the pitcher versus hitting one that’s airborne with a bat.
Cornhole: Two teams, each with one or two players, take turns throwing bags at a board. The goal is to score points by getting bags through the hole or onto the board.
Flag football: Same rules as football, but no contact is allowed. Instead, players wear flags that hang along their sides by a belt. To “tackle” a player in possession of the ball, the opposing team needs to pull one or both of their flags off.
Ultimate Frisbee: The object of this fun, non-contact sport is to pass the frisbee to your teammates to score goals. The person with the frisbee is not allowed to run, just pass.
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SLCSAR was established in 1957 and, under the direction of the Salt Lake County Sheriff, is responsible for all search and rescue missions in Salt Lake County. The team’s service area covers the county’s entire 807-square-mile area—spanning roughly from Farmington Bay south to the Point of the Mountain, east to the town of Brighton and west to the Great Salt Lake—but most of the rescues (about 65 a year) occur in the mountains directly east of the Wasatch Front.
These missions include coming to the aid of injured hikers, climbers and skiers; performing swift and deep-water rescues; and, while it’s a function they do not necessarily advertise, transporting dehydrated or injured dogs off trails. (SLCSAR made international news—as well as received kudos and donations from around the world—when they rescued Floyd, a 190-pound injured mastiff, on the Grandeur Peak Trail in 2019.) Here, five SLCSAR team members share tales of their heroism, and what keeps them on as part of the volunteer crew.
Darby DeHart, SLCSAR team member since 2019
Why she joined: “I love to bring together the skills I was taught in SAR training and that I use in my day jobs and work with my fellow team members to do hard things for the greater good.”
What keeps her on the team: “Sometimes it’s hard to drop what I’m doing and go. But then on my way to a mission is when I get pumped. I love how I don’t know where rescues will take me—I can start the day in Little Cottonwood and then end up on Mt. Olympus.”
Day jobs: paramedic, ski patroller and associate university instructor
Francine Mullen, SLCSAR board member since 2023
Why she joined the SLCSAR board: “I have friends and family members on SAR teams and thought that this would be a way I could contribute to [SAR’s] efforts.”
What keeps her on the board: “Every time I am around the team, I’m so impressed by what expectational people they are. And it just blows me away that they are all volunteers.”
Day job: nonprofit development coordinator
Kevin Nyguyen, SLCSAR team member since 2016
Most memorable mission: “When we had to recover a man who had fallen into the Bells Canyon waterfall. It took three days to pull him out and afterward, the man’s family gathered to perform a traditional celebration for the first responders who had recovered their family member’s body. Watching them celebrate us, especially considering their loss, was very emotional and very beautiful.”
What keeps him on the team: “The adrenaline rush of getting called. You never know what to expect. Also, the camaraderie on the team. I’ve learned a lot about rock climbing and rock rescue from other team members and being in the situations we’re in builds a rare trust. When I’m on the end of the rope I know that person on the other end has me no matter what.”
Day job: Public health entrepreneur
Liz Butler, SLCSAR team member since 2024
Why she joined: “Before going to law school, I worked in Wilderness Therapy and had wanted to be a part of a SAR team for a long time. Things can go wrong in the wilderness for a variety of reasons. I have the skills to help, and I wanted to give back.”
What keeps her on the team: “I love the interesting variety of calls we get, from dehydration to having to perform a rope rescue. Getting called up is the best part of my day.”
Day job: lawyer
Rick Vollmer, SLCSAR team member since 2018
Most memorable mission: “In October 2022, when weather pinned three teenage boys on the West Slabs of Mount Olympus. Each had on just a light rain jacket, and it had started raining and then the rain turned to snow. We knew that they were not going to make it if we weren’t able to get to them. A team was sent ahead of us and started up the Slabs. But after one of the team members took a fall, they decided to stand down. And then at 10:15 p.m., the sky opened up just long enough to get a helicopter up there and pick them off the mountain.”
Day job: ski patroller and aerospace engineer
How to Help Yourself: 10 Outdoor Essentials
The 10 Essentials is a well-known list of items to carry into the backcountry, regardless of how long or nearby you plan to venture out. If having all 10 seems like overkill for, say, a quick after-work jaunt into Neff’s Canyon, SLCSAR Commander John Patterson recommends taking at least the following: something to keep warm, extra water and a communication device. “Those three will help people avoid a lot of sticky situations,” he says.
SUN PROTECTION:Sunscreen, Hat and Sunglasses Knockaround-Paso Robles Polarized Sunglasses $35, rei.com
Learn more about the Salt Lake County Search and Rescue team, here.
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Save gas money and take the UTA FrontRunner to Ogden Central Station. Although it may seem daunting at first, you’ll be happy to have the extra cash when you arrive and find Ogden City’s best shopping, dining and entertainment spots a short walk away.
Where Rails Meet
Learn about Ogden only minutes from FrontRunner. Union Station, once a major railway hub, houses exhibits on Ogden’s history and people, along with collections of historic guns, automobiles and railroad stuff, including train cars. The station also hosts the free Ogden Living Heritage Festival, featuring music, dance and food, on May 10 and 11. Learn more here.
There are 25 round trips between Ogden and Provo through the week with trains running hourly around from 4:30 a.m. Photo courtesy of rideuta.com.
All on 25th Street
The Ogden Twilight concert series returns June 1. Photo courtesy of visitogden.com.
The Ogden Farmers Market, featuring local food, vendors and music, takes place on nearby Historic 25th Street each Saturday from May 24 to Sept. 13. While on 25th, try the Dough Puppies at Lucky Slice Pizza, have a cocktail on Alleged’s rooftop and shop music at Lavender Vinyl. Close to the stretch, see a play at Peery’s Egyptian Theatre or Good Company Theatre, and release your fury at Social Axe Throwing. Learn more here.
Sports and Music
The Ogden Raptors are an independent team of the Pioneer League. Photo courtesy of ogden-raptors.com.
Minor league baseball team the Ogden Raptors play in their home opener at Lindquist Field, a nine-minute walk from the station, on May 27. If you’d prefer live music to sports, follow 25th Street to the Ogden Amphitheatre for this year’s Ogden Twilight concerts, including Modest Mouse on June 28. Learn more here.
The ‘Ogden Arch’ serves as a gateway to the city’s cultural wonders. Photo by Matt Morgan.
Watch, Surf, Fly
The family fun area, The Junction, is close enough for little legs. It has Megaplex Theatres, the Treehouse Children’s Museum and plenty of restaurants. The Salomon Center, also on-site, houses Skinny Dogz, which offers bowling, an arcade and more, and spots for indoor rock climbing, indoor skydiving and surfing. Top it all off with treats at The Cupcake Shoppe and Bakery. Learn more here.
Bleed Purple
Weber State University offers several sports-related camps and activies during the summer, including softball and soccer camps. Photo courtesy of Weber State University.
Ogden is a college town, and the OGX bus line runs from Ogden Central Station to Weber State throughout the day. With fewer students, now is a perfect time to stroll WSU’s stunning campus and enroll the kids in one of many STEM-themed summer camps. Learn more here.
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