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May 08
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Tales from the Salt Lake County Search and Rescue Team

By Outdoors

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.

Salt Lake Search and Rescue

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

Salt Lake Search and Rescue

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 

Salt Lake Search and Rescue

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

 

Salt Lake Search and Rescue

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

Salt Lake Search and Rescue

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.

ILLUMINATION: Flashlight, lanterns and headlamp; Petzl – ARIA® 1 RGB Headlamp, $40, petzl.com

INSULATIoN: Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell and thermal underwear. Rei-Rainier Rain Jacket, Orange Burst/Orange Vista, $100, rei.com

REPAIR KIT AND TOOLS: Duct tape, knife, screwdriver and scissors. Benchmade-15534 Mini Taggedout Knife-Burn Copper, $290, rei.com

FIRE: Matches, lighter and fire starters.
Zippo-Windproof Lighter, $25, rei.com 

NAVIGATION: Map, compass, and GPS.
Suunto-MCB NH Mirror Compass, $40, rei.com 

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES: First Aid Kit. HART
Outdoor-Extended First-Aid Kit, $65.95, rei.com 

EMERGENCY SHELTER: Tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy. REI Co-op – Wonderland 6 Footprint, $50, rei.com

HYDRATION: Water and water treatment supplies. Teton_Oasis Hydration Packs Olive, $50, tetongear.com

NUTRITION: Food. Ritual Trail Mix, $17, ritualchocolate.com

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.

Discover more outdoor inspiration, and find all our Adventure coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best of life in Utah? 

May 07
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How to Take the UTA FrontRunner Train from SLC To Ogden

By Travel

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.

Odgen FrontRunner
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

Odgen FrontRunner
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.

Odgen FrontRunner
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

Odgen FrontRunner
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.

See more stories like this and all our travel coverage.  And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best life in Utah? 

May 06
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Utah’s Fluoride Ban Takes Effect this Week—Here’s how to Protect Your Teeth

By City Watch

Utah is set to become the first state in the nation to ban fluoride in drinking water, with a new law taking effect later this week, on Wednesday.

That day, the fluoride taps will turn off, if they haven’t already. While Davis and Salt Lake counties, and Brigham City, are the only governments that still add fluoride to drinking water, roughly half of the state’s population lives there.  

Sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius, R-Eagle Mountain, HB81 prevents counties and municipalities from adding fluoride to drinking water, while adding it to the list of drugs pharmacists can prescribe. 

The reasoning, Gricius said, is that the decision should be left to the individual. 

“I would just say it doesn’t get more local control than my own body,” she said during the legislative session earlier this year.

Gricius’ bill was one of several that aligned with the “Make America Healthy Again,” or MAHA, agenda promoted by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who praised the law earlier this year. 

Now, for health officials like Stacey Bank, executive medical director for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, the focus is on educating the public and reminding them that fluoride is now readily available at most pharmacies. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have this conversation. We haven’t talked about oral health and fluoride this much in my career as long as I can remember. This is an opportunity to get the message out to the entire state,” she said on Friday. “I know it’s not always easy to get into a doctor or dentist, there are barriers there. Going to your local pharmacist, talking to the person behind the counter, is enough to take care of your teeth.”

There are currently 25 water systems serving about 1.6 million people spread out across Davis and Salt Lake counties, and Brigham City, that add fluoride to the water. Brigham City has been adding fluoride to the water since the 1960s; Davis County started in 1999; and Salt Lake County in 2003. 

Some treatment plants have already stopped adding fluoride to the water, including a handful in Davis County, and Salt Lake County’s City Creek Water Treatment Plant. 

If Utahns don’t act, expect tooth decay, officials say

“If I was looking into a crystal ball, we’re going to see a decline in oral health if our community doesn’t take action, and now go to their dentist and talk about what’s best for them and receive their supplements. If that happens, I don’t think we’ll see much of a change,” said Brian Hatch, director of the Davis County Health Department. 

In Salt Lake County, where the water has been fluoridated for almost two decades, health officials say they’re losing an effective public health tool.  

“From a public health standpoint, we know that community water fluoridation is the best way to benefit individuals and the overall community’s oral health,” added Ron Lund, environmental health director for the Salt Lake County Health Department. “It’s the most efficient and effective way to do that for people who cannot afford or may not be able to go to routine dental visits.” 

But while health officials say it’s possible they’ll see an uptick in cavities in regions currently fluoridating their water, others see the bill as an opportunity. Most of rural Utah has already stopped adding the mineral to the public water supply. 

Fluoride is a hot topic now, and with the May 7 deadline approaching, it gives public health experts a chance to educate communities, they say.

“It’s an opportunity for our more rural communities. Other than Brigham City, none of our rural communities have been adding fluoride to the water. So this is bringing more attention to how important fluoride is and giving them access to get it, that they may not have known they needed,” said State Dental Director Stacey Swilling.

This story was republished from Utah News Dispatch, read the entire piece here.

See more stories like this and all of our city watch coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best of life in Utah?

About the Author

Kyle Dunphey covers politics, public safety and the environment for Utah News Dispatch. He was named Best Newspaper Reporter by the Utah Society of Professional Journalists in 2023 for his work on crime and immigration at the Deseret News.

May 05
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May Shows Salt Lake

7 May Shows in Salt Lake You Want To See

By Music

  1. May 5 (Mon)

Who: Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers
Where: The Commonwealth Room
When: 8 p.m.
What: As one of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones’ superpowers, Wooten is a force to witness live. He’s a showman all on his own; he does things with the bass that are beyond comprehension and with a lot of joy. With his brothers in tow, it makes tonight even more special. Plus, it’s the first time the brothers have released new music and toured together since their brother, Rudy, passed. FUN FACT: In 1972, the Wooten Brothers were hired as the opener for Curtis Mayfield‘s hugely successful Superfly Tour. Eldest Wooten Brother, Regi, was 14 years old, and Victor was five.
Tickets  

  1. May 10 (Sat)

Who: Amos Lee w/ Utah Symphony
Where: Abravanel Hall
When: 7:30 p.m.
What: He’s released five albums on the famed Blue Note label. He was handpicked to open for Norah Jones on her tour. He wrote that song “Sweet Pea” that you probably haven’t been able to quite shake since 2006. And now he’s set to tackle what it’s like to have up to 85 full-time, classically trained musicians learn and play his songs along with him. As far as accolades go, that’s got to be about as beautiful as it can possibly get.
Tickets

  1. May 12 (Mon)

Who: Deep Sea DiverZ
Where: Urban Lounge
When: 7 p.m.
What: For my money, this is the hidden gem of the month, the diamond halfway buried in the rough and awaiting discovery. The short story: I discovered Deep Sea Diver when they played on an island outside of Seattle more than a decade ago (and ferry rides are the best way to arrive). The experience was akin to being struck by lightning: as shocking as it was surprising. Following their journey ever since has been a treat, as the band’s only gotten progressively better. Shows are selling out this tour, and you’d be wise to grab a ticket while some are still available. No time like the present.Tickets 

  1. May 13 (Tues)

Who: Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory
Where: Metro Music Hall
When: 7 p.m.
What: We spoke with Ms. Sharon Van Etten recently, and she shared this about her creating her latest album: “I didn’t know what I was writing. I was trying to write about my experience and what everybody else had been going through. Mortality is a big subject as we age. I’m the only parent in the group. Still, being a parent and having aging parents under the umbrella of what’s happening in the world, I feel that now, more than ever, we have to embrace each other and redefine what we think our community is. Focus on community and love, even as the times can feel dark. Being a good neighbor and person will help us get through.” Watch for our full feature when it’s published in the coming days.
Tickets

  1. May 14 (Wed)

Who: Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Bobby Rush
Where: The Capitol Theatre
When: 7:30 p.m.
What: Shepherd is a busy guy, and he’s remained that way since he landed on the blues scene many years ago. He was So Damn Good at the guitar from such a young age; still, it feels like he’s had to prove himself over and over, regardless of how incredible he really is. That aside, having a 91-years-young legend accompany him (Bobby Rush) this time around doubles the thrill of attending: two masters for the price of one.

Tickets   

  1. May 15-18 (Thurs-Sun)

Who: Kilby Block Party
Where: Utah State Fairpark
When: 4:15 p.m. (Thurs)
What: Kilby, you’ve come a very long way, baby. This festival has grown so much (and so quickly) that it’s hard not to be weirdly proud of all it’s become. It’s also hard to underestimate how much talent will be crammed into four days and nights, but here are 10 of the best names attached: New Order. Rilo Kiley. Gang of Four. The Black Angels. Justice. Built to Spill. Future Islands. The Lemon Twigs. St. Vincent. TV On The Radio. There are so many more to sink your teeth into, I promise. Hit the link for the already-published schedule and start your planning now. And please don’t forget to wear your sunscreen.   
Tickets

  1. May 19 (Mon)

Who: White Denim
Where: Urban Lounge
When: 7 p.m.
What: Storytime: Back when the alt-country movement was making its waves across the music blogosphere, I connected with a guy in Denton, Texas. Once he learned I liked bands like Slobberbone and Drive-By Truckers and Uncle Tupelo, he made it his mission to fill in the gaps for me, sometimes mailing me 50+ dubbed compact discs at a time to help. As far as drinking from a firehose went, it was the best way. White Denim was a band he made sure I became familiar with at that same time, too, because, well, Austin pride and all that. It sure warms the ticker that they’re a) still playing rock shows and b) visiting our City of Salt so often. 
Tickets

Read more of our music coverage and get the latest on the arts and culture scene in and around Utah. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

May 02
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First Bite: Le Depot Brasserie on Park City’s Main Street

By Eat & Drink

I had the fantastic opportunity to be a guest at the table of James Beard Chef Galen Zamarra‘s new venture, Le Depot Brasserie, located in a historic building at 660 Main Street in Park City. Formerly the location of Robert Redford’s Zoom Restaurant, and then an art gallery, it was originally the Union Pacific railroad Depot built in 1886 for the purpose of transporting ore and coal to and from the Park City mines. Thus, this is the name of the current generation of the business.

The name Le Depot is a lovely nod to the building’s history and a hint of strikingly authentic French cuisine within. I’ve always been a bit of a Francophile, and once upon a time, I made an annual pilgrimage to Paris. In the years since I’ve made the trek, I’ve never felt more transported in a culinary tractor beam directly into a Parisian Brasserie, as I felt during dinner at Le Depot.

The menu is committedly in French, with English descriptions and ingredients listed to the side. 

Grande Fruit de Mer. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

We started with a showstopper, the Grande Fruit De Mer, an icy double-decker tower, which included a dozen oysters, perfectly poached shrimp, half a lobster with a remoulade and chilled green beans, and chilled mussels served in-shell with a pesto-y sauce. Everything is delicious and fresh, but the mussels were worth the price of admission alone. They are herbaceously surprising. Who knew that basil would pair so well with the sea? The French garlic aioli pairs particularly well with the lobster. 

Other hors d’euvers included the Terrine de Foie Gras, pate-style duck liver served on top of pain d’épices-a spice bread with dark rye flour. The bread is a toasty-sweet foil to the fatty terrine. The whole dish is made bright with clementines in a syrupy sauce and a sprinkle of gritty salt to top it off. 

Terrine de Foie Gras. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

Merguez d’Agneau. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

Champignons a la Grecque. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

Champignons à la Grecque, of the Greek-style mushrooms, came to the table as a cold marinated salad, tart and well oiled with shaved fennel, tomato, and lemon. It was the dish highly recommended by our server, and I can say he was highly correct in his recommendation. Saumon Fumeé rounded out our starter course, a smoked salmon with an apple, watercress, fennel salad on top, a dollop of paddlefish caviar, and a creamy orange sauce for balance. 

The main menu is divvied out into sections: ‘Plat Principal’ ‘Plat Du Jour’ and a Bar Menu. I will be back for the apres-style bar menu, with tasty teasers like potato chips and formage, truffle popcorn, baked cheese puffs, and the Le Depot burger with foie gras and truffle jus. 

Steak Frites. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

The Plat Principal menu are the regular dishes that will appear without fail every night. And without fail, they will please the palate. Steamed mussels with frites, black cod, and Filet Mignon with truffles are classically French crowd favorites. We tried the Steak Frites and Canard Rôti es Son Pithivier. There is nothing more satisfying on a cold day than a plate of med-rare steak and crispy shoestring French fries. Served with a tangy bernaise (butter, egg yolk, lemon, and herbs for those who want to know what’s in their sauce), the fries were plentiful enough that the entire table ate their fill. And magically, they stayed hot through the extra nice touch of a heated plate. It’s the small things that make for a stellar experience. 

Like any French Bistro, Le Depot has a series of Plat du Jour. We were lucky enough to snag the Merguez d’Agneau, a North African spiced lamb sausage cropping up in menus on the reg these days. Serving 2 and available on Tuesdays, the sausage is house-made and has a slow heat that builds from harissa. Arriving in a terrine with couscous (to soak up the fat from the coiled sausage) and roasted vegetables, it hit the table.

Profiteroles. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

Mille Feuille. Photo by Lydia Martinez.

For dessert, we ended up sharing 4 plates. I suggest you save room. We didn’t, but we still managed to polish it off with a little effort. Learn from our mistakes. We got the Mille Feuille (layered sheets of pasty and vanilla bean custard and hazelnut pastry cream), the Profiteroles (pastry puffs stuffed with pistachio ice cream), and the Fondant au Chocolate Noir (a warm cast iron chocolate care with berries). The perfect ending to a decadent evening. 

When you go:

660 Main Street, Park City
Reservations Recommended
ledepotpc.com

Apr 30
Love0

Sign the kids up for Little Vaqueros at Blue Sky

By Outdoors

The Lodge at Blue Sky’s stunning mountain views are 27 minutes from Park City. It’s well known for romantic getaways, luxury family vacations and, now, summer camp. 

The Little Vaqueros Kids Club opened last year for kids to explore nature, learn skills and go on adventures. Parents can register kids for summer 2025 now. It’s open to ages 6 to 10, and 5 to 12 for lodge guests.

“The Little Vaqueros Kids Club was born from the vision to create meaningful, hands-on experiences for younger guests at Blue Sky. During the early stages of development, we knew multi-generational travel would be a key part of our guest experience, and it was important to offer something as immersive and thoughtful for kids as we do for adults,” said Henry Hudson, ranch general manager at Blue Sky. “With 3,500 acres to explore and a working ranch as our backdrop, we saw an incredible opportunity to design a full-day program where kids could truly experience life on the land—caring for animals, learning horsemanship, exploring nature and engaging in ranch-inspired activities. It’s been a passion project from the start, and one we’re proud to see inspiring a deep connection to nature in the next generation.”

The camp takes a different group of eight kids each week during the summer. Different themes are explored each day of the week. One of the most popular, “Discovering Gracie’s Farm,” will take place on Fridays. Throughout the day, kids care for farm animals, learn about sustainable farming practices and complete farm chores. On Thursdays, kids will see how food goes from the earth to their plates by gathering edible plants along the property’s trails and then learning to bake in the lodge’s kitchen. All of the themes are listed below.

Blue Sky Utah
Little Vaqueros includes several fun activities, like birding. Photo credit Murphy O’Brien.

“The primary goal of Little Vaqueros is to provide children with an immersive educational experience that deepens their understanding of nature and ranch life. Through activities like exploring the land’s geography and history, studying local ecosystems and working on horsemanship skills—such as catching, grooming and riding horses—kids develop both practical and environmental knowledge,” Hudson said. “They also engage in culinary lessons, where they spend the morning collecting eggs and produce from the farm and then meet with the chef to learn how to cook with what they’ve gathered. Additionally, kids interact with animals at the Saving Gracie Healing Foundation, which teaches empathy and responsibility. By combining these experiences, we aim to foster curiosity, respect for nature and a sense of personal growth through hands-on learning.”

Since many of the participants will be vacationing at the lodge, Little Vaqueros gives local kids a chance to build friendships with kids from other parts of the state, country and world.

“While kids are off enjoying their day at Little Vaqueros Kids Club, parents can take full advantage of everything Blue Sky has to offer—from relaxing at the Edge Spa and enjoying lunch or a tour at High West Distillery to dining at YUTA or booking their own adventures like fly fishing, horseback riding and more,” said Hudson.

Little Vaqueros is $750 per week. Kids may bring their lunch or receive lunch from the lodge’s restaurant, YUTA, for an additional $25 per meal. 

Email bsk.adventures@aubergeresorts.com for more information.

Weekly themes at Blue Sky’s Little Vaqueros

  • Monday: Wilderness Explorers Hike Blue Sky’s trails while searching for natural treasures and learn the basics of fishing in local waters.

  • Tuesday: Cowboys & Cowgirls Assist with horse care and morning chores, then saddle up to work directly with the horses in the riding arena.

  • Wednesday: Mountain Creativity Forage along Alexander Creek to create nature-inspired crafts, then use natural materials to make birdhouses and mandalas.

  • Thursday: Culinary Exploration Identify and collect edible plants along the trails, then learn baking secrets and test your skills in Blue Sky’s kitchen.

  • Friday: Discovering Gracie’s Farm Care for rescued animals at Gracie Equine Healing Foundation, then assist with daily farm chores and learn sustainable farming practices.

  • Saturday: Little Miner’s Search for geodes along Blue Sky’s trails, then explore the mining history of Park City through a geocaching course.

  • Sunday: Love of the Land Help restore native plant species along Alexander Creek, then create paintings of Blue Sky’s rescue horses or scenic landscapes.

Discover more outdoor inspiration, and find all our Adventure coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best of life in Utah?

Apr 29
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SLC GA lifestyle finished files 9 (1)-Medium_File (1)

Where to Brunch This Mother’s Day

By Eat & Drink

Mother’s Day. The special day when you get to say thank you, and I’m sorry to the person you stressed, tortured, and cherished more than anyone else growing up, and probably still to this day. If your Mother’s Day plans include taking your dear mother out to brunch, here is a list of a few places to do so. 

Wasatch Front

Laurel Brasserie and Bar 

The Grand America team prepare items all day for their famed Mother’s Day Brunch. Their special menu will be offered on Saturday, May 10th and Mother’s Day. Reservations are required. Adults dine for $95, Kids 12 to 4 and under eat for $47.50. Make your reservation here. The Grand America is also hosting a series of Mother’s Day Tea at their elegant lobby lounge, featuring house-made pastries, savory tea sandwiches and an assortment of flavorful teas. Available May 2–11, reservations available here.

555 South Main Street, Salt Lake City
801-258-6708 

Hub & Spoke Diner 

Celebrate with family and friends at Hub & Spoke’s Mother’s Day brunch buffet featuring favorites like the Crab Benedict, Chicken & Waffles, Vegan Grit Skillet and more. Available May 11th, 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., $59.99 for adults, Kids under 12 dine for $29.99. Find the full menu, and make your reservation here! 

1291 South 1100 East, Salt Lake City
801-487-0698

Franck’s

Celebrate your Mother with Franks as they offer their coursed Mother’s Day dinner. Menu highlights include smoked nori bread, pistachio lasagna, 8 hour beef chilaquiles rojo and more. $120 for adults, $45 for kids 12 and under. Reservations available here. 

The Salt Republic at The Hyatt Regency

This year treat the mother figures in your life to a beautiful, celebratory brunch. On Mother’s Day, The Salt Republic at The Hyatt Regency will host a sumptuous brunch buffet featuring surf and turf favorites like king crab legs, cold smoked salmon, ribeye, sweet pea risotto and . Brunch is served May 12th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., $75 for adults, $37.50 for children 12 and under. 

170 South West Temple, Salt Lake City

La Caille Restaurant

Spoil your mother with a memorable brunch at La Caille. Choose from a lavish selection of appetizers and entrees, buttermilk lemon pancakes, crab legs and creme brulee French toast. Adults dine for $145, children 4-12 dine for $60. Find the whole menu, here. 

801-942-1751
9565 Wasatch Blvd Sandy

Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club

For Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 11, Flanker is offering $5 mimosas and bloody marys, alongside a feast of flavors like smoked salmon benedict, chicken and waffle sliders and olive oil cake and berries. Follow it up with shopping for something nice for mom during a stroll around the Gateway.

801-683-7070
6 N. Rio Grande St., Suite #35, Salt Lake City

Rouser at Asher Adams

Treat the matriarchs in your family to an elevated brunch at Rouser; serving up a selection of gourmet dishes from decadent desserts to made-to-order omelets. Don’t forget to take in the exceptional architecture and ambiance of Asher Adam’s main hall afterward. Available May 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations encouraged.

2 S 400 W, Salt Lake City
801-895-2858

Snowpine Lodge

At the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowpine Lodge offers a stunning alpine backdrop for a Mom’s Day celebration. The resort is releasing an all-new weekend brunch at Swen’s Restaurant, filled with fresh seafood items, Middle Eastern favorites and light breakfast bites. Menu highlights include seared salmon, Shakshuka, avocado toast and Labneh. Available Mother’s Day from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and every weekend going forward. And if you prefer a weekday breakfast feast, Snowpine is also releasing a fresh a la carte breakfast menu served daily. Make your reservation here!

10420 Little Cottonwood Rd, Alta
801-742-2000

Urban Hill

Urban Hill is presenting a Mother’s Day buffet-style brunch for the women you cherish most. Relax in their inviting dining room while Chef Nick Zocco and the team present a menu overflowing with familiar brunch favorites. From breakfast casserole to baked brie turnover, the wide selection of this hearty feast are sure to satiate every palate. Available Sunday May 11th  from 10 am to 2 pm. Seats to this special event cost $89/per adult and $35/per child

510 South 310 West, Salt Lake City

Wasatch Back and Beyond

Apex

Inside Montage Deer Valley, Apex is offering an elevated Mother’s Day brunch, perfect for the whole family. Served May 11th 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Reservations available on OpenTable.

9100 Marsac Ave, Park City
435-604-1300

Remington Hall at Grand Hyatt Deer Valley

Deer Valley’s latest luxe hotel is offering an elevated buffet brunch this Mother’s Day. Featuring items like freshly baked pastries, carving stations and fresh salads, there’s sure to be something for every family member. Available May 11th, reservations recommended.

1702 Glencoe Mountain Way, Park City
435-574-1234

KITA
Devour Mother’s Day Brunch at KITA with an incredible spread of seasonal favorites like eggs benedict, French toast, pan seared salmon & asparagus, build-your-own omelets, and a variety of desserts. $89 for adults, $38 for children 12 and under. Reservations are available on OpenTable. Sunday May 11th  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

2417 West High Mountain Road, Park City
435-800-1992

LOMA

Treat your mother to a delectable Italian brunch with favorites like mortadella pizza, rigatoni alla vodka and brunch classics like shashouka, steak and eggs and French toast. Served May 11th 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., reservations recommended.

900 Main Street, Park City
435-800-2822

Riverhorse on Main

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat Mother’s Day Tapas Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  $117 for adults,  kids 12 and under dine for $55. Reservations are available on Resy. 

540 Main St., Park City
435-649-3536

Snowbasin

Snowbasin is hosting its famed Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Earl’s Lodge this year, and have added a Saturday date due to high demand. Treat your mother to an array of elevated dishes like freshly carved prime rib, blackened salmon, locally cured charcuterie and more. The brunch will also feature several made-to-order stations where skilled chefs will make omelets and waffles suited to your taste. Available Saturday May 10th and May 11th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adults eat for $89, children 5-12 are $48, kids under 4 eat for free. Make your reservation here. 

3925 East Snowbasin Rd., Huntsville
801-620-1000

Twisted Fern

Indulge in a classic Mother’s Day brunch with items like monkey bread, brie croquettes, Nashville hot maitake sandwich, elk and eggs and more. Available May 11th 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., dinner service to follow at 5 p.m.

1300 Snow Creek Drive, Suite RS, Park City
435-731-8238

The Lodge at Blue Sky

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a lively brunch at Yuta inside The Lodge at Blue Sky. A delectable brunch will be accompanied by live music and an incredible mountain setting. Available May 11th at 11 a.m. Discover more Mother’s Day fun at Blue Sky, here!

Latitude at Black Desert Resort

Cheers to the matriarch of your family with a brunch buffet at Latitude. The St. George restaurant has pulled out all the stops this Mother’s Day, featuring fresh seafood, herb-crusted salmon, Nutella-stuffed French toast and multiple carving stations. Make your reservation here.

27649 Old Lincoln Hwy, Wanship
866-296-8998

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Apr 28
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Three Utah Runners Make History at the Boston Marathon

By Community

It’s not in the water… but it’s likely the altitude igniting super-fast runners from Utah at the Boston Marathon

This year’s Boston Marathon (April 21) put Utah on the world’s stage…from broken records to banana costumes. While we’re stoked about Banana Man Jordan Maddocks (of Draper) reclaiming his Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon run by someone dressed as fruit (he ran in a banana costume with a very fast time of 2:33:19), we’re even more excited about three Utah runners who made history.

Connor Mantz at the Boston Marathon. Photo courtesy of Boston Athletics Association.

Smithfield, Utah native Conner Mantz became the top American finisher in the world’s oldest annual marathon with a time of 2:05:04—that’s the second-fastest time run by an American man on the course. Mantz averaged 4 minutes, 47 seconds per mile and came in fourth overall.

Closely behind Mantz were fellow Brigham Young University (BYU) alums Rory Linkletter, (6th place) of Herriman and Clayton Young (7th place), from American Fork, who clocked in at less than two minutes behind Mantz. All three competed last summer in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

African-born runners have won 32 of the past 34 Boston Marathons, and it’s highly unusual to see an American running within the elite, front-running pack, let alone three. While it was ultimately John Korir of Kenya crossing the finish first with a time of 2:04:45, the world is paying attention to little ol’ Utah. Is there something in the water? Probably not, but at 4,500 feet above sea level, our altitude, climate, and gorgeous peaks and valleys are gaining traction in the running world as a perfect training ground. BYU seems to have supplanted Oregon as the distance-running capital among universities and Utah’s recently created and state-funded Run Elite Program, (REP) is helping attract and retain high-level runners.

“With its towering mountains and supportive communities, Utah has been an integral part of my life,” Conner Mantz wrote for Olympic Team USA. “From my high school days at Sky View to my time at Brigham Young University, the cheers from the sidelines and the genuine excitement for our races were a constant source of motivation.”

Utah sent 377 runners to the storied Boston Marathon this year, which features a celebrated course, huge, high-energy crowds from start to finish, and, lest we forget, the iconic blue-and-yellow unicorn finisher’s medal.

“Boston is my victory,” a tagline for the annual Patriots Day event, (held the third Monday in April) really holds true. Most of this year’s 32,000 runners from around the globe worked tirelessly to achieve a qualifying time, and with demand ever increasing, those qualifying standards keep dropping lower and lower and runners hoping for a spot are required to beat that standard by an ever-increasing margin. Those selected to run Boston in 2025, for instance, averaged 6 minutes, 51 seconds faster than the minimum qualifying standard for their age group.

That means even Banana Man is no joke. How many folks do you know that can run a sub-six minute mile for over 26 miles? And in a banana costume? The chaffing alone deserves a medal. So here’s to you Conner, Rory, Clayton and…Banana Man. 

Kenyan runners Sharon Lokedi and John Korir took the champion’s medal in the women and men’s category. Photo courtesy of Boston Athletics Association.

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Apr 28
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Your Week Ahead: April 28—May 4

By Community

Hold onto your hats, Salt Lake—it’s a week packed with action! Between Derby Day festivities and Cinco de Mayo revelry, there’s plenty of lively happenings to fill your calendar. 

Monday 04/28 

What: Salt City Slam 
Where: The Beehive (666 S. State St, SLC) 
When: 04/28 at 7 p.m. 
Every last Monday of the month, The Beehive hosts a spirited poetry slam. This open mic features poets of all levels, judged by a panel or audience based on content, delivery and impact. Tickets range from $1-15. More info here. 

What: Craft Lake City Makers Mart 
Where: Public Market at Millcreek Common
When: 04/28 at 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 
A local artisan showcase held daily through May 27. The curated selection features 40 vendors, with a variety of handcrafted goods from vintage wares to jewelry, pet treats, art and more. 

Tuesday 04/29

What: 2025 NCECA Annual: True And Real 
Where: UMOCA
When: On exhibit now through May 31
Now showing at UMOCA’s Main Gallery, True and Real is one of three cornerstone exhibitions produced by the National Council of Education for the Ceramic Arts. Comprising the works of five artists, the objects in this exhibit demonstrate the power of ceramic art to raise questions about the human condition. Learn more on UMOCA’s website. 

What: Post Malone Presents: The BIG ASS Stadium Tour 
Where: Rice-Eccles Stadium 
When: 04/29 at 7:30 p.m. 
Songwriter, rapper and Utah resident Post Malone brings his stadium tour to Rice Eccles, with guest performances by Jelly Roll, Sierra Ferrel and more. Tickets starting at $99.50. 

What: Wicked 
Where: Eccles Theatre 
When: Select dates and times now through May 25 
Enjoy the Broadway sensation Wicked on the big stage. The 2-hour 45-minute musical tells the untold true story of the Witches of Oz through the eyes of a bubbly blonde and a verdant vanguard. 

Wednesday 04/30

What: How to look at Contemporary Art 
Where: Kimball Art Center
When: 04/30 at 6 p.m. 
Kimball Art Executive Director Aldy Milliken and ceramists Hazel Coppola and Horacio Rodriguez host a free discussion on the intersection of contemporary art and ceramics. 

Thursday 05/01

What: May Day Celebration
Where: Canyon Rim Park 
When: 05/01 at 6 p.m. 
A family-friendly celebration of labor and the working class, featuring activists networking, political training, live music, food trucks and more. 

Friday 05/02

What: Mother’s Day Tea 
Where: Grand America’s Lobby Lounge 
When: Select seatings 05/02–05/11
It’s never too early to start celebrating Mom. Treat your family’s matriarch to a classic high tea, complete with finger sandwiches, decadent pastries and a curated tea selection. Adults dine for $49.50, children 12 and under $35. 

What: Spring Home Expo 
Where: Mountain America Expo Center
When: 05/02 at 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
Looking to remodel your kitchen or refresh an outdoor living space? Find inspiration and local vendors who can make your dream into a reality at this free home expo. 

What: Plazapalooza Spring Concert Series 
Where: Snowbird 
When: 05/02 at 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Enjoy the spring sunshine at Snowbird’s Plazapalooza festival. Snack on apres food and drinks from the Subie Shack or Birdfeeder as you jam out to tunes by Sun Divide. 

Saturday 05/03

What: 2nd Annual Salt Lake Derby Party 
Where: La Caille 
When: 05/03 at 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
A celebration of Southern elegance, featuring gourmet food, cigar rolling, music, live streaming of the Kentucky Derby, and of course, statement-making wide-brimmed hats. This is a 21+ event, find more information on dress code and what to expect here! 

What: Salt Lake City Tacos & Margs Crawl 
Where: Various downtown bars (starting at Gracie’s)
When: 05/03 at 2 p.m. 
Kick off your Cinco de Mayo fiesta with a themed bar crawl. The revelry begins at Gracie’s with specialty margaritas, tacos, prizes, professional photography and more. Tickets available from Bar Crawl Nation.

What: 2025 Tour de Brewtah! 
Where: Various routes through Salt Lake 
When: 05/03 
Grab your pals and a bike helmet for a fun-filled day of local brews and scenic routes. This unique event includes five mapped-out routes with stops at breweries and cideries like Level Crossing, 2 Row Brewing, Scion Cider, Hopkins Brewing, Shades and more. Each participating brewery will offer a special Tour de Brewtah pour, collectable stamps, and fellow beer enthusiasts! 

What: Bark at the Moon
Where: The Gateway
When: 05/03 at 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
A fun evening event for friends, family and furry companions! Let the pets mingle while you enjoy local food trucks, craft beer, live music and a vibrant vendor alley. Tickets start at $25. 

What: Cinco de Mayo Fiesta 2025
Where: Millcreek Common
When: 05/03 at 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
Celebrate Mexican flavors and flair with an evening of dancing, games, food and free skating. 

What: Utah Food Festival
Where: Natural History Museum of Utah 
When: 05/03–05/04
Celebrate our region’s rich culinary heritage with a weekend of foodie-focused workshops. Choose from a range of unique hands-on experiences led by culinary experts, like Preserving Ancestral Ways of Chocolate Making with Zoque LLC. 

What: Race of Roses Derby Party 
Where: Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club 
When: 05/03
There are plenty of Derby Day events in Salt Lake to choose from! Don your best southern hat and head to Flanker for a custom hat bar, mint juleps, race day thrills and more. 

What: Derby Day at Palomino
Where: Palomino Park City 
When: 04/03 at 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
Enjoy a live broadcast of the race alongside delicious food and unique cocktails at the Western-loving Park City bar Palomino. Derby attire encouraged. 

What: Third Annual Derby Day 
Where: Laurel Brasserie & Bar 
When: 05/03 at 4 p.m to 6 p.m. 
Good Things Utah host Deena Marie is taking the reins for this year’s Derby celebration, with all proceeds benefitting the Utah Food Bank. Dress in your Kentucky best and enjoy the Southern celebrations on Laurel’s outdoor patio. Ticket price includes entry and passed hors d’oeuvres. 

Sunday 05/04

What: Bohemian Bum Farmer’s Market
Where: The Gateway
When: 05/04 at 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 
A sustainable market featuring organic produce, local artisans and eco-conscious products. This free event is held every first Sunday of the month. 

What: “Hold my Beer” Free Yoga 
Where: 2 Row Brewing
When: 05/04 at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Stretch and sip with yogi Kate at 2 Row’s free monthly yoga class. Two classes available at 11 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., each catering to different experience levels. Reserve your spot here.

Read more stories like this and all of our Community coverage. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.