Itching for a change of scenery this summer?
With so many National Parks, State Parks, National Monuments, and no shortage of world-class outdoor activities, Utah is the ideal locale for outdoor recreation.
We've come up with few ideas for fun activities and also taken stock of Utah's best lodging options where protocols are in place to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
To keep you busy, here are a few of our favorite things to do in Utah.
- Plan a wildflower hike in Utah's mountains
- Try paddleboarding in the Great Salt Lake or one of our many lakes and reservoirs
- Challenge yourself at one of many disc golf courses at Utah's resorts
- Utah is a world-famous mountain biking destination, here are a few trails you can try with your doggo.
- Hiking? We have that too — here are the best sunset hikes across the state
- If the whole family is tagging along, here are some great hikes for kiddos, too
- Lastly, don't miss out on this ultimate family bucket list
Now go bust up your cabin fever with some additional ideas below!
It should go without saying, but please be responsible and considerate when traveling during the pandemic. Follow all recommendations by federal and local health institutions. Wash your hands frequently and wear a secure face covering that properly covers your face and nose when in public areas or indoors and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Many of our mountain towns and rural areas have small hospitals and limited health care resources. Help protect our communities (and yourself) by making responsible decisions.
N O R T H E R N U T A H
WHAT TO DO
With cooler temps, high elevation lakes, hiking, biking, and a slower pace, Northern Utah is a great place to relax and escape the summer heat. The less busy roads and jaw-dropping scenery make Northern Utah a favored destination for motorcyclists and sight-seers. Beaver Mountain offers biking and hiking as well as camping. On Saturdays and Sundays, Snowbasin Resort is offering gondola rides for hiking, sightseeing, mountain biking, and Yoga In The Mountains in addition to an 18-hole mini golf course. Biking, hiking, trail running and tacos are available at Powder Mountain on select dates.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR NORTHERN UTAH
Mountain Bike 3 Ogden Valley Resorts in 1 day: click here
Ogden's Top Trails :click here
Escape to Beaver Mountain This Summer : click here 
NORTHERN UTAH LODGING OPTIONS
Water's Edge Vacation Suites & The Bear Lake Motor Lodge
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Located near the azure shores of a deep mountain lake, the Water's Edge Resort at Bear Lake offers great access to the water and provides the perfect basecamp for enjoying the outdoors in Northern Utah with plenty of amenities. The Lodge Motel offers affordable rates in Garden City with a throwback vibe. Some rooms are equipped with kitchenettes and this is a family-friendly option for lake lovers.
COVID-19 Protocol: Water's Edge is continuing to use its already high standards for cleaning and sanitation as well as providing sparkle kits so guests can clean and disinfect with extra sanitation supplies during their stay to ensure peace of mind. Self-check-in and check-out procedures help guests avoid contact with staff. Water's Edge is continuing to implement guidelines as recommended by the state and local authorities and will implement changes if necessary. CDC guidelines for cleanliness as well as the Utah State color code guidelines for cleanliness and social distancing are being followed.
Specials: Check Groupon for specials, packages, or discounts. On weekdays at the Lodge, Guests can stay 2 nights and get the third night free.
Best Western Plus High Country Inn
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Affordable rates and a great location near the Ogden Nature Center make the Best Western Plus High Country Inn a great choice for road trippers. The Nature Center is great for kids and stretching your legs after a drive, encompassing 152 acres of walking trails, ponds, and an educational center. With a robust plan to keep guests safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, the High Country Inn provides guests with peace of mind and a relaxing atmosphere.
COVID-19 Protocol: High Country Inn has implemented the Best Western We Care Clean Program and are finishing up an outdoor landscaping project to allow for guests to enjoy our outdoor setting. For more information on the thorough cleaning and sanitation protocol of the We Care Clean Program, click here.
Specials: Multi-night stay discounts available
S A L T L A K E C I T Y M E T R O A R E A
WHAT TO DO
Salt Lake City is renowned for its unbeatable access to outdoor recreation while remaining a metropolitan area with tons of attractions, diversions, and great eating. With mountain biking and hiking abound in the central Wasatch, the most difficult thing will be narrowing down your to-do list. Retreat to the high elevations of Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon and enjoy plentiful wildflowers and summer activities at Snowbird.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR SALT LAKE CITY METRO AREA
Intermediate Bike Trails in Wasatch: click here
Hiking: 10 Most Common Wasatch Wildflowers: click here
Cottonwood Canyon Hikes: click here
SALT LAKE CITY LODGING OPTIONS
Alta Lodge
Opening: August 1, 2020
Why Stay? Nestled at the base of iconic Alta Ski Area, the Alta Lodge offers breathtaking scenery, rustic atmosphere, amazing food, and a chance to get away from it all. Located at a high elevation, guests can savor cooler temperatures, incredible wildflowers, and a huge variety of hiking trails. Fine dining, elegant furnishings, and attentive staff ensure a flawless visit.
COVID-19 Protocol: The Alta Lodge will be following state, county, and CDC guidelines and guests will be required to wear face coverings.
Snowpine Lodge
Open: Yes
Why Stay? The newly renovated Snowpine Lodge at Alta Ski Area in Little Cottonwood Canyon redefines modern mountain luxury. Rooms offer mountainside patios and jaw-dropping views of the surrounding landscape and access to a large outdoor pool. The food is excellent and the atmosphere of this decadent lodge promotes a feeling of total escape. Step out the door and enjoy a myriad of hiking trails throughout the historic Alta Ski Area and the profusion of wildflowers that typically peak in late July and August.
COVID-19 Protocol: With guidance from the CDC, AHLA Safe Stay Guidelines, and local governmental agencies, the Snowpine team has implemented and enhanced sanitation protocol around the hotel and guest common areas. The cleaning and sanitation process within guest rooms, restaurants, and team member service areas have all been elevated and will be performed frequently. For more information, click here. Dining tables have been reconfigured to factor in social distancing and elevator occupancy is limited. All team members are required to wear masks and guests will be asked to do the same in all public spaces.
Specials: A Locals Rate is available for those looking for a staycation to escape the summer heat, click here for information.
Silver Fork Lodge & Restaurant
Open: Yes
Why Stay? If a rustic, relaxing atmosphere is what you're seeking, look no further than the historic Silver Fork Lodge & Restaurant, nestled at 8,000 feet in elevation in Big Cottonwood Canyon below Solitude Mountain Resort. Revel in the rich mining history and imagine the tent city of Silver Fork back in the 1850's when miners and sawmill workers called this beautiful area home. The Silver Fork Lodge itself was once a general store for the area and a plethora of beautiful hiking, biking, and trail running can be enjoyed nearby.
COVID-19 Protocol: All staff will be wearing masks and social distancing will be practiced. The Lodge has increased sanitation measures and guests are required to wear masks when indoors. All recommendations and protocols provided by the local health department will be followed and groups in the dining room will be limited to 10 or fewer people.
Salt Lake City Marriott University Park
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Nestled in the foothills of Salt Lake City on the University of Utah campus, the Marriott University Park Hotel property provides excellent views, atmosphere, and access to hiking and biking on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
COVID-19 Protocol: All Marriott properties are committed to providing a safe environment for guests and staff that adheres to expert protocol for preventing and defeating the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The Marriott Cleanliness Council has redefined cleaning and safety protocols for all hotel properties; for more detailed information, click here. Efforts include cleaning high traffic areas more frequently, installation of hand sanitizing stations, signage to remind guests to remain 6 feet apart, and rigorous protocol to sanitize all surfaces in hotel rooms with hospital-grade disinfectants.
W A S A T C H B A C K & P A R K C I T Y A R E A
WHAT TO DO
Beat the heat and enjoy the trails and recreation opportunities on which the quaint and historic town of Park City thrives. With over 500 miles of trails accessible from town, Park City was designated the first gold-level ride center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association in 2012. From beginner to advanced, there are trails here for every rider, and both Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain are chock full of lift-served trails if you're not interested in pedaling uphill. Fly fishing, trail running, hiking, disc golf, paddleboarding, golf, and horseback riding are just some of the countless activities you can enjoy in and around Park City. For a day trip away from Main Street, consider a scenic drive through the charming town of Midway and down Provo Canyon to visit Sundance Mountain Resort which has trails for hiking and biking and Sundance Art Studio Classes.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR THE WASATCH BACK & PARK CITY AREA
Wasatch Back & Park City Lift-served Flow Trails : click here
Park City Hiking & Biking Loop Trails : click here
Wasatch Back Activities for Teens: click here
Woodward Park City : click here
PARK CITY LODGING OPTIONS
Snow Flower Condominiums & Reservations
Open: Yes
Why Stay? A fantastic retreat for families, the amenities and location of the Snow Flower Condominiums and Reservations, at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, provide a basecamp for fun. Bike-in/bike-out or hike-in/hike-out trails are located just outside your condo's doorstep. Two pools and one outdoor spa compliment outdoor tennis courts, pickleball courts, BBQ areas and picnic tables. From premium to economy and studios to 6-bedroom suites, the Snow Flower has the perfect lodging situation to meet your needs.
COVID-19 Protocol: The Snow Flower is following all Summit County health guidelines as well as those proffered by the State of Utah and the CDC.
Specials: Book direct for the best rates. Guests who stay for three nights will earn a 4th night free on bookings through November 1st when paying the nightly rate.
Park City Peaks Hotel
Open: Yes
Why Stay? With a cozy mid-century vibe, the design and atmosphere of the Park City Peaks Hotel will melt your worries away. Golfers will love this location just across the street from the Park City Golf Course. An indoor/outdoor pool will also delight the kiddos.
COVID-19 Protocol: Park City Peaks Hotel is following all Summit County health regulations.
Specials: Book direct and receive a $20 credit to the Versante Hearth & Bar per night.
Waldorf Astoria Park City
Open: Yes
Why Stay? This award-winning hotel in Park City provides sublime dining and lodging adjacent to Park City Mountain Resort. Personalized service, attention to detail, and an atmosphere of mountain luxury allow guests to truly enjoy their vacation. For the peak in service, amenities, and location, the Waldorf Astoria Park City cannot be topped.
COVID-19 Protocol: Every aspect of the hotel's operation has been evaluated to protect the health and safety of guests and staff. From arrival to departure, the hotel has implemented many steps to maintain social distancing, minimize contact, and ensure the highest sanitation standards are implemented. The Waldorf Astoria is committed to upholding Hilton's CleanStay initiative. Click here for further information and details.
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Park City Lodging
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Providing lodging and vacation services in Park City, Utah since 1984, this property group manages a diverse selection of vacation homes and condo units across Park City and its three resort base areas. With such experience, the crew can help you with any arrangements from booking activities, airport transfers, to dinner reservations, and more. The huge selection of rental properties managed by Park City Lodging provides guests with a ton of flexibility and the opportunity to perfectly match their lodging needs and preferences.
COVID-19 Protocol: Park City Lodging has adopted a number of new safety and health protocols to ensure consistency across all their rental properties. All rental properties will be left vacant for at least 24-hours prior to cleaning after each guest departure. Strict cleaning protocols with CDC-approved disinfectants are in use. Park City Lodging is offering direct-to-property check-in with remote registration and electronic locks. Staff will not enter any occupied property unless an emergency is taking place. For complete details from Park City Lodging, click here.
Newpark Resort
Open: Yes
Why Stay? The Newpark Resort is a vibrant boutique hotel situated at the edge of the peaceful 1,200 acre Swaner Nature Preserve in Kimball Junction. As the state's first LEED-certified resort community, this contemporary luxury property melds environmentally conscious living with unbeatable access to the outdoors. Amenities include gas fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, and private decks with hot tubs.
COVID-19 Protocol: Newpark Resort launched their #StayWell guidelines to provide industry-defining standards of cleanliness and disinfection through rigorous employee training. Evolving consumer expectations and hygiene recommendations by the CDC and EPA inform every aspect of the #StayWell initiative. For more information on all aspects of Newpark Resort's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.
Specials: Check out Newpark Resort's Buy One, Get One, Give One program (BOGOGO). This limited offer permits guests to buy one gift card valid at Newpark Resort for a future stay in Park City. The Get One Bonus provides you with an equivalent amount of credit at Newpark Resort to match your gift card purchase. Give One reservation is valid at Newpark Resort for heroes and frontline workers in the industry of your choice. Click here for further details.
The Lodge at Blue Sky & Blue Sky Utah
Open: Yes
Why Stay? If you're looking to escape the crowds in Park City yet enjoy luxury in a mountainous setting, the scenery and setting of The Lodge at Blue Sky is sublime. Situated on 3,500 private acres, guests can enjoy horseback riding, wildlife watching, and hiking. This is the place to slow down, switch the phone into airplane mode and connect with nature. The sky is the limit here on amenities and experiences, from mountaintop family yoga to heli-fly fishing transfers to high alpine lakes; there is no better place to escape it all.
COVID-19 Protocol: The hotel is continuously monitoring guidance from the CDC and the local health department. The rigorous cleaning regimens in place have also been modified and enhanced to protect the safety and health of guests and staff. Procedures for social distancing have been put in place throughout the hotel. Temperature checks and masks are required for the lodge's staff members. Sanitation stations have been installed around the property and complimentary masks are readily available. For additional information, click here.
Specials: Utah locals with a Utah driver's license are eligible for Lodging discounts of up to 40% in addition to adventure discounts. Inquire directly. 
Stein Eriksen Lodge, Stein Eriksen Residences, The Chateaux Deer Valley and Luxury Homes by Stein Collection
Open: Luxury Homes by Stein Collection is open now, remaining properties will be opening soon
Why Stay? With award-winning spa and culinary excellence, the luxurious accommodations and 5-star service found at Stein Eriksen properties creates a memorable and seamless experience for guests. Rental options abound from mountainside suites to private Luxury Homes by Stein situated along Deer Valley Resort's famous slopes. From the staple Stein Eriksen Lodge, to the Stein Eriksen Residences, to The Chateaux Deer Valley, all rental locations ensure access to hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. With spas, pools, and patios for relaxing, Stein properties are the ultimate indulgence in mountain luxury.
COVID-19 Protocol: All Stein properties will implement many new health and safety standards to protect guests, owners, and employees. Guests will be showered with the same legendary service that they have come to expect from Stein for the past 38 years. With rigorous staff training and every aspect of your visit evaluated for maintaining health and safety, Stein properties are cutting no corners to uphold the highest health and safety standards. Click here for complete details.
Specials: Book two nights and earn a third night free. Also consider the Retreat to the Mountains package, which features a generous resort credit that can be applied towards dining, spa services, and select activities throughout Park City, (i.e. mountain biking, lift tickets, hot air balloon, fly fishing, etc.).
Hyatt Centric Park City
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Located at the base of Park City Mountain's Sunrise chairlift, it's tough to get closer to the slopes than the Hyatt Centric Park City. As a basecamp for alpine adventure, these well-appointed condos, rooms, and suites are ready for families, couples, or adventurers who are ready to connect with this special mountain landscape.
COVID-19 Protocol: Hyatt has placed a great deal of effort into enhancing safety protocol to ensure guests and staff remain healthy and safe. Guests are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings in the hotel's public areas. The check-in/check-out process has been streamlined to minimize contact between guests and staff. Food service is currently limited to carry out only for lunch and breakfast. Capacity at the outdoor pool and fitness center has been reduced to allow social distancing. For complete details click here.
Specials: A Utah Resident Rate is available, please inquire directly.
Westgate Park City Resort & Spa
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Located at Park City Mountain's Canyons Village, the Westgate Park City Resort and Spa is adventure ready. With stringent hygiene and safety protocols, the Westgate has melded safety and health with world-class amenities and lavish accommodations. Their first-rate service team has earned top awards and guests can easily wind down in the renowned Serenity Spa and indoor and outdoor heated pools.
COVID-19 Protocol: All team members will wear a Westgate-provided face covering while on property. The check-in process has been optimized for convenience and safety or through the Westgate Mobile App. Cleaning procedures have been enhanced with ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging in guest rooms to disperse safe cleaners through the air to remove contaminants. Rooms are secured for a full 24 hours and laundry services utilize UV lighting systems to disinfect linen. Westgate is cutting no corners to ensure Team Members, guests, and the local community remain safe and healthy. For additional information click here.
Specials: Book now and save up to 20% on best available rates! First responders are eligible for special discounts, click here for info.
Best Western Plus Landmark Inn
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Located in Kimball Junction near the famed Utah Olympic Park, the Best Western Plus Landmark Inn offers affordable rates in a convenient location for exploring the Wasatch Back, Park City, and Salt Lake City. Unbeatable value and great customer service await guests.
COVID-19 Protocol: The Landmark Inn has implemented the Best Western We Care Clean Program which encompasses an enhanced cleaning protocol and measures to improve safety and health for guests and staff. For more information on the thorough cleaning and sanitation protocol of the We Care Clean Program, click here.
Specials: Rates are as low as $89 per night based upon availability.
S O U T H E R N U T A H
WHAT TO DO
With five National Parks located in central and southern Utah, it would be difficult to find another area in the US that boasts such a dense concentration of natural splendor. From boating to hiking to biking, it's easy to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Try stargazing or visit Utah's highest resort base area at Brian Head Ski Resort, where you'll find excellent flow trails and hiking.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR CENTRAL & SOUTHERN UTAH
Mountain Bike Road Trip to Brian Head: click here
Lift Served Mountain Biking: click here
Dark Skies Park and Stargazing: click here
LODGING OPTIONS
Red Cliffs Lodge
Open: Yes
Why Stay? Located in the Castle Valley, just northeast of Moab, Utah, the Red Cliffs Lodge is a stunning retreat in red rock country. Situated on the shores of the mighty Colorado River, the lodge is located on 240-acres, and its design naturally promotes safety and health in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. All rooms feature private entrances and do not require a public hallway to access. Private, outdoor patios with dividing walls ensure privacy while allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Units feature individual HVAC systems and do not connect via any airways or ducts. All rooms include kitchenettes so guests can easily bring and prepare their own food. Moab is an adventure-lover's paradise and the Red Cliffs Lodge is perfectly located to maximize access to Moab's attractions while promoting the health and safety of guests and staff.
COVID-19 Protocol: The Red Cliffs Lodge is following the guidelines of the Southeastern Health Department of Utah. Staff in food service will be wearing masks. Plexiglass barriers have been installed at the front desk to protect staff and guests. Sanitation stations have been installed around the hotel property and social distancing markers help remind everyone to remain safe. Housekeeping service is provided only upon check-out and will not be available during a stay to safeguard the health of staff and take-out is available from the restaurant onsite.
Specials: Enjoy specials throughout July that include $100–120 discounts on room rates.
