TAKE A BREATH IN NATURE
With easy access to both mountains and deserts – and every bit of topography in between – Salt Lake City is made to be explored. Pack a picnic and make a day of it as you enjoy the many parks, groves, and canyons of SLC (in snow or shine).
Sugar House Park
The area’s “crown jewel” of regional parks is spread out over 110 acres of lush green space. Take in breathtaking views of Mount Olympus as you bike, walk, or scoot around the park’s paved loop. Stay for sunset to catch the reflections on the mountain as the sun goes down. While the park is easily accessible to all, the loop has some hills for those who are looking for more of a physical challenge. When it’s warm outside, you’ll easily be able to spend the entire day at Sugar House – bring a picnic and set up on the large fields that also double as the perfect spot to throw or kick a ball around. If you’re committed to taking it slow, bring a hammock and read a book as you lounge between two trees. Dogs are welcome and come out in droves with their owners. Even when winter hits, you’ll still find the park ready to welcome those who want to get outdoors for a brisk walk.
Liberty Park
It’s not often that a park is called notorious, but if there was ever a park that deserved that title, it would be Liberty Park. In the past 10 years it has worked hard to revitalize its sometimes-seedy reputation and is now a loved area with something for everyone. Known as thee place to skate or strap on your rollerblades (or old school four-wheelers), kids, teenagers, and adults love to cruise through the park’s sidewalks with their friends – lined with plenty of benches to rest on when they need a break. Non-skaters can take part in a game of tennis on the courts or enjoy a leisurely walk through the well-kept landscape. A playground and picnic facilities make it an easy afternoon for young families looking to get out into nature. Want to tap into the eclectic energy of the city? Stop by Liberty Park on a sunny Sunday afternoon to appreciate the energy of the artfully inspired inviduals of Salt Lake.
Memory Grove Park
Perfectly situated downtown, Memory Grove Park is a green oasis set back from the bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through a park or more of a challenging hike, you’ll find it at Memory Grove. In addition to extensive paths, the park also features memorials to Utah’s veterans and a replica of the Liberty Bell. Have a spare hour? Enjoy a relatively flat loop from Memory Grove City Creek Park and back. When fall hits, this is one of the best spots in the city to enjoy the changing leaves.
Millcreek Canyon
Slightly outside of Salt Lake City, this one takes a little more planning, but it’s worth it. One of the easiest canyons to access from Downtown and South Salt Lake, Millcreek Canyon is the perfect spot when you want to disconnect. Literally. There is no cell service in the area, so if you go, make sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. Take a drive and admire the scenery, or lace up your boots and go for a hike on one of the many trails. Mountain bikes are allowed on the upper trails on even days. Take note that there is a small daily fee to use the area that is paid when you exit the canyon. Locals might benefit from the annual pass that pays for itself after 10 visits.
