Welcome to Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Initiative
Welcome to Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Initiative
We empower young people to explore outside.
Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors is the state’s initiative dedicated to promoting a healthy, active, nature-filled childhood for all of Utah’s youth. We help children foster a lifelong passion for outdoor recreation by providing the resources, inspiration, and tools to connect families, schools, and communities to nature.
Every Kid Outdoors in Action
Watch how kids around Utah are earning badges and creating unforgettable memories.
What is Utah's Every Kid Outdoors Adventure Challenge?
We invite all Utah’s youth (ages 3-18) to spend time in nature through 14 challenges designed to foster a lifelong passion for the outdoors. The Adventure Challenge Passport is a keepsake that tracks the journey.
How To Participate
Kids & Families
Step outside and join the Adventure Challenge!
Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Adventure Challenge program empowers families to get out and explore outside.
Educators
Empower students through outdoor learning experiences
Access the Curriculum Hub, learn about grant opportunities, and sign up for the educator newsletter!
Community Partners
Strengthen community through nature connection
A partnership with Every Kid Outdoors shows a profound commitment to the health and future of Utah's children.
Explore the Adventure Challenge
Each of the 14 badges represents an outdoor experience that will help you discover new skills, explore nature, and create lasting memories. There is no wrong way to Adventure Challenge! Use the 14 themes to get creative about spending time outside. Try something new - and you are Adventure Challenging!
Nature Journaling Challenge
Record your discoveries!
For this challenge, you might:
- Keep a nature observation journal
- Draw or sketch plants and animals
- Record weather patterns
- Write about outdoor experiences
- Create a nature photo diary
Winter Adventure
Brave the cold!
For this challenge, you might:
- Experiment with snow photography
- Build a snow fort
- Go sledding, tubing, or ice-blocking
- Try cross-country or nordic skiing
- Track animal prints in the snow
Winter Games
Have fun in the snow!
For this challenge, you might:
- Try ice skating or sledding
- Build snow sculptures
- Play winter outdoor games
- Learn a winter sport
- Make hot cocoa outdoors
Trail Challenge
Hit the paths well-traveled!
For this challenge, you might:
- Complete a nature hike
- Learn Leave No Trace principles
- Navigate using a map and compass
- Identify trail markers and signs
- Hike to a scenic viewpoint
Starry Skies
Explore the night sky!
For this challenge, you might:
- Identify constellations
- Watch a meteor shower
- Use a telescope or binoculars
- Visit a planetarium or observatory
- Take night sky photos
Camping Challenge
Sleep under the stars!
For this challenge, you might:
- Set up a tent properly
- Learn to build a campfire safely
- Cook a meal outdoors
- Tell stories around the fire
- Sleep outdoors at least one night
Water Discovery
Make a splash!
For this challenge, you might:
- Explore your local body of water
- Learn about water safety
- Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing
- Go fishing or learn to fish
- Participate in a water sport
Observe Wildlife
Study animals in nature!
For this challenge, you might:
- Spot and identify 5 different animals
- Learn bird calls and songs
- Find animal tracks or signs
- Visit a wildlife sanctuary or zoo
- Create a wildlife observation journal
Utah Rocks!
Explore Utah's Geology!
For this challenge, you might:
- Visit a Utah state park with unique rock formations
- Learn about different types of rocks
- Go rockhounding for interesting specimens
- Create a rock collection
- Learn about Utah's geological history
Utah's Wild Places
Explore Utah's protected areas!
For this challenge, you might:
- Visit a Utah National Park
- Explore a state park or monument
- Learn about conservation efforts
- Take photos of natural landscapes
- Participate in a ranger program
Plant Discovery
Get acquainted with Utah's plants!
For this challenge, you might:
- Learn about foraging safely
- Harvest vegetables from a garden
- Collect fallen leaves for art projects
- Learn about seasonal foods
- Find a flower and look for pollinators
Nature Mindfulness
Find peace in Nature!
For this challenge, you might:
- Practice meditation outdoors
- Do mindful walking in nature
- Listen to natural sounds
- Practice breathing exercises outside
- Find a peaceful outside sit spot
Share Nature With a Friend
Bring others outdoors!
For this challenge, you might:
- Take a friend on their first hike
- Teach someone about nature
- Organize a group outdoor activity
- Share your favorite outdoor spot
- Lead a nature walk for others
Utah Forever
Protecting Utah, now and forever!
For this challenge, you might:
- Learn about Leave No Trace
- Clean up liter in the park
- Volunteer to remove invasive weeds
- Learn about recycling in your area
- Leave an area better than you found it
Need Help Getting Started?
Check out our upcoming Adventure Challenge events. Every Kid Outdoors and our community partners host free or low-cost events that empower outdoor recreation and foster a lifelong love of nature.
Annual Every Kid Outdoors Events
Winter 2026 | Winter Adventure Kickoff Event
Fri, Feb 20 | 3:00 - 6:00 PM
Utah Olympic Oval
Spring 2026 | Sand Hollow Campout
Fri, April 24 | 5:00 - 10:00 PM
Sand Hollow State Park
Summer 2026 | Logan Canyon Adventure
Sat, Aug 1 | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Utah State University
Fall 2026 | Dinosaurland Adventure
Fri, Oct 9 | 1:00 - 9:30 PM
Utah Field House Museum
Community Calendar
Events
List of events in Photo View
Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors is a statewide initiative that empowers outdoor recreation and fosters a lifelong passion for the outdoors.
We invite all Utah’s youth (ages 3-18) to spend time in nature through 14 challenges designed to foster a lifelong passion for the outdoors. The Adventure Challenge Passport is a keepsake that tracks the journey.
Our Background
Utah's Every Kid Outdoors Initiative launched with a 2019 legislative resolution signed by the Governor and the Utah State Legislature (H.C.R. 4), and is now run by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation.
Our Goal
To foster a healthy, active, and nature-filled childhood for all of Utah's youth.
Our Why
On average, children 8 to 18 are spending 7.5 hours a day on screens. The average American child spends four to seven minutes a day playing outside. Children are becoming more disconnected from nature, engaging in less exercise, and are at increased risks for poor health.
Studies confirm that outdoor play reduces stress, improves focus, enhances emotional health, and reduces the risk of obesity.
Our Approach
Through the Adventure Challenge and our partnerships with educators and community partners, we're making outdoor recreation accessible, regardless of background or experience level—so that all Utah's youth can benefit from a healthy, active childhood.
Because every child deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of outdoor adventure.
Additional Resources
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Utah's Every Kid Outdoors is made possible through the generous support of organizations that share our commitment to connecting youth with nature and fostering a lifelong passion for the outdoors.
Strategic Sponsors
Top level support from renowned Utah agencies.
Venue Sponsors
Increbile spaces that allow the Utah's Every Kid Outdoors mission to flourish.
Interested in Partnering With Us?
Join our mission to empower outdoor exploration and foster a lifelong passion for the outdoors.
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
Don't wait - Utah's incredible outdoors are calling! Start your EKO Adventure Challenge today and discover the amazing experiences waiting just outside your door.
Star Party – EKO Adventure Challenge
Friday, February 20 5-9pm
South Marina Campground
Join a park ranger and the University of Utah Willard Eccles Astronomy Observatory for an evening of starry sky watching and astro discovery. We’ll have telescopes set up for a close-up look at the celestial wonders in the galaxy. Learn about the night sky and the wonders of the universe in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Telescopes will be provided. Please dress warmly!
Event is free with paid park day-use or Utah State Parks annual pass.
For more information please email [email protected] #starparty #utahstateparks #ekoadventurechallenge #EKO2026 #eko2026 #willardbaystatepark #willardbay #willardbaystateparkutah
EKO Observe Wildlife Challenge! 🍂🐿️
October is the perfect month to slow down, look closer, and discover the wildlife all around us! From spotting squirrels gathering food to watching migrating birds on the move, fall brings unique opportunities to observe animal behaviors you won’t see any other time of year.
The best part? You don’t have to wait for an event—take part in the Observing Wildlife Challenge anytime! Make it a family adventure, whether you’re hiking a trail, setting up a backyard bird feeder, or simply keeping an eye out in your neighborhood. 🦉🦌🐇
👉 Tap the link in our bio for more ideas to start your own wildlife-spotting adventure this fall!
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge #EveryKidOutdoors #OutdoorEducation #ObserveWildlife #WildlifeWatching #EKOutdoors #UtahOutdoors #FallAdventures #FamilyOutdoors #FallInUtah #NatureKids #BackyardWildlife #BirdWatching #DiscoverNature #GetOutside #OctoberOutdoors #CrittersCrittersCritters
Look! Over there!
While no lions, tigers or bears (oh my!) were spotted at the Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Observe Wildlife Event earlier this month, we did find some animal tracks… 🐾🔍👀
October’s EKO event was a huge success, thanks to our wonderful hosts at the @swanerpreserve
Swaner
preserve and EcoCenter (@swanerpreserve)! The afternoon was packed with hands-on activities that brought the natural world into focus. Young explorers had the chance to earn their Observe Wildlife badge by:
Practicing their bird-watching skills 🦅🔭
Dissecting mysterious owl pellets 🦴✂️
Taking a stroll through the nature preserve 🌳⛰️
Peering through microscopes at feathers, bones, and butterfly wings 🦋🔬
Creating their own critters out of leaves 🍂🎨
Getting up close and personal with Swoops, the friendly great horned owl 🦉✨
Thank you to these amazing partners and volunteers who made the event a howling success!
@wasatchmountaininstitute
@basinrecreation
@cottonwoodcanyonsfoundation
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge #EveryKidOutdoors #OutdoorEducation #OutdoorLearning #GetKidsOutside #KidsInNature #GetOutdoors #ObserveWildlife #WildlifeWatching #EKOutdoors #FallAdventures #FamilyOutdoors #FallInUtah #NatureKids #BackyardWildlife #BirdWatching #DiscoverNature #GetOutside #OctoberOutdoors #CrittersCrittersCritters
If we want to reverse the trend of the indoor, screen-based childhood, we need to be intentional about it and support parents, caregivers, and educators to make outdoor time part of everyday life again. That’s why I’m joining the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation on November 18 at 11 AM MST for an online conversation about embracing nature in every season, rain, shine or snow.
We’ll talk about:
✅ The Nordic philosophy of friluftsliv (open-air life)
✅ How to balance screen time and “green time”
✅ Overcoming barriers to outdoor play
✅ Raising confident, resilient, nature-connected kids
...and much more.
This event is free and open to everyone. If you`ve been wanting more outdoor time with your kids but don`t know where to start (or how to keep it going), this talk is for you🙌🏻
Sign up with the QR code or the link in bio☝🏼A Zoom link will be sent out to attendees the day before the event.
Hope to see you there!
#webinar #outdoorplay #friluftsliv #UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge #EveryKidOutdoors #OutdoorEducation #theresnosuchthingasbadweather #openairlife #friluftsliv #natureconnection #letkidsbekids #OutdoorPlay #OutdoorLife #childrenandnature #outdoorfamilies #outdoorparenting #montessori #montessorieducation #natureconnection #letthemplay
Hoo-hoo! 🦉Our final EKO event of 2026 was a hoot (ha, we’re so funny…).
In all seriousness, our evening at Bells Canyon Reservoir in Sandy, UT was one to remember. Kids of all ages flocked (omg we’re good) to meet a variety of feathered friends from our partners at @hawkwatch, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy donuts from @alphacoffee and @darlasdonuts. Attendees also ventured into the inky night on a guided ½-mile hike to take in the glassy reservoir in all its nighttime splendor, and @clarkplanetarium even brought telescopes to help us explore the stars (those pesky clouds though, tsk tsk…).
A special thank-you to @thanksgivingpoint for donating Luminaria tickets to the first 75 attendees!
Watch the video for highlights from the night, and thanks again to our wonderful partners:
@hawkwatch
@clarkplanetarium
@nhmu
@alphacoffee
@darlasdonuts
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge #EveryKidOutdoors #OutdoorEducation #OutdoorLearning #GetKidsOutside #KidsInNature #OwlMoon #NightHike #MoonlightHike #ExploreUtah #UtahOutdoors #SandyUT #BellsCanyon #NatureAtNight #WildlifeEducation #FamiliesWhoExplore #OutdoorFamilies #Owls #WhyDidWeEverStopPlayingNightGames
EKO RECAP!!! One year. 12 adventure challenges. Countless firsts. 🤘🏼
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to rock climbing, camping, and a winter night hike to close it all out—2025 with Every Kid Outdoors was nothing short of incredible. We watched families show up a little nervous, try something new, and leave with big smiles and even bigger confidence.
To every family who joined us (some of you every freakin’ time!), thank you for trusting us and sharing your joy. We’re already dreaming bigger… and we can’t wait to see you outside with us in 2026. ✨
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge EveryKidOutdoors OutdoorEducation OutdoorLearning GetKidsOutside KidsInNature FamilyAdventure YearInReview TrySomethingNew
PRIZES! PRIZES! PRIZES!🎉
We’re going live to celebrate our EKO superstars! Join us for an Instagram Live prize drawing honoring the kids who completed all 15 EKO Adventure Challenges.
📅 Tuesday, January 6, 2025
⏰ 12:30 PM MST
We’ll be drawing winners and celebrating families who went above and beyond in 2025. Tune in as we celebrate dedication, exploration, and the families who made it happen!
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge EveryKidOutdoors OutdoorEducation OutdoorLearning GetKidsOutside KidsInNature FamilyAdventure YearInReview PrizesOnPrizesOnPrizes
Something big is taking shape.
New tools. New possibilities. Same mission—reimagined.
February 18, 2026. Stay tuned. 🔎
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #RecreationElevated #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge EveryKidOutdoors OutdoorEducation OutdoorLearning GetKidsOutside KidsInNature FamilyAdventure CrypticMessaging HmmmWhatchaGotUpYourSleeve
“We’re gonna skate to one song, and one song only—”
“I don’t even know what that means—”
“Nobody knows what it means, BUT IT GETS THE PEOPLE GOING!”
(Where are our #BladesOfGlory fans at!?)
And honestly? Same energy - Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Adventure Challenge is back, and we’re kicking off 2026 with a Winter Games Celebration at the Olympic Oval—in partnership with @utaholympiclegacy.
📅 February 20 | 3–6 PM
🎟️ Free to attend
Hit the ice with free skate rentals, try your hand at curling, take a hockey shot, and meet an Olympic athlete. Families can register for the year-long Adventure Challenge, enjoy snacks and hot cocoa, and grab an EKO ski buff.
The first 150 participants will receive free hot cocoa, head over to the link in our bio and register today!
Now… what’s that one song gonna be??
#UtahDOR #UtahOutdoors #EKOAdventureChallenge #EKO2026
Discover Wildlife Up Close! Join us for the EKO Observe Wildlife Challenge event at @swanerpreserve! From birdwatching to animal tracking to hands-on wildlife crafts, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
📍 Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter (1258 Center Dr, Park City)
📅 Thursday, Oct. 9 | 3:30–6:30 PM
✅ Free & family-friendly
✅ Explore, learn, and connect with Utah’s amazing wildlife
✅ Earn your Adventure Challenge badge!
Click the link in our bio or scan the QR code on the flyer to sign up!
#ExploreUtah #EveryKidOutdoors #EKOAdventureChallenge #AdventureChallenge #UtahWildlife #OutdoorFun #FamilyAdventure #WildlifeWatching #GetOutdoors
Meet an Olympian on the ice, Utah!
Former Olympic speed skater and Kearns native Jerica Tandiman is joining us at the Utah Olympic Oval to help kick off the 2026 Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Adventure Challenge - and you’re invited!
Bring the whole family next Friday, Feb. 20 from 3-6 p.m. for:
⛸ Free skate rentals
🥌 Curling + hockey activities
☕ Hot cocoa (first 150 participants!)
🏅 Meet former Olympic speed skater Jerica Tandiman
📘 Sign up for the year-long Adventure Challenge + grab your Passport
Jerica’s journey started right here in Utah - and now she’s inspiring the next generation to get moving, try something new, and build confidence on and off the ice.
Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Initiative invites youth ages 3-18 to complete 14 simple outdoor adventures throughout the year, helping families build healthy, active habits together.
Come skate, meet an Olympian, and kick off your family’s next adventure.
#UtahsEveryKidOutdoors #UtahKidsOutside #EKOAdventureChallenge #OutdoorFamilies #WinterAdventure
Star Party – EKO Adventure Challenge
Friday, February 20 5-9pm
South Marina Campground
Join a park ranger and the University of Utah Willard Eccles Astronomy Observatory for an evening of starry sky watching and astro discovery. We’ll have telescopes set up for a close-up look at the celestial wonders in the galaxy. Learn about the night sky and the wonders of the universe in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Telescopes will be provided. Please dress warmly!
Event is free with paid park day-use or Utah State Parks annual pass.
For more information please email [email protected] #starparty #utahstateparks #ekoadventurechallenge #EKO2026 #eko2026 #willardbaystatepark #willardbay #willardbaystateparkutah
