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.
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
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
Calendar of Events
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Join the Jordan River Commission and Utah's Hogle Zoo for a Pedal the Parkway Ride, where we will learn about the wildlife conservation efforts happening around the Jordan River. This series offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the trail on two wheels, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Bring your bike, helmet, water, sunscreen. We will ...
Free
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Join us for Week 1 of our Paddle the River series! This series is a great opportunity to experience the river, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy time on the water with fellow paddlers. Participants can bring their own boat or reserve one from the Jordan River Commission. Registration is required, and space is limited. Please read through the ...
Free
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Join the Bluffdale Mayor for a walk along the Jordan River Trail. We will meet at Spring View Farm Trailhead.
Free
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2 events,
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You are invited to the WAS bike rodeo at the Utah Olympic Oval!❤️🤍💙 Get a head start on the Utah 2034 Games at the WAS Bike Rodeo! The Paralympics arrive in Utah in 2,742 days, but we are starting the celebration right now with an awesome, Olympic-inspired evening on wheels. What to expect: 👉Tackle a fun skills course 👉Ride through ...
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Join us for a guided Nature Walk at the Jordan River Migratory Bird Reserve with the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation Commission. The preserve is typically closed to the public. Dogs are not allowed. Terrain is unpaved. There are no bathrooms at the site. Meet up here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/evAeoZb6TR3gpxXG7 Bring layers, binoculars, a water bottle, and snacks. If you can not ...
Free
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1 event,
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Join the Jordan River Commission and the Tracy Aviary for a bike ride along the Jordan River Trail! This will be a short, family friendly ride where Aviary Staff will guide us in bird observations around the Big Bend Restoration Area. Bring your own bike + binoculars. Ride will be mostly paved along the Jordan River Trail, but we will ...
Free
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1 event,
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Join us for Week 2 of our Paddle the River series! This series is a great opportunity to experience the river, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy time on the water with fellow paddlers. Participants can bring their own boat or reserve one from the Jordan River Commission. Registration is required, and space is limited. Please read through the ...
Free
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Join us for a morning of cleaning up our community for the 9/11 Day of Service. We will be based out of the 7800 S Midvale Trailhead. All tools and supplies will be provided. Dress for the weather, and come ready to have fun and make a difference!
Free
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Head to Wasatch Community Gardens' Campus (629 E 800 S, SLC) on Saturday, September 12, from 11 am - 2 pm, for... Tasty tomatoes from local growers; Artisan bread (gluten-free options available); Pesto made with local basil and garlic; Live music; Self-guided garden tours with gardening advice from our experts, and; Garden-themed activities for the whole family!
Free
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Join Murray City as we celebrate our beautiful Jordan River! Bring blankets and chairs, your family and friends and come enjoy a beautiful afternoon with us. Murray River Fest will take place at the scenic Winchester Park, right along the Jordan River Trail. Here’s what to expect at the event: -Live music provided by “Desert Heartstrings” from 12:30-1:30. – Yard ...
Free
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Bring the family to Dr. O. Roi Hardy Park for an evening out at the Jordan River! Learn about the river, trail, wildlife, city water systems, and more. There will be educational booths as well as fun activities for kids, and this year we are adding a 17.76 km river bike ride to celebrate the America 250. The first 200 ...
Free
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1 event,
In-Person Class Join us for a monthly song and story adventure presented by SLCo Library's Early Learning department! Have your little ones enjoy learning with the library while also getting outside and experiencing the garden. Fun for the little ones and their caring adult. Storytime will be hosted at Conservation Garden Park every third Tuesday of the month. Storytime will ...
Free
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2 events,
Dive into the amazing world of water with a special guest from the Living Planet Aquarium! Discover how aquarium experts keep millions of gallons of water clean and healthy for incredible sea creatures, then become a water scientist yourself as you examine water samples under microscopes, test water quality with real testing strips, build your own water filter and colorful ...
Free
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Join the Jordan River Commission and Salt Lake City Public Lands for a Pedal the Parkway Ride, where we will learn about the Trails and Natural Lands Division's work along the Jordan River. This series offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the trail on two wheels, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Bring your bike, helmet, ...
Free
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1 event,
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Join us for Week 3 of our Paddle the River series! This series is a great opportunity to experience the river, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy time on the water with fellow paddlers. Participants can bring their own boat or reserve a boat from the Jordan River Commission. Registration is required, and space is limited. Please read through ...
Free
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Assist the Sanctuary's Landscaping team in performing a tree audit! Tree audits help provide important data for tracking changes in tree health, condition, monitoring fire risk, and more! We will meet at Angel Village Café. RSVP for our EKO events here: https://airtable.com/app4dxQhkuCnr7lgO/pagcjTyTHCxiVbUpl/form (Preferred but not required) *Our Sanctuary is spread across 6,000 acres. If you are not familiar with the ...
Free
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Join Tremonton Public Library and lunar enthusiasts worldwide on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for International Observe the Moon Night. This annual celebration invites everyone to look up, observe our Moon, and learn about lunar science and exploration through local events.
Free
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In Partnership with the Tremonton City Public Library, We invite you to International Observe the Moon night! Come observe the moon at Shuman Park. Come to the library prepared to listen to a fantastic presentation, grab a snack, and take a moon themed craft home.
Free
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Join us for a guided Nature Walk and Talk at the Legacy Nature Preserve with The Nature Conservancy. Only open to the public for this special event. Don't miss out on amazing bird watching on the Great Salt Lake. You don't want to miss this amazing guided walk that will be full of fun facts about the flora and fauna ...
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Join us for a beginner-friendly Birding 101 class followed by a guided community bird walk. We will start indoors with an interactive lesson covering birding basics, what to look and listen for, and how to use binoculars. After the class, all participants are invited to join a guided bird walk led by Wasatch Audubon, exploring Ogden Nature Center with a ...
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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 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
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.
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.
READY FOR AN ADVENTURE IN DINOSAURLAND?!🦖
The EKO Fall Adventure Challenge is bringing a whole lineup of outdoor activities to Vernal on October 9!
There’s something for everyone to try! Whether you’re looking to climb, ride, hike, explore, or discover something new, you’ll have plenty of chances to get outside and make some memories!
We’re teaming up with Uintah County’s Dinosaurland to bring kids and families a FREE day of outdoor fun, new experiences, and adventure in one of Utah’s most unique outdoor destinations. 🙌
And the best part? You don’t have to be an outdoor expert to join in. Come try something new, explore at your own pace, and find your next favorite adventure!
📍 Vernal, Utah
🗓️ October 9 | 1-9:30 PM
🎟️ FREE!
Ready to join us? Click the link in our bio to register!
#UtahDOR #EveryKidOutdoors #UtahEKO #EKOAdventureChallenge Dinosaurland
BEHIND THE BADGE: FOLLOW A TRAIL! 🥾
It’s another Behind the Badge Friday, and this time we’re hitting the trails!
Grab some trail snacks, pick a new trail, and get outside! Whether you’re hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, OHV riding, or even geocaching, there are plenty of ways to explore.
Not sure where to start? Try an app like AllTrails or grab a local guidebook to find the perfect trail for your family. And remember, trails don’t have to be dirt! Paved and accessible trails count, too! 🙌
And if you’re feeling extra adventurous…you can turn those outdoor adventures into points and win prizes! 👏The EKO Adventure Challenge is on GooseChase! Complete challenges, earn points, and compete with your friends and family as you explore Utah.
Click the link in our bio to join the EKO Adventure Challenge on GooseChase!
#UtahDOR #EveryKidOutdoors #EKOAdventureChallenge #BehindTheBadge #UtahTrails
READY TO TAKE A TRIP… 65 MILLION YEARS BACK? 🦖
The EKO Fall Adventure Challenge is heading to Dinosaurland in Vernal on October 9th!
We’re teaming up with Uintah County’s Dinosaurland for a FREE day of outdoor adventure where kids and families can explore, learn, and try something new.
Activities:
🦴 Fossil walks
🧗 Via ferrata
🚵 Mountain biking
🏜️ Youth ATV training (Requires separate registration ahead of time)
🌌 Stargazing
📍 Vernal, Utah
🗓️ October 9, 2026 | 1-9:30 PM
SAVE THE DATE! 🦖
Click the link in bio and head to our website homepage under events to register for FREE and learn more!
#UtahDOR #EveryKidOutdoors #EKOAdventureChallenge #RecreationElevated #Dinosaurland
Ready to sleep under the stars? There are SOOO many ways to complete your camping badge!
Swipe above to get some fresh ideas!
And if you’re feeling extra adventurous…you can turn those outdoor adventures into points!
The EKO Adventure Challenge is on Goosechase! Complete challenges, earn points, and compete with your friends and family while exploring Utah.
Join “Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors 2026 Adventure Challenge” through the link in our bio and have fun out there!
#EveryKidOutdoors #UtahEKO #AdventureChallenge #BehindTheBadge #Camping
Think you’ve got what it takes to become the ultimate outdoor adventurer? 👀
We’ve got a challenge for you.
The EKO Adventure Challenge is on GooseChase!
Complete challenges, collect badges, earn points, and compete with your friends and family, all while getting outside and exploring Utah.🏕️
And the best part? You don’t even have to download the app! You can join and participate directly through your browser!
The rules are simple:
🌲 Get outside
🎯 Complete challenges
🏅 Earn badges
🏆 Win prizes
Join “Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors 2026 Adventure Challenge” on GooseChase and let the games begin!
🔗Visit the link in our bio to get started!
#UtahDOR #EveryKidOutdoors #EKOAdventureChallenge #RecreationElevated
Bikes? CHECK. Horses? CHECK. Hiking? CHECK. Hummingbirds? CHECK.
FREE ICE CREAM? DOUBLE CHECK. 🍦
The EKO Summer Adventure Challenge in Logan Canyon had it ALL!
We had an incredible day getting kids and families outside, trying new activities, and exploring everything Logan Canyon has to offer.
Huge thanks to our amazing partners, volunteers, and everyone who came out to make this adventure happen. We couldn`t do it without you! But we`re not done yet...
We`ll see you at the next adventure in Vernal on October 9! 🦖
Head to the link in our bio to register for the FREE EKO Fall Adventure Challenge in Dinosaurland!
#UtahDOR #EKOAdventureChallenge #EveryKidOutdoors #RecreationElevated #LoganCanyon
A little help goes a LONG way when it comes to getting kids outside. 🌲💚
A HUGE shoutout to our incredible EKO partners and many more for donating the gear and resources that help make Every Kid Outdoors possible!
@utahmapstore
@utstateparks
@tetongear
From maps and books to free State Parks passes and outdoor gear, these donations help us get more kids and families outside and exploring Utah!
Thank you for helping us get Every Kid Outdoors! 🦅💚
#EveryKidOutdoors #UtahEKO #UtahOutdoors #UtahDOR #RecreationElevated
🦖SAVE THE DATE! 🦖
Utah’s EKO Fall Adventure Challenge is coming to Dinosaurland in Vernal, Utah!
📅 October 9, 2026
📍 Vernal, Utah
🎟️ FREE outdoor recreation event!
Choose your own adventure with activities like via ferrata, mountain biking, fossil walks + more, then wrap up the evening with stargazing at Steinaker State Park. 🌌
We will also be hosting a Youth ATV Training Course for kids that can be an option as an activity.
Get ready to explore, adventure and discover Dinosaurland with Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Initiative!
👉 Sign up for FREE today by clicking the link in our bio!
