Utah Outdoor Recreation Field Guide

Stories, safety tips, and resources for recreating across Utah

June 22, 2026

Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Initiative Builds Momentum in 2026

With new passports, community partnerships and educator resources, EKO is helping more Utah kids build healthy, active connections to the outdoors. In 2025, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation re-launched Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Initiative to help more Utah families connect with nature. The EKO story began in 2019 with a legislative resolution signed by the Governor and the

May 18, 2026

12 Must-Paddle Places in Utah: Our Top Standup Paddleboarding Recommendations

Utah is home to some of the most scenic and diverse paddleboarding locations in the West. From red rock reservoirs to high alpine lakes, there’s no shortage of incredible places to launch your board and explore the water. Whether you’re chasing calm mornings, epic backdrops, or quiet coves, these are the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation’s top picks for unforgettable

April 24, 2026

E-Bike or E-Motorcycle? Why Knowing the Difference Matters in Utah

As the weather warms up, more Utahns are getting outside, and we’re seeing more electric-powered rides on trails, roads, and in neighborhoods across the state. They’re quiet. They’re fast. And they’re fun! But they’re also creating confusion. One of the most common questions right now is simple: Is it an e-bike – or is it… something else? And the answer

April 20, 2026

Shoulder Season Adventure Challenges for the Whole Family

During seasonal transitions, when the weather turns moody and surface conditions are unpredictable, deciding where and how to recreate can be more challenging. Even when favorite trails are too muddy or summer destinations aren’t yet accessible, getting outside remains vital for family health and well-being. Feeling empowered to get outside in any condition is the mission of Utah’s Every Kid

April 2, 2026

2026 Legislative Session Recap: Advancing Outdoor Recreation in Utah

This year’s legislative session delivered several meaningful updates that do exactly that. From expanding accessibility to strengthening safety education and clarifying how new technologies fit into the mix, these changes help build a stronger, more inclusive outdoor recreation system for Utah.

March 17, 2026

Building Better Trails: How Utah is Leading the Mountain West in Trail Education and Stewardship

Across Utah and the broader Mountain West, trails connect communities to the outdoors, supporting recreation, local economies, and quality of life. But building and maintaining resilient trail systems takes more than good intentions. It requires skilled trail crews, dedicated volunteers, thoughtful design, and ongoing education. That’s where the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) continues to lead.

February 18, 2026

Built Here: How Outdoor Recreation Investments Are Shaping Utah Communities

Outdoor recreation is a defining part of Utah’s quality of life and local economies, but behind every trail, boat ramp, and community recreation space is intentional investment, thoughtful planning, and ongoing care.

January 30, 2026

A Different Kind of Winter: How to Adventure Safely in Utah this Season

Every winter in Utah brings something a little different, and this season is no exception. With lighter snowfall in many areas, recreation opportunities are shifting, opening up some experiences while changing others.

View our 2026 Annual Report

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