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 Outdoors Initiative. The Adventure Challenge Passport is a keepsake and personal adventure tracker where kids collect badges, record memories and celebrate accomplishments. It’s free to participate. Find passport pick-up locations, Adventure Challenge ideas and free community events on Utah’s EKO website.
There’s always a creative solution to spending time outside. Here’s a list of Adventure Challenge-themed activities suitable for nearly any conditions or weather:
Nature Journaling builds mindfulness, observation and detail-oriented skills. This challenge encourages your child to slow down and observe the natural world with curiosity and awe.
- What you need: A designated nature journal and writing utensils.
- Activity: Engage the senses. Find a spot to sit and observe. Prompt your child by asking what they see, touch, smell and hear. Encourage them to record their observations by writing, drawing, doodling or creating a collage.
- Tip: There is no wrong way to nature journal. Give your child plenty of space and time to explore their creativity.
Observe Wildlife Challenge safely introduces your child to the fascinating world of animals, both big and small. They’ll learn quiet searching and patient observation, which are foundational skills in both science and mindfulness.
- What you need: A magnifying glass or a camera.
- Activity: Insect observation. Look for insects in gardens, parks or even around your home. Use a magnifying glass or take a photo to zoom in and notice details. Become a citizen scientist—throughout history, everyday people with curiosity and attention to detail have made important discoveries. Visit the Natural History Museum of Utah’s website to explore projects your family can join.
- Tip: Foster a deeper understanding by researching insect life cycles together.
Utah Rocks! Challenge promotes climbing, touching and exploring rocks of all shapes and sizes.
- What you need: A sense of adventure.
- Activity: Indoor rock climbing or bouldering is a colorful, engaging activity that builds balance, coordination and strength. There are dozens of climbing gyms across Utah, including community recreation centers with climbing walls.
- Tip: Look for introductory rates or free youth climb days.
Utah Forever Challenge is a promise to recreate safely and protect Utah’s lands, lakes, parks and cultural sites so they remain healthy for future generations. Stewardship means caring for the places we recreate.
- What you need: Take the Utah Forever Pledge and commit to recreating safely and being a good steward.
- Activity: Water exploration. Visit a local stream, pond or river and learn about the plants and animals that live there. Identify species and understand their role in a healthy ecosystem. Practice responsible recreation by respecting wildlife, avoiding pollution and following Leave No Trace principles.
- Tip: Take it further by learning about Utah’s watersheds and how water connects communities.
Share Nature With a Friend Challenge is all about discovering the outdoors through collaborative play. When kids explore together, curiosity grows, and confidence follows.
- What you need: A friend.
- Activity: Unstructured outdoor play. Invite a friend or two for an outdoor playdate. Adults step back and observe while kids create games, build structures and explore freely.
- Tip: Dress your child in clothes that can get muddy or worn, as messy play is part of the adventure.
Shoulder season doesn’t have to mean sitting inside; it’s an opportunity to explore in new ways, build resilience and create meaningful family memories. With a little creativity and the right mindset, every season can be adventure season. Grab a passport, pick a challenge and get outside. Utah is waiting!