Adventure in Lehi!

Thanksgiving Point

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discover Thanksgiving Point

Morning: Arrival and Butterfly Biosphere

Start your adventure at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah, easily accessible via I-15, just 30 minutes south of Saltumberland. Arrive early to explore the Butterfly Biosphere right at opening time (10 AM). Immerse yourself in a lush, tropical oasis teeming with thousands of vibrant butterflies. This vivarium is one of the largest insectariums in the Rocky Mountain region, offering not just a visual feast but also engaging opportunities to learn about butterfly conservation.

Midday: Lunch and Museum of Ancient Life

After your morning exploration, grab a quick bite at the Harvest Restaurant, which serves delicious farm-to-table options. Then, head over to the Museum of Ancient Life. A short walk or a quick drive will take you back in time to when dinosaurs roamed. With over 60 complete dinosaur skeletons and more than 50 hands-on exhibits, this place is an adventure lover’s dream. Engage in a paleontological dig and uncover fossil replicas in the interactive sandpit.

Afternoon: Ashton Gardens

Following your prehistoric journey, venture to the Ashton Gardens via a scenic walk or if preferred, a shuttle ride available from the museum. Spanning over 50 acres, the gardens offer countless paths through 15 themed gardens, each with its unique allure. Don’t miss the Secret Garden for a tranquil moment and the 50-foot waterfall for a spectacular natural display. Explore on foot or rent a golf cart to cover more ground quickly.

Evening: Farm Country

Conclude your day at Farm Country. A leisurely stroll from Ashton Gardens, this spot provides a rustic end to your day. Here, adventure melds with education as you interact with farm animals and learn about agricultural processes. Perfect for a gentle wind-down before you head back to your accommodations or continue your journey.

Interesting Fact: Thanksgiving Point is not just about its attractions; it also hosts the annual Tulip Festival each spring, where over 280,000 tulips in hundreds of varieties burst into bloom—an unforgettable sight for nature lovers!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling journey to Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, nestled in the heart of Utah"s Wasatch Range, offering adrenaline-packed adventures year-round. Just a scenic 29-mile drive from Salt Lake City International Airport, Snowbird is a paradise for adventure lovers.

Day 1: Conquer the Peaks

Start your day by catching the Aerial Tram from Snowbird Center, soaring to Hidden Peak at 11,000 feet. The 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are a breathtaking introduction. Strap on your skis or snowboard and tackle the legendary slopes. With over 2,500 acres of terrain, there"s a challenge for every skill level.

Day 2: Summer Thrills

Visit in summer and replace skis with mountain bikes. The resort"s extensive network of trails offers everything from leisurely scenic rides to aggressive downhill courses. Grab a trail map from the Activity Center and head up the tram or chairlifts which serve as convenient bike lifts. After descending, consider a hike to Cecret Lake, a hidden gem known for its wildflower displays.

Day 3: Explore and Relax

For a change of pace, take the 1.6-mile round trip hike to the summit of Hidden Peak. The views are worth every step. Later, unwind at The Cliff Spa, where a rooftop pool and hot tub await, offering serene mountain vistas.

Each season at Snowbird presents unique experiences, from deep powder days to vibrant summer trails, making it a year-round haven for adventurers. Whether you"re carving through fresh snow or biking a rugged trail, Snowwind offers an unforgettable escape into the wild.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Brighton Resort

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Brighton Resort, a hidden gem nestled in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, renowned for its powdery slopes and breathtaking landscapes. Just a 35-minute scenic drive from Salt Lake City International Airport, Brighton is easily accessible and promises an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your journey early in the morning by renting a car from the airport, which gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival at Brighton, get your lift pass and equipment rental sorted at the resort’s main hub. Dive straight into action with the Majestic chairlift, offering access to a variety of trails suited for different skill levels. Don"t miss the chance to ride the Crest Express, taking you to the top for a panoramic view of the rugged mountain terrain.

Day 2: Backcountry Adventures

For those with a penchant for thrills, book a guided backcountry skiing tour. Brighton’s unique location provides access to some of the best off-piste skiing in the region. Ensure you’re equipped with avalanche safety gear, available for rent at the on-site shop. This experience not only elevates your skiing skills but also lets you soak in the pristine natural beauty of the untouched snow.

Interesting Fact: Brighton Resort holds the title for the first ski resort in Utah and is celebrated for its commitment to 100% natural snow, providing some of the best powder skiing in the United States.

Day 3: Night Skiing

Conclude your adventure with night skiing, a must-do at Brighton, which boasts one of the largest night skiing areas in the area. The floodlit trails provide a surreal and thrilling experience as you glide under starlit skies.

Each day can end with a warm meal at one of the cozy lodges, where you can relish local delicacies and share tales of your mountain exploits. Whether you"re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene moments in nature, Brighton Resort delivers an exceptional mountain getaway.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Park City Mountain Resort

Why Visit?

Welcome to Park City Mountain Resort, a thrilling alpine sanctuary where snowy peaks meet luxury, just a 35-minute scenic drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts, this resort boasts the title of the largest ski area in the U.S., offering more than 7,300 acres of mountainous joy.

Day 1: Conquer the Slopes

Start your adventure by catching the first chairlift at PayDay Base, easily accessible from Park City"s historic Main Street with its quaint shops and cozy eateries. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at ‘Legends Bar & Grill’ before hitting the slopes. Experienced skiers can head straight to Jupiter Peak, offering some of the most challenging terrains and panoramic views of the Wasatch Range. Snowboarders will revel in the meticulously groomed runs and innovative terrain parks like Neff Land with its whimsical features.

Day 2: Explore and Tour

Shift gears and explore the mountain differently by booking a snowmobiling tour at Red Pine Adventures, located directly in Park City. No need to trek out—tours depart from the heart of the resort. Zip through pristine backcountry trails and open meadows, an exhilarating way to soak in the natural beauty.

Day 3: Historical Main Street

After an action-packed morning on the slopes, spend your afternoon strolling down Main Street. Dive into Park City"s vibrant history at the Park City Museum or pick up unique local art and handcrafted souvenirs. As evening sets, indulge in a culinary adventure at ‘High West Distillery & Saloon’, America’s only ski-in gastro-distillery.

Interesting Fact: Did you know Park City Mountain Resort has a unique ski-in, ski-out distillery? After a day of mountain adventures, skiers can glide right up to High West for some après-ski relaxation featuring locally distilled spirits.

Every day at Park City promises a new adventure, making it a perfect playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Kennecott Copper Mine (Bingham Canyon Mine)

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Kennecott Copper Mine Exploration

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Bingham Canyon

Begin your adventure by heading to the colossal Kennecott Copper Mine, located southwest of Salt Lake City, Utah. To get there, rent a car from Salt Lake City and enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive. As you approach, the sheer scale of the open pit, one of the largest man-made excavations in the world, will take your breath away.

Morning Activity: Visitor Experience Center

Start at the updated Visitor Experience Center, where you can delve into the rich tapestry of mining history through engaging exhibits. Learn about the pioneering techniques developed here and the environmental efforts to reclaim and restore areas of the mine.

Afternoon Adventure: Lookout and Photography

Head to the designated lookout points using the marked trails. These vantage points offer stunning perspectives perfect for photography enthusiasts. The mine"s terraced levels, giant machinery, and vibrant mineral colors provide a unique industrial landscape to capture.

Day 2: Hiking the Oquirrh Mountains

Explore the Oquirrh Mountains, which cradle the mine to the west. Well-marked trails offer varying difficulty levels, providing both gentle and challenging routes for hikers. As you ascend, keep an eye out for local wildlife and remnants of old mining operations scattered throughout the landscape.

Lunch Break: Picnic with a View

Pack a lunch and choose a serene spot along your hike in the Oquirrh Mountains. The panoramic views of the mine below and the sweeping vistas of the Salt Lake Valley are a perfect backdrop for a midday break.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that the Bingham Canyon Mine has produced more copper than any other mine in history, with enough material to build the Statue of Liberty more than 30,000 times over?

Departure

Conclude your adventurous tour with a drive back to Salt City, filled with unforgettable memories and stunning photographs, a true treasure trove for adventure lovers and history buffs alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.