Heading to KubeCon a bit early, or planning on staying around for the weekend? The options for outdoor fun are endless, even if it’s not quite ski season. From winter hiking to snowshoeing, bobsledding, winter camping or even soaking in a geothermal cave, there are so many options, including skiing if the weather cooperates. Here’s everything you need to know.
The joys of warm water
If body temperature water in an underground cave with the chance to swim, soak, stand up paddleboard or even scuba sounds good, look no further than Utah’s Homestead Crater. Located about an hour from Salt Lake City, this geothermal hot spring is an unexpected, but totally relaxing, adventure inside a 55 foot dome made of limestone. Make reservations in advance and be prepared to shed stress in a very unique setting.
The “greatest snow on earth”
Technically the ski season around Salt Lake City doesn’t start until later in November, but because the weather often has a mind of its own we wanted to include the many, many snow-filled adventures available. In an hour or less, you’ll have your choice of 11 different ski resorts offering what the locals call “the greatest snow on earth.” Skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and those wanting to try helicopter-powered skiing or boarding all have an abundance of choices.
Ice skating
For indoor and outdoor chilly fun, the Salt Lake area has places where you can lace up and have some fun. The Gallivan Center, an outdoor rink near downtown, opens up when KubeCon does on November 12. Or head indoors to The Steiner/SLC Sports Complex with two Olympic-size skating rinks.
Take a hike!
Bundle up with winter trail gear and get out there for five “bucket list” hikes that are made better by cold weather, i.e., fewer people, sweeping, high contrast views, and an incredible feeling of self-satisfaction that you got out and did it despite the weather.
Strap on some snowshoes
Even if there isn’t enough snow for good skiing, it could easily be possible to snowshoe. Here’s a list of snowshoe-friendly trails, ranging from easy to difficult.
…or maybe tubing or sledding?
Again, it might not be prime powder, but it could still be a fun sledding day. Find 6 tubing parks and countless sledding hills in the Salt Lake area and beyond.
Bobsled bragging rights
Who needs the perfect powder when you can experience a BOBSLED? Located in nearby Park City (about half an hour from Salt Lake), the Utah Olympic Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience a 60MPH bobsled ride under the guidance of a professional driver. This opens up to the public again on November 8, so please make reservations in advance and know there are some age/weight minimums…but the cool factor cannot be topped! Also, there are guided tours of the Olympic Park and other offerings including a ropes course.
Winter camping in a yurt
For those planning a longer stay in Utah, a number of the state parks have yurt camping or “glamping” available. Obviously reservations need to be made in advance, and amenities vary. But just imagine the views!
Finally, ice fishing?
If it’s really cold, but *not* snowy, ice fishing might be a possibility. Experts suggest the fishing is best early in the season, but of course they also recommend the ice be at least 4 inches thick. Enthusiasts should explore more, here.