How to Enjoy Living in Salt Lake City, Utah All Year Long

We all know that Utah is a veritable paradise for winter sports. There’s a reason why Salt Lake City is going to become a two-time Winter Olympic venue in 2034. Our climate and topography create some of the most formidable ski conditions not just in North America, but also globally, with countless skiers and snowboarders from around the world visiting every season.

So we’ve established that winters here are fantastic. But what about the rest of the year? In this post, we’re shining the spotlight on what it’s really like to live in Salt Lake City year-round.

What do people here do when they aren’t skiing? Keep reading to find out.

Spring Skiing

Ok, I know we said we were going to talk about more than just skiing, but it’s hard not to mention spring skiing! Many nearby mountains offer skiing quite late in the year, perfect for anyone looking to extend their season.

Park City and Deer Valley usually have snow up until mid-April, but higher elevation mountains like Snowbird typically end their season in May or even in June, some years! Spring skiing feels much different than other times of the year. As the season comes to a close, you might find some hilarious and fun events like pond skimming, closing day festivals, and more.

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Take a Road Trip

Spring in Salt Lake City is also sometimes referred to as ‘Mud Season.’ As the snow melts and the temperatures rise, things can get a bit sloppy. Activities like hiking and mountain biking are generally discouraged to preserve the trails when the ground is soft and wet. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sit at home!

Salt Lake City is surrounded by national parks. Additionally, Utah’s landscape and climate change greatly, even within a short three hours from home. Imagine leaving SLC with your winter jacket only to drive three hours south to Moab, where you’ll probably prefer just a light windbreaker or even just a t-shirt!

Many residents love taking trips to parks like Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. These gorgeous parks offer a completely different look and feel from Salt Lake City, and they are fantastic places to explore while the trails back home dry out.

Take a Hike

Salt Lake City and the surrounding area have some of the best hiking trails around. Our diverse range of hiking trails has something for everyone, from seasoned hikers looking for a challenge to casual afternoon hikes, after-work trail runs, dog walks, and more.

The range of hiking trails in the area is impressive, but what’s even more impressive is how easily accessible they are. Most trailheads are conveniently located near the city, perfect for a last-minute plan or a quick workout before your day begins.

Some of the most well-known hiking trails in the area include:

Big Water Trail – An accessible trail in Millcreek Canyon, perfect for those with mobility restrictions, dog owners, hikers, and mountain bikers alike!
Ferguson Canyon – The rock scrambles can be somewhat challenging for less-experienced hikers, but the lookout on this trail is well worth it.
Living Room – This unique trail features rock formations that look like chairs—hence the name! Many hikers love this one as a quick and relatively easy way to get outside.
Grandeur Peak Face – Steep and challenging, this hike is a classic for anyone hoping to test their fitness. At the top, you’ll find a panoramic view of the Salt Lake Valley. It’s breathtaking!

And this is just to name a few! There are countless more hiking trails around Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon, Silver Lake, Mount Timpanogos, and more! You’ll find everything from family-friendly loops, captivating lookouts, majestic waterfalls, and maybe even some wildlife spotting!

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Explore on Two Wheels

With countless miles of pristine trails, it’s no surprise that mountain biking and road/gravel cycling are so popular in Salt Lake City. It’s in our blood.

No matter what your preferred cycling discipline and skill level, you’ll find a trail that suits your preferences. From the technical black diamond Bobsled and Lost Lad to the fully paved Jordan River Trail, there’s truly something for everyone!

Nearby Park City is also a haven for mountain biking, earning a Gold Level Ride Center rating from the International Mountain Biking Association. Park City is even home to Haley Batten, a cross-country mountain bike Olympic silver medalist!

Note: Many mountain bike trails in the area are multi-use. It’s essential to follow local trail etiquette.

Hit the Water

This wouldn’t be a post about enjoying outdoor activities in Salt Lake City without mentioning watersports! Although Utah is well-known for its high-desert-alpine climate, we have an abundance of crystal clear lakes and rivers to enjoy.

The Great Salt Lake, Utah Lake, Willard Bay Reservoir, and the nearby Jordanelle Reservoir and Provo River are just a few of the bodies of water that play host to numerous outdoor activities, including fishing, boat tours, swimming, parasailing, tubing, river rafting, waterskiing, and more!

Note: Some local lakes prohibit swimming and fishing for ecological preservation. Make sure you confirm before you venture out!

Perfect Your Swing

Do you prefer manicured greens and a refreshing apres at a clubhouse? You’re in luck. Salt Lake City is rich with amazing public and private golf courses and clubs to choose from, including:

Why People Live in Salt Lake City, Utah

Ask anyone, whether they have lived here all their lives or are brand-new to the community, the number one reason people move to Salt Lake City is in pursuit of an active lifestyle.

How can you blame us when we are surrounded by pristine natural beauty and year-round amenities and activities for all ages and interests? Living in Salt Lake City means having a healthy work-life balance. It means having the freedom and opportunity to enjoy your favorite hobbies whenever you like.

It’s one of the main reasons why living in maintenance-free communities is such a popular trend here. Why would you want to spend your time mowing grass or shoveling snow when you could be out enjoying the wilderness?

Thinking about making the move to Salt Lake City? If you’re looking for year-round recreation, breathtaking natural vistas, and a friendly community, you’re in the right place! With over 20 years of experience in the Salt Lake City real estate market, I can help guide you through the home buying and relocation process with confidence and ease.

Get in touch today by filling out the form on this page, calling me at 801-949-9878, or emailing me at Julia@JuliaSplan.com.

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