5 Things to Do in Utah County to Beat the Heat
There is no shortage of things to do in Utah County in the summer, from enjoying some outdoor recreation in the canyons, to cooling off on the lakes and reservoirs (there are many more beyond just Utah Lake). Here are some of our favorite things to do in Utah County when we’re looking to beat the heat with kids.
5. Cool Off With the Best Shave Ice in Utah County
We’re not the only the only ones with a major sweet tooth. Shave ice shacks pop up all over the place in the summer months, so cooling off with a sweet treat is one of the best things to do in Utah County in the summer. Check out at these amazing establishments and enjoy them outside under the shade. What kid doesn’t have a happy memory of summer shave ice and ice cream?
- Lucky’s Shave Ice (Lehi)
- Sub Zero Ice Cream (Lehi)
- Harmon’s Gelato (Lehi)
- Tower Deli Icecream Thanksgiving Point (Lehi)
- Hokulia Shave Ice (Highland)
- Shiver Shave Ice (American Fork)
- Snow Flo Shaved Ice (American Fork)
- Fro-Yo (American Fork)
- North Shore Hawaiian Ice (Pleasant Grove)
4. Shaded Hikes and Walks in Utah County
Another fun activity in Utah County is to go for a walk in one of the many shaded parks. You don’t have to drive all the way up the canyon to get out and enjoy nature. Be transported back to childhood with babbling brooks, rope swings, treehouses and teepees made out of sticks. Perfect places to let the kid’s imaginations run wild as they enjoy cool shade, flower picking, pretty views and refreshing water. Be careful of high water from spring run off at times.
- Dry Creek Trail walk (Lehi)
- Highland Hollow-Knight Rider Trail (Lehi/Highland)
- Nature Trail (American Fork Canyon)
- Cascade Springs (Alpine Loop)
- Lambert Park Poppy Field (Alpine)
- Battle Creek Falls (Grove Creek Canyon)
- Stewart Falls (Dry Creek Canyon)
3. Where to Go Stargazing in Utah County
Cool down up a canyon with the kids and park in these lots to see the beautiful night sky. There are several day use and overnight campsites up American Fork Canyon where you can go to enjoy a bonfire and soak in the night sky. Or you can park at Tibble Fork Reservoir or drive all the way up to Silver Lake Flats to enjoy yours stars with a side of lake views. Download the stargazing app Skyview if you’re an astronomy newbie. The kids will get a kick out of all the constellations and their fun names. Plus, you’ll be making incredible memories.
- Tibble Fork Reservoir
- Timpooneke Trailhead
- Silver Lake Flat
- Pine Hollow Trailhead
- Little Mill Campground
- Granite Flat Campground
2. The Best Parks & Splash Pads in Utah County
Nothing beats a shaded park in the middle of summer! Utah County also has several great splash pads that kids will love – and parents will love the fact that they’re free! Mature trees, great amenities and splash pads not only make the summer heat bearable but a blast with kids. There are some really impressive parks and splash pads, making this one of the best things to do in Utah County.
- Harvey Park & splash pad (Cedar Hills)
- Margaret Wines Park (Lehi)
- Ivory Ridge Splash Park (Lehi)
- Highland Splash Pad (Highland)
- Creekside Park and Splash pad (Alpine)
- Highland Glen Park (Highland)
1. Cool off at a lake!
The number one best thing to do in Utah County in the summer, in our opinion, is to head to the lake and cool off the old fashioned way–by jumping in nature’s pools. Many people enjoy boating or jet skiing on Utah Lake, but if you’re looking for something more affordable there are several great kid-friendly reservoirs around Utah County that don’t allow motorized craft. They’re perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, or just chilling out on the beach. Grab some paddleboard rentals in Lehi and head to these clean reservoirs filled with breathtaking views. The kids will always remember the good times on the water.
- Highland Glen – nice park with grassy shoreline
- Tibble Fork Reservoir – lake with amazing view of Mt. Timpanogos (but steep, somewhat rocky beach)
- Silver Lake Flat – a white-knuckle winding drive up a dirt road rewards you with uncrowded lake adventures
- Manila Creek Pond – sandy beach with mountain views
Here is to creating those summer memories that last a lifetime! And don’t forget to download our free Utah Bucket list for ideas of things to do in Utah.