Utah is quite possibly one of the most underrated travel destinations in the U.S. The state often goes overlooked in favor of other awesome adventure states like Colorado, Arizona, and California. That’s why I’m here to tell you that Utah can be just as awesome when you do it right. In fact, thrill-seeking travelers love the fact that Utah never leaves them with a lack of extreme activities to do next.
To help you make your next trip to the state one to remember, I’ve listed the top 15 extreme things to do during your stay. Check them out!
1. Jeep Crawling in Moab
Taking in the gorgeous views of Moab’s red rock is best done by jeep. You can choose to head out on a guided tour, or rent your own Jeep to make the adventure your own. Twisted Jeeps offers rentals as well as recommendations for trails and excursions. If you’re looking for a guided option, Dan Mick’s Jeep Tours offers adventures on various trails around the town.
2. Downhill Mountain Biking in Salt Lake
Few things in life are as exhilarating as pushing down high mountain trails at rapid speeds on your mountain bike. The Salt Lake area provides plenty of opportunity to make this happen during your trip to Utah. The local resorts have awesome trails that take you up via ski lift, and place you right at the top of a mountain trail. Trails.com has listed a few popular spots for local riders. You can also ask your gear shop for a few suggestions. Check out SLC Bikes for rental gear if the resort you choose doesn’t already have a rental shop.
3. Cross Country Mountain Biking in Moab
Moab is famous for it’s incredible slick rock mountain biking trails. Obviously, you’ll want to check these out if you’re in the southern part of Utah during your visit. Poison Spider is a great place to rent your gear, get suggestions for trails, and catch a shuttle to your destination.
4. Paragliding
Paragliding is extremely popular at the point of the mountain in Utah County. This is an exhilarating activity you can take part in even if your trip is set to stay close to Salt Lake City. Just a 45 minute drive will take you out to this local spot for awesome paragliding. Check out Utah Paragliding for pricing and info.
5. Skydiving
On the topic of air sports, Utah is a fantastic place for skydiving. Our gorgeous mountain landscape will make your experience one of a kind. Skydive the Wasatch offers packages for single and tandem flights along Utah’s gorgeous valley.
6. Skiing/Snowboarding
Obviously, a winter trip to Utah is a must. We tout the title “greatest snow on Earth” for a reason. While you’re here, check out famed resorts like The Canyons, Park City Mountain Resort, Snowbasin, Snowbird, Solitude, and more!
7. Ski Jumping at the Olympic Park
Have you ever tried ski jumping into a giant pool atop the amazing Wasatch Mountain range? Probably not. That’s why you should do it! During your visit, you’ll want to visit the Park City Olympic Park for awesome activities like ski jumping and bobsledding.
8. Wake Boarding at Lake Powell
There are few places in the world quite like Lake Powell. Here you can take in gorgeous red rock views and canyons, all while enjoying your time on a boat with friends and family. Wake boarding is huge here thanks to the open space the lake provides. You can check out competitions and courses to make your wake boarding experience even more extreme. See trip options at LakePowell.com.
9. Hiking at Narrows at Zions
The Narrows at Zions National Park are an incredible hiking experience for travelers from all walks of life. You can check out hike and trail info through the National Forest site.
10. Kite Boarding at Deer Creek
Ummm hello, fun! What’s better than wake boarding? Wake boarding combined with a bit of paragliding. Check out Uinta Kite boarding for pricing and info.
11. Bouldering
Utah is known for being one of the lucky states situated along the Rocky Mountain Range. That’s why rock climbing and bouldering are incredibly popular here. You can rent your gear and get instruction and guidance from Mountain Adventures.
12. White Water River Rafting
The Colorado River offers world-class river rafting you simply can’t miss. You can get a guide and gear at a local shop in Moab. Red River Adventures offers options for single and group travelers.
13. Waterfall Repelling
This is a pretty amazing experience. Whether you’d prefer to repel down a waterfall or hike up to enjoy its beauty, Utah offers your opportunity. Check out Utah High Adventure to book a trip.
14. Ice Climbing in Provo and Cottonwood Heights
This activity will obviously require the right conditions, but will be well worth the effort should the climate be on point for ice climbing during your visit. Mountain Adventures offers private lessons, gear, and tours for newcomers to the sport.
15. Snowmobiling
Naturally, another snow-related item MUST be on this list! Snowmobiling is a major sport in Utah thanks to our awesome snow. Check out Lofty Peaks for rentals and tours.
