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There's just so much to do here. Utah's national parks, martian red rocks and Olympics-worthy ski resorts are famous around the globe. Its reputation as a top destination for off-roading and crack climbing is perhaps lesser known to the grand public, but certainly not a mystery to the enthusiasts of those disciplines.
But as you move down the list of what the Beehive State is really good at, you can find some real surprises. For example, you probably didn't know Utah is a great place for sailing.
Utah Lake, a hidden gem in plain sight
When it comes to sailing, people usually think of places like the Pacific Northwest or states on the Atlantic like Maine or Connecticut. So it's unexpected to learn that for sailing aficionados Utah Lake is nowhere near as plain as its name.
The third largest freshwater lakes in the western U.S., Utah Lake is a remnant of ancient Lake Bonneville, which was roughly the size of Lake Michigan, according to Visit Utah.
Seeing Utah Lake from a distance as you drive by on the interstate is a far different experience than being on the water. Although much of the lake today is surrounding by a bustling metropolis, from the water side, there are still areas that are natural and relatively untouched. Utah Lake is an important habitat for more than 200 species of birds, ranging from bald eagles to pelicans and great blue herons.
The Utah Lake wetlands also provide habitat for an array of wildlife. Muskrats, mink, coyotes and deer are regularly spotted wandering the shoreline. The lake is popular with anglers seeking walleye (probably the best tasting fish in Utah), white bass, largemouth bass, catfish and more. The harbors are great places to take kids to catch bluegills and crappie.
These days, Utah Lake measures about 24 miles from north to south, and 12 miles east to west, states the Utah Lake Commission. Its shallowness helps keep the water warm throughout spring and summer. Add generally soft winds and it is the perfect Utah spot for all watersports: boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and of course — sailing.
The Bonneville School of Sailing
Utah Lake is not only a hot spot for sailing, it is the best place to learn how to sail in the state — the title of skipper is earned, not given. So before you run off and buy your own boat, make sure to learn from the pros.
The pros in question here are Todd and Louise Frye, a couple who are living their dream of "sharing the magic of sailing with others." They are the proud founders of the Bonneville School of Sailing and Seamanship, which is as fancy as it sounds and provides sailors of all levels lessons taught right on Utah Lake.
Their two-hour introductory course, "Discover Sailing," is designed to get you on the lake and get your feet wet (in all senses). From there, you can enroll in the 18-hour "Basic Learn to Sail" program, the perfect course for beginners to grasp the basics of the sport. The course also gives would-be sailors an opportunity to get out on Utah Lake, get a feel for what sailing entails and, most likely, fall in love with it.
Intermediate and advanced courses are also offered for those looking to take the next step.
Take a sunset sailing cruise
If you want to go sailing without learning how to do it on your own, the Bonneville school still has you covered. For a reasonable $99, a couple can enjoy an escorted sailing cruise on Utah Lake to watch the sun go down. If you want more privacy and romance, for $179 you can be the only couple on the boat.
If you haven't experienced a Utah Lake sunset, you're in for a treat. Reflections from the water can turn an ordinary sunset into an image worthy of a photo in an oversized coffee table book. And being on the open water of the big lake gives you a completely different perspective of Utah Valley.
For DIYers
The Lindon Marina will probably be your best bet at renting a sailboat and launching into the waters of Utah Lake. For just $25, you can take your date, friend or even your mom on a fun cruise on Utah Lake in a mini sailboat. If you decide you like it, each additional hour is only $10.
If you're a seasoned pro and already have your own sailboat, you can start sailing at one of the lake's 27 boat launches. See the Utah Lake Commission's map of all of the access points to start planning your Utah Lake sailing adventure.
