The Beehive State's arid climate giveth and it taketh away.
On one hand, it is largely responsible for shaping many of Utah's most prized landscapes—you know, the Instagrammable ones. On the other, it brings scorching heat to many parts of the state every summer.
And while hiking or biking in the warm sun can be a blast, some days (or most days, depending on who you ask) are made for beating the heat.
Utah Valley, home of cougar supporters and Utah Tech Week coders, is home to several lakes and reservoirs that can become the perfect escape when valley temps become unbearable. Here are some to consider.
Utah Lake
Utah Lake is huge. It's twice the size of Bear Lake. It flanks the entirety of Utah Valley, so wherever you are in the valley, it'll pretty much be right by you—like a loyal friend.
It may be shallow but don't let that deter you; the wealth of recreation it offers more than makes up for it, as do its spectacular sunsets.
Here are a few popular Utah Lake activities to cool you down:
- Boating: Motorboats and jet skis are popular on the lake, as are non-motorized options. You can rent row boats, kayaks, and canoes at the Lindon Marina.
- Sailing: Utah Lake is one of the best places to earn your "skipper" stripes, thanks to the Bonneville School of Sailing.
- Paddleboarding: SUP'ers can enjoy the lake on a hot afternoon, and then enjoy a well-deserved supper at JCW's.
If you want to enjoy sunset and sunrise by the lake, camping is also possible — it is a state park after all.
Last but not least, check weather conditions and know your limits before engaging in water recreation: shallow depths + wind = very choppy waters.
Provo River
River tubing has a very strong argument for being the quintessential cool-down activity, and there are few better places to tube in Utah than the Provo River.
The gentle river is suitable for most, scenic for all — and you can rent all the equipment you need onsite. The most popular section runs about six miles down Provo Canyon, starting just below Deer Creek and ending at Vivian Park (that's the stretch you'll float if you rent from High Country Adventures.)
If you're more of a "teamwork makes the dream work" kind of person, the Provo is just as stunning and fun on a raft or kayak (which you can also rent).
Whatever adventure you choose, swimming ability and life jackets are legally required.
Tibble Fork Reservoir
On the other side of Mount Timpanogos, roughly halfway up American Fork Canyon, are two pristine alpine reservoirs that are perfect getaways from the hot valley. The first one of those is Tibble Fork.
Even without the water, the added elevation shaves off 10 to 15 degrees from city temperatures — and the shade found on the nearby trails can take off even more heat if you're up for a hike.
But with the water, Tibble Fork is a can't-miss summer destination. The intimate reservoir, paired with drop-dead-gorgeous views, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing—or just a little dip if you can brave the cool water. No motorized watercraft is allowed, adding to the serenity.
Note that Tibble Fork can get crowded on weekends and holidays—plan and prepare accordingly.
Silver Lake Flat Reservoir
If you like the picturesqueness of Tibble Fork but want a more tranquil experience, consider its more remote — and sometimes less crowded — neighbor Silver Lake Flat Reservoir.
Not to be confused with the also spectacular Silver Lake near Brighton Resort or the Silver Lake that is a two-mile hike above Silver Lake Flat, this reservoir is located four miles north of Tibble Fork.
From there, it can be accessed via a dirt road (high clearance highly recommended) or a moderate hike (motivated legs highly recommended). Same deal as Tibble Fork: no motorized watercraft.
Payson Lakes
About twelve miles south of Payson are three lakes that make for a great hot-day step-away: Big East Reservoir, Box Lake, and McClellan Lake. The fun begins before you even get to the lakes, as they are accessed via the stunning Nebo Loop Scenic Byway.
Once you're there, (non-motorized) boating and good times await—as well as nearby biking and hiking opportunities. You can also extend your stay at the lakes by spending the night at the nearby Payson Lakes Campground.
Deer Creek Reservoir
Deer Creek is popular with water skiers and wakeboarders, but you don't have to have a powerboat to have fun here. There are some decent beach areas around the island and in Rainbow Bay. If you want to increase your fun, you can rent kayaks or paddlebaords or you can check out the Rainbow Bay Aqua Park.
Community lakes
Utah Valley offers many urban community lakes with swimming areas. Most are free to access (and very popular). They include Highland Glen Park located directly behind Lone Peak High School, Manila Creek Park, Spanish Oaks Reservoir, and Salem Pond.
A word of caution
Always remember: water can be as dangerous as it is fun. Always monitor weather conditions and water quality before hitting up the lake, bring life jackets, and don't do anything you don't feel comfortable doing.
Avoid going alone, and if you do, tell someone about your plans.
Visit the Utah Valley Chamber website to find more great things to do… including great restaurants to stop and enjoy on your way home! And while you're visiting the website, take a moment to learn about the benefits of doing business in Utah Valley.
