Maui is magical. Where else can you watch the sunrise on top of a volcano, snorkel with sea turtles, and surf…all in the same day? I recently visited for the first time and was struck by the diverse geography of this island state. Yes, we have our own breathtaking backdrop here in Salt Lake City, where a mountain hike is as close by as a grocery store, but following a run on the beach with a waterfall swim in the rainforest is a delightfully different experience. In this issue, two authors share the unique stories of their summer travels: one…
Author: Jenny Willden
Jenny Willden
Jenny Willden is the Managing Editor of Outdoor Sports Guide and a self-proclaimed gear and grammar nut. She's a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the Adventure Travel Trade Association. A lover of adventure and travel, she's happiest when riding horses or snowboarding in Utah’s mountains. Follow Jenny’s exploits on Twitter @jennywillden or Instagram @jlwillden.
See your favorite bands perform outdoors for next to nothing at this annual summer concert series in Salt Lake City. Tickets are just $5 and the gates open at 5:00 p.m. All concerts are at Pioneer Park. Come early for food and drinks in the Twilight Market followed by music all night long. Concerts on August 7, 8, 15, 22, 29, and September 5. See the full lineup online. twilightconcerts.com
Get doused by colored chalk as you dash through Salt Lake’s streets clad all in white on Saturday, August 24. The coloring continues at the finish line afterparty where you can toss chalk all over your fellow runners. You’ll finish the race a happy, rainbow-colored mess. All ages and abilities are welcome and the course is not timed. The race begins at the Downtown Library. The Color Run™ supports giving back to the community, and proceeds from each race support local charities. thecolorrun.com
Get prepped for college football season by sporting your red or blue for a 10K or 5K race in South Jordan on Saturday, September 14. Enjoy the post-race barbecue before heading home or to the stadium to watch your team play! Shirts for participants and awesome raffle prizes. sjc.utah.gov/recreation
Slip, slide, and climb your way through this 5K obstacle course at This is the Place Heritage Park (2601 E. Sunnyside Ave., Salt Lake City) on August 31. You’ll also be attacked by bouncy balls, swim through mud, and most importantly, jump into mountains of foam. Did I mention you get a medal and access to fun games after finishing? If this is your kind of fun, sign up quickly as prices increase closer to race day. 5kfoamfest.com
Climb, hike, and enjoy the outdoors while supporting the fight against ovarian cancer at the 12th Annual Climb4Life from September 13–15 in Salt Lake City. The weekend brings together women, men, ovarian cancer survivors, and other supporters for a weekend of activities in the mountains and social events. Registration is $65, but you’ll also need to fundraise $250 for the HERA Women’s Cancer Foundation to participate. herafoundation.org
Test your endurance as you challenge yourself at this three-leg water and land race or relay at Jordanelle Reservoir near Park City on Saturday, September 14. You’ll standup paddle board for Leg 1 (5 Miles), Mountain Bike for Leg 2 (10 Miles), and SUP again for Leg 3 (5 Miles). Race solo or as a two- or three-person team. If you don’t have a paddleboard but want to race, find a place to rent one at utahpaddlesurfing.com.
Bring your pup and favorite walking shoes to Liberty Park (600 E. 900 South) on Saturday, September 21 to support Best Friends Animal Society with a leisurely fundraising walk around the park. A doggie-themed festival follows the walk with pet contests, photos, treats for your dogs, and human activities. Cat lovers are welcome to walk too, but please leave your feline friend at home. strutyourmutt.org
Gather your coven for a magical 5K run or 70-mile bike relay on Saturday, September 28 in Brigham City. Both will be a wicked good time, just be sure to don your witch hat and cape for the costume contest. Women of all ages and abilities are welcome! Take on the 70-mile bike course solo or form a clan of three powerful women who will ride about 23 miles each. wickedwitchseries.com
Wear your craziest costume and celebrate fall mountain biking as you climb seven miles from City Park to the top of Guardsman Pass for a 2,700’ elevation gain. The event is Sunday, September 15 and crazy costumes are encouraged! Sign up quickly as socks and lunch are included for the first 200 registrants. tourdessuds.athlete360.com