Discover Utah Kids - Fall/Winter '22/'23

Celebrate the Season round-up

Snow Safety Tips

INSIDER'S GUIDE:

WINTER TRAILS ON THE WASATCH BACK

@utahstrailcountry

Welcome to Sevier County known as Utah’s Trail Country! Home to the famous Paiute and Gooseberry trail systems, containing over 2,000 miles of the best off-road adventures in North America. Whether you’re exploring on the back of an ATV or pedaling along on a mountain bike, there’s a trail for you.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Monique Beeley

COPY EDITOR

Katie Mullaly, Distillation INK

ART DIRECTOR

Michelle Rayner

CONTRIBUTORS

Amanda Edmonds, Raleigh Elbert, Jonathan LaFollette, Paige Pagnucco, Arianna Rees and Kya Schwab

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PHOTO BY Monique Beeley

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

by our senses. Visually, Utah is vibrantly colorful. The leaves crackling under your feet. The air is filled with scents of fall. Mornings feel crisp as cold air pushes away the warm vibes of summer and…saving the best for last…a dash of pumpkin spice in my morning coffee…YUM…

If you are like me, and drawn to the cooler temps and the red rock splendor of the southern part of the state this time of year, be sure to check out the Fall in the Desert article on page 30. Here you will find some great family adventure locales as well as a red rock destination for a kidless or solo adventure.

As I have stated in previous issues of this magazine, I am a big advocate for mental health, for all ages. In this issue I am highlighting and bringing awareness to mental health as well as providing helpful tools for you and your family to live your best life. In this issue check out the Land of NOW exercise on page 22…by my good friend and colleague Katie Mullaly who is the author of the epic Land of Children’s Books® series…a creative and fun series of books dedicated to teaching mental health strategies through thought-provoking storytelling. This exercise is for kids of all ages… including those masquerading as adults…lol. We ALL need to remember to enjoy the NOW.

The holiday countdown is on, as my daughter excitedly reminds me daily. In addition to the holidays, both of us have December birthdays – just one day apart. As soon as Halloween is in the rearview mirror, the anticipation is palatable in our household. Gone are the motherdaughter days of holding hands while ice skating, arm-in-arm, perusing the aisles of holiday markets, and joyfully singing Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer together at the top of our lungs as we are skiing, all of which would now be completely horrifying for my 14-year old daughter. But this season she will be enjoying all the above, but just with her friends. And that’s OK, it’s just part of the process of parenting… right!? I’m just stoked to have festival and events back

in action after the covid hiatus and felt it was timely to include a Celebrate the Season Round-up (page 8) in the issue. This article also includes some family-friendly winter festivals throughout the state.

Throughout my life, trails have been a consistent and trusted friend. In my late 20-30s, they were my guide to amazing adventures, navigating me through epically-challenging terrain, and then rounding a corner to beautifully-crafted landscapes. For me trails have been the location where I have weathered some intense and frightening storms – both internally and externally. Currently, this is where I find the stillness and solitude to listen to my inner thoughts, become curious of all the possibilities of life; a space and place where my childlike sense of wonder runs wild and free. We, as Utahans, are so very lucky to have endless trails throughout the state to explore in every season. For those who share my deep love of exploring trails, check out the Insider’s Guide on page 24 for some of my favorite winter trail recommends on the Wasatch Back.

Okay, that’s it for my personal insight…now it’s time to go outside explore some new trails, solo or with your kids, and enjoy the beauty and bounty of the season.

The change of the seasons is a great time for self-reflection, especially during the fall when the reminders of change are allencompassing and easily identified

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Celebrate the Season round-up

Winter is full of magic…from the first flakes of snow that beautifully cover the landscapes in the fall to the epic snow days filled with skating adventures. Frozen ponds beckon us to get our skate on. The WINTER season is EPIC, and let’s not forget all the festive holiday celebrating that happens this time of year!

On the ICE…

What is an Ice Ribbon? you ask. It’s reminiscent of the lazy river at the community pool, just frozen.

Herriman City Ice Ribbon – Located at the J. Lynn Crane Park (5373 Main Street, Herriman, 801-285-9715) this location was Utah’s first ice ribbon, opening in 2020. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to two weeks in advance. Amenities include fire pits with benches, benches, picnic tables, and restrooms. Herriman.org/ice-ribbon

Bountiful Ice Ribbon – Located at the Bountiful Town Square (55 East 100 South Main, Bountiful, 801-298-6236) this Ice Ribbon offers 7,000 square feet of skating surface along the south edge of the Square. Amenities include restrooms, firepit, seating area with tables, heat lamps, and onsite Fiiz shop. Southdavisrecreation.com/ribbon

Ruby’s Inn Ice Ribbon – Ruby’s Inn (26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City, 435-834-8032) just leveled up their winter family fun by replacing their ice rink with a new Ice Ribbon which (weather permitting) is scheduled to open in late November 2022. Rubysinn.com/winter-activities

Photo Credit: Jonathan LaFollette

Brian Head Ice – Located in Southern Utah’s high elevation winter wonderland, Brian Head Ice is a great addition to the family ski vaca. Centrally located in the heart of Brian Head (249 South Village Way, Brian Head, 702-994-4416) and provides plentiful après skate snacks and gourmet hot chocolate. Here you can skate among and around the trees. The rink features two tree islands of majestic pines donned in colorful lights. Bigfootoutdoorgames.com

Midway Ice Rink – Located in Utah’s Little Switzerland, Midway, this old-school rink is sure to create some classic winter nostalgia vibes. The rink sits centerstage at the Midway Town Square (75 W 100 N, Midway, 435-709-2980) and is the largest outdoor rink in Utah. Midwayicerink.com

holiday markets and events

Christmas Town Festival – the small town of Helper shines brightly during the holiday season with a Christmas festival that expands over three weekends. November 18th and 19th Christmas craft and fair. November 25th is the Lights on Ceremony, and Santa at the Park, the big finale, is December 2nd and 3rd featuring an electric light parade and fireworks show. Utahschristmastown.com

Holidays at the Homestead December 7-10th at the Frontier Homestead State Park (635 N Main St., Cedar City, 435-586-9290) features holiday-themed activities, crafts, and entertainment, as well as a local farmers market. VisitCedarCity.com

Christmas in the Country November 25-26th in Parowan is a two-day event featuring a hometown holiday market, Saturday morning Santa's parade, evening candlelight walking parade, and town lighting ceremony, with the finale being a Christmas Variety Show. For more details call the Parowan Visitor Center 435-477-8190. VisitCedarCity.com

The Silly Holiday Bazaar is the Park Silly Sunday Market’s holiday season indoor event featuring two unique weekend shopping events. The Shops at South Town (10450 S State Street, Sandy) become the venue for this epic seasoned event on December 3-4th and then, December 9-11th the Bazaar is back in Park City at the DoubleTree (1800 Park Ave). Parksillysundaymarket.com

winter festivals

eBear Lake Monster Winterfest (January 27-29th) is a fun filled event that is sure to make a big splash. If you have ever dreamed of jumping into an ice-cold lake wearing

Photo Credit: Arika Bauer

your favorite costume, this is your chance. The Monster Polar Plunge is invigorating for both the participants and the spectators. In addition to the plunge the event features a Cisco tournament, chili cookoff, and an indoor local village market, 5K run/walk, evening karaoke, and a cardboard boat regatta. Bearlakemonsterwinterfest.com

eBryce Canyon Winterfest (February 18- 20th) is an epic family-friendly three-day event hosted by Ruby’s Inn over President’s Day weekend. Here you are guaranteed to find something for everyone in your family. Activities include FREE Nordic skiing, archery, yoga, snowshoe clinics, demos, races, and tours as well as indoor arts and craft clinics, cookie decorating, photography, and much more. Be sure to sign up early as many of events fill up quickly.

Rubysinn.com/Bryce-canyon-winter-festival

Bluff International Balloon Festival (January 13-15th) This epic annual event, now is it’s 24th year, is hosted at the Bluff Community Center. Balloons fly the skies over Bluff Friday and Saturday at 8am and on Sunday the balloons fly over the majestic Valley of the Gods (weather permitting). Saturday afternoon is the family friendly chili and ice cream social followed by the balloon Glow-in after the sun sets. BluffUtah.org

efKanab Balloons and Tunes (February 17-20th) This annual festival includes 40+ balloonists launching all three days (weather permitting), a two-day live music Battle of the Bands competition and an outdoor vender street fair. Evening events include the Lantern Launch on Friday and the Balloon Glow on Saturday followed by more live music. VisitsouthernUtah.com

Snow Safety Tips

from The Utah Avalanche Cente r

BY PAIGE PAGNUCCO

Snow is falling in the mountains and one thing we know for sure is that Utah’s mountains receive a remarkable amount of snow each winter. We also have amazing terrain close to our own backyards. When you combine snow and steep mountains, we know that avalanches are going to occur.

That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the Greatest Snow on Earth®, but it does mean we need to do it safely. And fortunately for all of us, there’s good news, especially if we ride at one of our world-class resorts because inside the ski resort boundaries, the hard-working ski patrollers routinely knock avalanches down and make the slopes safer for us. And on a storm day, all this hard work occurs early in the morning, usually before we even roll into the parking lot. However, avalanche reduction work at ski resorts or above highways can occur anytime the avalanche danger is rising. And that can happen when the temperatures rapidly rise, or the wind blows, or during and right after a big storm.

So it’s pretty clear the safest place, in terms of predictable avalanche danger, is sticking to the resorts

and riding in-bounds. However, as our skills get better, we get bored riding in the resort, and we want to get fresh powder shots. It’s this combo that drives us to explore more challenging backcountry terrain and that’s where nearly all avalanche accidents happen.

Now, what if I don’t ski or board… I snowshoe, snowmobile… I hike with my family... now what?

Remember, avalanches don’t know I’m an expert skier, snowboarder, snowmobiler, hiker, or snowshoer. But here’s the good news... you don’t need to be a snow scientist in order to travel safely in the backcountry and enjoy the Greatest Snow on Earth™. However, you do need to avoid avalanches altogether because avalanches are tremendously violent events. When we get caught in a slide, it’s like a bad car crash and we usually wind up on the losing end.

So, the best way to avoid avalanche danger is to arm ourselves with the latest avalanche information because “knowledge is power.”

Checklists are simple and here are four things to remember:

1: GET THE FORECAST

The Utah Avalanche Center forecasts are available for different regions all across the state. Visit www.utahavalanchecenter.org, where the forecast is posted daily. Outside of Utah, visit avalanche.org to find the closest forecast center.

2 – GET THE GEAR

You have to have these when you go out into the backcountry: avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe. One doesn’t work without the other. Not only do you have to wear the gear, but you also need to know how to use it. That means practice, and practice often!

3 – GET THE TRAINING

Take an avalanche class. Know Before You Go (www.kbyg.org) is a great start and it’s free!

4 – GET THE PICTURE

Look for signs of unstable snow. Recent avalanches are the biggest clue! Always ride one at a time on steep slopes and, at the bottom of the slope, get to a location where you’re in a safe zone if your partner triggers a slide.

All of these done together is the first step in keeping you aware and safe in the backcountry. Taking the time to get the information on the current conditions before heading out is important and worth it. Weather rapidly changes in the mountains and being aware of those changes could be the thing that keeps you safe that day. Invest in furthering your education before the season starts. Know Before You Go Classes are free and accessible online at www.kbyg.org. But of course, remember to have fun. We are incredibly fortunate to have The Greatest Snow on Earth® right in our backyard!

The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) provides avalanche forecasting, awareness, and education in the State of Utah, giving backcountry travelers the tools, they need

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO CLASSES ARE FREE AND ACCESSIBLE ONLINE AT WWW.KBYG.ORG.

make wise decisions in the backcountry. The UAC maintains the most comprehensive avalanche website in the U.S. with daily advisories, video tutorials, field observations, a glossary, media resources, a database of snow profiles, photos, videos, calendar of events, list of all avalanche courses taught in Utah, sponsor list, donation request, links to national resources, and more.

The UAC provides lecture and field-day avalanche classes at a moderate cost. Addressing practical snowpack science, terrain management, rescue, and decision-making, as well as advanced topics and the needs of specific user groups such as professional skiers, filmmakers, and snowmobilers. The UAC collaborates with other groups such as ski resorts and guide services providing guided backcountry skiing and multi-day avalanche certification and sidecountryspecific courses.

UtahAvalancheCenter.org

Paige Pagnucco is the Awareness Program Manager and an Avalanche Forecaster for the Utah Avalanche Center. She first joined the UAC in 2004 as an avalanche education and outreach coordinator in the Logan area. She grew up skiing and ski racing in New England and worked as a professional ski patroller at Park City Mountain Resort. There, she was a route leader, avalanche educator, and participated in the resort's avalanche rescue dog program as a dog handler. Her duties for the UAC include managing all UAC avalanche awareness and outreach programs and events, teaching avalanche education classes to motorized and non-motorized winter backcountry users, avalanche forecasting, organizing annual fundraising efforts including marketing, corporate support, and event planning, creating and maintaining strong relationships with local and avalanche industry businesses and organizations, managing community programming, coordinating volunteers, and developing educational outreach programs and materials. She performs her field work on both snowmobiles and skis. Paige received her MBA from Utah State University in 2005. She has three kids who also love playing in the snow.

Five Family Hikes to explore in Utah’s National Parks

Sponsored Content Utah Office of Tourism

BY ARIANNA REES

Utah’s red rock arches, mesas, and hoodoos are a stunning sight in the summertime, but in their fall and winter coats, they become an explosion of color and a dazzling maze frozen in time. The contrast between land and sky is more vivid, the trails quieter, and while it may not be the first place you think of for a family destination in the changing seasons, the desert rewards out-of-the-box explorers with stunning scenery and new perspective.

Utah’s national parks have accessible, enjoyable trails for families of any skill level to experience in the colder months. Here are a few trails worth checking out on a journey through Utah’s Mighty Five®

Bryce’s Navajo Loop Trail

Coiling into the belly of the Bryce amphitheater, the Navajo Loop Trail is one of the most iconic in the park, with close up views of its towering hoodoos. This trail is slightly steeper than others in this list, with 550 feet of elevation change, but it is a shorter trail, clocking in at 1.3 miles. Families with a little extra time can continue along the Queen’s Garden Trail for round-trip access to Bryce Canyon. This extension will bring the hike to

three miles long, or about three hours long. Begin your descent at Sunset Point and don’t forget to pack your boots and spikes if snow is expected—this trail can be slick.

Note: because of its higher elevation, Bryce’s temperatures can get very cold in winter. Read on for tips on how to dress for the weather.

Mesa Arch

A cliffside window looking into the sprawling expanse of Canyonlands, Mesa Arch is one of the most popular stops in the park. Visiting it in the off season allows you to see it with fewer crowds, albeit with some determined shutterbugs hoping to catch the canyons in a dusting of sun and snow.

The Mesa Arch trail is located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. At half a mile long, it can be completed in 30 minutes. Early risers are rewarded with spectacular sunrise views that make the red rock light up like fire.

The Grand Wash

With sheer canyon walls bookending each side of the trail, Capitol Reef’s Grand Wash inspires imagery of old

western ambushes or sandy Tatooine passages that skirt through Tusken Raider territory.

The Grand Wash trail, accessed from a trailhead on Highway 24, is mostly flat and 2.5 miles one way. It makes for a great choose-your-own adventure that allows you to go as far as the kids are willing before turning back.

Riverside Walk in Zion

Zion’s cathedral-like cliffs are something out of this world, especially when dusted with a layer of snow. The Riverside Walk is a paved and accessible hike that puts you at the feet of the park’s towering monoliths and allows you to trace the geology of the canyon carved by the Virgin River. The trail takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and is a stunning addition to any family trip.

Delicate Arch

You’ve seen Delicate in the summertime, but until you see it with the distant snow-capped La Sals visible between its rust red columns, you’re missing out on something special. This iconic formation sees smaller crowds in the colder months and it’s a great moderate hike for the whole family.

The trail to Delicate Arch is 1.5 miles and will take approximately three hours to traverse on a round-trip hike. You will need to hike up slickrock at the approach, so wearing boots with a solid grip is important.

Not all of Utah’s desert is created equally when it comes to the cold. Southeastern Utah’s temperatures tend to be chillier than those of Southwestern Utah, which shares similar weather patterns to the Mojave Desert. That said, visitors will still want to dress warm no matter which part of the state they visit. This list will help you and your family prepare for the journey.

Southern Utah Winter Clothing Checklist

Base Layers: Physical activity means sweat, and the last thing you want in the chill of late fall or winter is perspiration freezing against your skin once you’ve stopped moving. Wear base layers under your coat. Ideally, these should be made of moisture wicking fabrics (generally a polyester blend of some kind) that will keep moisture away from your skin on strenuous hikes.

Outer Shell: Keeping moisture away from your body is key for any winter adventure, which is why you’ll want to cover base layers with a breathable, waterproof or highly-water resistant jacket. You don’t have to wear that thick down jacket you slip into for family ski trips. Lighter is better here, something that can stuff into your day pack without trouble. You may also want to look for a jacket with venting zippers in the armpits that can give you a cooling breeze when you heat up.

For places like Bryce Canyon, where the temperature can get a little extra cold, you may consider a down jacket to add a little extra warmth.

Rain Pants: Just like your jacket, you’ll want to pack a lightweight, breathable pair of waterproof pants you can pull on and off if you’re caught on the trail in rainy or snowy weather.

Hats and Gloves: Don’t forget your extremities! Your fingers and your head are some of the first things to get cold out in the elements, so packing a fleece beanie and gloves is a must.

Hiking Boots: They don’t call it slickrock for nothing—in wet months, red rock can be very slippery, so your trail-runners will need to sit this one out. When exploring Southern Utah in winter, you’ll want to wear a breathable, waterproof boot with a grippy sole to keep your toes warm and on solid ground.

Other Gear You’ll Want

Yaktrax or Microspikes: Just like your tires need winter chains to traverse snowy mountain roads, your shoes sometimes need them in the winter, too. Wearing spikes will keep your feet firmly planted on snowy trails so you don’t slip and fall.

Trekking Poles: In addition to spikes or Yaktrax, bring some sturdy, collapsible poles with a rubber tip so you have an extra place to put your weight on slippery descents.

Emergency Kit: As with any adventure, it’s always good to come prepared with supplies in case you get into a bind. Pack some extra layers, blankets, emergency food supplies for the fam, water, jumper cables, and a first aid kit to be prepared for whatever may happen. You don’t want to get stuck out on a remote road before the plows are out with no supplies and no service.

The best way to prepare for the desert is to do your research beforehand. Get a sense of what the trails will look like. Identify available amenities and basecamps where you can load up on supplies. While some Utah businesses are open in the wintertime, many will not be. You’ll want to do some research ahead of time to ensure the local spots you want to visit are accessible. Check the weather and learn a little more about the environment so you’re ready for anything.

The prepared winter traveler to Southern Utah is in for an experience that few people will ever have. For an even greater adventure, check out some of the incredible state parks and monuments outside of the Mighty Five.

VisitUtah.com

Letters correspond with Explore Your Backyard, pages 30-34

NUMBERS correspond with Winter Festival, pages 11-12 A

3

Teen Health

Sponsored Content - Summit County Health Department

Alcohol and the Developing Teen Brain

Research shows that alcohol affects a developing child’s brain differently than an adult brain. “The brain goes through dynamic changes during adolescence, and alcohol can seriously damage long- and short-term growth processes” (American Medical Association Fact Sheet, 2003).

Alcohol may impair memory, learning, decision-making, and impulse control, and it greatly increases the risk of addiction. In addition, alcohol can cause young people to develop social problems, have poor judgment, get into trouble, do poorly in school, and experience failure in achieving lifelong goals.1

Underage drinkers can become addicted. Studies show people who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to become alcohol-dependent at some time during their life, compared with those who have their first drink at age 21 or older.2

Surprising but true, nearly half of Utah’s underage drinking happens at home. Forty-four percent of Utah kids who drank in the last year did so at home with their parents’ permission.3 While parents may think they’re keeping their kids in a safe environment, drinking at home doesn’t prevent the harm to developing brains or potential addiction. In addition, children who get alcohol from parents have double the likelihood of binge drinking when unsupervised. There are no safe amounts of underage drinking.

Research shows that parents generally underestimate the extent of adolescent drinking and its negative consequences. Thirty-one percent of youths who said they had been drunk in the past year said their parents believed they were non-drinkers.4 Others may view underage drinking as inevitable, but it isn’t. To be alcohol-free, an adolescent needs parents to follow these three steps:

1.BONDING: creating a warm, loving relationship.

2.BOUNDARIES: discussing clear, firm rules about no underage alcohol use.

3.MONITORING: knowing where your kids are and making sure they stay in an alcohol- and drug-free social environment at all times.

Set clear no alcohol rules. Never assume your children know your rules and expectations. Write down your family’s rules about underage drinking and review them regularly. Start the conversation as early as age nine and remember it’s never too late to have the talk. If parents set clear rules, the likelihood a child will drink drops by almost half.5

Your influence is powerful. That’s the great news! Utah kids report the number one reason they choose not to drink is their parents’ strong disapproval. That’s why it’s so important to remain involved. Most children naturally become more independent as they mature. It’s a normal part of development. Yet parental involvement drops by half between the 6th and 12th grades when kids need their parents’ help most to stay alcohol-free.4 While parents may feel their kids are no longer listening to their advice, their kids are reporting just the opposite. Parents are the No. 1 influence in their child’s life and in their decisions regarding alcohol, too.6

As a parent, you can help keep kids’ brains healthy and their futures bright, free from the harms of alcohol. For more information visit parentsempowered.org.

Information taken from parentsempowered.org

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4108600/1

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/age-drinking-onset-predicts-future-alcohol-abuse-and-dependence2

Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019. 3

Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019. 4

Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019. 5

Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019. 6

“A child who gets through age 21 without smoking, abusing alcohol, or using illegal drugs is virtually certain never to do so.” Joseph Califano, National Center on Substance Abuse Columbia University, 2006.

This moment, the present is really all there is - the past is done and the future isn’t here yet. Unfortunately, we get stuck in our thoughts and miss out on what’s happening right NOW.

Here are some ways to help you stay in Land of NOW and enjoy the NOW, the only moment we truly have.

“To uncover the NOW and get rid of this ruckus you need to stay quiet and hear Each of the thoughts that you’re constantly having and let them begin to appear.”

Take a moment to hear what is happening in your head. When our thoughts are in charge, what we usually experience is this constant background noise of chatter, bouncing from one topic to the next, doing nothing but distracting us from the NOW.

Listen to the thoughts that are running amok in your head. What are they saying? Write them down. Are these thoughts really you? Or, are you the one hearing the thoughts?

“The first thoughts I saw looming there in the haze brought with them worry and fret. They made me quite nervous of what was to come, Of a future that wasn’t here yet.”

Is it the future that is causing you to not be in the NOW because you are worrying about a time that isn’t even here yet? What are you worried about? Is the worry a real thing? Can you do anything about it here in the NOW? If so, what?

What are you worried about? __________________________________________________

Is the worry something real?____________________________________________________

If so, can you make a plan or do something about it in the NOW?______________________

-------------------------------------

“The next thoughts that appeared were of things from my past, like errors that still caused regret.

And ways I was treated that still made me mad. All these times I could just not forget.”

Does the past still gnaw at you, causing sorrow or anger over what happened or how you behaved? Do these thoughts keep you from the NOW? If you are still angry about how someone else treated you, you need to let it go by forgiving them. If you are mad at yourself for the way you behaved or what you did, forgive yourself.

List the things that you regret doing or saying. What can you learn from them? How can you do things differently next time?

What you regret doing: _______________________________________________________

What you can do different next time: ____________________________________________

INSIDER'S GUIDE:

WINTER TRAILS ON THE WASATCH BACK

The Wasatch Back is truly a magical winter wonderland! As the snow gently places a thick white blanket over the once rugged and robust mountains, a calm and restful energy exudes the air. For me walking in the first snow of the season is a mystical experience. Head to toe my body is covered and cozy yet sparks of the cold crisp air permeate through the outer layer and remind me how much I love the winter. Another thing I love this time of year is being outside on the trails. The same trails I explore in the summer months seem…just a bit more enchanting.

BY MONIQUE BEELEY

Winter Trails 101

Just like in the warmer months where trail surfaces, width, and users vary, winter trails are not a one-size fits all scenario. Here are some winter trail basics to get the party started… Winter trails fall into three different categories: unmaintained, Nordic trails, and groomed single track.

Unmaintained trails are just as the name sounds: trails that are not maintained in the winter. These trails are best explored via snowshoes, and are usually a little more off the beaten path during the winter months.

Between snowstorms, these trails can become packed down by other trail users, but after big snowstorms these trails are usually covered with deep snow.

Nordic Trails are typically 10’+ wide and groomed using a grooming machine. Depending on the specific area and snow conditions, some trails are groomed every day while others ever few days. Many of these trails are groomed with classis ski tracks on the side, and other users should avoid stepping on these tracks if possible. These trails are mostly multi-use (skiers, hikers, runners, bikers, dogs) unless designated otherwise.

Groomed Singletrack trails are 30” wide and usually offer more challenging and dynamic terrain. These trails are perfect for fat bikes, trail runners, and hikers.

Groomed Trails / Wasatch County

Wasatch Mountain State Park has two trailheads for winter exploring. Both are fee areas and passes can be pre purchased online at ParkPass.org. The Wasatch State Visitor Center offers rentals (snowshoe, cross-county ski, fat tire bikes) and is the perfect venue for beginners. This location offers both a short-

er beginner loop that is flat – less than a mile and meanders through the golf course – and an intermediate longer loop with some fun rolling hills. There are restrooms, picnic tables, small playground, and pond at the visitor center. For information and dates on their family-friendly winter animal tracking events, connect with the park’s naturalist Kathy Donnell kathydonnell@utah.gov / 435-654-1791.

Dutch Canyon Trailhead offers 15 miles of groomed singletrack and is the perfect location for fat biking and snowshoeing. The trailhead in the winter does not have restrooms or any other amenities. For up-to-date winter conditions it’s best to call the park at 435-654-1791 or check their website StateParks.Utah.gov/parks/wasatch-mountain.

Solider Hollow, a 2002 Olympic venue, is world-class Nordic center where athletes from all over the world have come to train. There are more than 30 km of groomed trails ranging from beginner to advanced. In addition to the world-class trail system, a state-ofthe-art biathlon range is located here. Nordic ski and snowshoe rentals are offered through the Solider Hollow Day Lodge. In addition to the Nordic opportunities, there is also an epic tubing park with two lifts and several lanes, some up to 1,200 feet long. Reservation are highly recommended for tubing as most weekends and holidays do sell out. SoliderHollow.com / 435-654-2002

Groomed Trails / Park City

Did you know that many miles of Park City’s extensive network of paved bike paths are groomed in the winter? The greater Park City area is home to an extensive Nordic Trail System boasting nearly 80 kilometers (50 miles) of groomed trail and most of these trails are FREE. First, let’s give credit where credit is due. Our extensive network of groomed trails is a collaborative effort between Park City, Summit County (Basin Recreation), and our epic local non-profit trail organization Mountain Trails Foundation. Below is a quick overview and a few trail recommends. More detailed information, including updated grooming and snow coverage specifics can be found on social media @MountainTrailsFoundation, @BasinRecreation, AND on these websites: Basinrecreation.org - MountainTrails.org - Parkcity.org/ departments/trails-open-space/winter-trails

Willow Creek Park Complex provides the best trail access for the Willow Creek trail system. From here there are 10 kilometers of groomed trails that connect the park to Kimball Junction and the Swaner Nature Center. Also, this park with all its bells and whistles, is a local family favorite featuring picnic tables, restrooms, dog park, two playgrounds, frozen ice-skating pond, and a covered pavilion. This is the perfect locale for families as it offers variety and can be accommodating to the ever-changing dynamics of ability, ages, and moods of the kids in your family. Basinrecreation.org

The Historic Rail Trail is a 28 mile 10-foot-wide non-motorized path that connects Park City to Echo Reservoir. During the winter, Prospector Park, is a great family friendly locale to access the groomed and flat section of the trail. The park has picnic tables, a playground and large grassy area that when snow covered makes a great sledding hill. This area is also a haven for waterfowl and small furry creatures as is it surrounded by marshy areas and ponds. Other more advanced options from here are to explore the unmaintained single-track trails nearby, Lost Prospector, Skid Row and SOS. These trails are north facing and hold snow well throughout the winter. NOTE - This park does not have bathrooms and parking is limited.

If you enjoyed the EPIC and FREE trail systems highlighted here, PLEASE consider donating to or becoming a member of the local non-profit Mountain Trails Foundation whose small but mighty staff tirelessly and passionately create and maintain this world class outdoor recreation playground. Mountaintrails.org/member-donations

Winter Trail Etiquette

Know the rules – Many recreation areas have specific rules on whether snowshoers, hikers, dogs, and fat bikes are allowed on groomed trails. Be sure to check those rules prior to arriving at a location.

Who yields to whom on multi-use trails…

Closing out our winter trails recommends is the ever-popular Round Valley Trail System appropriately receiving the gold star for winter trail adventuring. You will find 30 km of groomed trails both Nordic and the flowy groomed single-track. The best access point for Round Valley is the Quinn’s Junction trailhead located at the Park City Sports Complex. Here you will find bathrooms, playground, trail map kiosk as well as a local’s favorite sledding hill (located next to the Park City Ice Arena). This area is perfect for families with differing abilities (offering beginner and advanced trails) and interests. So be sure to pack the snacks and stay for the day. For Round Valley trail specifics and grooming report go to MountainTrails.org

BICYCLISTS yield to WALKERS, RUNNERS, SNOWSHOERS who yield to SKIERS

Snowshoers – Stay out of the ski tracks and walk to the side of the trail if possible.

Hikers – Don’t posthole. Avoid groomed trails that are soft due to recent grooming or changes in weather. Avoid walking on the classic ski tracks on the side of the groomed Nordic trails when possible.

Cross-county skiers – Know who has the right of way. Skiers traveling downhill always have the right of way of skier going uphill. Skiers will often signal with a “Hup!” or “Behind!” to alert others to their presence.

Fat bikers – If you are breaking through the trail surface leaving a rut, losing traction, and are unable to ride in a straight line, reduce your air pressure. Air pressure guidelines: soft groomed and air temperature above freezing lower to 2-5’ psi, hard pack surface, not breaking through and air temperature below freezing 4-8’ psi.

Leave No Trace– PLEASE, pick up your dogs . Pack out all your trash, including orange peels and apple cores.

And last…but definitely not least…BE KIND

VOiCES

What I wish was more talked about going into

The first year of college for me was a crazy time. I was so out of my element and going through so many big changes. There were so many things that I felt like no one talked about and that made me feel so alone when I first started college. It felt like there were taboo topics or things that I was the only one feeling. But with time I learned that I was not alone in my feelings and knowing this fact made the transition so much less lonely and hard! So here are the things that I think everyone should know and ALMOST everyone is feeling because everyone has different emotions and feelings, but in my experience, every single person that I talked to was experiencing the same things!!

NUMBER 1

Here's a fun little story that still triggers my fight or flight to this day. In the months leading up to college, I was so excited to go and had zero sadness about leaving home. In fact, I literally thought there was something wrong with me because I wasn't sad to leave home. Boy was I wrong. The day I had to move into my dorm, the emotions hit me like a TRUCK. I literally could not stop crying, I felt like I was trapped and was TERRIFIED that my parents were leaving me.

Everyone processes leaving home and being away at college in different ways and times, but when it does hit you, as it hit me like a truck, just know the people around you aren't superhuman. They are going through the same homesickness, sadness, and loneliness that you are!! Living in a dorm and being around totally new people can make it feel like sharing your emotions is impossible. I remember thinking that no one was sad when I was hanging out with them, but then after opening up to them, I realized that they were doing the exact thing I was doing – putting on a brave face while inside all we wanted to do was burst out in tears and be with our parents at home.

college!

BY RALEIGH ELBERT

I felt so alone because I didn't feel like I could talk to these people I had just met about all these emotions because I didn't think they could relate and I would be embarrassed talking about it. In hindsight, I totally wish I would have talked to my peers about being homesick because literally, everyone was feeling it in their own ways. My advice is don't bottle up these emotions because it SUCKS and makes it so much harder when you already feel alone. Talk to people!!

NUMBER 2

Making friends and feeling stuck with the friends you make right off the bat, is something that I can confidently say I felt and EVERY single person that I talked to felt. When I got to school I made a group of friends immediately. I was super lucky because I loved my roommate, had an orientation program where I met people, and had cool people living around me. Living in a dorm, sharing a room, and having shared study spaces and friends right down the hall means privacy and alone time are nonexistent. And when you first get to college in my experience, it was super easy to latch onto the first people you feel comfortable with and stick with that group. And while at the beginning it's new and fun spending every waking moment together, it can get annoying and sometimes it can make you rethink who you’re friends with.

A few months into school, I wanted to try branching out from the friends I had made. I remember feeling like everyone had found their friend groups, and it was SO scary and hard to try and break in. I felt stuck thinking I was never going to make new friends, and the people I had gotten close with were my group for the rest of college. Now, something I will say again and again, is if you are feeling something, most likely at least one person around you is having a similar

experience because, as with being homesick, when I finally let out my fears about making new friends, the 10 different people I talked to all said the exact same thing – that they were scared to branch out because it felt like everyone had set groups.

But let me tell you, it’s worth it to push yourself and break into these groups because first, in reality, everyone is way more open to making new friends than you think, and two, college is already scary and is a growing time, so why not push yourself a little more to try and make new friends. You just have to take the leap! I had to remind myself that the friends I had, I had only known for a couple of months and I may not be fully compatible with them, and that is OK!!!!

NUMBER 3

When I say I felt out of place when I first got to college, that would be an understatement. The only way I can describe it is that I was feeling a deep sense of Imposter Syndrome. My first week, month, and quarter of college classes were an adjustment, to say the least! When I first started my classes, I remember feeling like I didn't understand the content, and the people in my classes were so much smarter than me. I was cursing my high school self and thinking that I wasn't prepared for college classes, and that everyone around me were brainiacs.

In reality, what I realized with time is that obviously I was going to feel extremely out of my element and honestly a little bit like I was drowning because I had so much to deal with on top of classes: making friends, living away from home, and just the overall adjustment going to college. My roommate and I literally had to put affirmations on our mirror that we would read every day saying things like “I belong here,” “I am smart,” “I am here for a reason,” because I was seriously doubting my abilities. Flash forward a couple of months and my second quarter of college rolled around. It was still extremely challenging but I learned how to manage and found that when I talked to people in my classes, we all were feeling the same way. It can feel really scary to feel out of place and out of your depth! Let me tell you it gets better!

I have learned that while classes may get easier, and even if they don't, you will adjust and learn how to manage the work and you can do it!! I think the biggest piece of advice I can give about this aspect of college is to know that you are in such an adjustment period and to stop judging yourself for it. While it does feel scary and hard and Imposter Syndromey, it will get better!!

My Biggest biggest thing is that college is a huge growth spurt, change, and challenge and that is okay!! It feels scary, lonely, hard, annoying, tiring, and so many more emotions! It is totally normal to feel all of these things. Living in a dorm and away from home is such a new way of living. It is super fun but it can be really draining living in a room with someone else and having virtually no privacy or space. Never judge yourself for any of the emotions you feel being in college because it’s all so new and you have to figure out how to navigate a whole new way of living. PS, it is also such an awesome and fun growing period.

I am originally from Park City, Utah! I now live in San Luis Obispo, CA for college and am currently a second-year journalism student concentrating on public relations at Cal Poly SLO. Growing up in Park City, I LOVE doing anything outside hiking, biking, and surfing.

EXPLORE YOUR back yard

FALL IN THE DESERT

I'M GOING TO PREFACE THIS ARTICLE WITH A COUPLE OF FULL DISCLOSURE PERSONAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS… I LOVE southern Utah in the fall. This is not a lighthearted schoolgirl crush, but a lifelong passion filled love of a specific place (or region) and season that fill my heart, body and mind with deep love.

So trying to come up with just one locale for a Fall getaway is a never-ending drama-filled saga, full of intense passion and a bit of overwhelm. Currently, I’m sitting at my computer visualizing ALL the adventure possibilities that lie with in the southern region of our state. So, to ease my decision fatigue, I am opting to focus on one biking and one hiking destination. Also, I am adding a solo or “kidless” hiking adventure highlight here because we all, myself included, benefit from time to play and adventure without being tethered to our kids…right!

The moment the inaugural school bells chime, I feel an adventurous stirring as my daughter heads back to the classroom (a heartfelt shout out and thank you for our incredible teachers). Now I can swap out my “mom hat” and don my favorite helmet and hop on my bike feeling just a bit lighter as the “mental load” of summer

BY MONIQUE BEELEY

momming dissipates, freeing up some head space to plan, pursue, and prioritize ME and time in the outdoors.

Cedar city is the ideal fall destination for adventuring on two-wheels, aka, the beloved bicycle. The bounty of biking options in Cedar City is growing rapidly, making this a top choice for those seeking to explore some new rides. Here you will find beginner friendly single-track and paved routes as well as some epic expert terrain. Another bonus of this locale are the variations in elevation (Cedar City is at 5,800’ with Brian Head Peak at 11,307’) and terrain within a 30- to 40-mile radius of downtown. This time of year you could begin your day riding close to town (Three Peaks or Southview) and then head up to higher elevations for a cool, crisp, and very colorful adventure through some of the best fall foliage in southern Utah.

Iron Hills – Located less than a mile off I-15 (exit 57), this stacked-loop trail system offers eight trails, ranging from beginner to advanced. Currently, Iron Hills has a total of 20 miles of riding, with an additional 30+ coming soon. My favorite intermediate/advanced ride is the 6-mile directional loop connecting Lichen It, Green Hollow, Boulder Dash, and Lava Flow trails. Lichen It and Lava

LETTERS CORRESPOND WITH MAP PAGE 19

Flow were the original trails built in 2015. The descent starts with Boulder Dash, which features an epic technical rock-built trail over and through some gigantic boulders. Lava Flow is a wide machine-built flow trail with a few rock gardens and optional jumps with drops thrown in to keep your head in the game.

Three Peaks Recreation Area – Located 10 miles northwest of Cedar City, Three Peaks is a 6,000-acre BLM recreation area that has specific areas for both motorized and non-motorized recreation. There are 27 miles of mountain bike trails in a stakedloop system with most options in the beginner to intermediate range. The riding here is fast and flowy, cross-country desert singletrack. This location offers a day-use picnic area, camping, disc-golf, and hiking options as well. Blm.gov/visit/three-peaks-recreation-area

The Cedar Canyon Trail (2.7 miles) is a paved path that follows Coal Creek in Cedar Canyon. Starting from the trailhead in Cedar Canyon, this path is a fun slightly downhill route that connects to city parks and historical sites, with the bonus of a couple bridges and tunnels. VisitCedarCity.com

goblin valley state park is a top-rated family adventure that in my opinion is a rite of passage for ALL kids raised in Utah. The free roaming Valley of the Goblins is one of the best natural playgrounds in Utah if not the country. Here we don’t need to worry about sticking to the trail, and the opportunities for hide and seek or (add another kid game) are abundant. Now before moving forward, I would like to point out that free roaming does not mean “free for all.” You may recall a video that went viral where a guy filmed himself toppling over one of the hoodoos. He was charged and fined for criminal mischief. As with all outdoor spaces we need to BE KIND to this epic place and teach our kids to respect and protect this treasure.

Celebrating Halloween in Goblin Valley has always been on my list but convincing my daughter to skip the fun and always-anticipated trick or treating with friends’ event was one I knew I wouldn’t win, until the thrill dulled with age, or a global pandemic halts the long-standing tradition of going door-to-door. I can honestly say this trip was one of my highlights of 2020, and my daughter had fun running around the valley of the goblins by the light of the full moon wearing her Halloween costume.

Down the road from Goblin Valley is the well-known family-friendly Little Wild Horse slot canyon.

A quick word of caution as southern Utah has been experiencing some intense storms and flash flooding

this year: always check the weather prior to venturing into slot canyons and be aware that even storms from many miles away can produce flash flooding danger in these areas. This hike can be done as and out-and-back hike or an 8-mile/4-5-hour loop connecting with Bell Canyon. The canyon is a great place to allow kids free roam and play and climb on the natural rock features in the canyon. Trailhead amenities include pit-toilet and trail map kiosk. Cell service here is limited at best.

Also in the area is the Little Wild Horse Window which is a lesser-known hike that leads to a double arch and some cool petroglyphs. The hike is just under 2 miles round trip and is rated moderate. This hike is unmarked, involves a steady climb over slickrock, and has a couple places with mild cliff exposure.

Ok...now for some ME time. I will openly admit that narrowing this down to just one location has been a challenge, and I have found myself stuck. I’m mentally reminiscing through my fall in southern Utah highlight reel. I will say that as I get older and busier, finding compatible and available adventure friends is at an all-time low… and most of my recent adventuring has been solo, which I have found to be immensely peaceful.

saint george has become an outdoor recreation hot spot and during the off-season this locale is abundantly filled with endless opportunity. Two of my favorites in this area are hiking in Snow Canyon and mountain biking in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

Snow Canyon State Park is a magical scenic splendor featuring stark rolling hills of ancient lava flows and pillowy petrified sand dunes that sit in the shadows of towering sandstone cliffs. This park is hopping during the peak season, but in the cooler months it's a place to find peaceful stillness. Here you will find a variety of hiking options totaling 38 miles.

Petrified Dunes Trail is a short (1.2-mile out and back) but praiseworthy hike, especially for those who enjoy the creative and unique wonders of rolling hills of ancient sand dunes. This is a personal favorite for early morning or late afternoon photo-ops when the light is soft, and the vibrant colors of these amazing dunes come alive.

Hidden Pinion Trail is 1.5 miles and ideal for those who want to learn more about the native plants and geological features of the park. Be sure to pick up the Hidden Pinion Trail Guide from the visitor center (located at the campground) that provides detailed information on the 19 different markers along the route. There is also a digital version online Stateparks.utah.gov/ parks/snow-canyon/publications/

Whiterocks is a scenic 4-mile (round trip) hike that travels over lava fields, slickrock, and sandy washes. Be sure to take the short spur trail of the main route to the Whiterocks Amphitheater. This unique white amphitheater is a stark contrast to the Navajo sandstone that is prominent throughout the park. If you are short on time, park at the trailhead just north of the park entrance along HWY 18 where this amphitheater can be accessed from a .5-mile trail.

Dog owners: This park is home to three endangered species; peregrine falcon, desert tortoise, and Gila monsters and dogs are only permitted in the campground, on West Canyon Road, Whiptail Trail, and Paradise Canyon. Stateparks.utah.gov/parks/snow-canyon/

The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, just north of St. George, is a 62,000-acre scenic wildlife reserve set aside to protect the rare plants and animals of the area. The Mojave Desert tortoise, Gila monster, and chuckwalla are just a few of the reserve’s many inhabitants. The reserve offers over 130 miles of non-motorized trails, but please keep in mind that this is a place designated to protect the species living here. Redcliffsdesertreserve.com

The lollypop loop combo of the Prospector and Church Rocks trails create an epic intermediate 6-mile loop where the flowy pedaling surface is both slickrock and sandy singletrack, which are ideal for cooler weather riding. Trail access is either from the Grapevine or Cottonwood trailheads.

From the Chuckwalla Trailhead, the Turtle Wall and Paradise Rim is a flowy and fun 3.8-mile intermediate loop. The route is a mix of sand, slickrock, and singletrack offering great views of Paradise Rim and the Turtle Wall section features the unique Paradise Arch.

PETRIFIED DUNES / SNOW CANYON