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When you think of a family winter retreat, what are the first images that come to mind? Is it the classic Norman Rockwell scenes with vintage sleds, ice skating, sipping hot chocolate, and the sounds of sleigh bells ringing on a horse drawn carriage? Or, is it swooshing down a nicely groomed slope or whooping it up in the deep powder at your favorite mountain resort, followed by fireside après ski treats? Thankfully, living in Utah means all of these are definite possibilities, and would create some epic family memories. But, for a uniquely UTAH winter retreat, consider a visit to red rock country. Here, the vibrantly colorful landscapes are magically covered with a white blanket of snow creating epic landscapes for exploring. Because this is the off season in red rock country, the opportunity for solitude and serenity abound.

Leaving the Wasatch Front in the rearview and heading south on 1-15 feels like taking a step away from the fast-paced action of the epicenter of our state and stepping into the soothing sights, the quieter sounds, and the surreal landscapes of the central and southern part of our state. One of the many things I love about Utah is the diversity of our landscapes and the recreational opportunities that each provide throughout the seasons. Summer is the time to heed the call to the red rock country that is primed and ready for adventure.

Have you been wanting to introduce your family to camping, but not sure where to start? And every time you start the “shopping list” for camping gear, and then do a research on the cost and options, you get quickly overwhelmed with everything that might be needed to personally enjoy those cozy campfire marshmallow roasting and epic starry night images that are plaguing your social media feed. And, to that add the thoughts of the time/money investment in something new that may not even be a fit for your family (chances of this are pretty slim). Yes, all of these thoughts are probably running rampant in your head.

If you are heading south for some two-wheeled adventuring, be sure to check out these family-friendly beginner/intermediate trails. Many of these locations offer a “staked-loop” system, which is great for families who may not all ride at the same level. These new and popular trail systems offer multiple shorter loops, each at a different level, so everyone can ride at their own ability and then meet up back at the trailhead.

The mystical magic of the Heber Valley is extra extraordinary in the winter. Where else in Utah can you: swim in a geothermal crater; visit an ice castle; take a ride on a holiday-themed historic railroad; enjoy an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage ride; take a zipline tour; go tubing at a 2002 Olympic venue; enjoy 200 miles of snow-covered groomed trails; meet the cows on a local dairy farm tour; take a snowmobile tour; go ice fishing; go ice skating, shop along the streets of a Swiss village; and then enjoy dinner at locally-owned farm-to-table restaurant? Wow, that’s a lot of options…way more than you can do in one trip. And the best part is that this destination is just a short drive (45 miles) from Salt Lake City.

A Red Rock New Year’s Eve Celebration Moab in the winter is nothing short of spectacular. The blanket of white snow covering the red rock landscapes is an epic sight that every Utahan needs to witness at least a few times. The weather in red rock country this time of year can be temperamental, like your two-year-old, so be sure to pack your sense of adventure along with a few extra layers of clothing for the family. Depending on the year, the winter temps in Moab can range from below zero at night to the 40-50s during the day and can change at the drop of a hat, so be sure to plan and pack accordingly.

Mountain Biking in Moab with your kids. Story and Photos by Bret Edge The Whole Enchilada. Captain Ahab. Portal. Say “Moab” in the company of mountain bikers and they’ll drift off into thoughts of gnarly trails with massive exposure and technical moves that require precision, strength and a dose of finesse. But what if you’re a parent, and your budding young mountain biker isn’t quite ready to shred the gnar? Here’s a little secret – Moab’s got plenty of great trails with outstanding scenery for even the smallest riders!

7 EPIC Spring Destinations Spring has sprung…and with that comes the desire to migrate south to warmer destinations. If you are looking for some new places to explore this spring here is our to-do list

Moab is the ultimate outdoor playground, offering something for everyone. From high-adventure mountain biking on the infamous Portal Trail to an afternoon stroll in the Park, Moab is the epicenter for “all things adventure.” Some of the best mountain bike trails, national parks, hikes, climbs, OHV trails, photography, landscapes…and the list just keeps going…are all found here.

Winter in Utah is filled with many, many awesome and cool adventure options. North to south, there are endless places to explore. Here is our list to inspire some new family adventures this winter- 

Dark skies are as rare as a happy political discussion for most of us urban- and suburban-dwelling citizens, but, lucky for you, Utah’s star gazing access is as quick as an hour away or as a much-needed 4-hour road trip away. Utah is kind that way–she likes to hand out cosmic extravaganzas night after night after night.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the great Utah outdoors with my family. Some of my much loved early memories are of Lake Powell, Bear Lake and, perhaps my favorite, the land of the Dinosaurs, aka "Dinosaurland!"

My sister was turning 50.  I pondered what we could do to celebrate this major life event.  Mom, sis and I had often traveled together and we wanted to have another excursion for the three of us to celebrate this special year.  We'd been to Hawaii and once on a cruise to Mexico.  This time however, since both my sister and I were short on vacation time, we wanted to experience something we could visit for a few days that was fun, relaxing and fairly close to all of us. I live in Utah, they're Californians.