Recreational therapy is a holistic approach to recovery for the mind, body, and soul. And winter in Utah brings an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation, and indoor for those that ant to escape the cold. Recreation is a part of what makes our approach to recovery unique. We know it’s in our patients’ core beliefs too and they follow that passion long after leaving our facility. Here are 10 great things to do outdoors this winter in Utah that are even more fun when you are completely sober.
Winter things to do outdoors in winter
1. Skiing
Whether you are a beginner hitting the bunny slopes with a trainer, or a seasoned pro who has been skiing for years, you can agree on one thing: Utah winters provide some of the best ski runs in the country.
WC Recommendation: The world-famous Sundance Ski Resort near Provo, UT offers day, night, and nordic skiing areas. They also host events like a author and visiting artist series.
2. Snowboarding
Trade two skis for one snowboard in this equally fun winter sports activity. Snowboarding allows you to use your wits and body to control the direction and speed in which you navigate down the slopes. With a clear and sober mind you’ll be able to give it your peak performance.
WC Recommendation: Brighton Resort in Brighton, UT has trails fit for all skill levels from beginning to the most advanced riders. The mountain averages 500 inches of snow a year and with over 66 runs you can return for adventures day after day.
3. Snow tubing
For those who still love the snow, but not so much the adrenaline rush of flying down the mountain on two feet, snow tubing is for you. Fit for all ages, tubing is a fun way to spend a few hours enjoying the exhilaration of sliding down hills.
WC Recommendations: Soldier Hollow in Midway, UT. Lift up to the 1,200 feet sliding lanes and soar down the mountain while rocking out to the tube’s built in sound system, day or night.
4. Soak in a hot spring
Utah offers an abundance of opportunities to enjoy these natural warm and soothing soaks. Most of which come with picturesque views and tranquil atmospheres, perfect for clearing your mind during a relaxing day.
WC Recommendation: Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville, UT is open year round and has the highest mineral content of any hot spring in the world. The temperatures range from 120-134°F but they also have cold springs and water slides for the perfect day of adventure and health.
5. Fat Tire Snow Biking
For those who enjoy mountain biking during the summer months you are going to love the heightened adventure that comes with riding white blanketed trails.
WC Recommendation: White Pine Touring out of Park City, UT offers fat biking rental and guided tours during the winter months. They also offer all the gear to stay warm during your ride and tips on the best places to start if you’re heading out on your own.
Things to do indoors in winter
6. Bowling
Bowling is one of America’s most iconic past times, especially on those cold days when you want to be warm inside. It doesn’t take much skill to enjoy and nothing beats the feeling of rolling that lucky strike.
WC Recommendation: Miracle Bowl in Orem, UT has everything you need for fun on the lanes. They alley offers daily deals, a cafe, and bowling leagues for those who want to play often.
7. Laser tag
Want to feel like a carefree kid again? If your answer is yes, then laser tag is for you! Come alone or with a group of friends and set your inner child free during a game of laser tag.
WC Recommendation: Laser Quest in Salt Lake City, UT takes this game of hide and seek up a notch. Their arenas are upgraded with fog and upbeat music, and they even have escape rooms to extend your day indoors once you’re done playing laser tag.
8. Hockey games
You don’t have to be good at sports or be outside in the winter to enjoy a good old fashioned ice hockey game. Adrenaline and competition will flood your body as you enjoy two teams compete for the win.
WC Recommendation: Cheer on the Utah Grizzlies at the Maverik Center in West Valley City, UT. The season typically runs from October to April, perfect for the cold days you want to be indoors.
9. Visit a museum
Escape the cold for a day of expanding your mind (without substances!), Museums are a great place to be curious, learn, and explore. There are museums for a variety of interests – art, science, recreations, and more, most with reasonably priced entrance fees.
WC Recommendation: Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City, UT is as interesting for children as it is adults. The permanent exhibits offer close looks at astronomy, earth, dinosaurs, even the Great Salt Lake.
10. Go see a movie
One of the best things to do when it’s cold out is snuggle up to watch a flick. With new movies coming out every Friday you’ll have plenty of options to keep you entertained all winter long.
WC Recommendation: Head to Heber City Theatre in Heber, UT for that small town theater vibe. The daily showings feature the latest releases with special features, great prices, and quality service.
This winter, embrace the cold weather and enjoy all the fun things you can do sober indoors, and outdoors in Utah.
