Exploring utah Valley
Falling for Utah Valley: My Favorite Outdoor Dates and Scenic Spots
Provo Canyon Picnic is the perfect date
If you know me, you know I’ll take a mountain trail or a canyon picnic over a fancy dinner any day. There’s something about being outside in Utah Valley — especially in the spring — that resets my soul and reminds me why I love where I live. Whether you’re planning a romantic date or just want to make memories with someone special, I’ve got a list of outdoor spots that are totally worth your time.
Here are my favorite ways to explore the beauty of Utah Valley together.
🌿 Bridal Veil Falls
Let’s start with a classic. Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon is one of those places that never gets old. It’s a 600-foot waterfall that you can drive right up to, but I recommend parking nearby and taking a walk along the paved Provo River Trail to get the best view. Bring a picnic blanket and sit by the river — it’s peaceful, romantic, and totally Instagram-worthy. Thinking of getting engaged? This is a perfect place, with a backdrop of Bridal Veil Falls how can you go wrong with the photos that you will have when you pop the quesiton. Ok maybe your not there yet, it still makes for an unforgettable date.
Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Utah, a couples paradise.
🥾 Y Mountain Hike
This one’s for couples who like a little challenge. The hike to the Y is short but steep — your legs will feel it — and the views from the top are worth every step. Looking out over the valley at sunset is one of my favorite date moments I’ve ever had. Just bring water and good shoes, and you’re good to go. Plus you will always have that memory when you see the big Y on the mountain.
🌸 Walk the Grounds at the Provo City Center Temple
Provo, Utah Temple
Even if you're not there for religious reasons, the grounds around the temple are beautifully landscaped and full of flowers this time of year. It’s a peaceful place to take a stroll, especially in the evening when the lights come on. Grab ice cream from Rockwell or a cookie from Chip nearby and make it a relaxed little date night.
🚲 Bike the Provo River Parkway
This trail runs all the way from Utah Lake up through Provo Canyon. Rent bikes (or bring your own) and cruise through shaded paths, over little bridges, and past parks and picnic spots. You’ll pass Bridal Veil Falls along the way, and it’s easy to go as short or long as you want.
🌄 Watch the Sunset from Squaw Peak Overlook
Yes, it’s a drive — but it’s a good one. The road up to Squaw Peak is windy and scenic, and once you reach the overlook, the views over the entire valley are breathtaking. Bring a blanket and watch the sun dip behind Utah Lake. It’s quiet, romantic, and totally free.
🛶 Paddleboarding at Utah Lake
Couples paddel board in Utah Valley at Utah Lake State Park
On a calm day, the water at Utah Lake can be glassy and still — perfect for a couple of paddleboards or even a tandem kayak. It’s a fun way to get outside and try something new together. I recommend launching from the Lindon Marina or Utah Lake State Park.
🌼 Spring Strolls at the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum Arboretum
BYU’s campus is full of surprises, and one of my favorites is the little-known arboretum by the Life Science Museum. It’s a quiet place with trees, flowers, and walking paths — perfect for holding hands and catching up.
🎶 Outdoor Concerts and Events
Keep an eye out for free concerts at parks and amphitheaters. Provo does a great job of bringing music into the open air. Whether it’s at the Riverwoods, the Rooftop Concert Series downtown, or an impromptu performance in the park, it’s always more fun under the stars.
🍓 Visit a U-Pick Farm or Local Orchard
When May rolls into June, local farms start opening their gates for strawberry and cherry picking. Rowley’s Red Barn and McCoard’s Gardens are great places to start. It’s playful, a little nostalgic, and yes — a great excuse to feed each other fresh fruit.
💫 Stargazing in Hobble Creek Canyon
Couple star gazing in Utah Valley
Sometimes the best dates are the simplest. Drive up Hobble Creek Canyon, find a pull-off, and lay out a couple of camp chairs or a blanket. Away from the city lights, the stars are crystal clear. Bring hot chocolate and stay awhile.
Fall in Love with Utah Valley (All Over Again) I do it everyday:)
Weather you are on a first date or you've been together for years, there’s something powerful about sharing these outdoor moments. Utah Valley has a way of grounding you, opening you up, and reminding you that the best things in life are often the simplest. So many things to do in Utah Valley.
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10 best State Parks in Utah
Utahs beautiful State Parks
Utah has a slew of State parks here are 10 of my favorites(Including Must-Visit Gems in Utah County!)
Utah is famous for its national parks, but the state parks are equally breathtaking—and often less crowded. From red rock canyons to alpine lakes, Utah’s state parks offer outdoor lovers a chance to hike, fish, paddle, camp, and simply breathe in the state's natural beauty. Here's a list of the 10 best state parks in Utah, including a few incredible options right here in Utah County, and what makes each one worth the trip.
1. Utah Lake State Park (Utah County)
Utah Lake State Park
Why it’s amazing:
Located just west of Provo, Utah Lake State Park offers boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and some of the best sunset views in the valley. It’s Utah’s largest freshwater lake and is a hub for fishing—especially for channel catfish, white bass, and walleye. The marina has boat ramps and docks, plus picnic areas for families.
Highlights:
Fishing
Boating & kayaking
Campground & marina
Minutes from downtown Provo
2. Yuba State Park
Bald Eagle
Why it’s amazing:
Perfect for water sports lovers, Yuba State Park features a large reservoir great for boating, jet skiing, and camping along sandy beaches. It’s also home to the famous “Eagle View” campground, where you can spot birds of prey and other wildlife.
Highlights:
Water sports
Beach camping
Paddleboarding & windsurfing
Fishing
3. Wasatch Mountain State Park (Utah County Neighbor)
Utah Mountains
Why it’s amazing:
Just a short drive from Utah County, Wasatch Mountain State Park park in Midway is a year-round playground. In the summer, it offers hiking, mountain biking, and ATV trails. In winter, it transforms into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paradise. Golfers will also love the 18-hole Wasatch Mountain Golf Course nestled in the pines.
Highlights:
Mountain hiking & biking
Scenic drives (especially in fall)
Golf & winter sports
Historic sites like Huber Grove
4. Deer Creek State Park (Utah County Neighbor)
Why it’s amazing:
Just above Provo Canyon, Deer Creek Reservoir is a favorite for boating, wakeboarding, and fishing. Surrounded by views of Mount Timpanogos, it's a beautiful spot for family outings. The Deer Creek Island Resort offers rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and wave runners.
Highlights:
Boating & jet skiing
Fishing
Campgrounds
Close to Provo & Heber
5. Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park
Why it’s amazing:
Located near St. George, this park is a desert playground. It combines red rock landscapes with blue water, offering a surreal visual contrast. Popular for OHV (off-highway vehicle) trails, cliff jumping, and scuba diving in the reservoir!
Highlights:
Red sand beaches
OHV trails
Cliff jumping & scuba
Warm water swimming
6. Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point
Why it’s amazing:
Famous for its stunning overlook of the Colorado River (like a mini Grand Canyon), Dead Horse Point offers some of Utah's most iconic views. It's perfect for sunset photography, stargazing, and hiking.
Highlights:
Iconic canyon overlooks
Mountain biking trails
Hiking
Stunning sunsets
7. Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park Utah
Why it’s amazing:
One of Utah’s most unusual landscapes, Goblin Valley is filled with strange, mushroom-shaped rock formations called "goblins." It's like hiking through another planet—and a kid’s dream playground.
Highlights:
Wild sandstone formations
Great for kids to explore
Dark skies for stargazing
Easy hiking trails
8. Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park Utah
Why it’s amazing:
Located near St. George, this park is lesser-known than nearby Zion but just as beautiful. It features lava tubes, red rock cliffs, slot canyons, and desert wildlife. It’s a hiker’s dream without the national park crowds. It is where the St George Marathon is for many miles each october.
Highlights:
Lava flows & canyons
Rock climbing
Scenic trails
Close to St. George
9. Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island Wedding
Why it’s amazing:
Located in the Great Salt Lake, this island is home to free-ranging bison, antelope, and incredible lake views. It’s a great spot for wildlife photography, hiking, and sunset watching.
Highlights:
Wildlife viewing
Great Salt Lake scenery
Hiking & cycling
Historic ranch
10. East Canyon State Park
Fish at East Canyon State Park Utah
Why it’s amazing:
Steeped in pioneer history, East Canyon was part of the original Mormon Pioneer Trail. It features a reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking, and relaxing on a boat, and is surrounded by rolling hills and wildflowers.
Highlights:
Kayaking & canoeing
Historical significance
RV camping
Birdwatching
Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping ATV trails, serene lake kayaking, epic canyon views, or the perfect camping getaway—Utah’s state parks offer something for everyone. For those in Utah County, parks like Utah Lake, Deer Creek, and Wasatch Mountain are perfect nearby escapes that blend nature, recreation, and beauty. If you are a hiker, fisherman, or love to paddle board, make your next weekend a Utah State Park adventure!
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