8 Great Experiences In Ogden’s Mountains

The mountains that give Ogden’s incredible backdrop are a chain of peaks that rise to more than 8,000 feet of elevation. Two summits really rise above them all, Willard Peak and Ben Lomond at well over 9,000 feet tall. One epic trail follows the entire ridge-line and climbs to the top of the Northern Wasatch. This is the Skyline Trail. Great for hiking and mountain biking once the snow has mostly melted, the trail extends north and south from North Ogden Divide, and both directions feature a set of steep switchbacks before gaining the rolling, high-altitude ridge-line and commanding views over both sides of the range — Salt Lake Valley to the west and Ogden Valley to the east.

Most trails around Ogden are open to mountain bikes, but Ogden Canyon has some of the best. Begin at Wheeler Creek Trailhead on the wide trail that gently ascends the canyon, then choose your adventure once the canyon forks at Art Nord Trailhead. From here, single track trails travel through open meadows, deep forests, over creeks, and around alpine ponds to connect more amazing riding at Snowbasin Resort to the south or Ogden Canyon Overlook and Sardine Peak to the north. Find a list of trails at Trails Foundation Northern Utah.

Ogden is central to tons of climbing on the wild and varied rock of the Wasatch, and some of the best crags are located right next to town. The sport climbing at 9th Street is the most easily accessible. The wall rises right over town, making for awesome views. A variety of difficulties cater to all abilities and south-facing aspect makes it suitable most of the year.

After a morning spent on the trails, you may be ready for a place to cool off for the afternoon. Pineview and Causey Reservoirs are two of Ogden’s favorites, heralded by locals for paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, or simply lounging at the beach. Rentals are available near both reservoirs, making it easy for you to get the gear that gets you on the water for the day. Both reservoirs are roughly half an hour from downtown Ogden, so be sure to pack your swimsuit for this trip.

Finally, end your day with a walk around town to enjoy some of the city's public art. A few pieces function as landmarks, like the Ogden Arch, which can be found where the Ogden River flows under Washington Boulevard. Others are hidden gems for you to discover, like the Ogden Intermodal Transportation Center (where you catch the train and most buses), which houses bronze installations on the train platform, a suspended indoor sculpture, and a beautiful metalwork installation on the exterior of a reclaimed train car. Take advantage of the First Friday Art Stroll each month, which features extended hours at most galleries and special exhibits inside many of Historic 25th Street’s shops and restaurants. In the summer, the First Friday Art Stroll is an excellent way to engage with Ogden's art scene. Check with galleries and restaurants for programming and participation.

Ready to lace up your boots and head for Ogden’s mountains? Start planning your summer vacation today!