Spring into Summer in Ogden, Utah!

Ogden, Utah gets a lot of attention throughout the summer for its robust schedule of events and unparalleled access to outdoor recreation. It attracts visitors throughout the fall as one of the top leaf peeping spots in the country. And of course, winter visitors have come to know Ogden as one of the most legendary ski destinations anywhere. However, spring may be one of the best times of year to experience Ogden.

As mild temperatures chip away at the snowpack on the surrounding peaks, spring run-off fills dozens of small streams and fuels stunning waterfalls and wildflowers and everything is at its greenest. The ski crowds are gone and summer vacation travel hasn’t started. It’s the perfect time to live like a local in this eclectic mountain town.

Ogden’s vast network of trails is in prime condition providing hikers and mountain bikers with hundreds of miles to explore before summer’s higher temperatures arrive. Local tip: Stay off the trails if they're wet from spring storms or excessive run-off. For more trail etiquette, check it out here.

Importantly, the lack of crowds doesn’t mean there isn’t an abundance of unforgettable things for visitors to do.

FIRST FRIDAY ART STROLL

Ogden’s springtime First Friday Art Strolls begin to sprawl out of studios and galleries and into the street as plein air painters capture the historic architecture and musicians busk on street corners and in alleys. Outdoor dining areas begin to blossom like the trees that surround them.

OGDEN MARATHON

The first major event of the season is the Ogden Marathon on May 20. Now in its 23nd year, the Ogden Marathon has become Utah’s premiere running event and includes half-marathon, 12k, 5k, and even a Kids K race. 

Dubbed “Utah’s Spring Run-Off,” the event has earned such accolades as “one of the best courses in America for first-time marathon runners” and “one of the top ten marathons in the world” by Runners World. Legendary marathoner, Jeff Galloway, proclaimed it one of the top 6 most scenic marathon courses in his book, “America’s Best Places to Run.”

While the full marathon typically sells out early, the shorter distance races usually have availability right up to race day. And since all of the races share the same course and finish line, runners of all ability levels get to enjoy a taste of running along the Ogden River before finishing in the heart of Historic 25th Street.

Race and registration information can be found here.

OGDEN RAPTORS BASEBALL

A few days after the marathon, the Ogden Raptors kick off their season of Pioneer League baseball with their home opener at Lindquist Field on May 23…the first of a six-game run against the Grand Junction Jackalopes.

This is small-town baseball at its best and the Raptors are regular contenders for the league championship every year. Additionally, Lindquist Field has been voted as the most scenic ballpark in all of baseball.

Be sure to check out the Raptors schedule that includes all of the great promotional nights throughout the season.

FARMERS MARKET OGDEN

Farmers Market Ogden has become one of the most popular farmers markets in the state of Utah and, as a result, opens earlier every year. This year, it kicks off on May 27 and runs every Saturday through September 9 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Shop the best of fresh local produce, prepared foods and artisan goods while enjoying live music by local musicians, live art performances, and free kids activities from local community partners.

Don’t forget your yoga mat for yoga in the park every Saturday at 9:00 a.m.

HISTORIC 25TH STREET CAR SHOW

Early June is when Ogden’s massive summer of events really gets rolling. June 2, to be precise. That’s when the Historic 25th Street Car Show coincides with Ogden’s First Friday Art Stroll.

This iconic event is an open show with no categories or classes and typically draws more than 350 vehicles of every make, model, and vintage. Viewing every era of vehicle in the context of Historic 25th Street is a sublime experience, knowing that the street has pretty much seen it all.

Come prepared to shop, dine and stroll the galleries! The local shops and galleries extend their hours of operation and many display their wares on the sidewalks.

OFOAM MUSIC FESTIVAL

Also happening June 2-4 is the OFOAM (Ogden Friends of Acoustic Music) Music Festival at Fort Buenaventura.

This year’s festival will feature more than a dozen main-stage acts including Sam Bush, Amy Helm, The Travelin’ McCrourys, Brothers Comatose and more. Additionally, festival goers will enjoy local “tweener” sets between each main-stage act.

Every evening after the stage lights dim, dozens of impromptu campfire jam sessions get rolling around the camping area and continue into the wee hours. 

Kids 16 and under are welcome to attend the festival for free and interact with the Imagine Music Musical Petting Zoo where they can try their hand at virtually any instrument.

Expect amazing food and beer vendors and plenty of other music-related and outdoor-themed crafts and activities.

Ticketing and camping information can be found here.

Get a jump on your summer vacation and kick it off with a spring getaway to Ogden this year!