8 Facts About Utah Valley You May Not Know

With a combination of natural beauty and innovative minds, Utah Valley is a gem to discover. Located in Utah County, it is definitely worth exploring. With picture-perfect views and brilliantly clean air, you will feel like you’ve stepped into a whole new frontier. Here are eight facts you might never have realized about Utah Valley:

Fast-Growing 

As of 2017, Utah County now has a population of over 600,000 people, making it second only to Salt Lake County. In fact, this is almost 20% of the total population of Utah. The two primary cities that reside in Utah Valley are Provo and Orem. Its strong economy, peaceful setting, and strong education scene make it popular for families to put down roots.

High Elevation 

You might not realize it from the name, but all of Utah Valley is above sea level. In fact, the lowest point, the depression in the Jordan River floodplain, is at 4,480 feet. Meanwhile, there are two mountains that tower over the valley. Mount Nebo rises to 11,928 feet and Mount Timpanogos rises to 11,750 feet. The mountainous terrain results in plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to hike, bike, and climb. Among the mountains, there are glaciers, wildflowers, waterfalls and no shortage of wildlife to see. You can go out for a day hike or set off for a week’s worth of escapades. There is biking in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter. Utah Valley has everything to keep you active.

Four Distinct Seasons

There’s a really nice balance in Utah Valley. There are four definite seasons, and all have their special attributes. Summer doesn’t get too hot, and averages about 92F for a maximum. As for winter, it can vary between 14F and 37F. What’s important to note is the higher you are in Utah Valley, the lower the temperature will drop. Even in the summer, the mountains will be quite cool. However, the high elevation, both in the mountains and in the valley, results in more intense sun rays. Sunscreen is a good idea year round.

Technology

You may have heard of Silicon Valley in California, but are perhaps not familiar with the area Silicon Slopes. Utah Valley is actually a base for many famous technology companies including Adobe, Microsoft, and Oracle. These companies employ a good portion of the population of Utah Valley. In addition to these big names, there is also a culture that fosters start-up companies. So, if you have an innovative mind, a creative idea, and a strong work ethic, you will feel right at home. What’s more is that you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people, which will help the creative juices really flow.

Young at Heart

According to the US Census Bureau, the average age in Utah Valley is 24 years old. In all of Utah, this is the youngest. The low age is a result of the influx of families and the nearby universities of Utah Valley University in Orem and Brigham Young University in Provo.

Hispanic Population

While the vast majority of Utah Valley identify as Caucasian, the next largest demographic is Hispanic or Latino. Almost 12% of the population of Utah Valley considers themselves to be of these origins. As a result, there is a growing Latino influence in the area. 

The annual Festival Latino Americano happens in August in nearby Provo and features a lineup of amazing Latino performances and delicious culinary treats. And, if you want to take part in a lively evening of dancing, be sure to check out the Bachata Fest. It happens in March at Utah Valley University. The festival celebrates dance, music, and Latino culture. No worries if you have two left feet as there is a beginner class offered before the night begins.

Pride in Education

Education in Utah Valley is valued, both by parents and by students. In fact, over 93% of adults over the age of 25 have graduated from high school. This is impressive considering the nationwide number is just 87%. The school districts are all quality and there is solid community support.

After high school, there are two major universities to choose from that are quite close. Utah Valley University is in nearby Orem and Brigham Young University is in Provo. Together, these universities have approximately 62,000 students enrolled in them. This access to university is further reflected in the population. 38% of the population of Utah Valley has a bachelor’s degree, which is much larger than the 30% of the entire US population.

Easy Transportation

Despite mountainous terrain and a semi-rural setting, Utah Valley actually has an impressive transportation system. There are over 100 bus routes, all serviced by the Utah Transit Authority.

Summer of 2018 saw the introduction of an electric hybrid bus that actually performs more like a rail car. There are station platforms that are elevated which means that passengers can board the bus at level, instead of climbing stairs into the bus. And instead of having to compete with road space, there are exclusive highway lanes. When traveling through portions of the track, the electric hybrid bus will be able to control select traffic signals to cut down on travel time. There is also ample room to store bikes inside.

Utah Valley is a real up-and-coming area. It has young families, university students, and technology-minded individuals. There are local ski mountains in the winter and mountainous trails to hike in the summer. You can watch the leaves change in the fall and experience nature’s renewal in the spring. With a booming economy, a growing ethnically diverse population, and a keen importance on education, Utah Valley has something for everyone.

10 Best Places for Hot Chocolate in Utah Valley

There is no better drink in Utah Valley during the cold holiday season than a mug of hot chocolate. It’s the festive season, and you would need a lot of cuddling and coats to make it through to the New Year. However, why not liven up the moment with a mug of hot chocolate? Enjoy the rich and creamy taste of hot chocolate while it keeps you warm. Since you are in Utah, it is best to ensure you get the best of the best. Utah Valley has a lot of hot chocolate spots, but let us have a look at the ten best places you can get hot chocolate:

1. THE CHOCOLATE

If you are looking for a chocolate hot spot, then The Chocolate, in Orem, is the place for you. The chocolate here is just one of a kind. Just a sip and you are out of this world. This unique tasting hot chocolate comes in many variants to give you a variety as an added spice. The flavors include Mint, Spice, and Hazelnut. No matter the flavor you try, your tongue is going to want to explode.

2. FOUNDRY GRILL

Take a walk around Sundance, and you will stumble across the Foundry Grill. The Foundry Grill is a very sophisticated lodge restaurant with a casual look. At this restaurant, there is a smooth taste of the sweet gourmet of hot chocolate. Every second you waste in moving the mug towards your mouth cannot be recovered, unless you hurry. Take a sip and see the wonders you are depriving your mouth each second you waste to take a sip.

3. JUICE ‘N JAVA

The city of Orem is blessed with a lot of hot chocolate spots, and Juice ‘n Java can't be left out. Get up from your sofa and take a walk to the Juice ‘n Java hot chocolate spot. You would notice the red paint that looks as if it is almost faded away. However, you aren’t here for the sights? No. You are here to have a taste of the authentic tastes the hot chocolate here has to offer. If you try the Mexican, the Dutch and the Chocolate flavors, you will get the hint. However, if you try the creamy Snickerdoodle hot chocolate, then you would get the whole story.

4. MAVERIK

Still in the city of Orem and you need hot chocolate? Then you should pop over to Maverik and have a cup of hot chocolate. However, not everyone would fancy a night out at a gas station environment, but nothing stops you from popping over and having a cup to drink. The perfect taste and the warmth it brings to your mouth is enough to bring you back for more.

5. KNEADERS BAKERY AND CAFÉ

If you are a fan of Kneaders Bakery and Café, then you are in luck. They have branches at Orem, Provo, Lehi, and Saratoga Springs. No matter where you are in Utah Valley, you can find one of their nearest Cafés to order a mini mountain of palate goodness. Get a whipped cream serving, with chocolate dust sprinkles and chocolate syrup making its way on top. This warm goodness is not something you want to miss out on.

6. THE TOWER DELI AT THANKSGIVING POINT

If you stay around Lehi during Thanksgiving and you want to enjoy the savor of a hot cup of chocolate, then you should stroll to the Tower Deli. You get the liberty to self-serve, and this allows you to add as much cream and sugar as you want. The drink is usually hot, and you should be careful not to take greedy sips.

7. BLUE LEMON

Highlanders would know this hot chocolate spot, and it is popular for its traditional concept in its menu. The hot chocolate here is as sweet as your palate can describe. You should take a walk and ensure you also try the other confections that make Blue Lemon one of the best. The combo of the hot chocolate and the other confectioneries will surprise you in a good way.

8. GURU’S CAFÉ

This café is located in Provo and is known for featuring live music. You should have a try of their hot chocolate and find that the band is not the only smooth thing in this café. Even though you might have come for the band, the hot chocolate will give you more reasons to stay. The hot chocolate is milky and creamy. The temperature is perfect, and there is a layer of foam for those that love their drink frothy.

9. BYU CREAMERY

Provo seems to be endowed with a lot of hot chocolate spots. The BYU creamery is a remarkable place to get hot chocolate, and there is no wait time for you to get one. Get a cup and enjoy this unique cup of cocoa with extra foam. The dairy products used here are natural and organic, unlike the modified ones in other places.

10. TASTE

Taste in Provo was made by food lovers for food lovers. Using traditional chocolate-making methods and modern technology, Taste crafts unique chocolates from the world's best cacao, right here in Utah County. Come and try their decadent artisan hot chocolate with French cocoa and whole milk.


There are many places to get hot chocolate in Utah Valley, and there is no doubt that each of them has something special to offer. After a visit to Utah County, you won't see hot chocolate in the same way again. The hot chocolates here are made with the best quality ingredients and the best flavors to ensure that your mouth gets lost in the savor. There are several places you can try no matter where you are in Utah Valley, and these places would certainly leave you begging for more.

The Best Fishing Spots in Utah County

Fishing is one of the most fun pastimes that you can engage in during the summer or while on holiday. Utah State is one of the places in the country that has vast fish reserves in rivers and lakes. If you reside in Utah State or you happen to be holidaying in the area, take time to explore the fishing grounds that are within your vicinity. Ensure that you visit at least the following spots that are famed for their enormous fish reserves:

1. Provo River

The best fishing spot in Provo River is set just a few minutes from downtown Provo. Famed for its high trout reserve, Provo River Canyon ranks high among the country’s best fishing spots. Other than fishing, there exist loads of other activities that you can participate in. The area around the canyon is beautiful and gives your family the opportunity to enjoy the cool breeze and the scenery. Provo River passes through Provo Canyon which is a rich habitat for brown trout averaging 15-17 inches. Other than the brown trout, there exist enormous numbers of other trout species such as rainbow and cutthroat.

Some sections of the Provo River have deep pools while there are also long runs of fast-moving water.

2. Utah Lake

Although previously, ecologists had raised concerns regarding the quality of the water in Utah Lake, the recent studies by The Utah Division of Water Quality have shown the water to be clean and suitable for fishing. Utah Lake is shallow, and this enables easy fishing of species such as carp for newbies. Other species that are available in the lake include the channel catfish and white bass.

Another reason why you should consider fishing in Utah Lake is the size of the fish available. While many freshwater lakes are known only to have small fish, Utah Lake is different. During the summer, it is common to catch large catfish that can weigh up to 15 pounds. The best time period to fish Utah Lake is during the summer when there are high reserves of white bass.

3. American Fork Canyon

American Fork Canyon is situated in the Wasatch Mountains and harbors huge fishing reserves. The river is also a place that you can visit to hone your fishing skills as it flows slowly, ensuring even starters will have an easy time wading through. There are many known fishing holes where you can find cutthroat and rainbow trout. Brook trout and brown trout are also around but not as many.

4. Diamond Fork River

Fly fishing at Diamond Fork is expected to immensely improve following the completion of the recent pipeline project that ensures the water flow through this section. Anglers who have fished Diamond Fork before the completion of the pipeline have said that the brown trout average about 20 inches. This is a relatively good size, but the catches are expected to improve in the coming years.

While here, try fishing at the Sixth Water which is the primary tributary of the Diamond Fork River. The zone is well-stocked and is also suitable for hiking.

5. Spring Lake Trout Farm

Spring Lake is one of the oldest fish reservoirs in the world, having been in operation since 1912. Beginning anglers who want to hone their skills will love the Trout Farm. Spring Lake allows catch-and-release for $5/hour. Open all year round, the Farm is a great place to work on your technique with the expert advice from guides.

6. Strawberry Reservoir

Strawberry is a great place for a family outing because there are lots of other things to do besides fishing. But if you come for fishing, you'll find plenty of cutthroat - the largest caught here weighed 27 pounds.


7. Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a freshwater body in the Uinta Mountains. Owing to its location and natural environment, the Lake is a good place to enjoy cool weather. Additionally, there is a campground in the vicinity of the lake making it an ideal place for kids to play as you fish.


Utah can be described as one of the primary fishing hubs of the country. Make sure you plan time into your trip for some fishing and try out a few of the popular spots above.

9 Awesome Family-Friendly ATV Trails in Utah County

Do you want to enjoy seeing the beauty of Mother Nature with your loved ones in Utah County? If yes, then hitting Utah ATV trails is a great idea. Utah County has lots of family-friendly ATV trails that you and your family can explore. Let’s have a look at some of these trails:

1. Arapeen OHV System

Situated at Central Utah, The Arapeen OHV System has more than 350 ATV trails as well as OHV roads spreading over the Wasatch Plateau. The well-maintained trails traverse alluring sceneries of forest cover and relatively challenging topography. As you hit the trails, you’ll be awe-struck by the beauty of the surrounding nature, not only the lush green vegetation but also beautiful rocks, glaciers, hills, valleys, and lakes of glass.

Are you up to a more challenging ATV trailing activity here? The hills at the Arapeen OHV System give you the opportunity to climb 11,000 feet up from a green landscape to a place where tree growth is unheard of.  Whether you want to stay outdoors for a week or a month having fun, the vast wilderness has a lot of awesome adventure rides and safe campgrounds that will make you not want to go back home anytime soon. Travel the Arapeen OHV System through Carbon towns, Emery counties or Sanpete towns and rest assured that each and every minute you spend here will be worth lifetime memories to you and your loved ones, including kids.

2. Amasa Valley OHV trails

The Amasa Valley OHV trails are found 40 miles on the west side of Delta in Utah, at the heart of the House Range. There are various easy and difficult trails to take care of your entire family’s ATV trailing wants. The difficult trails are located at Miller Canyon where it is extremely rocky and steep. The trails are not only suitable for ATVs but also dirtbikes and UTVs. Other than trailing, you can also enjoy the surrounding scenery and if you have ample time for your adventures, ensure that you visit Hermit’s Cabin which was transformed from a cave by the great Bob Stinson after World War I.

3. Arch Canyon and Combs Wash

Arch Canyon and Combs Wash have hundreds of miles of ATV trails.

As you ride along the trails, you are going to enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains, beautiful canyons, and rocks. The trails to the north will be suitable for your kids or you if don’t want very challenging trailing since they are fairly smooth and not very steep, apart from Hotel Rock which has rough and steep climbs. The latter also has bumpy rock obstacles. Camping is allowed everywhere at this scenic site but one major drawback is that the place doesn’t have any other amenity other than a vault toilet. 

4. The Slickrock Trail

The Slickrock Trail is situated on the eastern side of Moab and has been a prominent bike trailing destination since the 1960's. Its popularity will be evident upon reaching the Trail since you’ll find bikes everywhere. 

The 8.5 mile-trail with a maximum slope of 35% and an elevation gain of 361 feet climbs up and down various domes, mounds, and fins. Depending on your ATV trailing experience, riding along the trail can be an extremely challenging adventure. As you ride along the trails, your breath will be taken away by the beautiful views of the surrounding petrified dunes and the nearby Colorado River. 

5. American Fork and Mill Canyons

American Fork and Mill Canyons consist of a vast ATV trail network that can be easily accessed from various trailheads. If you like difficult trailing, the winding mountainside, single-track trails will be suitable for you while the wide, progressively climbing ATV trails are meant for people who don’t like very difficult stuff. However, if you choose to ride along the latter, you should be mindful of mountain hikers who mostly prefer the gentle trails.  

6. Black Dragon ATV Trail

Black Dragon ATV Trail is a component of San Rafael Swell. Here, you’ll find an outstanding off-road trail that leads you through a narrow and beautiful canyon. The trail is fairly challenging and starts as a normal desert road with a smooth beginning. However, the terrain becomes more rough and rugged as it approaches the canyon and eventually turns into a wash.

Black Dragon ATV Trail is suitable for both ATVs and UTVs. Camping is not allowed within the canyon but if you want to camp, you can do so anywhere outside the sand wash.

7. Casto Canyon Loop

Located in Garfield County, Casto Canyon Loop is a scenic trail that offers you easy access to the Barney Cove, Paiute ATV Trail, as well as Fremont. The trail is exclusively meant for machines with widths not exceeding 50 inches because it is a bit narrow. You’ll be amazed by the beautiful views of the ancient hoodoos, Ponderosa Pines, and sandstone cliffs. Note that you are now allowed to park your machine at the main staging area. Just travel for a few miles to reach lodgings or an authorized campsite when you want to take a rest after a long day of adventurous riding. 

8. Chicken Corners

Chicken Corners is located in San Juan County and features a narrow route overlooking the Colorado River. When you start on the south of the trail, you’ll see sheer red sandstone wall while the canyon floor drop-off is on the north side of the passage. The trail narrows as you approach the edge of the canyon.

9. Delle

Delle is located in Tooele County, west of Salt Lake City. It has an open riding area, with some parts being difficult to ride, while others are easy. So, Delle has trails that are suitable for experienced ATV riders and for training new riders. If you plan to spend several days here, camping won’t be a problem since you can pitch a tent anywhere you find an unoccupied spot.

All of these locations provide ATV adventures that your family will remember for a long time to come.

Visit Gorgeous Utah Lake State Park

Have you ever discovered love for nature at first sight?

Utah Lake State Park is famous for its beauty, history and exciting landscape. With a large expanse of land and irresistible scenery of the Provo River and Utah Lake, itself.

Utah Lake State Park also has many exciting features asides from its natural characteristics. For instance, you can go on boat rides with your partner or family, go fishing with friends, or even have overnight campouts that will build memories to last a lifetime.

What will you discover when you visit Utah Lake?

CAMPING AND FISHING

There are many excellent spots for camping at Utah Lake. The point where the Provo River empties into the Lake is a typical campsite for many people - a beautiful sight to behold. There are bathroom facilities at designated campsites and there are also RV sites. The staff will readily provide you with maps and advice to guide you to the best spots.

One of the most exciting things to do at Utah Lake is to go fishing. Spend quality time fishing for different species such as walleye, white bass, channel catfish, and many more. There are several services provided with regard to fishing such as boats, fishing advice, gas refueling, and so on. You will also be impressed by the awesome fishing opportunities the Provo River offers.

BOATING AND WATERSKIING

Undoubtedly, the boat rides available at Utah Lake State Park are completely amazing. The calmness of the water makes it completely exciting when you go sailing. From your boat rides, you can view other beautiful parts of the State Park. Ramps are available for your own boat but you can also rent anything from canoes to paddleboards to boats for a superb time with family and friends.
Do you love water skiing? Utah Lake offers an enticing opportunity to go water skiing all day long. If you don’t have your own equipment, there are several locations to rent boats and water skis.

HIKING AND BIKING

Another opportunity offered for visitors at Utah Lake State Park is the beautiful landscape on which you can freely hike. Travel on foot across the Valley and enjoy untold sights. Detailed maps are available so you can hike on beautiful trails and enjoy the best the Park has to offer.
Do you want to go biking instead? There are bikes available for rent that you can use to travel as far as you want across the Park.

WILDLIFE WATCHING

Utah Lake State Park offers designated wildlife watching areas. Here, you can spend the time to see several wildlife inhabitants that are preserved within Utah Lake State Park. Staff members can help direct you to the best areas for the season.