The mountains of Utah are beautiful and have their time, but for those of us looking for creative ways to enjoy the winter season that doesn’t involve buying a ski pass, taking a lesson, and driving to the mountain, there are plenty of options. While skiing may be a highlight, Central Utah offers some of the best winter activities. Not a far drive from the ski resorts of Northern Utah are small towns at the heart of Utah, hosting a variety of winter activities and anticipated annual events. The ease of access, wide open spaces, and unique gems make this area the best starting point for a winter adventure!
1.) Self-Guided Museum Tour
For those looking to stay indoors, there is plenty to see in The Corridor. Learn about the once-booming mining industry in Utah's core and the stories that shaped the area at the Helper Museum. Their artifacts, model trains, and themed rooms make for a fun afternoon for the whole family.
Next, take a guided tour through the historic 1892 house at The Bryner Museum. The house is a trip back in time to pioneer life in The Corridor and home to personal artifacts of the Bryner Family and the stories of this fascinating family.
To go way back in time, about three billion years, when you visit The Prehistoric Museum at USU Eastern. Walk up to full body dinosaur mounts like the Utahraptor, the Allosaurus, and the largest ankylosaurus skeleton, Peloroplites. Kids enjoy the Discovery Area, where they can “dig” for dinosaur bones.
2.) Snowmobiling
Central Utah's snow-covered landscapes offer the perfect playground for snowmobiling enthusiasts. With miles of groomed trails and vast expanses of powdery terrain, you'll find endless opportunities for adventure. One particularly scenic spot is Scofield State Park, where you can ride amidst breathtaking mountain views and pristine forests. Be sure to check grooming reports, maps, and other resources at snowut.com before you head out to make the most of your snowmobiling experience.
3.) Snowkiting
You may not have heard of snowkiting before. It’s a form of freestyle skiing and snowboarding where riders use a specially designed kite to propel themselves across snowy landscapes and even soar through the air. Staying in Carbon County, snow-kiters can make The Corridor their base camp and venture to Skyline Drive in nearby Sanpete County for a unique way to ski.
4.) Attend Helper Utah’s Christmas Town Festival
A Utah annual week-long event, Utah's Christmas Town is held in the historic and charming town of Helper, UT. The week brings all of the Christmas spirit and family fun to the Christmas season. Here is a rundown of the events and what you’ll enjoy at Utah’s COR in the Carbon Corridor.
- 11/22-23 Craft Fair
- 11/29 Lights On Ceremony
- 12/04 Luminary Memorial
- 12/06-07 Chili Dinner
- 12/06-07 Electric Light Parade
- 12/07 Breakfast with Santa
- 12/07 Holiday Fireworks
Can’t come for the whole week?
We recommend visiting Utah’s Christmas Town Festival the weekend of Dec 04-07. The weekend kicks off with the Luminary Memorial, a touching night at Helper City Cemetery. Friday or Saturday you can join the town for a chili dinner at Helper Civic Auditorium. Both Friday and Saturday night you and your family can enjoy the climax of the weekend at the Electric Light Parade.
Learn more about the festival and events ahead.
5.) Sledding
A surefire way to have a blast and tire out the kids (and yourself!)- grab a sled and head for the hills! Whether you're cruising down gentle slopes in the local parks or tackling the exhilarating runs of Horse Canyon or Pioneer Park, sledding is a classic winter activity that guarantees rosy cheeks, and unforgettable memories. It's a fantastic workout too - all that hiking back up the hill is sure to get your heart pumping.
6.) Dark Sky Photography & Stargazing
Recognized as a Dark Sky Community, the city of Helper is home to beautiful dark sky photography and stargazing. Utah has the most dark sky communities on Earth, yup, the Earth! Being away from the city lights, Scofield State Park also makes for great stargazing and Dark Sky Photography in Carbon County.
7.) Hot Chocolate Walks Along the River
Number seven on our list can be done any time of day this winter. Stretching seven miles along the Price River, The Price River Trail and Helper Walkway are integral paths of Helper and Price City. Grab some hot cocoa from a coffee shop nearby like Happiness Within, located in downtown Helper, then head towards the river for a calming walk amidst the snow.
8.) Staycation in a Lodge or Cabin
Last on the list, plan a staycation at a lodge or cabin! Sometimes what we need to take advantage of the winter season is to embrace the beauty outside of our home. The country of Carbon County has short-term rentals tucked away in Utah’s core, making it the perfect setting for relaxation and a chance to unplug. Stay at a lodge like Aspen Ray Lodge or in a private cabin at Castle Gate RV Park. Explore more lodging options in Central Utah.
Staying in the Carbon Corridor, you'll be only a short drive to some of the state’s untouched beauties. Head to the world’s longest outdoor gallery at Nine Mile Canyon, or head south to rock formations that look out of this world at Goblin Valley State Park. Your winter adventure starts here in the Carbon Corridor.
Ready to enjoy winter off the mountain? Share this blog with a friend to make them your official winter buddy. Explore more winter activities in The Carbon Corridor.