From our friends at www.digandflow.com
The Beehive State has some great outdoor options and the paddling abounds.
You don’t need the ocean, nor do you need any breakers (but that probably wouldn’t hurt either). All you need is a healthy appetite for exploration, fresh water, a board and paddle and nature is yours! Load up the vehicle and set off! You’ll discover some of the best stand up paddle boarding, also known as SUP by enthusiast, in the various rivers, bays, lakes and reservoirs right here in the majestic state of Utah. Below we’ll cover some of the best places to SUP in Utah!
Over the past decade SUP has become one of the fastest growing outdoor adventure sports in the country. Offering paddlers a boost in mental wellness while delivering multiple physical components in the likes of cardiovascular, strength and balance are just a few of the reasons people are flocking to this awesome aquatic activity.
Visitors and residents of Utah can take advantage of some of the states natural geographical wonders by the way of SUP. Utah offers some of the most diverse and various terrains in the nation and, because of that reason, is no wonder the Beehive State is becoming one of the countries favorite SUP destinations. Therefore, with so many options to choose, let’s discover Utah and the 5 best places to SUP in Utah.
-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-
Best Time of Year to Visit:
Moderate crowds and temperatures in April–May and September–October make these months the best time to visit Utah and its national parks. Spring boasts active wildlife and blooming flowers. Pleasant fall wraps Utah in colorful foliage along the scenic drives. (www.rove.com)Average Temperature:
The average high temperatures are between 63°F (17.2°C) to 96°F (35.6°C), while the average low temperatures are in the 38°F (3.3°C) to 67°F (19.4°C) zone. (www.weather-us.com) Be wary of the temperatures when planning your visit. Make sure the temperatures are correct for spending time on the water!
SUP Environments to Paddle In
Lake
Rivers
SUP Activity Highlights:
Excursions
Tours
Tours:
The beautiful landscapes of Utah are a great place to experience a guided tour. Let an experienced guide take you on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful waters off the coast. To look up a tour in your desired area, use our Locations/Activities guide HERE!
Perfect Paddles Deals to Get Your Ready for Your Trip:
RHEOS (Floating) Sunglasses- 15% off with Member Benefits
Duk Gear- 20% off a waterproof cell phone case with Member Benefits
Amphibian Outdoors- Save $20 on your purchase with Member Benefits
Check out more of our gear options HERE!
Interested in any of these extra activities? Be sure to head HERE to find a list of paddle pros in the area and what they offer!
Additional Attractions:
Much of Utah’s attractions lay in its beautiful natural sceneries. Consider Utah your opportunity to explore the natural world!
Zion National Park: Zion National Park is a southwest Utah nature preserve distinguished by Zion Canyon’s steep red cliffs. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive cuts through its main section, leading to forest trails along the Virgin River. The river flows to the Emerald Pools, which have waterfalls and a hanging garden. Also along the river, partly through deep chasms, is Zion Narrows wading hike.
Bryce Canyon: Bryce Canyon National Park, a sprawling reserve in southern Utah, is known for crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. The park’s main road leads past the expansive Bryce Amphitheater, a hoodoo-filled depression lying below the Rim Trail hiking path. It has overlooks at Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point. Prime viewing times are around sunup and sundown.
Arches National Park: Arches National Park lies north of Moab in the state of Utah. Bordered by the Colorado River in the southeast, it’s known as the site of more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, such as the massive, red-hued Delicate Arch in the east. Long, thin Landscape Arch stands in Devils Garden to the north. Other geological formations include Balanced Rock, towering over the desert landscape in the middle of the park
Deer Valley Resort: Discover the Deer Valley Difference this Season! Find Tranquil Scenery, Mountain Activities, and More at Our World-Class Ski Resort. Utah's Premier Resort.
Temple Square in Salt Lake City: Temple Square is a 10-acre complex, owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the center of Salt Lake City, Utah. The usage of the name has gradually changed to include several other church facilities that are immediately adjacent to Temple Square.
For reference, be sure to check out our Perfect Paddles Activities map! For the California Area, you will find it below:
Perfect Paddles Shops/Outfitters we recommend:
1. Paddle Moab, Moab
2. Adrift Dinosaur, Jensen
3. Dig Paddlesports, Hurricane
4. Lake Powell Paddleboards, Page, Arizona- right on the border (Buddy Deal!)
Buddy Deals: Don’t forget to take advantage of our fantastic Buddy Deals for exclusive discounts for our members! To become a member head HERE.The Best Places to SUP in Utah
1. Lake Powell
Lake Powell is currently the second largest man-made reservoir in the United States and comes in at #1 on our list of the best places to SUP in Utah. Located in southern Utah/northern Arizona, Lake Powell is a massive location ideal for several unique water sport activities and outdoor adventures — including SUP. The lake was created in 1963 by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam across the Colorado River.
Lake Powell was named after a one-armed civil war veteran and explorer named, John Wesley Powell, who lead an expedition south from Wyoming on the Green and Colorado Rivers. Mapping the region along the way. His journey was the first surveying expedition mapping this territory of the United States forever linking the man to this particular area of the Utah and delivery the name sake on which the lake was founded.
Lake Powell reservoir, at an impressive 186 miles in distance and nearly 2,000 miles of coastal shore, has become an ideal destinations for SUP enthusiast from around the world. The shear vastness alone should conjure up excitement of exploration. This lake enables you to seek out new, uncharted and undiscovered coves, caves, and inlets spotted throughout the lake. Surrounded by awe-inspiring natural geographical landmarks with 360° panoramic views, Lake Powell is the ultimate water sport playground for all ages at any skill level.
Additional Things to Do & Recreational Activities
- RV and camping sites
- Boating and house boating
- Sailing
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Boat tours of Rainbow Bridge, Antelope Canyon and Navajo Canyon
- Dinner cruise aboard the Canyon Princess
- Nature hikes
- Bird watching
- Biking
2. Mirror Lake (and Highway)
Stunning views, private locations, and no motor watercraft access. Mirror Lake offers the perfect conditions for any level SUP lover.
This pint sized destination is located on the Mirror Lake Highway high upon the peaks of the Uintas Mountains. With it’s high elevation and cooler temperatures, locals consider Mirror Lake the ideal getaway to beat the summertime heat of the valley floor below.
The name Mirror Lake derives from the native American Indian tribe of the Northern Ute. Stating that on a calm day, the water is so perfectly still and reflective it takes on the action of a mirror reflecting the mountainous terrain of surrounding lake.
Currently, Mirror Lake offers 94-campsites including day-use facilities with latrines and picnic areas. The lake also has wonderful hiking options including bird, floral and animal exploration around the many trails and paths encompassing Mirror Lake making it the #2 spot on our best places to SUP in Utah list.
Additional private SUP locations around the Mirror Lake Highway region
- Bear River
- Ruth Lake (hike in location)
- Fehr Lake
- Teapot Lake
- Wall Lake
- Bourbon Lake
3. Flaming Gorge
Number 3 on our list of the best places to SUP in Utah is located in the Ashley National Forest in north eastern Utah. Flaming Gorge is the perfect destination for a long weekend getaway with your board and paddle. You’ll discover endless view points, epic rock formations, mysterious caves, and a overall natural beauty mother nature has on display while leaving the soul cleansed and refreshed.
For years, Flaming Gorge has been one of Utah’s most popular destinations with its endless variety of outdoor activities. Stunning views, miles upon miles of trekking options, with its open waterways and hidden coves, this popular reservoir whether from land or board — shouldn’t be missed!
Additional Recreational Activities include:
- Scenic Drives
- RV and Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Water Sport Activities
- ATV Adventures
- Wildlife Exploration
4. Jordanelle Reservoir
Jordanelle Reservoir is one of Utah’s most visited parks and because of its natural landscape and close proximity to Salt Lake City just had to have a spot on our best places for SUP in Utah list. Jordanelle offers SUP enthusiast the perfect destinations to get wet and paddle onward. Around the area you can find plenty of SUP options for rentals and lessons right at the water’s edge at Jordanelle Marina and Rentals.
Park History
The park was opened in 1995 after some controversial debate by conservationists fighting to preserve the natural well being of the Provo River. While other special interest groups debated the parks geographical structure being unsound for the earthen type dam being proposed during its early stages of construction. After years of debate and negotiations, all parties involved over the debate were satisfied with the outcome that is now Jordanelle Reservoir.
Today, Jordanelle Reservoir is not only a haven for SUP. It also has become a favorite destination for triathletes and runners because of its rugged landscape. Making it the ideal location for a challenging training regiment at high altitude.
Jordanelle Reservoir host a series of annual triathlon events and other extreme outdoor sporting venues. For additional information on annual events and competitions, you can visit the Information Center Lodge located near the main entrance to the park.
However, the park’s most desirable SUP locations are Hailstone and Rock Cliff. Both locations offer full access camping, day-use facilities, boat launch,marinas, and information centers. For a less crowded experience, it is suggested that Rock Cliff be the destination of choice. Located in the southeast corner of the lake, you’ll discover the raw splendor of Rock Cliff’s rugged terrain and natural cottonwoods making for an unforgettable day out SUP’ing.
Please note, the only draw back at Rock Cliff is recreational camping is only available by hike-in basis and our pooches are not allowed to enter.
5. The Great Salt Lake
Yes, the Great Salt Lake. Being the largest lake west of the Mississippi River
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Orangeville
Utah
84537
United States
- Location Info Guide