Entertain the Older Kids in Salt Lake City

Sometimes the key to making older kids happy on a family vacation is just to keep them busy with plenty of high-octane outdoor activities. With that in mind, Greater Salt Lake offers a robust lineup of fall activities, from biking and hiking to even an Oktoberfest for adults. Here are a few favorites, just right for fall.

The Wasatch Crest Mountain Bike Trail routinely tops the list of best mountain bike trails in Utah. The nearly 12-mile route follows the trail that separates the Salt Lake valley and Park City. It’s also a contender as one of America’s best mountain bike rides.

Or hop on a tram to access Snowbird’s Big Mountain Trail, which kicks off from the ski resort’s 11,000-foot summit. It’s all downhill from there — in a good way — and is a relatively easy route for cyclists comfortable on blue-rated terrain. Plus, if you need added incentive, the trail finishes up right at the Oktoberfest celebration for a little well-earned aprés-ski fun.

Got beginners in your family group? Try Corner Canyon Trails, located in South Salt Lake, which offers an appealing network of bike trails for all ability levels, from novice to expert.

Families who prefer to experience nature on foot also have a number of fun options in the area. Consider tackling Bell’s Canyon Trail, which begins at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon. The route winds uphill gently, and rewards hikers with great views of the Lone Peak Wilderness, the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake itself.

Cecret Lake in Utah © Alan Mitchell | Dreamstime.com

Hikers with time constraints can embark on a short hike at Cecret Lake, located at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon from Alta. The trail is easily accessible and scenic — the panoramic views of the Wasatch peaks alone are worth the climb — but just be aware there are some steep sections to navigate, so plan accordingly.

Finally, test your mettle against the rigors of a Mount Olympus climb, knowing you’ll be rewarded with some stunning vistas along the way. The north side of the mountain offers especially challenging cliffs, while the grades on the west side are a bit more modest. You’ll still want to be fit, however, before tackling those last several hundred feet over boulders and ledges to the top of the 9,026-foot peak.

Got older kids or just want a bit of grown-up fun at the end of your adventurous day? For families visiting in October, there is an annual Oktoberfest at Snowbird that has gone on every Saturday and Sunday since the early 1970s. The family-friendly event offers more than just beer, however, with tram and chairlift rides, bungee trampoline and ropes courses. Best of all, Salt Lake offers lodging packages that bundle in accommodations and fun for the whole family.