Whether you are into hiking, kayaking, or exploring historical sites, there are numerous things to do in Ogden that will quench your thirst for adventure.
This includes a visit to Fort Buenaventura Park for some outdoor fun or exploring the dinosaur exhibits at George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park. Each activity promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
For those interested in cultural excursions, Ogden’s Union Station offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Meanwhile, the extensive network of trails and parks ensures that you will never run out of things to see and do. Get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime in Ogden.
1. High Adventure Park
Located in Ogden, Utah, High Adventure Park offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. Situated along the picturesque Ogden River, the park is ideal for visitors looking to engage in water sports, explore walking paths, or enjoy a variety of recreational activities.
Recreational Activities
- Kayaking & Fishing: Thanks to the Ogden River, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and fishing right from the park.
- Skateboard Park: A dedicated space for skateboarding, offering a well-maintained environment for skaters of all skill levels.
- Fitness Course & Trails: Multiple walking paths and a fitness course allow for jogging, cycling, rollerblading, and general fitness activities.
Sports Facilities
- Baseball & Soccer Fields: Well-kept fields for both casual play and organized events.
- Basketball & Tennis Courts: These courts are open to the public, providing areas for competitive or recreational play.
- Public Swimming Pool: A popular spot during the summer, perfect for cooling off and family fun.
Event Spaces
- 16 Reservable Pavilions: These pavilions are ideal for hosting events like family reunions, weddings, and corporate parties.
- Outdoor Rodeo Grounds & Amphitheater: Suitable for larger events, performances, or gatherings, making it a versatile venue for entertainment.
Natural Setting
The park’s proximity to the Ogden River provides a serene backdrop, and the park’s green spaces make it a pleasant spot for a relaxing day out.
- Rating: 4.5 (958 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 629-8271
- Website: Visit Website
2. Treehouse Children’s Museum
The Treehouse Children’s Museum in Ogden is an interactive space aimed at kids aged 2 to 12, promoting creativity and literacy through storytelling and hands-on activities. Admission is $12 for children (2-12), $6 for teens (13-17), and $6 for adults.
Children under 2 enter free. Families receiving SNAP benefits can enjoy discounted admission of $3 per person with an EBT card.
The museum features exhibits, interactive workshops, and event spaces, with accessible facilities like wheelchair loans and stroller parking available
- Rating: 4.8 (1800 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 394-9663
- Website: treehousemuseum.org
3. Nature Center
Located on 152 acres of lush, protected land, it offers a serene escape with a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, forests, and meadows.
You can follow miles of well-maintained trails that lead you through diverse habitats. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife, providing ample opportunities for bird-watching and nature photography.
The Nature Center also features a variety of educational programs and exhibits. The visitor center houses fascinating displays about local flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for families and school groups.
For a more hands-on experience, you can participate in their seasonal workshops and guided tours. These activities offer deeper insights into the natural world, making your visit both enjoyable and educational.
- Rating: 4.6 (246 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 621-7595
- Website: ogdennaturecenter.org
4. Ogden’s George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park
Spread across 8.5 acres, the park features over 100 dinosaur sculptures, making it feel like you’ve stepped back into prehistoric times.
Similar to the renowned St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, the park offers a unique experience for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
In addition to the outdoor sculptures, the park has an indoor Stewart Museum of Paleontology, where visitors can explore fascinating fossils and learn about the history of dinosaurs and other prehistoric life. Interactive exhibits and paleontology labs provide hands-on learning experiences. The park also includes a gem and mineral museum, showcasing beautiful crystals and fossils.
For families, the park offers a variety of events and educational activities, including fossil demos, daily geology demonstrations, and dinosaur tours. They even host Dino Day Camps for children, where they can learn through fossil casting, science experiments, and fun tours led by paleontologists.
If you’re planning a visit, general admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $6 for children. The park also offers birthday party packages and group event bookings, making it a great spot for celebrations or educational outings. Regular events like Wee Wednesdays and STEM programming cater to younger children and homeschool families, providing ongoing opportunities for learning and discovery
- Rating: 4.7 (4300 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 393-3466
- Website: Visit Website
5. Utah Adventure Center
The Utah Adventure Center in Ogden offers thrilling outdoor experiences, including the Via Ferrata and the Waterfall Canyon Zipline, designed to immerse adventurers in breathtaking scenery.
- Via Ferrata: This climbing route is perfect for both beginners and seasoned climbers. The trail is equipped with metal rungs and cables, making it safe while offering amazing views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. Guided group climbs cost around $135 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Private tours are also available for smaller groups, with tailored guidance based on your skill level
- Waterfall Canyon Zipline: This adventure begins with a thrilling 2-mile ATV ride up the mountain. Once at the top, you’ll zip across four lines that span the face of a stunning waterfall. The total experience lasts about 2-3 hours and costs $135 per person in a group, or $400 for a private tour of up to two guests(
Both experiences are highly praised for the professionalism of the guides, who provide support and encouragement to all participants, ensuring a memorable and safe adventure.
- Rating: 4.9 (76 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 550-1761
- Website: utahadventurecenter.com
6. Union Station
The station itself, with its classic architecture, is a historical artifact, adding to the immersive experience.
Museums and Exhibits
Union Station is home to several museums, each offering unique insights into different aspects of Ogden’s history:
- Utah State Railroad Museum: This museum explores Ogden’s pivotal role in the development of the transcontinental railroad, featuring historic locomotives, train cars, and interactive exhibits.
- John M. Browning Firearms Museum: This collection showcases firearms designed by Browning, one of the world’s most renowned firearms designers.
- Utah Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum: Delve into the history of the American West, learning about cowboys, rodeos, and the lifestyle that shaped this region.
- Carriage House: A beautiful collection of historic carriages and vehicles from various eras.
Events
Throughout the year, Union Station hosts several engaging events, such as:
- Heritage Festival (May): A celebration of Ogden’s railroad history with reenactments, hands-on activities, local crafts, and performances.
- Centennial Celebrations: Marking key anniversaries with historical exhibits and community events.
- RAMP Days (June – August): Free admission to museums on select days during the summer months, offering budget-friendly access to the station’s exhibits.
- Blue Star Museums Program (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Free admission for active-duty military personnel and their families.
Operating Hours
- Wednesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Closed on state and federal holidays and during the first two weeks of January for annual cleaning.
Ticket Prices
- Adults (18-64): $7
- Teens (13-17): $4
- Youth (3-12): $3
- Babies (0-2): Free
- Seniors (65+): $5
- Union Station Members: Free
Discounts are available for groups, veterans, and active-duty military members.
- Rating: 4.6 (2600 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 629-8680
- Website: Visit Website
7. Fort Buenaventura Park
Established in 1846, it features:
- Picnic Areas: Available for group gatherings, including pavilions that accommodate up to 120 people.
- Camping: Group campsites with easy access to the Weber River.
- Disc Golf: An 18-hole championship course, which hosted the 2021 PDGA World Championships, with a pro shop for gear.
- Fishing Pond: A community fishery for casual anglers.
- Educational Events: Hosted by the Fort Buenaventura Mountain Men, featuring reenactments and lessons about fur trapping and Native American culture.
- Rating: 4.5 (1100 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 399-8099
- Website: Visit Website
8. Fly High Trampoline, Park Ogden
Nestled behind the Newgate Mall, this park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors from cities like Salt Lake, Layton, and Brigham City.
At Fly High, you’ll find wall-to-wall trampolines ideal for flips, tricks, and stunts. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced jumper, there’s something for everyone. The park features exciting attractions like basketball zones, foam pits, parkour, and ninja warrior obstacles.
They offer several birthday party packages that include 1.5 hours of jumping time, a private party room, and a dedicated host to assist with the event. Each party package provides options for trampoline socks and wristbands for all attendees.
You can also rent the entire park for private events, ideal for larger gatherings. Pricing varies depending on the package and the number of guests, with options to add pizza and drinks or bring your catering
After an intense jumping session, treat yourself to Zeppe’s Italian Ice, available at the park.
This cool treat is a great way to wrap up your adventure-filled day.
- Rating: 4.4 (845 reviews)
- Contact: (801) 605-8777
- Website: Visit Website
9. Beus Pond Park
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Accessible year-round, though activities like birdwatching and nature walks are best during spring and fall due to the vibrant seasonal changes.
Features
Wildlife
Beus Pond Park is a prime spot for birdwatching and offers opportunities to see various wildlife, particularly around the pond. Common animals include:
- Ducks: Mallards and other species are often seen swimming in the pond.
- Geese: Canada geese frequently visit, especially during migration periods.
- Songbirds: Sparrows, finches, and chickadees can be seen among the trees.
- Amphibians: Frogs and small turtles can occasionally be spotted near the water’s edge.
- Small Mammals: Squirrels and rabbits are common around the trails.
Picnic Areas
The park has several picnic tables, making it an ideal place for a quiet meal outdoors. There are no grills available, so visitors should plan accordingly if bringing food.
Playground
There’s a small playground area near the Forest Green section of the park, offering fun for younger children.
Trails and Outdoor Exploration
Trails
Beus Pond Park has a short walking trail that circles the pond, offering a pleasant walk through wooded areas. The trail is well-maintained and flat, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Key Dates and Events
- Spring (April – June): This is the best time to visit for birdwatching, as migratory birds pass through.
- Fall (September – November): Beautiful foliage makes this a great season for nature walks and photography.
Nearby Amenities
While Beus Pond Park has limited amenities, it’s located near other city parks and facilities in Ogden, making it a great addition to a day spent exploring the outdoors. The park doesn’t offer restroom facilities, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Beus Pond Park is a great place for short nature visits, birdwatching, and family outings, especially if you’re seeking a peaceful and simple outdoor experience.
- Rating: 4.6 (882 reviews)
- Contact: 801-629-8284
- Website: Visit Website
10. Hiking Trails in Ogden
Waterfall Canyon Trail
- Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Features: This trail is known for its beautiful waterfall at the end, cascading 200 feet over a cliff. The hike is relatively short but involves steep inclines and rocky terrain. The trail offers fantastic views of Ogden and the Great Salt Lake, especially as you near the waterfall.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring, Summer, and early Fall. Spring is ideal when the waterfall is at its fullest due to melting snow.
Bonneville Shoreline Trail (Ogden Section)
- Distance: Varies, with segments ranging from 3 to 8 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Features: This extensive trail runs along the old shorelines of ancient Lake Bonneville. The Ogden section offers panoramic views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains. It’s popular for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. In the spring, wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but especially beautiful in Spring and Fall.
Indian Trail
- Distance: 4.3 miles one-way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: This trail follows the route once used by Native Americans traveling between Ogden Canyon and the town. It passes through diverse terrain, including shady forested areas and rocky outcrops, offering spectacular views of Ogden Canyon and the surrounding mountains. The trail is also known for its geological formations.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall.
Malans Peak Trail
- Distance: 4.5 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Features: A challenging uphill climb, Malans Peak offers one of the best panoramic views of the Ogden area. The trail is steep and rocky, but the reward at the top is a stunning vista of the valley, city, and Great Salt Lake. It’s an excellent workout for more experienced hikers.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early Fall, as winter snow can make it treacherous.
Skyline Trail
- Distance: 11 miles one-way
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Features: This high-altitude trail follows the ridgelines of the Northern Wasatch Mountains and offers unbeatable views of Ogden and the surrounding landscapes. In the fall, the trail is famous for its vibrant autumn foliage, making it one of the most scenic hikes in the region.
- Best Time to Visit: Late Spring through Fall, especially in the fall for the colors.
Ben Lomond Trail
- Distance: 16 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Features: A bucket-list hike for many local adventurers, this long trail leads to the summit of Ben Lomond Peak, offering 360-degree views of the Ogden Valley, Great Salt Lake, and the Wasatch Range. The trail passes through meadows, forests, and rocky outcrops, and you may even spot wildlife such as deer or mountain goats.
- Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to early Fall.
Best Seasons for Adventure Activities
Spring Adventures in Ogden
Spring is perfect for exploring Ogden’s trails and wildlife. As the snow melts, trail conditions improve, making this an ideal time for hiking and mountain biking.
- Hiking: Trails like Waterfall Canyon Trail and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offer stunning views and blooming wildflowers.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife emerging from hibernation. George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park offers a unique blend of natural and prehistoric exploration.
This season is also great for rock climbing, as the rock faces become more accessible.
Summer Adventures in Ogden
Summer brings long days and warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, and camping.
- Mountain Biking: Ogden boasts numerous trails suitable for all skill levels, particularly around the Northern Wasatch Mountains.
- Water Activities: Pineview Reservoir offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. For an adrenaline rush, try white-water rafting on the Weber River.
Autumn Adventures in Ogden
Autumn in Ogden is characterized by cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it an excellent time for outdoor exploration.
- Hiking: Trails like the Skyline Trail become particularly scenic with fall colors.
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive through the Ogden Valley to see the changing leaves.
- Fishing: As temperatures drop, fish become more active, making autumn a great time for fishing in Pineview Reservoir and other local waters.
This season is less crowded, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature in a more peaceful setting.
Winter Adventures in Ogden
Winter transforms Ogden into a haven for snow sports. The nearby mountains offer excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Powder Mountain and Snowbasin Resort provide diverse terrain for all skill levels.
- Snowshoeing: Explore quieter trails through snowy landscapes, perfect for a peaceful winter adventure.
- Ice Climbing: For a unique challenge, try ice climbing on frozen waterfalls.
Ogden’s winter activities extend beyond snow sports; enjoy ice skating and winter festivals to round out your adventure.