By Brandi Christoffersen

The sun is high in the sky, children’s laughter fills the air and summer escapades beckon. The Wasatch Back is the perfect place for an afternoon of fun or a full weekend excursion. Check out these 12 adventures and see how many you can complete.

1. Ice Cream Break
Take the kiddos for a scoop of homemade ice cream. Locally owned, Inside Scoop offers something for everyone—with over 100 shakes and sundaes and even hand-dipped ice cream. You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream!

2. Family Bowling Night
Open since 1962, Holiday Lanes bowling alley is a true blast from the past. The center features original ball returns and pin machines and the prices won’t break the family piggy bank. Stop by on family game night and play a few rounds.

3. Ride “The Hot Summer Night” Train
For a fun date night or family group activity, book this 90-minute evening ride on the Heber Valley Railroad. Creep through Heber Valley and along the shores of Deer Creek Reservoir. This journey includes sing-a-longs, fiddlers and a pre-boarding Old West gunfight show.

4. Uinta Overnight Escape
For a delightful staycation, book a night at Daniels Summit Lodge. With amazing views of the Uinta National Forest choose from luxury suites to deluxe family rooms. Amenities include onsite dining, spa packages and an indoor pool.

5. Horseback Ride and Yoga
Take a guided horseback ride with Sundance Stables. Journey to a secluded mountain meadow and relax with a 45-minute yoga class, enjoy a light snack and then descend back down the trail feeling rejuvenated. No horseback riding or yoga experience is necessary.

6. Travel the Backroads
There is no better way to view everything Northern Utah offers than from the inside of a Jeep. Epic Jeep is locally owned and operated and has the perfect vehicle outfitted for all your backroad play.

7. Fly Fishing the Provo River
Whether this is your first time fly fishing, or you are a seasoned angler, book a guide through Fish Heads Fly Shop and you’re privy to all their expertise. Plus, all rental gear is included—including waders, rod and reel.

8. Indoor Ice Skating for Rookies
One of the most popular skate sessions at the Park City Ice Arena is the Senior-Rookie Drop-In. The weekly pick-up game is for rookie players ages 35+ and is organized as a relaxed cooperative event. Check dates and register at the arena’s front desk.

9. Jet Ski on the Jordanelle
For an endless adrenaline rush, look no further than Jordanelle Rentals & Marina. Rent a two- or three-person waverunner and spend the day exploring the Jordanelle Reservoir. You can also pair your jet ski rental with a pontoon or ski boat.

10. Off Roading
Invite the whole gang and rent a RZR side by side. After driving and safety lessons, choose your route and enjoy an afternoon of speed and mudslinging. Contact Drew at Midway Adventure Company for his latest promotions.

11. Sheepdog Championship
On the surface, a sheepdog competition may not sound all that intriguing, however, anyone who has attended this annual festival knows that the Soldier Hollow Classic is not only impressive but exciting. The four-day event showcases world-class dogs and handlers and other activities as well.

12. Rafting the Wasatch River
With your own private boat, the highly experienced guides at Park City Rafting create a fantastic experience. Rafting the Weber is an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors and cool off from the summer heat. Book your tour today.