Discover Utah Kids - Spring 2019

DISCOVER UTAH SPRING 2019

road trippin' st. george 7 EPIC SPRING DESTINATIONS

Mindfulness for Teens MOAB MOUNTAIN BIKING

INSPIRE. EDUCATE. EXPLORE.

DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM

300 100 80 + 4 ____________ SUNNY DAYS FEATURES ACRES

SKILL ZONES

1 & ONLY

Utah’s year-round bike park VISITSTGEORGE.COM/SNAKE-HOLLOW-BIKE-PARK 3 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

14 PUBLISHER Monique Beeley EDITOR Greg Scothern COPY EDITOR Katie Mullaly ART DIRECTOR Michelle Rayner EDITORIAL + PHOTOGRAPHY Arika Bauer, Jackie Baker, Bret Edge, Alyssa Erikson, Janice H. Gargner, Suzie Holt, Heidi Hoven, Heidi O’Donoghue, Dan Ransom, Judith Rognli, & Neka Roundy

ON THE COVER

Turtle Wall Trail - St. George PHOTO BY Monique Beeley

We want to hear from you. Send your rants, raves, and story ideas to Mo@DiscoverUtahMagazine.com Advertising inquires for Discover Utah Kids and DiscoverUtahMagazine.com can be sent to info@DiscoverUtahMagazine.com Connect with us @DiscoverUtahKids Discover Utah Kids is published quarterly by Discover Utah Magazine, LLC. P.O. Box 2336, Park City, UT. 435-640-6549 © 2019 by Discover Utah Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

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contents spring

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RoadTrippin'

24 Healthy Teens

St. George

Mindfulness

12 Nonprofit Highlight

26 Educational The B.E.S.T. Youth

The Bicycle Collective

14 Explore your Backyard

20

7 Epic Spring Destinations

19 Map 20 Insider's Guide

12

Mountain Biking Moab

Bike Program

28 Great Salt Lake

Bird Festival 30 A Grand Sesquicentennial Celebration

let new adventures begin DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 5

LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER

With spring on the horizon comes the excitement of the warmer, longer days and the thawing out and melting from this truly EPIC winter we have been blessed with. Snow piles were higher than we, in northern Utah, have seen in many, many years and the memories of the weekly/daily battle with the snow blower quickly fade, and make way for visions of warm red rock vistas soaked in sunshine… aaaahhh…snow boots replaced with flip flops and sweaters with tank tops.

IN THIS ISSUE we highlight a couple of the hot spots for spring mountain biking adventures. Moab and St. George both have a permanent spot at the top of the list of mountain bike destinations for the seasoned mountain biking enthusiast, but did you know that both offer a variety of beginner options that are perfect for families? Moab local, and father, Bret Edge, highlights the places where he rides with his family on Page 20 and Alyssa Eriksen, founder of the Kid Project, takes us Road Trippin’ to St. George for a family mountain bike getaway on page 8.

We have rounded up a to-do list of 7 Epic Spring Destinations on page 14. This is not your spring cleaning or honey-do list. It’s your family adventure to-do list, which is a personal favorite, highlighting some known and some lesser-known destinations to inspire you to get out and Discover Utah with your kids.

Now load up the car…and let’s all go play in the desert!! ~ Monique Beeley

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road trippin’ ST. GEORG

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DESERT MOUNTAIN BIKING

BY ALYSSA ERIKSON

8 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

THE SMELL OF MOIST SOIL SOAKED IN SNOWMELT AND THE WHITE LANDSCAPE SLOWLY DISAPPEAR AS WE DRIVE SOUTH ON I-15 TOWARDS ST. GEORGE, UTAH. I watch the outside

temperature, broadcasting on my dashboard, slowly rise, and once the rock turns from grey to orange, I finally risk rolling down my window. My hand oscillates up and down, riding the vehicular thermals like a raptor riding the warmer air from down south.

Similar to many creatures, we are part of a seasonal migration.

Exchanging cold for warm, boots for Chacos, and skis for bikes.

St. George has long been a local oasis from long, cold winters and for good reason. Boasting an average temperature hovering around 70 degrees, the southern Utah border plays host to a myriad of National Parks, State Parks, slot canyons, adventurous hikes, scenic camping, and world-class mountain biking trails.

Iconic mountain biking trails are what bring us to the region. Our kids, ages 7, 9, and 11 years old have graduated from neighborhood streets and city bike paths. Our son specifically, is stoked to hit the single track, ride over sandstone, and drop off some rocks.

There are 300 miles of trails in and around St. George and the neighboring towns of Hurricane and Virgin. Some trails form intricate webs near town, others are long wide-open traverses of desert plateaus.

At times the trails play hide-and-seek among the deep mountain shadows as they slide in and out of the canyons.

When perusing the trails online at Trailforks.com, I recognize a handful of iconic black and intermediate rides such as the Zen Trail and Gooseberry Mesa. However, this trip has a different focus: mountain biking with my kids. I was hoping to find trails with small obstacles, decent flowy sections, and easy accessibility.

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DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 9

Note: This trail follows along the edge of a steep bluff or cliff. Please watch your children closely. Sections are easily walkable if needed.

LOOKING FOR THE NEXT STEP UP? Starting from the upper JEM trailhead, the JEM trail descends to the valley below and consists of smooth, easy single track as it winds through the wide-open landscape.

The JEM trail has a few difficult and steep downhill sections in the first mile or two. We helped our kids walk their bikes down these sections. However, after that, the 7 miles of trail is golden! If you are uncomfortable or uncertain about riding adjacent to cliffs or steep drop-offs, skip the gorge at the end and instead take a right on the dirt road and follow it to your rendezvous.

FOR THE KIDS… AND THE KID AT HEART THE BEARCLAW POPPY TRAIL Imagine a playground of trails for humans ages four to ninety-four. The Bearclaw Poppy Trail, located on the south end of St. George in Bloomington, is the perfect place to start with your kids, and I promise you will have fun as well! With miles of trails rated green through black, there is something for everyone.

The Bearclaw Poppy Trail is usually done as a loop.

You'll find 2.5 miles of mild uphill, followed by 2 miles of flowy trails, jumps, and drops all the way back to the parking lot. For younger kids, you can shorten the loop by taking the Bearclaw Poppy shortcut or simply allowing them to test their skills on the spider web of trails on the bottom half of the area.

Note: Pay special attention to uphill and downhill only designated trails in the area.

DESERT SINGLE TRACK WITH A SIDE OF SOLITUDE THE JEM TRAIL If you are looking to explore the greater Hurricane area, and you want to escape the crowds a bit, then head out to the JEM Trail off HWY 59, southeast of the town of Hurricane.

More Cowbell is a short green trail (3-mile loop) perfect for families and beginners. With minimal elevation gain and easy obstacles, this trail rides along the edge of a butte, with 360 degree views the entire way. Don’t forget to let your kids ring the cowbell at the end of the loop!

10 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

If you have enough adults (or an adult who doesn’t mind the extra miles to retrieve the car), this trail is a great place to shuttle and it is easy on the lungs and heart. Study a map ahead of time to get an idea of where to meet your ride.

PUSHING TIN TRAIL VIA DESERT CANYON TRAIL PARKING South of St. George, out near the airport, is a relatively new trail system accessed by the Desert Canyon Trail Parking. The Pushing Tin Trail meanders up and down rolling hills, eventually dives under the Southern Parkway through a drainage and then makes a loop.

A great ride for experienced beginners, the hills are short but provide a good challenge. Small obstacles are great for testing skills, while also remaining easy enough to walk around if needed.

Total mileage if you do the loop via the Connector trail from Desert Canyon is 5 miles round trip.

• • • • • • • • •

PhotoCredit: Credit:Dan DanRansom Ransom Photo

ALL NEW! SNAKE HOLLOW BIKE PARK As of November 2018, Snake Hollow Bike Park is the newest and first year-round skills park in Utah! The park is located at 1500 North 2400 West, across from Snow Canyon High School.

There are four skills zones depending on skill and features: Rattler’s Revenge (dirt jump zone), Snake Den (pump track and skills loop), Venom Drops (gravity skills) and Sidewinder Slopestyle (gravity jump trails).

The park is family friendly, including a large pavilion for picnicking, restrooms, and paved trails.

Newly built in 2018 91 spacious new rooms 43” flat screen TV Fitness center Free hot breakfast Free high-speed Wi-Fi Outdoor heated pool & spa Guest laundry Walking distance to restaurants & shopping

For reservations call 435-215-1885 175 N 1000 E St. George, UT 84770

Welcome to ! our playground

St. George

St. George has a little bit of everything for all the bikers in our family. After a few days of riding, we load the back of our truck with our five dust-covered bikes, clap the tailgate shut, and smiled at each other.

We’d headed south, riding the hopes of warm air and fun new adventures. We came looking for single track that appealed to both adult and child alike. We were looking for connection, adventure, and authentic time in the outdoors. We were not disappointed.

VisitStGeorge.com Alyssa Erickson is an all-around adventure lover and freelance writer with a passion for storytelling and inspiring others to live intentionally. Currently residing in Utah, she is a Colorado native with her B.A. in English Literature from the University of Colorado and is the founder of KidProject.org.

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NONPROFIT

highlight

Spreading the Joy of Riding a Bike THE BICYCLE COLLECTIVE MOST OF US CAN REMEMBER RIDING BIKES DURING CHILDHOOD. The joy we felt when we took our first strides around the neighborhood. The independence we experienced riding around the block with our friends.

For some, this memory never fades.

The joy of balance and self-reliance stays with us while riding our bikes to school, to work, or around Utah’s many trails.

At the Bicycle Collective, a 501(c)3 non-profit, hundreds of volunteers share the joy of bicycling with children and adults. The Collective operates Community Bike Shops in four locations: The flagship in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, and St. George.

The Collective offers extensive Youth Programs including: • Its signature Youth Open Shop • One-time bike-fix events • ‘Earn-a-bike’ workshops • Mechanic certification classes at the shops and at Juvenile Detention Centers on the Wasatch Front.

The programs provide a fun environment and the opportunity to learn amongst peers. Participants get exposed to ‘hands-on’ work. Learning bike mechanic skills that can build confidence that carries over to all aspects of life. They earn a stake in their bike, take home the excitement

12 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

BY JUDITH ROGNLI

to ride it, and the skills to maintain it.

The Community Bike Shops offer everyone, young and old, affluent and less affluent, the opportunity to buy or receive refurbished bikes. The workbenches are open to the public, and many families enjoy Saturday mornings learning how to repair their bikes.

The Collective’s founders set out to get more people on bikes 17 years ago because they understood that bikes are far more than expensive toys (in fact, they don’t have to be expensive at all). Bikes are powerful tools in fighting depression, obesity, cardiac disease, and other health related problems. They provide inexpensive, healthy, and clean transportation alternatives. They motivate us to get outside. And bikes can truly empower people of all ages to lift themselves out of poverty.

But the Collective also understands that there is a honeymoon phase to bicycling. What follows, or precludes, are safety concerns, sore legs, flat tires, bikes left out in the yard far too long. Staff members and volunteers help people get past these challenges by creating a welcoming environment. The Collective’s goal is to help customers and clients feel truly empowered, reaping the benefits of self-sufficient mobility.

Here are some 2018 highlights:

5256

bikes were donated to the shops

1030

children and youth participated in our youth programs and workshops

907

532

children and youth received bikes either through Earn-A-Bike or bike giveaways

adults received bikes for transportation

2034

$418,000

volunteers donated 16,982 hours of economic impact their time was generated through volunteer time alone

$1.2

million total economic impact The mission of the Bicycle Collective is to promote cycling as an effective and sustainable form of transportation, recreation, and as a cornerstone of a cleaner, healthier, and safer society. The Collective provides refurbished bicycles and educational programs to the community, focusing on children and lower income households.. bicyclecollective.org

Lighting the Way YOUTH STEWARDSHIP AWARD

o

h ut

that didn't require any major repairs, he decided he wanted to build his own mountain bike instead! Cole went above and beyond to complete courses in our Junior Bicycle Mechanic Program and learned the ins and outs of building a bike from the frame up. With the skills he gained in Youth Open Shop and the Junior Bicycle Mechanic course, Cole was able to build a sweet Gary Fisher mountain bike that he lovingly calls "Gary." Now Cole and Gary commute to and from school, the bike shop, and they even go on weekend bike packing trips together.

steward sh

ip

y

Discover Utah Kids has teamed up with the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation to recognize kids that have gone above and beyond and are giving back to their passion through volunteering.

This youth stewardship award is called “Lighting the Way,” because we feel these kids are truly “lighting the way” for others to follow. And we want to say thanks and keep up the good work!!

recipient

Cole Taylor is a dedicated youth volunteer at Salt Lake City's Bicycle Collective Youth Open Shop program. Youth Open Shop is a program for youth ages 8 -18. This is a productive learning environment where youth are surrounded only with their peers and our Youth Education Specialists. Participating youth have the option to work on their own bikes, help repair bikes for the Collective’s giving programs, or earn a bike of their own through volunteered hours.

Cole came to the Collective about three years ago to volunteer his time to earn a bike. During the time he spent in the shop, he quickly realized that he has a great knack for bike mechanics. After meeting his required volunteer hours, he had the option of picking out a bike to take home.

However, rather than selecting a bike

Cole is an outstanding volunteer who does more than wrench on bikes for our charitable programs. Cole is also a peer mentor and a great example to new youth in the program and makes everyone feel welcomed when they enter shop. Cole has completed over 100 volunteer hours in the program and even though he will be off to college soon, we know he'll still make time to visit all of us at the Bicycle Collective!

Follow us @DiscoverUtahKids for more details.

We want to hear from you. If you know of a kid that is deserving of this award in the next issue, send your story to: Mo@DiscoverUtahMagazine.com

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GRAND STAIRCASE ESCALANTE NATIONAL MONUMENT

GET O

>back

THERUT E

EXPLORE YOUR

yard

7 EPIC SPRING DESTINATIONS

BY MONIQUE BEELEY

SPRING HAS SPRUNG…and with that comes the desire to migrate south to warmer destinations. If you are looking for some new places to explore this spring here is our to-do list: A

> GRAND STAIRCASE ESCALANTE NATIONAL MONUMENT Why – Guided Canyoneering - Pushing limits in a safe environment builds confidence in kids, as well as parents, all while creating an unforgettable experience together.

What – Excursions of Escalante in Escalante is one of our favorite canyoneering guide services in Utah. They have been guiding trips in this area for 20 years and are the experts when it comes to beginner canyoneering adventures.

Bonus – Explore the Hole in the Rock Road - morning hike to Peek-a-boo and Spooky slot canyons, followed by a stop at the Devil’s Garden picnic area for some free roaming playtime - this is also the only bathroom facility in the area.

B

> CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK Why – Capitol Reef is the closest national park to the Wasatch front, just over 3 hours and 220 miles.

What – The 3-mile roundtrip Cohab Canyon hike is a

favorite for kids, offering many “rockscape” play spots along the route, including a couple mini slot canyons and slickrock mesas perfect for little explorers.

Bonus – Sulphur Creek is a family favorite, start from behind the visitor center and hike up the creek until the kids are ready to head back. Or if you have seasoned hikers and an extra car, hiking from the Chimney Rock trailhead to the visitor center is an epic 5.5-mile hike through Sulphur Creek Canyon.

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> GOBLIN VALLEY STATE PARK Why– What kid wouldn’t love playing hide and seek in the Valley of the Goblins What – The Valley of the Goblins is 3 square miles of free roaming terrain filled with hoodoos and goblins.

Bonus – Bring the mountain bikes and explore the 7 miles of single-track at the Park. The Wild Horse Trail system offers 5 loops of beginner/intermediate riding.

D

> KANARRAVILLE Why – Kanarra Falls is must-see for those who love beautiful slot canyons.

What – The hike is rated moderate and is 4.4-miles roundtrip. It is about 1.5 miles to the entrance of slot DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 15

KANARRA FALLS

COHAB CANYON - CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

WOLFMAN PANEL - BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT

canyon and then .1 mile to the first waterfall. This hike does involve some rock scrambling and may not be suitable for small children.

Before you go – A permit is required for this hike and limited to 150 people per day. Kanarrafalls.com Bonus – Spring Creek is the lesser known of the Kanarraville hikes and is located just south of town.

The hike is 5 miles roundtrip and is rated intermediate.

What – The 5-mile Taylor Creek Hike leads to the amazing 1,700-foot Double Arch Alcove. The hike is fairly easy with an elevation change of 450 feet. The route has several stream crossings and offers amazing views.

Bonus – Stop at the Timber Creek Trailhead picnic area for an après’ hike picnic. Or if you are looking for added mileage, the hike is only a mile roundtrip.

F E

> KOLOB CANYONS / ZION NATIONAL PARK Why – The road reopened in Feb 2019 after a nine-month closure for reconstruction.

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> VOLUNTEER AT THE BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SANCTUARY - KANAB Why – Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is the Nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary and on average is home

GOBLIN VALLEY STATE PARK

CORAL PINK SAND DUNES Photo Credit: Arika Bauer

to about 1,600 animals. Dogs, cats, bunnies, birds, horses, pigs, and other animals come from around the world seeking safe haven in this amazing sanctuary.

What – The Sanctuary offers both daily tours and volunteering opportunities for families.

Before you go – Families can sign-up to volunteer together, although there is a minimum age requirement depending on the type of animal, and advance reservations are required.

Bonus – Run barefoot with your kids in the sand while enjoying the picture-perfect sunset at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.

DOUBLE ARCH ALCOVE - KOLOB CANYONS ZION NATIONAL PARK

G

> BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT Why – Utah’s newest National Monument contains more than 100,000 archaeological sites.

What – The hike to the Wolfman Petroglyph Panel is less than a mile roundtrip and accessed from the Butler Wash Road 5 miles south of Bluff.

Bonus – Be sure to visit the Canyon Country Discovery Center in Monticello. This hands-on educational center is a great introduction to the history, culture, and geology of the area.

* Find the location by matching the letter to the MAP on page 19 DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 17

Take A Ride!

Come and ride Utah's new premiere family-friendly bike path.

canyon2canyonbiketrail.com 1.435.834.5341

18 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

BryceCanyonCountry.com/kids 800.444.6689

GARDEN CITY

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30 Golden Spike National Historice Site

* Letters correspond with the EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARD on page 15

Bear Lake

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BRIGHAM CITY

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OGDEN Great Salt Lake

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MANILA Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

SALT LAKE CITY 201

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Dinosaur National Monument

HEBER CITY 35

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Cedar Breaks National Monument

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Natural Bridges National Monument

Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument

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DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 19

INSIDER'S GUIDE:

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN MOAB WITH YOUR KIDS STORY AND PHOTOS

BY BRET EDGE

20 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

Now, let’s get a lay of the land. Most Moab trails exist as part of a larger trail network, each with its own name – Bar M, Klondike, Navajo Rocks, etc. Most networks have at least one trail suitable for little legs, while others, such as those in the Amasa Back area, are better suited for advanced riders.

BAR M, AKA THE BRAND TRAILS Just a few miles north of town right off Highway 191, the Bar M network offers four options for families riding with younger or newer mountain bikers. In order of difficulty, starting with the easiest trail: Rusty Spur, EZ, Lazy, and the Bar M road. All of these trails can be accessed from the large main parking lot.

Rusty Spur is a short but fun lollipop loop of 2 miles, including the “stick” – a dirt access road. It’s mostly dirt with two cattle guard crossings and a few small sections of slickrock. It can be added into the EZ-Lazy loop for additional “smileage” or ridden on its own.

Moab’s got a pretty killer bike park ...

The EZ-Lazy trails create a 3.7-mile loop of smooth dirt and rougher slickrock sections, a handful of which might require less confident riders to dismount for very short sections. Both trails are loads of fun and Lazy even offers several stellar rest spots with views of Arches National Park!

The Bar M 4x4 road is a 7.9-mile loop that encircles the entire Bar M trail network with minimal elevation gain, outstanding views, and varied terrain that makes for a fun family ride.

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA. Captain Ahab. Portal. Say “Moab” in the company of mountain bikers and they’ll drift off into thoughts of gnarly trails with massive exposure and technical moves that require precision, strength, and a dose of finesse. But what if you’re a parent, and your budding young mountain biker isn’t quite ready to shred the gnar? Here’s a little secret – Moab’s got plenty of great trails with outstanding scenery for even the smallest riders!

First, an introduction to trail ratings. If you’re a skier, these will be immediately recognizable. Trails are rated as green (easy), blue (intermediate), black (difficult), or double black (advanced). We’ll be looking at only green or green/blue trails. Food for thought: green trails in Moab are more difficult than green trails in other areas, but they are still rideable by most young or new riders.

DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 21

HORSETHIEF CAMPGROUND What if I told you that you could ride a really sweet loop right from your campsite? Well, you can! The Wrangler and Rowdy trails take off from the Horsethief Campground for a 1.2-mile figure 8. Ride both, then turn around and ride them the opposite direction to double your fun! Mostly smooth dirt and slickrock with a few easy rocky sections, these are great trails for a fun family ride.

INTREPID TRAILS AT DEAD HORSE POINT STATE PARK There’s an exceptional trail system at Dead Horse Point State Park providing just under 17 miles of mountain biking bliss. Most of the trails are rated blue, but the green Raven Roll and Intrepid trails can be ridden as an out and back for a total of 4.4 miles. More experienced riders can tack on Great Pyramid and/or Big Chief for a longer, more technical ride with gorgeous views into an ever-changing canyon landscape below.

KLONDIKE BLUFFS Some people don’t like out and back trails, but for families, they’re awesome. You can ride out as far as you want/can, take a break, then turn around and head in without committing to a full loop. The Jurassic Trail is just such an option. It’s 3 miles (one-way) of smooth rolling, hard clay surface at the base of a badland-like mesa littered with many cool rocks to inspect during snack breaks.

On the north end of Klondike Bluffs is the Beginner’s Loop consisting of the Agate and Jasper trails and 3.9 miles of what might be the smoothest and easiest trails in all of Moab.

All of the trails in the Klondike Bluffs area are especially vulnerable to rain and should not be ridden when wet.

If you leave tracks, turn back!

22 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS

Bonus: You can stay in a yurt right off of Raven Roll with a large deck, BBQ grill, and climate-controlled interior. On a moonless night you’d swear you can see every single star in the sky!

LA SAL MOUNTAINS Most of the trails in the La Sals are black or double black rated, but Burl Friends is a relatively mellow blue cruiser that starts near an alpine lake and mostly descends through dense stands of aspen trees. When it’s too hot to ride in the desert, this is THE ride for families whose little rippers are comfortable on intermediate terrain.

TM

• 71 Spacious King and Double Queen Rooms • 8 Studio Suites • Serta Pillow Top Beds • Interior Entrance • Secure Bike Storage • Dish TV

MOAB BIKE PARK Last, but not least, Moab’s got a pretty killer bike park with multiple jump lines rated green to double black, a pump track, and a skills park with wooden ladder drops, skinnies, and technical obstacles.

• • • • • • • •

43” Flat Screen TV’s 80 + Channels Free WIFI Breakfast Included Fitness Center Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub Guest Laundry 24 Hour Business Center

For Online Reservations visit www.hamptoninn.com or call 1-800-Hampton 488 N. Main Street Moab, UT 84532 435-259-3030 • Fax 435-259-3035

BIKE RENTALS There are six bike shops in Moab and they all rent quality mountain bikes. Our favorites are Moab Cyclery, Double Down, and Chile Pepper. The service is outstanding at all three, and Chile rents kid’s mountain bikes, including some sweet full-suspension bikes. You can also pick up inexpensive trail maps and get solid trail beta from knowledgeable, friendly staff. Tell ‘em I sent you and they’ll take extra good care of you!

POST-RIDE FUN After a ride, reward tired little legs with froyo from MoYo or a yummy treat from Sweet Cravings. The Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (MRAC) is an oasis on a hot day with multiple pools and water slides. Moab Giants takes visitors back to the Stone Age as you walk a path through the desert surrounded by life-sized dinosaurs.

You’re practically a local now. All that’s left to do is plan a trip, book a hotel, and start shredding!

DiscoverMoab.com Bret Edge is a professional landscape and adventure photographer in Moab, Utah. He's most often found on a mountain bike, but he also enjoys hiking, road tripping, being a husband, and most importantly, a perpetually stoked Dad.

WELCOME TO MOAB •119 Beautiful New Rooms • New Outdoor Pool and Spas • New 24-hour Fitness Center • Express Start Full Hot Breakfast • High Speed Wireless Internet • Bike Storage, Guest Laundry • Trailer Parking Available

1515 N. Hwy. 191 • 435-259-1150 www.hiexpress.com/moabut DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 23

Mindfulness for Healthy Teens

BY HEIDI O’DONOGHUE

Do you have a teen that could use some tools to feel more centered, present, and joyful?

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TODAY, MORE THAN EVER, TEENAGERS ARE DRAWN IN MANY DIRECTIONS. Teens encounter a barrage of demands from school, family, society, and social media. They face a unique set of stressors and many teens are more stressed than adults realize. Many stress-related health issues are on the rise in teens, including anxiety and depression. Life is coming at them fast and the pace doesn’t seem to be slowing down. The good news is that there are some ways to help teens feel balanced and resilient.

One way that teens can tap into their inner strength is to practice Mindfulness. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in helping teens cultivate healthy coping skills.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is an ancient practice that’s becoming popular in modern times as a way to bring more clarity and ease to our lives. Jon Kabat-Zinn, a teacher who has helped matriculate mindfulness into the mainstream, defines mindfulness as paying attention to the present moment, on purpose, and without judgment. This is pretty simple, but not always easy. Our minds are busy, and our lives can be demanding. By paying more attention to the present moment we can get better at coping with life’s challenges and recognize all the positive aspects of life as well.

breath doesn’t need to be any different then it is right now. Do this practice several times throughout the day.

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MINDFUL OBSERVATION: Pause, take a moment to come to your senses, what is right here in regard to sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Take a couple minutes to observe your surroundings. Do this practice several times throughout the day.

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MINDFUL OF SELF: Take a moment to check-in with yourself. Ask yourself, "How am I feeling right now in body, mind and emotions?" Listen to hear your answer.

Practicing mindfulness can help teens bolster their ability to recognize when they are run down physically, emotionally, and mentally. And it can help them to make better choices to support their overall health and wellbeing.

How to Practice Mindfulness

We can bring mindfulness into our lives and the lives of our teens in simple and practical ways. The following list will help infuse mindfulness practices into everyday life and allow for more connection to the present moment.

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MINDFUL BREATHING: We can use the breath as a powerful ally to bring us right to the present moment. Pause, take three mindful breaths, paying close attention to the entire length of the inhale and the entire length of the exhale. The

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Heidi teaches Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Learning to Breathe (a mindfulness course for teens) in Salt Lake and Park City. She holds an adjunct faculty position at Salt Lake Community College where she teaches Meditation/Mindfulness courses.

Heidi also offers group and private yoga classes on an on-going basis in Salt Lake.

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E D U C AT I O N A L

THE B.E.S.T. Youth Program from Bike Utah

BY JACKIE BAKER

REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME YOU PEDALED A BIKE? On your own? Do you remember the first time you left the house and pedaled to a friend’s house, to the park, or through a nearby field? As adults, these moments of nervousness, freedom, and bliss stick with us to the extent that we often reminisce fondly about them.

We talk about our first bike to our current friends. We remember the feeling of seeing it for the first time. And we remember who was with us the first time we took

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those first pedal strokes without training wheels, without a guiding hand.

Bike Utah’s Youth Bicycle Education and Safety Training program provides moments of freedom, bliss, confidence, and inspiration to students throughout our state. The program, known as Youth BEST visits 4th-7th graders at elementary schools for a week of in-class and on-the-bike learning in a safe, controlled environment.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Bike Utah is the state non-profit bicycle advocacy, infrastructure, and education organization. Through state appropriations, grants, and individual and business donations, we are able to hire and train instructors who specialize in education and recreation, and who have a passion for guiding youth in a confidence-inspiring environment. These instructors arrive at each school with a fleet of professionally maintained bikes, perfectly sized for young riders.

Helmets are provided, and part of the curriculum includes learning how to properly fit and wear a helmet.

The first day of the 4-day session includes classroom learning about the benefits of riding, rules of the road, traffic signs, and how to signal. Students progress to understanding the parts of the bike, and ensuring their bike is safe to ride through an easy-to-remember checklist. Instructors prepare a course, complete with chalk lanes and realistic street signs and traffic scenarios. And, students who have not learned to ride yet, are coached to easily learn to pedal within the timeframe of the Youth BEST visit.

And, there are games. Slow races, Red Light Green Light, and other group activities help students learn bike handling skills while learning how to pay attention to unpredictable surrounds. The result is that by the 4th day of the program, students are able to ride, guided by instructors, in a group, single file on a route beyond school grounds and into the surrounding neighborhoods.

child’s school. Together, we can make sure that every student grows up to share stories about the first time they confidently pedaled a bicycle—and for many, it may have be while participating in the Youth BEST program.

Number of Students Reached

Number of Schools and Organizations Visited

Increase in Bicycle Safety Knowledge

Students the Have Mastered All of the Necessary Bicycle Skills

BikeUtah.org

This is the ultimate program goal: giving students the tools, understanding, and confidence needed to safely experience their neighborhoods by bicycle.

What is the result? Students share their Youth BEST experience with their friends and family. They encourage family members to ride with them. They ask to have the dusty bike in the garage cleaned up so that they can ride to school. They might even ask for their first bike. When students don’t currently have access to a bike, Bike Utah is able to connect them to community resources, such as the Bike Collective to help them reach their goals.

Parents start to pay more attention to bicyclists on the road. Families become more active. Utah becomes a happier, healthier place to live.

To learn more about the Youth BEST program, visit BikeUtah.org/youth. Here you can watch a video about the program, and you can fill out a form to request that the Youth BEST instructors visit your

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Photo Credit: Heidi Hoven

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Photo Credit: Heidi Hoven

Great Salt Lake

Bird Festival

BY NEKA ROUNDY

Photo Credit: Janice H. Gardner

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Photo Credit: Suzie Holt

WE ALL KNOW UTAH IS HOME TO THE WORLD FAMOUS GREAT SALT LAKE, but did you know this unique lake serves as a giant cafeteria for migrating birds to stop and enjoy a feast before flying to and from Mexico and South America? As part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, the Great Salt Lake is part of the Pacific Flyway providing food to 2-5 million shorebirds. Other noteworthy Great Salt Lake bird facts include: home to the world’s largest breeding population of White-Faced Ibis and California Gull; serves 55% of the breeding population of Snowy Plover, west of the Rocky Mountains; and is the world’s largest staging concentration of the Wilson’s Phalarope.

Introduction to Bird Photography, Painting a Soundscape, Building Gardens for Winged Friends, Birding for Beginners Workshop, and an Intro to Birding hosted at the Ogden Nature Center. There is even a student art and photography contest open to all Utah students K-12.

The 2019 theme for the contest is the Northern Harrier and the deadline for submission is May 2nd. This new Eccles Wildlife Education Center has state-of-the-art projection, interpretation displays, and hands-on learning including spotting scopes and binoculars.

For more information and to sign-up for the field workshops go to GreatSaltLakeBirdfest.com

The 21st Annual Great Salt Lake Bird Festival is May 16-19, 2019. This year the festival will be hosted at the new George S. and Dolores Dore’ Eccles Wildlife Education Center at Farmington Bay - along the shore of the Great Salt Lake. Choose from over 40 unique field trips which take participants to the many great birding areas along the lake shore such as Antelope Island State Park, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, the Legacy Preserve, as well as the Ogden Nature Center and the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter in Park City.

On Saturday, May 18th the Great Salt Lake Bird Festival offers a variety of free family-friendly workshops and fieldtrips including Bird Cartoons 101 Workshop,

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A Grand Sesquicentennial Celebration J

ust the mere mention of Utah’s

world-famous National Parks and Monuments evokes visions of the well-known iconic red rock landscapes throughout the southern part of the state. Utah is home to five National Parks (a.k.a The Mighty 5), eight National Monuments, two National Recreation Areas and one National Historic Site…bonus points if you can name them all…without asking Google for help. And a huge high five if you have introduced your

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kids to all 16 of these truly amazing places.

Earlier this year, Governor Gary Herbert declared 2019 as “The Year of the Train.” If you haven’t heard, this year we celebrate the Sesquicentennial (a.k.a.150th Anniversary) of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. The Golden Spike National Historic Site, located at Promontory Summit in Box Elder County, is the location

where the Central Pacific Railroad and the Union Pacific Railroad met on May 10th, 1869. This final joining of the rails spanning the continent was signified by the driving of the ceremonial Golden Spike. This iconic event helped put Utah on the map, earning it the nickname “Crossroads of the West.”

The railroad revolutionized the American West with a dependable transportation system that brought

Courtesy of Spike 150

Here are a few ways to participate in celebrating this monumental Sesquicentennial event: SESQUICENTENNIAL FESTIVAL AREA – © 2014 Utah State Historical Society. All Rights Reserved. Central Pacific Railroad #29 "Antelope" which pulled President Stanford's special part of the way to Promontory. Donor: Gerald M. Best of Beverly Hills, California. Used in U.H.Q., Winter, 1969.

western states economic prosperity through inexpensive and speedy transport of goods, as well as a diverse sea of people from all walks of life.

The driving of that ceremonial Golden Spike was a monumental moment in American history, and it brought people from all over the country together for a world-class celebration. The Sesquicentennial festivities will once again put Utah on the center stage, with an anticipated 1.5 million people expected to participate in the yearlong anniversary events planned throughout Utah.

May 10th-12th The three-day Sesquicentennial Festival offers a variety of fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Located at the Golden Spike National Historic Site, the Festival also features food vendors and merchants. So, plan a trip to visit the famous steam engines, learn about how the Transcontinental Railroad and late 19th century innovation changed America’s and Utah’s history, immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, and eat, drink and enjoy the day!

Spike150.org

HERITAGE FESTIVAL 150TH EDITION – Ogden May 9-11 Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, Ogden’s dynamic and vibrant community will be in the spotlight. This celebration is an opportunity to share their past, their present and their future.

The Heritage Festival is an annual celebration, but this event will be a special anniversary edition. The Big Boy 4014 and 844 steam trains will be on full display at Union Station.

The Station will be full of exhibits celebrating the influence of the trains and rail industry. The event will also expand up Historic 25th Street for three full days of historic presentations, live music, performances, vendors, community activities and more. Goldenspike2019.com DISCOVERUTAHMAGAZINE.COM 31

© 2008 Utah State Historical Society. All Rights Reserved. Joining of the Rails at Promontory, Utah, May, 1869. From the original glass plate from the Oakland Museum.

© 2008 Utah State Historical Society. All Rights Reserved. Union Pacific Railroad U.P. No. 116, sister locomotive to # 119. Good side view showing many details clearly. No date or place identified, but it could be early 1869 from the new appearance of the engine. Gift of Roy Appleton.

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Spike 150 will be distributing an illustrated, immersive Transcontinental Railroad 150th anniversary celebration poster to Utah’s elementary schools this spring. The poster has QR codes that allow teachers and students to unlock the history of Utah’s role in the railroad and how it united the nation, see 3D railroad artifacts through augmented reality, and be inspired about their own future.

© 2008 Utah State Historical Society.

All Rights Reserved. Steam shovel at Hanging Rock. No. 143 hauling broken rock to fill in around ties and to widen embankments.

Celebrate and learn with this 8-day educational itinerary For a full list of events go to Spike150.org

May 4

May 9

- Kick off the week at the Box Elder County Horse Parade at 1pm in Brigham City

May 5

- Attend the Family Locomotive Celebration at the Treehouse Children’s Museum with special guest Brian Floca, the author of the Caldecott-winning book “Locomotive”

- Unlock the stories of the history of the transcontinental railroad at your local library

May 10

May 6 - Practice and sing along to “As One” songs in anticipation of Golden Spike Sesquicentennial Ceremony broadcast on May 10 - Watch Deidra & Laney Rob a Train in anticipation of the next day

May 7 - Ride the Historic Heber Valley Railroad (where scenes from the movie were filmed) - Explore the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail between Park City and Echo

May 8

- Attend a watch party of the Golden Spike Sesquicentennial Ceremony broadcast from Promontory Summit in Ogden at noon - Explore the Ogden Heritage Festival including Union Pacific’s heritage trains, #4014 and #844, at Ogden Union Station

May 11 - Go Gold for the Utah Royals soccer game - Play golden spike themed activities outside the stadium before the game and wear gold to commemorate the 150th anniversary Courtesy of Union Pacific

- See the real spikes that made it happen in 1869 at Treasures! Start to Finish at the Utah State Capitol - Jumpstart your own coin collection with a coin keepsake from the exhibit - Stay for the noon performance by the Waterford School children’s choir, America's Railroad: A Choral Concert © 2014 Utah State Historical Society. All Rights Reserved. Central Pacific Railroad "Jupiter" locomotive used in joining of the rails ceremony.

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Less Trƒveled.

Wayne County, UT | CapitolReef.org

Utah State Parks Plan your next family adventure at stateparks.utah.gov Utah State Parks 34

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Make History Come to Life with Your Family As home to the site where Central Pacific and Union Pacific crews ended their race to connect east and west, Utah is honored and excited to host the Transcontinental Railroad's 150th birthday party.

150 Events for 150 Years!

Explore these family-friendly events and more.

Golden Spike Sesquicentennial Celebration Ceremony and Festival

Spencer F. Eccles Treasures Exhibition: Pacific Railway Act (1862) and the Last Spikes at Promontory (1869)

Promontory Summit – May 10-12

Salt Lake City – May 3-June 25

Explore 1869 and beyond through cultural exhibits and demonstrations about the workers who built the railroad. A series of interactive exhibits compare the 19th century innovation to how we see the world changing around us today. Or think outside the box to create the next revolutionary breakthrough.

Several priceless artifacts from the transcontinental railroad will be on exhibit at the Utah State Capitol for this 150th anniversary celebration. For the first time since May 10, 1869, three out of four of the spikes used at Promontory Summit to signify the completion of the railroad, along with the 1862 Pacific Railway Act signed by President Abraham Lincoln, will be on display in Utah.

Traveling from the National Archives and from Stanford University these, and other artifacts, have been assembled to educate and inspire millions of Utahns and visitors from across the globe.

Heritage Festival 150th Edition Ogden – May 9-11

Celebrate Ogden’s history and the influence of the rail industry!

Steam trains, interactive displays, presentations, live music, vendors, and more. Union Station and Historic 25th Street.

Golden Spike Sesquicentennial Opening Ceremonies Box Elder County – May 4

To kick off the week of celebratory events commemorating the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, Box Elder County is hosting a horse parade and hoedown.

JOIN UTAH'S CELEBRATION

spike150.org