Paddle-boarding in Utah Lake

Have you ever been paddle-boarding? I hadn't until an opportunity to try it out for free came to me a few years ago.

Utah Lake is a large lake covering the West side of Utah County in Utah. It's visible and widely known to most everyone who lives in Utah.

Each year, the folks who maintain Utah Lake hold a sort of lake appreciation day. Activities are all free on that day. It's often very well attended.

Not only are activities such as paddle-boarding available for free, but there are also booths set up all long the coastline from various vendors.

It seems that everyone shows up with a booth who have anything remotely to do with water or nature.

There are booths with tons of games as well as activities for children (and adults!) to do.

I've been to Utah Lake on two or three different dates when these activities were available. You can easily spend half a day here.

Paddle-boarding, however, is easily the most popular option.

You must sign a waiver before collecting your paddle-board and heading out into the lake.

Certain areas are buoyed off, so be sure to stay within the parameters set or else someone will come after you and they won't be happy about it.

While the lake itself is pretty nasty, it's very scenic. The waters are definitely smooth enough to paddle-board. Because there's a buoyed off area, boats don't interrupt paddle-boarders.

It's a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. Just be sure you don't forget to apply sunscreen!