SALT LAKE CITY — Happy “801 Day,” Wasatch Front.
Aug. 1 has become the region’s premier unofficial holiday since Utah received its area code in the 1940s. Sure, it’s not as large as last week’s Pioneer Day, and you probably won’t get the day off, but it’s still worth celebrating if you’re in Davis, Morgan, Salt Lake, Utah and Weber counties, which retained the code even after the 435 area code was introduced in the 1990s.
One could celebrate by purchasing a pastrami burger or drowning everything in fry sauce, or explore the many parks, trails and other outdoor gems that the region has to offer.
The KSL.com and Deseret Digital Media staff came together once again to share some of our favorite outdoor spots within the 801 that could make your 801 Day extra special.
Albion Basin (Salt Lake County)
There are plenty of enjoyable hikes within Albion Basin. Cecret Lake and Catherine Pass trails are moderate but enjoyable routes that give you great views of Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Bonus: 801 Day often falls toward the end of the area’s wildflower season, which adds an extra layer of enchantment.
Fifth Water Hot Springs (Utah County)
Sure, it’s hot right now, but who couldn’t go for a dip in a warm spring?
The hike up to the popular Fifth Water Hot Springs in Diamond Fork Canyon isn’t terrible, with only an elevation gain of 636 feet, but it’s a 4.6-mile trek out and back, which makes it a bit of a moderate hike, according to AllTrails. It’s worth it for the views from the water.
East Canyon State Park (Morgan County)
Want to cool it down a bit? East Canyon State Park is a great option. It’s a good spot for fishing and boating, and it’s also got camping space to enjoy a longer 801 weekend.
It’s worth noting that this one comes with a cost. It’s $20 for a day-use pass, according to the Utah Division of State Parks. There are a few other outdoor recreation options in the area, as well
Farmington Bay (Davis County)
Access to Farmington Bay is a bit different this year because of a new law that requires a hunting, fishing or combination license at wildlife or waterfowl management areas, such as Farmington Bay.
That said, the law crafted out exceptions, including a section of the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Wildlife Education Center and a new 1.6-mile loop surrounding it.
It’s one of the better birdwatching places in the 801, drawing in everything from egrets to pelicans. There’s even a great blue heron rookery that offers close-up views of the species.
Liberty Park (Salt Lake County)
An oldie but a goodie. Liberty Park is Salt Lake City’s oldest park, dedicated back in 1882, a year after it acquired the former Brigham Young estate and Isaac Charm farm.
Today, it’s a great place for a quaint stroll just outside of downtown or a jog around its exterior loop. There are plenty of relics from the past scattered throughout, along with a small amusement park, a pond for paddle boats and more.
It’s also home to Tracy Aviary if you’re into birdwatching with fewer bugs.
Mueller Park (Davis County)
Bountiful’s Mueller Park is another example of a former private property turned outdoor gem. George Mueller donated the 1,000-acre space for recreational use nearly a century ago, and it’s been a crowd pleaser ever since.
Among other things, it’s home to the 4.1-mile Mueller Park Trail that’s enjoyed by hikers, runners and mountain bikers alike. It also gets you to the popular Elephant Rock.
Just remember what to do if you encounter a cougar while you’re in the area.
Ogden River Parkway Trail (Weber County)
The 801 is home to many incredible valley trails, which have created a vast network that’s only expected to grow. The Ogden River Parkway Trail is a great segment within this network, especially for a bike ride, run or leisurely walk.
Running alongside the Ogden River, it cuts through other gems like Ogden Botanical Gardens, Lorin Farr Park and the Twenty-First Street Pond that make the experience that much better.
Pineview Reservoir (Weber County)
This is another place to cool down during 801 Day. Located in the scenic Ogden Valley, Pineview Reservoir is a popular place for swimming, boating, fishing or just lying down on its sandy beach.
You don’t even need to own gear to enjoy all it has to offer because there are rentals available there. And while Utah’s reservoir levels are starting to fall, Pineview remains in a good place. It’s still 81% full, according to the Utah Division of Water Resources.
Stewart Falls (Utah County)
The Stewart Falls Trail blends everything great about summers in the 801. Located in Provo Canyon, it’s stunning to look at and surrounded by other incredible views — and also a great place to cool down on a hot August day.
Getting there isn’t too difficult, either. It’s about a 3.5-mile hike out and back with an elevation gain of 652 feet, according to AllTrails. It’s easy to see why it holds a 4.7-star out of 5 rating on the site. But be careful, especially if climbing the falls, as people have been injured or have died.