Adventures in Eden, Utah

 

From Salt Lake City, drive north on I-15, then head east on I-84. Take exit 92 and follow signs to Eden or Huntsville. Visit www.ovba.org for more info. Snow still lingers on the alpine peaks surrounding tiny Eden and Huntsville, Utah ― separated by just a short stroll or cycle ― but down in the Upper Ogden Valley, summer is in full swing. Mountain bikers tackle the area’s panorama- and lupine-lined trails while hikers ramble alongside, on the lookout for moose, eagles, and mountain lions and working up an appetite for raspberry milkshakes and coconut cream pie. South Skyline Trail What: A moderate 9.5-mile jaunt with a few heart-pumping switchbacks and plenty of views. Trail maps and wheels at Diamond Peak Mountain Sports (rentals from $20 a day; 2429 State Hwy. 158, Eden; 801/745-0101). Where: Trailhead off State 158 (1 mile northeast of the Pineview Dam). Hot-air balloon rides What: Super-scenic sunrise journeys through the clear June sky. (The Ogden Valley Balloon Festival is Aug 18-20.) When: Dawn-10 a.m. How much: From $80; reserve with WindRider (801/771-3125). Where: Wolf Creek Resort, 3700 N. Wolf Creek Dr., Eden. Needles Express Gondola What: An 8,800-foot-elevation coast, looking down on the 2002 Winter Olympics venue. At the top, tromp through the season’s last snow or lunch on the deck of the Needles Lodge. When: Fri-Sun Jun 23-mid-Oct. How much: $8, $5 ages 7-12, ages 6 and under free. Where: 3925 Snowbasin Rd., Huntsville; www.snowbasin.com or 801/620-1000.  Holy Trinity Abbey What: Trappist monastery and gift shop carrying local creamed honey and freshly ground peanut butter. When: Mon-Sat. Where: 1250 South 9500 East, Huntsville; 801/745-3784. Chris’ What: Bear Lake raspberries made into delicious milkshakes. When: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. How much: $. Where: 7345 East 900 South (on State 39), Huntsville; 801/745-3542. The Eden General Store & Diner What: An 1890s dance hall turned diner serving up coconut cream pie. When: Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Mon-Sat. How much: $$. Where: 5510 East 2200 North, Eden; 801/745-2400.