Utah’s adventure sport community is growing. Need proof? The inaugural XTERRA Winter World Championship is at Snowbasin Resort near Ogden, Utah. It’s a first-of-its-kind, uniquely XTERRA multisport race combining the four disciplines of ski mountaineering, mountain biking, running and snowshoeing. 

Getting started

We don’t need a world event to enjoy Utah’s outdoor offerings, but they do help uncover the path to getting started.  Many activities like kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing and camping require specialized equipment and skills. I am very pleased that my alma mater, Weber State University’s Wilderness Recreation Center is the official outfitter of the first Xterra Winter World Championships.

Try before you buy.

As an outfitter, the Wilderness Recreation Center is a great resource to the beginner as well as the financially challenged. Most of us can’t afford to buy all the needed equipment at once. Others want to try before they buy. In either case, renting equipment first is a good idea. Many sports stores will rent ski and snowboard equipment but to find more specialized equipment you have to look a little harder. Places like the Wilderness Recreation Center fill this need perfectly.

Take a Clinic and Workshop

In addition to renting equipment, the Wilderness Rec Center also provides clinics and workshops. For bargain prices you can take a class on wilderness first aid, how to roll a kayak at a local indoor pool, mountaineering, fly tying and many other topics. The center also hosts adventure trips. 
Watch and Learn

There are some exciting events in Utah and they aren’t just for participants. Spectating is a great way to get introduced to a sport.  The first triathlon I ever saw was the Xterra Ogden Offroad Triathlon now part of the Xterra Mountain Championship series. The event had some intense athletes AND guys just like me.  It was emboldening to see normal guys participating and having fun.  I learned what to expect, what type of equipment I might need and saw the pride those that participated.  With spectating as a catalyst I completed my own first triathlon not long after.

Go outside and play

The Xterra events aren’t the only activities in Utah. Check out my Calendar page for more ideas on getting started in adventure sports in Utah