9 Ways (besides Pineview) to Cool Off Around Ogden

When things heat up in Ogden during the summer, one of the first places locals and visitors typically head is Pineview Reservoir. With it’s cool, clear water and captivating surrounding mountain views, the reservoir fills with pontoon party barges, sailboats, speedboats, kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, float tubes and swimmers. The result can be long waits at congested boat ramps and crammed parking areas at beaches, particularly on weekends and holidays. Here are 9 other spots to cool off without the wait:

CAUSEY RESERVOIR

This wake-less reservoir is Pineview’s upstream little sister and is located just 12 miles farther east on Scenic Byway 39. It’s a favorite for smaller watercraft like paddle boards, kayaks and canoes. As a result, expect significant crowds on weekends and holidays. Like Pineview, pay close attention to restricted parking areas and like any lake or reservoir in Utah, if you are planning on using ANY watercraft this summer on ANY Utah water you MUST take this course!

WILLARD BAY STATE PARK

Willard Bay State Park is a freshwater reservoir located 12 miles northwest of Ogden on the flood plains of the Great Salt Lake. Its 9,900 acres of fresh water provide boating, waterskiing and year-round fishing for crappie, walleye, wiper and catfish. Two state-owned facilities at the North and South marinas provide access and amenities including:

ADA Accessible, Beach Access, Boat Launch/Slips, Concessions, Fishing, Hot Showers, Marina, Modern Restrooms, Pets Allowed, and Swimming

OGDEN RIVER PARKWAY

The Ogden River Parkway is a paved pathway that traces the Ogden River from the waterfall near the mouth of the canyon all the way to its confluence with the Weber River — 4.7 miles through the heart of Ogden. Multiple access points along the parkway provide access to shaded banks and the river itself. Rent a tube from WSU Outdoor Recreation for $12.50 and float the section between the rodeo grounds at Lorrin Farr Park and the Wal-Mart on Wall Ave.

Credit The Salt Project

WEBER RIVER

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, a similar float along the Weber River about 30 miles east of Ogden on I-84 might be what you’re looking for. Road Trip Ryan has the best breakdown for a DIY float. Check it out here.

If you’re looking for a fully outfitted/guided float on the same section, check out Barefoot Tubing in Morgan, or try a longer float on tubes, kayaks, rafts or paddle boards with Weber River Adventures in Henefer.

The Weber River is also home to two kayak parks, one in Riverdale, just downstream from the Riverdale Road viaduct, and one in Ogden just east of Roosters B-Street on Exchange Rd.

Credit Barefoot Tubing

LORRIN FARR POOL

The Lorin Farr Pool consists of one large pool, one small pool, three slides, and multiple tables and open space. There is also a concession stand open during pool hours with hot food, drinks, snacks, and ice cream available for purchase.

All you really need to know about this pool is that it was the filming location for the famous “Wendy Pfeffercorn/Squints” scene in the cult classic film, The Sandlot.

ROY AQUATIC CENTER

This community aquatic center features pools, splash pads and waterslides. Evening group reservations are available through Roy City Parks & Recreation.

NORTH SHORE AQUATIC CENTER

This complex in North Ogden includes a large lap pool, a leisure pool, a large waterslide, two diving boards, a toy feature, splash pad, lazy river, and beach front. While you're swimming you'll enjoy the beautiful backdrop of Ben Lomond Peak and the Wasatch Mountain Range.

CLASSIC WATERSLIDES

Classic Waterslides in Riverdale features waterslides and a splash pad as well as cabana rentals and concessions. Day passes, season passes and private party rentals also available.

Credit The Salt Project

FLOWRIDER

Check out Flowrider at the Salomon Center in the heart of downtown. Flowboarding is a hybrid water sport that takes influence from surfing, skateboarding, wakeboarding, snowboarding, and bodyboarding. Reservations are required and group rentals are available.

GEAR RENTALS

WSU Outdoor Rec rents tubes, kayaks, canoes, rafts, paddle boards and relevant accessories (PFDs, helmets, dry bags, etc.)

Club Rec rents pontoon boats, motor boats for wake surfing/waterskiing, personal watercraft (waverunners), as well as SUPs, kayaks and canoes.

Detours rents paddle boards, kayaks and canoes.