Daily writing prompt
What do you love about where you live?

When COVID shut the ski lifts down and ended the season early everyone headed to the backcountry with their newly bought split boards and skins. Being one of the gazillion newbies I chose to play it safe and skinned near a local ski area. Upon arriving at my planned destination I was amazed at the further access afforded on the bike side of the ridge where I found myself. I wasn’t surprised to see that I was one of a couple handful of adventurists exploiting such a blessing.

I live in a non-rich-person area and am a 40-minute drive away from the chair lift. I’m 40 minutes away from a mountain bike park that riders of all skill levels can enjoy. 10-15 minutes away from paved paths along a riverbank. 40 minutes away from an island where bison roam free. Seeking fly fishing? There are a number of rivers you can choose from, all close enough to provide a Friday evening or Saturday’s worth of enjoyment. Camping access is similar (although getting overbooked by late-blooming camping enthusiasts but that’s a conversation for another time-I’ve read and written a book review on related topics). A nearby reservoir, call it a 20-minute drive, has opportunities for camping, paddle boarding, kayaking, power water sports…you get it.

So come to Utah and get your outdoor access on. Or please don’t and leave it pristine for the rest of us, everything is terrible here!