Utah’s Every Kid Outdoors Challenge Inspires Year-Round Nature Exploration
The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) launched the Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Adventure Challenge, a groundbreaking year-long initiative designed to reconnect Utah’s youth with the great outdoors. Through monthly challenges and events, the initiative empowers children and families to engage with nature, build outdoor skills and develop a lifelong love of the outdoors.
The Adventure Challenge is free and open to all Utah children. Event attendees receive a reusable water bottle to decorate with stickers earned by completing each monthly challenge. At the end of 2025, participants who complete all the challenges will be entered into a grand prize drawing. The initiative emphasizes accessibility with events spread across the state, including activities like ice skating, wildlife observation, stargazing and camping.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Adventure Challenge as a way to inspire the next generation to explore the incredible natural wonders Utah has to offer,” said Caroline Weiler, youth engagement manager for the DOR. “These monthly challenges are more than just fun—they’re an opportunity for families to connect, for children to gain confidence, and for communities to foster a deeper appreciation for our natural world.”
Kickoff Event Highlights
The initiative launched with a kickoff celebration today at Millcreek Common. Families enjoyed free ice skating, interactive booths hosted by over 25 outdoor organizations and workshops in wildlife identification and nature journaling. Partners including the Utah Hockey Club, Teton Sports, US Forest Service, Ski Utah, Wasatch Adaptive Sports, Natural History Museum of Utah and many more provided opportunities to learn about Utah’s outdoor resources and programs, from free National Parks passes for 4th graders to discounted skiing opportunities.
Upcoming Adventure Challenge Events
Here’s a glimpse at the exciting lineup of activities planned for the 2025 Adventure Challenge:
Frosty Fun – Feb. 21, 2–4 p.m., Soldier Hollow: A free cross-country skiing experience.
Utah Rocks! – March 21, 2–3:30 p.m., participating climbing gyms statewide: Complimentary admission and rentals for kids to try bouldering.
Starry Skies – April 25, 7–10:30 p.m., Coral Pink Sand Dunes: Stargazing with telescopes and sandboarding.
Plant a Seed – May: Learn the joys of gardening (time and location TBD).
Camping – June 26–29, TIFIE Ranch: Family camping with provided equipment and food.
More events to follow monthly through December.
The new EKO Adventure Challenge builds on the 2019 Every Kid Outdoors legislative initiative, which addresses the growing disconnect between children and nature. Research shows that time outdoors improves physical health, creativity, and problem-solving and reduces stress. By making outdoor activities accessible, the EKO Adventure Challenge aims to foster healthier lifestyles and a new generation of responsible recreators and outdoor stewards.
For more information about the Every Kid Outdoors Adventure Challenge and upcoming events, visit recreation.utah.gov/eko or follow us on Instagram at @utahdor.
