Winter Activities
Steam rising off the hot springs, perch through the ice, bald eagles over a frozen marsh, and a campground full of holiday lights on the shore of Willard Bay. Winter is Box Elder County’s quiet season, and one of its best.
Quick Facts
About 20 min from Brigham City
About 25 min from Brigham City
Why Winter
When the orchards go dormant and the summer crowds head home, Box Elder County slows down. Mineral water rises out of the ground at Crystal Hot Springs hot enough to steam on the coldest morning. Mantua Reservoir freezes into one of northern Utah’s easiest ice-fishing spots, and the marshes of Bear River Refuge fill with eagles and hawks hunting the frozen flats.
Nearly everything on this trip sits within about half an hour of Brigham City on paved roads, so you spend more time outside and less time behind the wheel.
Things to Do on Your Winter Weekend
Soak at Crystal Hot Springs
Honeyville · Year-round · Day passes
Mineral water comes out of the ground well over 100 degrees, then cools into soaking pools and hot tubs. Snow on the ground and steam on the water make winter the best time to go. Hours change by season, so check before you drive.
Ice Fish Mantua Reservoir
Mantua · Mid-winter · Perch & bluegill
Just up the canyon from Brigham City, Mantua freezes into a family-friendly ice-fishing spot with fast action for perch and bluegill. Bring a Utah fishing license and stay off the ice until it’s at least 4 inches thick.
Drive the Bear River Refuge
Free · 12-mile auto tour · Sunrise to sunset
From November through March, bald eagles, rough-legged hawks and owls hunt the frozen marsh. Your car makes a great bird blind. Start at the Visitor Center on Forest Street in Brigham City, open Tuesday through Saturday.
See Fantasy at the Bay
Willard Bay State Park · Through Dec. 31 · Drive-thru
Tune your radio to the holiday station and roll through a campground full of lights synced to music. Grab 3D snowflake glasses at the gate. It’s priced per car, and weeknights cost less.
Ride the Rails at Golden Spike
Late December · Winter Steam Festival · Engine House tours
Most years, the Jupiter locomotive fires up between Christmas and New Year’s for steam demonstrations, cab tours and hand car rides at Promontory Summit. The rest of the winter, ask about behind-the-scenes Engine House tours.
Make It a Weekend
Day 1 Mantua + Willard Bay · Day 2 Refuge + Hot Springs
Fish Mantua in the morning, warm up with lunch on Main Street, then catch Fantasy at the Bay after dark. On day two, drive the refuge at first light when the birds are most active, and spend the afternoon soaking at Crystal Hot Springs.
Before You Go
Check the Roads
Winter storms can slow or close roads fast. Check UDOT road conditions before you leave, and carry a scraper, a blanket and water.
Know Your Ice
Stay off ice less than 4 inches thick, and never fish alone. Anglers 12 and older need a Utah fishing license.
Check Winter Hours
Hot springs, visitor centers and holiday events run shorter winter schedules. Check each landmark’s page before you go.
Pack Warm Layers
Bring a hat, gloves and dry clothes for after your soak, plus binoculars for the refuge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Winter Weekend
Hot water, cold air and plenty of room to yourself. Book a room in Brigham City, grab dinner on Main Street, and let winter slow you down.