Monthly Archives: May 2021

Exploring the great outdoors is definitely one of the highlights of childhood! Living in the shadow of majestic mountains and along the shore of two beautiful lakes, the opportunities to explore are boundless. So, get out and discover some of the family-friendly trails and hikes near you. Have fun and remember to bring plenty of water.

Davis County:

• Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve: 41 South 3200 West, Layton. Walk along the wetlands and enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife. Be sure to climb the 30-foot observation tower to spot for birds and other animals. Mosquito repellent is a must!
• Deuel Creek: Centerville. This hike is only 2 miles round-trip. There’s even a rope swing along the way! Click here for more info and directions to the trail head.

Salt Lake County:

• Donut Falls: Big Cottonwood Canyon. When it comes to family hikes in Salt Lake County, Donut Falls takes the cake! You’ll find the turn-off to the trail head approximately 9 miles up the canyon.
• Ensign Peak: 1002 North Ensign Vista Dr, Salt Lake. This easy 1 mile round-trip hike is a must for everyone. The trail is well-marked and maintained. Visit the monument at the summit commemorating the early Mormon pioneers and enjoy the stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Great Salt Lake.

Utah County:

• Grotto Falls: This hike is along the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway. It’s a great stop if you’re looking for a fun, easy way to beat the summer heat. Bring a towel and swimsuit. Click here for directions to the trail head and falls.
• Fifth Water Hot Springs: Diamond Fork Canyon (accessed from Spanish Fork Canyon). A beautiful 2.5 mile hike that’s fun for all ages. Don’t forget your swimsuit and bring plenty of water!

Weber County:

• Indian Trailhead: Ogden. Looking to add a little historic flavor to your family outing? Try this unique family hike. The trail is well-maintained and heavily forested, making it cool even in the summer heat.
• Waterfall Canyon: Accessed from the 29th Street Trailhead in Ogden, the first portion of this hike is easy but becomes more challenging further in. Throughout hiking season, it’s a beautiful location, but only in the spring will you get to enjoy the full majesty of the falls.

 

 

 

 

Did you know that more than 24 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies? The sneezing, the runny nose and those red, itchy eyes — they all can make you feel miserable. You don’t have to suffer through allergy season, though. Here are some simple steps that you can take to feel better:

Ask about daily allergy medication. Talk to your physician about taking a daily allergy medicine that you can take year-round or only during the times of the year that your allergies are in full swing. At some times of the year, you may be able to combine more than one type of allergy medicine with different active ingredients to provide maximum relief. Just make sure to ask your doctor before taking more than one variety. Your physician can help guide you through your treatment options. A visit to an allergy specialist can help, too.

Use eye drops. Ask us about eye drops that can help soothe dry, itchy eyes. There are several different over-the-counter and prescription eye drop options that can help provide relief.

Do not rub your eyes. A common sign of allergies is itchy and irritable eyes. It can be easy to try and relieve the suffering by rubbing your eyes, but doing so can also cause damage. Although it may be difficult, avoid rubbing your eyes when they are itchy. In addition to hurting your eyes, rubbing also can introduce bacteria and viruses into your body.

Drink plenty of water. With hot temperatures in the summer, it is easy to get dehydrated and that can have a negative effect on your eyes and make them even more prone to allergies. Drink at least 64 ounces of water each day and avoid beverages like soda that can dehydrate you.

Don’t leave contacts in too long. Wearing your contacts for long hours or exceeding the recommended wear time can have a negative effect on your overall eye health. It’s especially hard on your eyes during allergy season when your eyes are already irritated.