A drive through a herd of elk, a loop hike to natural rock formations, and an evening at the theater reveal very different sides of Cache. In between, there are opportunities to explore nature, learn about the region’s history, and discover local businesses. The experiences you combine will depend on whether you want to spend time outdoors, visit cultural attractions, or attend regional events.
Nature Trails and Water at Tony Grove Lake
The Tony Grove Day Use Area provides access to Tony Grove Lake and trails into the backcountry; roads and parking areas are paved. At the lake, you can fish and canoe. For a hike, there are several options, including two loop trails that differ considerably in length: the Wind Caves Trail is a 2-mile loop hike to natural rock formations above the canyon floor. The White Pine Lake Trail travels about 8 miles through mountain terrain to a high-elevation lake.
The Riverside Nature Trail also follows the Logan River and is an easy, family-friendly walking path. Anglers will find numerous access points to the Logan River along Highway 89. These options differ in length and character, from a riverside walk to the shorter loop hike to the rock formations and the longer trek through mountain terrain. You can choose based on the landscapes you want to experience along the way.
Wildlife and Outdoor Activities
At the Hardware WMA, anglers with a valid license can catch several trout species in nearly 15 miles of streams and rivers. The Wildlife Education Center there offers exhibits and educational programs for all ages. On days when it is open, guided walks and craft projects are also available.
In winter, Haviland's Old West Adventures offers horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides through the elk herd. The rides take place Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from December 5 through February 15, last about 45 minutes, and operate between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Dates and operating days may change; check the current schedule before your visit. Access to the Hardware WMA is via paved State Route 101, also known as Blacksmith Fork Canyon Road, which is regularly plowed in winter. Use caution during snowstorms.
Culture, Museums, and Events
At the American West Heritage Center, you can enjoy live demonstrations and hands-on activities such as gold panning and axe throwing. Seasonal events celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. For performing arts, Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre has staged productions at the Ellen Eccles Theatre on Main Street since 1993. The Lyric Repertory Company performs at the historic Caine Lyric Theatre and on the Utah State University campus.
The museums also offer a range of different focuses. The Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art on the Utah State University campus features a nationally recognized permanent collection, with a particular focus on ceramics and Native American art. The Utah State University Museum of Anthropology explores, among other topics, the early inhabitants of the Great Basin and exhibits about other regions of the world, including Polynesia. The Hyrum Museum covers the history of southern Cache Valley from prehistoric times through the mid-20th century. In downtown Logan, the Cache Museum preserves artifacts and photographs and presents the history of Cache Valley’s earliest settlers.
Major events also shape the calendar. The Cache County Fair and Rodeo takes place during the first full week of August and draws about 50,000 attendees and spectators over the course of a week. The Cache Valley Cruise-In is a three-day car show held in July at the County Fairgrounds. More than 800 vehicles are displayed, and thousands of visitors attend. Since dates for recurring events can vary, it’s a good idea to check them before your trip.
Local Tastes
The Cache Valley Foodie Trek is a self-guided culinary tour through Logan and the surrounding valley. It includes family-owned businesses, farms, and artisan producers. You can choose individual stops or plan a full-day tasting tour; some businesses offer tours or tastings. At Bluebird Candy, visitors have been making hand-dipped chocolates since 1914, and visitors can watch the candy-making process.
Discover more destinations: Logan, Providence, Millard County, Salt Lake, Washington, Summit, Garfield, Kane County.
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