WHERE TO PADDLEBOARD IN UTAH?
Great paddleboarding starts with choosing the right lake. Discover local favorites, hidden gems, and family-friendly destinations that are worth the drive.
TOP 5 LAKES TO PADDLE BOARD NEAR SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH (2026 GUIDE) blog post
Tibble Fork Reservoir
A local favorite for good reason. Mountain views, non-motorized water, and a simple shoreline launch make it one of the best beginner and family paddleboarding spots near Salt Lake. Go early because it gets packed.
Address: Tibble Fork Reservoir, American Fork Canyon, UT
Distance from SLC: 39 miles
Pros: Stunning alpine scenery • Non-motorized water • Excellent for beginners • Family-friendly • Easy shoreline launch
Cons: Extremely busy on weekends • Parking fills early • Cold water most of the season • Entry fee to the canyon
Great Salt Lake
A unique Utah paddle with wide-open views, salty water, and big sunset energy. It is not the clean alpine lake vibe, but it is one of those places every Utah paddler should try at least once. Check conditions before going.
Address: 13312 W 1075 S, Magna, UT 84044
Distance from SLC: 18 miles
Pros: One of Utah’s most unique paddles • Incredible sunsets • Very close to Salt Lake City • Usually plenty of space
Cons: Salty water isn’t for everyone • Water quality varies • Bugs can be bad seasonally • Not ideal for swimming
Blackridge Reservoir
One of the easiest family-friendly options in the south valley. It has a sandy beach feel, easy access, and is a good choice when you want a quick paddle without committing to a full canyon drive.
Address: 15000 S Ashland Ridge Dr, Herriman, UT 84096
Distance from SLC: 27 miles
Pros: Close to the south valley • Calm water • Great for beginners and kids • Easy beach launch
Cons: Small reservoir • Can get crowded • Limited room for long paddles • No mountain scenery
Silver Lake Flat Reservoir
American Fork Canyon Road
Tibble Fork Reservoir, Utah 84604
utahvalley.com
Time from AJ to Silver Lake Flat: 65 mins
Distance from AJ to Silver Lake Flat: 34 miles
General Day Use Fee: $6.00 | Annual Park Pass: $45.00
Gravel Parking Lot | Picnic Tables Nearby | Hiking Trails | Dog Friendly | Kayak/SUP | Car Camping | Fishing
Silver Lake Flat Reservoir is a charming spot just a few miles past Tibble Fork Reservoir. While getting there involves a bumpy drive on a dirt road and limited parking, the journey is well worth it. This peaceful lake, free from motorized boats, offers a serene environment perfect for paddleboarding or fishing. Enjoy the tranquility and beautiful scenery without the crowds.
East Canyon State Park
5535 South Highway 66
Morgan, UT 84050
stateparks.utah.gov
801-829-6866
Hours: 6am – 10pm
Time from AJ to East Canyon: 49 mins
Distance from AJ to East Canyon: 34.4 miles
Day-Use Fee: $20.00 | To view all fees click here
General Goods Store | Rental Store | Lodging
Yurt Rentals | Cabin Rentals | RV Rentals | Paved Boat Ramps
Boat Rentals | Campgrounds w/ Hookups | Hammock Camping
Day-use Pavilions | Concession Service | Modern Restrooms
Showers | Hiking Trails | Biking Trails
East Canyon Reservoir is a secluded yet close-to-home medium-sized reservoir with a deep history. This tucked-away destination is great for boating, fishing, paddling, camping, and hiking. There is something for everyone here, plus the drive up route 65 is worth it alone.
Jordanelle Reservoir
515 UT-319
Heber City, UT 84032
(435) 649-9540
Park Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Time from AJ to Jordanelle: 45 mins
Distance from AJ to Jordanelle: 39.3 miles
FEES:
Day Use Entrance Fee: $5 – $20 per car
Click here to view all fees
Click here to view current conditions and webcams
Multiple Boat Ramps | Lease & Courtesy Docks | Fish Cleaning Station | Flush Restrooms | C-Store & Pro Shop | Dry Storage | Sandwich Shop | RV Campground | Tent Campground | Group Camping & Cabins | Cabanas & Pavilions | Geocache Adventure | Playground | Beach House
Jordanelle Reservoir located just outside Park City, is known for its clear waters and stunning mountain views, this expansive reservoir offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy. With designated paddleboard areas, ample parking, and easy access, it’s a convenient and scenic spot. Jordanelle Reservoir provides the perfect setting for a memorable paddleboarding experience.
Echo Reservoir
40.94986902612781, -111.40692886825666
Coalville, UT 84017
stateparks.utah.gov
6:00am – 10:00pm
435-336-2241
Time from AJ to Echo: 51 mins
Distance from AJ to Echo: 48.1 miles
FEES:
Day Use Entrance Fee: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
Walk-In/Bicycle: $4/person
Camping Fees:
$40/Single Site | $70/Double Site | $20 Extra Vehicle Fee
$300 Bison Run Group Campground (up to 50 people)
Boat Ramp | Restrooms | Marina | Campgrounds | Picnic Tables
Echo Reservoir is a hidden gem for paddleboarding in Utah. The reservoir’s easy access and ample parking add to its appeal, while the beautiful, quiet environment offers a perfect escape.
Pineview Reservoir
Huntsville, UT 84317
visitogden.com
Time from AJ to Pineview: 1 hour 12 mins
Distance from AJ to Pineview: 60.6 miles
Boat Ramp Fee: $18 – $19
Walk-in Boat Ramp Fee: $7/Person
Parking Alongside Road: Free
Boat & Jet Ski Rentals | Campgrounds | Boat Ramps | Sandy Beach | Fishing
Pineview Reservoir is a great 2,800-acre reservoir perfect for boating, paddling, and hanging out on the beach. This reservoir is surrounded by gorgeous mountains, has fun sandy beaches, and a launch ramp. We love Pineview because of its beautiful landscape and large beach.
Causey Reservoir
Skull Crack Canyon Rd
Huntsville, UT 84317
visitogden.com
Time from AJ to Causey: 1 hour 20 mins
Distance from AJ to Causey: 71.2 miles
General Day Use Fee: $6.00 | Annual Park Pass: $45.00
Nearby Car Camping | Public Restrooms | Hiking Trails
Cliff Jumping
Causey Reservoir is a staff favorite. A one-of-a-kind, charming reservoir located just past Ogden, Utah. This 142-acre heavenly body of water is restricted to motorized boats, making it the sublime spot for paddleboarders, kayaks, and fishers alike.
We love Causey because of its truly unique landscape and its proximity to amazing hiking and camping.