Did you know that Logan, Utah is home to one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States? The Ellen Eccles Theatre, built in 1923, stands as a cultural cornerstone in this charming mountain town nestled against the stunning Wasatch Mountains. Logan might seem like a sleepy college town at first glance, but this hidden gem in Northern Utah offers an impressive array of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights that make it worthy of your travel bucket list.
Getting to Logan
The scenic drive through Logan Canyon offers breathtaking views in all seasons
Logan is conveniently located about 85 miles north of Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible for travelers. The closest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which offers numerous domestic and international flights daily. Flights to SLC are available from most major cities, with competitive rates throughout the year.
If you’re driving from Salt Lake City, take I-15 North to exit 362 (US-91 N), then follow US-91 to Logan. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains. Visitors coming from Idaho can reach Logan via US-91 South, while those traveling from Wyoming can take I-80 West to I-15 North.
Best Time to Visit
Spring at Utah State University campus showcases beautiful blooms and historic architecture
Logan experiences all four seasons distinctly, each offering unique attractions and activities:
Summer (June-August)
Peak season with warm temperatures (75-90°F) and numerous festivals including the Summerfest Arts Faire in mid-June. Perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and water activities at nearby Bear Lake.
Fall (September-November)
A magical time when Logan Canyon explodes with vibrant fall colors. Temperatures range from 40-70°F, making it ideal for hiking and photography. Don’t miss the North Logan Pumpkin Walk in October.
Winter (December-February)
Cold temperatures (20-35°F) bring excellent skiing opportunities at nearby Beaver Mountain Resort. The Hardware Ranch sleigh rides through elk feeding grounds are a unique winter experience.
Spring (March-May) offers mild temperatures (40-65°F) with blooming flowers throughout the valley. It’s less crowded and prices for accommodations are typically lower. The Baby Animal Days at the American West Heritage Center in April is a family favorite.
Where to Stay
Cabin accommodations near Logan Canyon offer a perfect mountain retreat
Logan offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:
Downtown Hotels
Stay in the heart of Logan for easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. The historic Courtyard by Marriott offers comfortable rooms within walking distance of Main Street’s attractions.
Budget Options
Several national chain hotels offer affordable rates, including Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, and La Quinta Inn. These properties provide comfortable accommodations with standard amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Bed & Breakfasts
Experience local hospitality at charming B&Bs like the Providence Inn, which offers personalized service and homemade breakfast in a historic setting.
Cabin Rentals
For a more secluded experience, rent a cabin in Logan Canyon or near Bear Lake. These accommodations are perfect for families or groups wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Logan
Book accommodations that fit your style and budget.
Top Attractions in Logan
Logan Canyon offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels
Outdoor Adventures
Logan’s spectacular natural setting provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation:
- Logan Canyon: A paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers with over 400 bolted climbing routes. The Crimson Trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon from above.
- Bear Lake: Often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its turquoise waters, this natural lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and water sports. It’s just a scenic 45-minute drive from Logan.
- Beaver Mountain Resort: Utah’s oldest family-owned ski resort offers affordable skiing and snowboarding with 828 acres of terrain and 48 runs.
- Logan River: A blue-ribbon trout stream that attracts fly fishers from around the country. The river offers excellent fishing for brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
Cultural Experiences
The historic Ellen Eccles Theatre hosts performances year-round
- Utah State University: Tour the beautiful campus, visit the Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art, and don’t miss trying the famous Aggie Blue Mint ice cream at the Aggie Creamery.
- American West Heritage Center: Step back in time at this 275-acre living history site that recreates pioneer life from 1820-1920. Special events include Baby Animal Days in spring and Fall Harvest Festival.
- Logan Tabernacle: This historic building completed in 1891 features stunning architecture and a magnificent pipe organ. Free tours are available during summer months.
- Ellen Eccles Theatre: Catch a performance at this beautifully restored 1923 theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and the renowned Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre each summer.
Where to Eat
The famous Aggie Blue Mint ice cream is a must-try Logan specialty
Logan’s food scene has evolved significantly in recent years, offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors:
Breakfast & Brunch
- Herm’s Inn: A restored 1900s gas station serving enormous pancakes and hearty breakfast classics.
- The Crepery: Sweet and savory crepes in a charming downtown setting.
- Stacked: Creative pancake combinations and breakfast favorites in the theater district.
Lunch & Dinner
- Tandoori Oven: Widely considered the best Indian restaurant in Utah with exceptional chicken tikka masala.
- Morty’s Cafe: Gourmet burgers and sweet potato fries with a rooftop view of Cache Valley.
- Jack’s Wood Fired Oven: Artisanal pizzas and Italian dishes made with local ingredients.
Sweet Treats
- Aggie Ice Cream: Serving homemade ice cream since 1888 on the USU campus.
- Angie’s Restaurant: Try the famous “Clean the Sink” challenge – a massive ice cream sundae served in a miniature kitchen sink.
- Charlie’s Supreme Ice Cream: Classic malt shakes and ice cream on Main Street.
For a unique food adventure, visit some of Cache Valley’s famous dairy producers. Stop by Gossner Foods to sample their famous squeaky cheese curds and flavored milk, or visit Cox Honeyland for locally produced honey and honey products.
Getting Around Logan
Downtown Logan’s historic Main Street is perfect for exploring on foot
Logan is a relatively compact city with several transportation options:
- Rental Cars: The most convenient way to explore Logan and its surrounding attractions is by car. Several rental agencies operate at Salt Lake City International Airport and in Logan itself. Rental Cars are essential if you plan to visit Logan Canyon, Bear Lake, or other attractions outside the city center.
- CVTD Bus: The Cache Valley Transit District operates a free bus service throughout Logan and neighboring communities. Routes cover most major attractions, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods.
- Biking: Logan is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes and trails. Rent a bicycle from The Sportsman to explore downtown or pedal along the scenic Logan River Trail.
- Walking: Downtown Logan is perfect for exploring on foot. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, particularly along Main Street and near Utah State University.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
The annual Summerfest Arts Faire showcases local and regional artists
Logan hosts numerous events throughout the year that showcase the region’s culture, arts, and heritage:
Spring & Summer
- Baby Animal Days (April): Meet and interact with baby farm animals at the American West Heritage Center.
- Cache Valley Cruise-In (July): One of the largest car shows in the Intermountain West featuring classic cars and hot rods.
- Summerfest Arts Faire (June): A three-day celebration of visual and performing arts with food vendors and live music.
- Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre (July-August): World-class opera and musical theater performances at the Ellen Eccles Theatre.
Fall & Winter
- Cache Valley Cheese & Dairy Festival (September): Celebrate the region’s dairy heritage with cheese tastings and demonstrations.
- North Logan Pumpkin Walk (October): Artistic pumpkin displays and family activities in a festive autumn setting.
- Winter Lights Parade (November): Downtown Logan lights up for the holidays with a festive parade and tree lighting ceremony.
- Hardware Ranch Sleigh Rides (December-February): Ride in a horse-drawn sleigh through a winter wonderland to see hundreds of wild elk.
Day Trips from Logan
Bear Lake’s stunning turquoise waters make it a perfect day trip from Logan
Logan’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Northern Utah and beyond:
- Bear Lake (45 minutes): Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and sandy beaches, Bear Lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and water sports. Don’t miss trying a famous raspberry shake in Garden City.
- Minnetonka Cave (1.5 hours): Explore this spectacular limestone cave with nine rooms of stalactites, stalagmites, and banded travertine located in the nearby Bear River Range.
- Golden Spike National Historical Park (1 hour): Visit the site where the Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869, with replica locomotives and historical exhibits.
- Antelope Island State Park (1.5 hours): Observe free-ranging bison, antelope, and numerous bird species on this unique island in the Great Salt Lake.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Beaver Mountain Resort offers affordable skiing just 30 minutes from Logan
Weather Preparedness
Logan experiences significant temperature variations between seasons and even within a single day. Pack layers regardless of when you visit. Summer evenings can be cool, while winter requires proper cold-weather gear. Always check weather forecasts before heading into the mountains.
Altitude Considerations
Logan sits at approximately 4,500 feet above sea level, with surrounding mountains reaching much higher. If you’re coming from lower elevations, give yourself time to acclimate before strenuous activities. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the stronger UV rays at higher altitudes.
Local Customs
Logan has a significant Mormon population, which influences some local customs. Many restaurants and shops are closed on Sundays, and alcohol laws are stricter than in other states. Beer sold in grocery stores is limited to 5% alcohol by volume, with stronger beverages available only at state liquor stores.
Why Logan Should Be Your Next Destination
The breathtaking views of Cache Valley make Logan a memorable destination
Logan, Utah offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and small-town charm that makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Whether you’re hiking through the dramatic landscapes of Logan Canyon, enjoying world-class performances at the Ellen Eccles Theatre, or sampling local culinary delights, Logan provides memorable experiences without the crowds and high prices of better-known destinations.
With four distinct seasons each offering unique attractions, there’s never a bad time to visit this hidden gem in Northern Utah. From the vibrant colors of fall to the powdery slopes of winter, the wildflower meadows of spring to the festival-filled summer days, Logan welcomes visitors with open arms and endless possibilities for adventure.
Ready to Explore Logan?
Start planning your unforgettable Utah adventure today!
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
