One of the best perks of living in student housing in Orem is how close you are to incredible hiking trails and outdoor scenery. From quick afternoon walks to longer weekend hikes, Utah Valley offers something for every skill level. If you haven’t already, make time this summer to explore the beautiful area around you. Before you head out, use this checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Water: Stay Hydrated From Start to Finish
This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing—you can never bring too much water. Running out of water, especially in the heat, can quickly turn a fun hike into a miserable or even dangerous situation. Always start your hike well-hydrated and bring a large water bottle or hydration pack with you.
Fill up before leaving your Provo or Orem student housing, and check ahead of time to see if the trail has any water refilling stations. If you’re hiking longer or more challenging trails, consider bringing extra water just in case plans change or the hike takes longer than expected.
Snacks: Fuel Your Body on the Trail
Hiking burns more calories than you might realize, and without fuel, your energy can drop fast. Bringing snacks helps you maintain stamina and enjoy the entire hike instead of feeling drained halfway through.
You can prepare something simple in your UVU off-campus housing before you leave, or grab easy options like granola bars, trail mix, or protein bars. A mix of protein, salty foods, and something sweet is ideal for keeping your energy steady and preventing fatigue.
Good Shoes: Traction Makes All the Difference
Not all shoes are created equal when it comes to hiking. Different terrain calls for different footwear, but one thing all good hiking shoes have in common is solid traction. Slippery shoes can turn an easy rock scramble into a risky situation very quickly.
If you’re living in a UVU college apartment and don’t have proper hiking shoes, check out the UVU Outdoor Adventure Center. They offer affordable rentals for hiking boots and other outdoor gear, making it easy to explore the trails safely without buying expensive equipment.
A Camera: Capture the Moment (From a Safe Distance)
Once you reach your destination—or even along the way—you’ll want to document the experience. Whether it’s a mountain view, a waterfall, or a group photo at the summit, having a camera or phone ready helps you capture memories you’ll want to look back on.
Plus, you’ll need proof for your roommates who stayed back at your UVU student housing that you actually made it to the top. And while Utah wildlife can be exciting to see, remember to admire animals like moose from a distance—never approach them for a photo.
First Aid Kit: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Even on short hikes, minor injuries can happen. A small first aid kit doesn’t take up much space and can make a big difference if something goes wrong. Pack essentials like alcohol wipes, bandages, and tweezers for cuts, blisters, or splinters.
Lightweight items like gauze or bandanas are also helpful and can be used for larger wounds in an emergency. Being prepared allows you to handle small issues quickly and safely so they don’t ruin your hike.
Make the Most of Hiking Near Orem
Hiking is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to enjoy living near Utah Valley. With the right preparation, you can explore confidently and focus on having fun instead of worrying about what you forgot to bring.
If you’re still looking for student housing in Orem to use as your home base for outdoor adventures, we hope you’ll consider Promenade Place—your gateway to campus life and the trails just beyond it.
