Tales from Utah Valley: The summer isn’t over just yet
Nichole Whiteley, Daily Herald
The Cook family, Pleasant Grove City Council members, Mayor Guy Fugal and others ready their shovels for the groundbreaking of the Cook Family Park in Pleasant Grove on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023.Even though store shelves are full of back-to-school items, there is still a lot of summer left! In fact, the season isn’t officially over until the first day of fall, which is Sept. 23. There is much more to be done during the last few weeks of summer – the favorite season of many of us. Here are just a few ideas.
Books!
Pleasant Grove’s library is holding a Summerbration Book Sale from Aug. 12-16. Many libraries hold annual book sales, often just before school begins, to make room for new books and give residents the opportunity to purchase some older books at a great price. Those older books can be treasures – sometimes readers find old favorites for just a few cents.
The Summerbration Book Sale will have more than books. Also for sale will be DVDs and audiobooks. Some books will cost as little as 50 cents. On Aug. 15 and 16, book lovers can fill a bag with books for just $5. The last few weeks of summer are perfect for sitting outside, enjoying a good book.
Outdoor Music
The concerts in the park that many communities hold are continuing through the end of August. These concerts feature local talent while audience members sit under the stars and enjoy the fresh summer air. Be sure to check out your city’s website or social media pages for more information.
Parks
Every city in Utah County has some parks. In fact, Pleasant Grove recently broke ground for a new one. Parks are a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and sunshine during summer. Not only are they a place to have fun, they can actually contribute to the community and our own health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cdc.gov, parks can provide environmental benefits, by reducing air and water pollution and protecting areas from inappropriate development. Parks also help people reduce their risk of illness and injury by providing safe spaces where people can play and exercise away from busy streets and commercial zones.
Murdock Canal Trail
The Murdock Canal Trail weaves through much of northern Utah County. The trail is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise and see some beautiful views. If you use the trail often, you know that it is heavily-used, especially during summer. But that’s okay. There is room for everyone. Don’t worry if you can’t get enough trail use in before the autumnal equinox. The Murdock Canal Trail is open and well-used all year long.
Trails
What’s a summer without riding bikes? The Valley Vista Trail System is located in the foothills of Mount Mahogany on the east side of Pleasant Grove and comprises several miles of trail. It is a multi-use trail system used for non-motorized recreation, including mountain biking, hiking, trail running, walking and horseback riding. These trails are a favorite summer destination for many, especially cyclists.
Walking Tour
There is one more date left this summer for Pleasant Grove’s Historic Homes Walking Tour. The next tour will be held on August 28 at 6:30 p.m. This free walking tour will tour historic homes on Locust Avenue. For more information, check out the Pleasant Grove Historic Preservation Commission’s Facebook page.


