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A trailhead sign stands along the Murdock Canal Trail on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019, in Lindon.

Isaac Hale, Daily Herald file photo

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A volunteer offers a toy to children during the Tabitha's Way Local Food Pantry's Christmas drive in American Fork on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

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Utah Lake is pictured from Utah Lake State Park on Monday, April 25, 2022.

Ashtyn Asay, Daily Herald file photo

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Eva and Noel Pace view some of the art at Window Box Gallery during the Art Stroll in downtown Provo on June 6, 2014.

Daily Herald file photo

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As soon as the Vernal Equinox marked the changing of the seasons, many of us celebrated the ending of a long winter and the beginning of spring. It will rain and it will even still snow, but the sunshine will be more plentiful and green will begin to replace white. Utah Valley is full of things to do during these beautiful-weather days. These are just a few of the highlights to get you started springing.

Feed the Hungry

Did you know that food donations strongly decrease after the holidays? Spring is a great time to hold a neighborhood food drive, have a food scavenger hunt or plan another unique way to help replenish the local food banks and pantries. Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantries, located in American Fork and Spanish Fork, provide food assistance to thousands of individuals each month, many of them children.

Community Action Services and Food Bank in Provo helps foster self-reliance to thousands of families each year. Volunteering at the pantries or food bank is also a great way to spend your time.

Downtown Provo Art Stroll

Spring is the perfect time to look at local artists’ works and take a stroll in downtown Provo. The monthly Downtown Provo Art Stroll takes place the first Friday of every month from 6-9 p.m. On this night, over a dozen businesses host local artists and entertainment for you to enjoy. There is no cost and the springlike weather will make the stroll through downtown a great way to spend an evening. The stroll primarily takes place along University Avenue and Center Street.

Murdock Canal Trail

Seventeen miles of trail, winding from 800 North in Orem to Timpanogos Highway in Lehi, is used by people of all ages. It is not uncommon to see entire families on the trail. Others prefer to go it alone. Cyclists, walkers, runners, rollerbladers, scooter-riders and others using almost any mode of non-motorized transportation use the trail daily. The beautiful views from the trail make this the perfect way to enjoy spring.

Valley Vista Trails

This trail system, located about one-half mile north of Grove Creek Canyon in Pleasant Grove and covers the Wade Springs area, currently includes different trails for a combined distance of about 6.5 miles. These trails are perfect for cyclists, equestrians, hikers and trail runners. Be sure to check the Valley Vista Trails Facebook page for updates — the trails are closed during certain weather or muddy conditions to protect them from damage. Using the trails is a great way to catch spectacular views.

Utah Lake

There are 27 public access points to Utah Lake. That’s a lot of exploring that can be done. Many visit the lake area to take incredible photographs, to walk the trails, take in the scenery and enjoy the different seasons, including spring. There is even a Utah Lake Photography Club with members who spend much of their time taking photos at the lake. This is the perfect time of year to explore this beautiful area that is right in our own backyard.