Did you know that food donations strongly decrease after the holidays? Spring is a good 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 Pantry, located in American Fork, Spanish Fork and Saratoga Springs, provides food assistance to thousands of individuals each month, many of them children. Community Action Services & 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.

Cherry blossoms

Recently, a list of places to see cherry blossoms in Utah Valley was posted on Downtown Provo’s Instagram, @downtownprovo. The cherry blossoms don’t last long, so be ready to take a walk, hike or drive when you see those first colors. Some of the areas listed are: Nielson’s Grove Park in Orem, Cherry Hill Farm in Santaquin, Center Street in Provo, Civic Center Park in Springville, the Orem Cemetery, Mount Timpanogos Park in Orem and the Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival during April and May.

Murdock Canal Trail

Miles of this trail, winding from 800 North in Orem to the Timpanogos Highway in Lehi, are 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 — or any season.

Valley Vista Trails

This trail system is located about one-half mile north of Grove Creek Canyon in Pleasant Grove and covers the Wade Springs area. It 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 at Utah Lake. That’s a lot of exploring that can be done. Many visit the lake area to take incredible photographs, 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. Birdwatching is another pastime that can be done at the lake. We’re lucky to have it right here.

Murals

Downtown Provo is full of murals that have been painted in recent years by local artists. Spending an afternoon strolling through the downtown and looking at the murals can be an enjoyable way to take in the spring weather and creative art. Other local cities, such as Pleasant Grove, have also begun creating murals in their downtown areas.

Santaquin Bike Skills Park

Cyclists of all ages can enjoy riding in a safe area off the streets here with beautiful views and plenty of room to ride. The Santaquin Bike Skills Park at Prospector View Park opened just last August. The park features easy, moderate and difficult skills areas with a variety of different trails.

Whatever you choose to do, enjoy beautiful spring in Utah Valley.