When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Outdoor Mavens
Why Outdoor Mavens is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Outdoor Mavens is a uniquely welcoming and inclusive outdoor outfitter located in Salt Lake City, Utah, offering an exceptional setting for friends and adventure enthusiasts to gather and explore the stunning landscapes of Southern Utah. Owned and operated by a female and queer-led team, Outdoor Mavens specializes in bespoke trip planning concierge services, customized adventure tours, desert hiking retreats, and high-quality camping gear rentals. The company stands out as a great place for friends to meet up because it curates personalized experiences that fit diverse interests and skill levels, making outdoor adventures accessible and memorable for everyone. Their offerings include guided hikes, canyoneering, rappelling, bicycling, and stargazing expeditions tailored to client preferences. Beyond adventure, Outdoor Mavens is praised for its thoughtful and attentive guides who handle all trip details from securing accommodations to preparing delicious meals, ensuring guests can focus entirely on the experience. The welcoming and supportive environment coupled with expert knowledge creates the perfect community hub for outdoor enthusiasts to connect, relax, and create lasting memories. This combination of personalized service, inclusivity, and comprehensive trip support makes Outdoor Mavens an ideal meeting point for groups of friends looking to share an extraordinary outdoor journey together.
Here's what people think of Outdoor Mavens
As of recent, Outdoor Mavens holds a 5-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Reviews of Outdoor Mavens consistently highlight the outstanding quality and personalized nature of the adventures offered. Customers frequently commend the guides for their professionalism, friendliness, and adaptability, mentioning how trip itineraries are customized on the fly to accommodate group needs, which enhances the overall experience. Many glowing reviews focus on the depth of planning, the fantastic views, well-prepared meals, and the variety of activities including hiking, canyoneering, and biking. For example, one reviewer described their trip as the "best hiking trip ever" thanks to their guide Traci, who ensured the group was well-fed and happy throughout the journey. Another praised the comprehensive planning and attention to detail that made their Moab adventure seamless, recommending Outdoor Mavens highly for exploring Utah’s natural beauty. On the other hand, reviews do not indicate significant negative feedback, reflecting a uniformly positive customer experience with no prominent complaints or issues noted publicly. In conclusion, the overwhelmingly positive reviews showcase Outdoor Mavens as a trusted outfitter that delivers memorable, well-organized, and welcoming outdoor experiences, making it a reliable choice for those seeking adventure in Utah.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Meredith DiMola
I had the BEST time on the Women's Retreat. The other participants were fabulous and Traci is a wonderful leader and clearly is doing her life's work. The hikes, the food and the activities were well thought through and very intentional. I loved where we stayed and my favorite hike was going into the slot canyons!
Dawn Amodeo
Attending the Outdoor Mavens Women’s Retreat in Escalante was a deeply restorative and empowering experience. From the moment we set out from Salt Lake City, every detail was thoughtful and intentional. The landscape of Escalante was amazing, and the perfect setting for our adventure. Our home base was comfortable and cozy with great views and some sweet four-legged residents. Traci is great at calibrating the trip to the interests and strengths of the group - our days were well paced and balanced together time/movement/solo reflection/stillness. She kept us safe, challenged, comfortable, and laughing. Trail-side lunches were outstanding and again, tailored to our specific needs and preferences. Her knowledge of the area, the indigenous people of the region, and the flora/fauna added a ton to the adventure. I left the desert more grounded, open, and spacious than when I arrived. We had a blast and the other attendees and have kept in touch. I hope to take another trip with Mavens soon. If you’re seeking a retreat that prioritizes integrity, joy, and connection—with nature, with others, and with your own inner compass—this is it.
Stephanie Thoensen
I had the pleasure of going on a trip guided by Traci to Bryce and Zion National Parks, and can't say enough good things about the experience! I tend to be a tour guide type traveler, but had yet to book one for a multi day hiking trip, and this one didn't disappoint! Traci was super knowledgeable about.. well everything! From the trails and parks themselves, to follow up questions when she was teaching us the history of the parks, any question I had Traci always had an answer to or would get me an answer before the end of our trip. The meals she prepared on the trails were delicious and healthy (encouraged me to try harder myself at home even after the fact), and all the spots we went for coffee/breakfast in the mornings and for dinner at night were unique, and was a thoughtfully curated overall experience. I'm already keeping my eye out for the next trip I can book with Traci, as I enjoyed every minute of my trip!
Shamrin Lullo
I could not possibly recommend Outdoor Mavens enough. It is no exaggeration to say that the Women’s Retreat was a life-changing experience for me. After a difficult period in my life, I found beautiful connection and inspiration in each moment with the small group of women I joined. It felt as if we were all meant to be right there, right then. I had never spent time in the desert before this trip, and I quickly fell in love. The desert’s beauty was truly otherworldly, and Traci curated a perfect collection of sights and activities to enjoy all it had to offer in a short amount of time. Traci was so knowledgeable about local plants, wildlife, and history. I learned many new things everyday, and Traci’s guidance gave me an even deeper appreciation for the area. I especially appreciated the pacing of the itinerary. It was a perfect mix of physical activity, relaxation, and time for connection. I absolutely plan to book another adventure with Outdoor Mavens in the future. I can’t wait!
maggie tucker
Traci is an amazing guide. She has been my guide for 3 trips and was outstanding in each. She makes sure everyone is taken care of and makes the experience wonderful. I signed up with several friends and everyone had such a great time. Months later and we are still talking about it. We stopped at cute coffee shops in the morning and had great meals prepared by Traci on trail. She was always prepared and extremely professional with a great understanding of the outdoors. We had amazing hikes and the scenery was breathtaking. I can’t wait for my next adventure with Traci!
How to reach Outdoor Mavens
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Why Outdoor Mavens may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Outdoor Mavens with your friends?
If you’re looking for the perfect place to gather your friends for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Outdoor Mavens is an exceptional choice. This Utah-based, queer and female-owned adventure outfitter combines professional expertise with personalized attention to deliver truly elevated experiences. What sets Outdoor Mavens apart is their holistic approach: they don’t just take you on hikes or outdoor excursions but curate trips with care, emphasizing community building, mindfulness, and empowerment in nature. The welcoming atmosphere and inclusive values make the environment comfortable and inspiring for groups with diverse backgrounds and skill levels. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a more immersive retreat, Outdoor Mavens ensures your group enjoys meaningful connections both with each other and with the outdoors. With a flawless 5.0 rating from 48 reviews, their reputation for exceeding expectations reflects their dedication to customer satisfaction and adventure mastery. Plus, having access to expert guides who personalize each outing means your friends will experience something tailor-made, leaving lasting memories. Meeting at Outdoor Mavens combines the thrill of exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes with an enriching social experience, making it the perfect rally point for friends seeking fun, challenge, and connection.
What activities can groups enjoy at Outdoor Mavens, and why are they ideal for meetups?
Outdoor Mavens offers a range of activities designed to suit various interests and fitness levels, ensuring every group member can find something exciting and accessible. They specialize in guided hikes through some of Utah’s most breathtaking mountain and desert terrain, including multi-day trips that range from backpacking expeditions to more relaxed car camping adventures. These trips are led by trained wilderness professionals who are not just skilled guides but passionate about sharing their knowledge, culture, and love of the outdoors with guests. In addition to hiking, they facilitate multi-sport adventures that can incorporate canyoneering — exploring slot canyons with expert safety support — and 4x4 driving for those interested in off-road thrills. This variety offers an excellent balance for groups who want both physical activity and moments of awe-inspiring nature. They also provide custom trip planning and gear rental, removing barriers that often complicate organizing group excursions. This means your group can focus on fun together rather than coordinating logistics. The curated experiences promote teamwork and deepen friendships by combining adventure with opportunities to learn and explore new skills in a safe environment.
How does Outdoor Mavens tailor experiences to fit the needs of different groups?
One of the greatest strengths of Outdoor Mavens is their customized approach to adventure travel. For groups, this means you’re not receiving a cookie-cutter itinerary but a trip designed around your interests, abilities, and goals. The adventure concierge team takes the time to listen to what your group wants — whether it’s a chill weekend escape, a multi-day endurance challenge, or a mix of activities like hiking, canyoneering, and 4x4 driving. From there, they map out a personalized plan complete with guided tours, gear rental, information on the best local spots, and recommendations for accommodations nearby, such as Airbnbs or restaurants. This meticulous planning alleviates the typical stress of organizing outdoor meetups, enabling groups to fully immerse themselves in the experience without worrying about details. Their guides are not only experts in outdoor skills but also thoughtful companions who foster a supportive group atmosphere. This attention to emotional and physical comfort encourages groups to bond deeply while exploring nature, making Outdoor Mavens a uniquely nurturing environment for group adventures.
What makes the location and setting of Outdoor Mavens perfect for group meetups?
Outdoor Mavens benefits tremendously from its location in Utah, a state renowned for its stunning and diverse natural landscapes, ranging from dramatic red rock deserts to rugged mountain ranges. This geographic diversity means that any group can find an adventure that suits their preferences, whether they crave high-energy desert running through Arches National Park or peaceful mountain hiking in the Wasatch Range. The accessibility of these natural playgrounds, coupled with the professionalism of Outdoor Mavens’ guides, creates a seamless experience in some of America’s most iconic outdoor settings. The setting naturally fosters connection — expansive views, fresh air, and serene wilderness offer an ideal counterbalance to the distractions of everyday life. These shared moments of awe and challenge bring groups closer together quickly. Additionally, the company’s emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that everyone feels welcome and respected in these communal outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall group dynamic. Thanks to this location and approach, meetups at Outdoor Mavens go beyond mere outings, becoming transformative experiences shared among friends and family.
How do Outdoor Mavens promote safety and confidence for groups during their adventures?
Safety and confidence are cornerstones of Outdoor Mavens’ service, which is crucial when organizing group activities in wilderness settings. Each trip is guided by trained wilderness professionals who not only have extensive knowledge of the terrain but are also skilled in managing the varied needs of group members. The guides offer clear instruction, monitor group dynamics, and provide equipment support, ensuring everyone feels secure at every stage. For those less experienced, this support is invaluable, as it helps new outdoor enthusiasts build genuine confidence in their abilities while enjoying the trip fully. Furthermore, their gear rental service provides high-quality, well-maintained equipment, eliminating common gear-related anxieties. The company also integrates mindfulness and rest into their itineraries, emphasizing that adventure is not about pushing your limits to exhaustion but about sustainable enjoyment and growth. By fostering this environment, Outdoor Mavens empowers groups to take on adventures boldly while maintaining wellbeing, making it an excellent choice for group meetups that seek safety alongside excitement.
What additional benefits does Outdoor Mavens offer to enhance your group adventure?
Beyond the core outdoor adventures, Outdoor Mavens brings several additional benefits that enrich group events. Their concierge service provides insider knowledge of Utah, from the best local restaurants where groups can unwind after a day outdoors to comfortable Airbnbs ideal for relaxing stays. This local expertise adds another layer of convenience and enjoyment to any meetup. Moreover, the company’s commitment to raising awareness about public land issues links recreation with stewardship, offering groups a chance to engage meaningfully with environmental conservation. This educative aspect can make your meetup more enriching by inspiring collective responsibility toward nature. The friendly, supportive personality of guides like Traci, frequently praised in guest reviews, enhances the social aspect of trips, making each outing more fun and emotionally memorable. These carefully crafted components make Outdoor Mavens not just a place for adventure but a partner in creating lifelong friendships and meaningful group experiences in beautiful settings.
In summary, Outdoor Mavens stands out as an ideal venue for hosting meetups with friends or family due to its expertly guided, customizable outdoor experiences, outstanding location in Utah, inclusive environment, and overall dedication to safety, education, and fun. Whether your group is seeking an active and adventurous trip or a relaxed nature getaway with meaningful connections, Outdoor Mavens offers a comprehensive and highly rated option that promises to exceed expectations.