OREM, Utah — While COVID-19 changed everyone’s summer plans, it can’t cancel the outdoors. The Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) is taking advantage of the lull in events and is currently hosting its fourth annual Peak-a-Week summer hiking series with a twist that follows the CDC’s guidelines on social distancing. This unique hiking series features a different Utah peak for participants to summit each week.

“During this pandemic, many people have more time than usual to recreate,” said Kim Reynolds, director of the OAC. “Our Peak-a-Week series continues to provide an opportunity and the motivation to get students outside.”

To practice social distancing, the OAC is not hiking trails as a group. Instead, interested participants need to join the OAC Club, a free service that connects individuals with outdoor opportunities recommended by the OAC. Club members receive information on the peak to be summited during the week, including:

• Trail conditions
• Difficulty level of the hike
• Preparation recommendations for the hike

As an incentive for participants, those who complete at least 50% of the scheduled hikes will receive an OAC Buff. More than the benefit of a prize, participating in the hiking series will help create a more balanced lifestyle.

“Being on top of a peak can provide a physical challenge, mental clarity, and offer feelings of peace and serenity,” said Reynolds. “In a world where there is so much uncertainty right now, you can always count on the beauty of nature to soothe the soul.”

The Peak-a-Week series is set up as a progression, starting with lower elevation peaks and ending with those that are higher along the Wasatch Front. Popular peaks in the series include:

• Squaw Peak
• Lone Peak
• Mount Timpanogos
• Box Elder
• Big Baldy
• Pfeifferhorn

“When stress, loneliness, or depression become overwhelming, try going outside to your favorite spot and just listening,” said Reynolds. “Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.”