Spending Christmas break in Logan won't make it blue

By Jared Sagers

December 20, 2005 | The finals are over, the books have closed and another semester is under our belts. Our minds which feel like burnt out light bulbs will have a chance to regain some brightness; and to top it all off it is Christmastime which means USU students will be packing up and heading home for the holidays.

But if you are one the few students who are stuck here in Cache Valley for the Christmas break, don't worry. There is plenty to do to satisfy the stay-at-home reader to the out-of-doors hiker.

Danny McBride, a junior in soil science at Utah State, says he loves to spend the winter in Logan.

"One of my favorite things to do is go up Logan Canyon with some buddies, or just alone, either way. Throw on a pair of snowshoes and just hike. I love just soaking in the beauty of a winter wonderland."

McBride also says he is fan of Beaver Mountain. "It may not be as classy as the other big ski resorts but once you're flying down the hill, it doesn't matter where you're at."

If you don't have the necessary winter gear for an activity like this. Once again have no fear. Utah State's Outdoor Recreation Center is a great place to rent all the skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and other winter gear.

But hiking up a frozen piece of rock may feel more like a punishment than a leisurely activity to some people. If you are one of these people, perhaps you would be better trying out Logan's cultural district.

Dustin Johnson, an art history student, says his favorite activity is tasting from the giant buffet which is Logan's many different restaurants. "If I could give one piece of advice to students who are stuck in Logan over Christmas Break is to try out all the different restaurants. There are so many, and so many of them are exclusive to Logan. It is a money spender but most of the restaurants in town are pretty affordable."

Restaurants aren't the only thing that downtown Logan has to offer. If you look around as you drive through downtown Logan you will notice several different theaters, both movie and stage. The Ellen Eccles Theater is one theater showing productions all through the Christmas season. From Ballet to the Bar-J wranglers there are plenty of productions to choose from.

Still not convinced? Well if neither of those tickles your fancy then Logan offers a night on the town for the "burger and fry guy." If you want to go out for a burger and then some billiards or bowling, in just a short drive you could be at one of Logan's many fast food joints and then in a few more minutes be chalking up cue stick at Cache Valley Fun Park or Cajun Bob's or lacing up your bowling shoes at Logan Lanes.

Matt Hobson, an engineering student, says he's more of the "burger and fry guy.

"I just like going out to McDonalds then shooting pool. Nothing fancy, nothing expensive, just good cheap fun".

So don't feel down if you're left up here while it seems like the entire rest of the world has gone home for Christmas. There are many others who are in your shoes. Enjoy the holidays and enjoy the different array of activities Logan has to offer.

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