Nestled in the heart of Utah’s stunning Wasatch Mountains, Ogden Canyon stands as one of the state’s premier destinations for nature enthusiasts, hiking aficionados, and weekend getaway seekers. This spectacular canyon offers breathtaking scenery, world-class outdoor recreation, and a peaceful escape from urban life.
When planning your Ogden Canyon adventure, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for maximizing your experience. Comfortable lodging in proximity to outdoor activities can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.
This comprehensive guide explores two of the most searched and highly-rated accommodations in the area: Best Western Plus Canyon Pines and Alaskan Inn. We’ll also provide an overview of other hotel options to help you make the perfect choice for your Utah getaway.
Best Western Plus Canyon Pines – Full Hotel Breakdown
Best Western Plus Canyon Pines is strategically located in South Ogden, positioned near the mouth of Ogden Canyon. This mid-range hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers, offering the reliability and quality standards associated with the Best Western Plus brand.
Key Details:
- Location: South Ogden, near Ogden Canyon entrance
- Hotel Class: Mid-range with business and leisure amenities
- Chain Affiliation: Best Western Plus
- Perfect For: Families, business travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts
Amenities & Features
Best Western Plus Canyon Pines offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to enhance your stay:
Core Amenities:
- Complimentary hot breakfast buffet
- Indoor heated pool and hot tub
- Fitness center with modern equipment
- High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Business center with meeting rooms
- ADA-compliant accessible rooms
- Pet-friendly accommodations (advance notice required)
Business Facilities:
- Professional meeting rooms
- Business center with printing services
- High-speed internet for remote work
Room Types & Pricing
| Room Type | Features | Seasonal Price Range |
| Standard King | King bed, work desk, mountain views | $120-180/night |
| Standard Queen | Two queen beds, family-friendly | $110-170/night |
| King Suite | Separate living area, kitchenette | $150-220/night |
| Pet-Friendly Rooms | Special amenities for pets | $130-190/night |
Booking Platforms:
Nearby Attractions
The hotel’s location provides easy access to numerous outdoor activities and attractions:
Outdoor Activities:
- Waterfall Canyon Trail: 1.2-mile hike to stunning waterfall
- Pineview Reservoir: Water sports and beach activities
- Ogden Botanical Gardens: Beautiful gardens and walking paths
- Ogden Valley: Skiing and snowshoeing in winter
Dining Options:
- Multiple restaurants within walking distance
- Local cafes and diners
- Delivery options available to the hotel
Reviews & Ratings
Rating Summary:
- Google Reviews: 4.5★ (based on 500+ reviews)
- TripAdvisor: 4.2★
- Yelp: 4.3★
Common Guest Praise:
- “Excellent breakfast selection”
- “Clean, well-maintained rooms”
- “Friendly and helpful staff”
- “Great location for canyon access”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Reliable chain hotel quality
- Excellent breakfast included
- Pet-friendly options
- Good value for money
- Professional amenities for business travelers
Cons:
- Can be busy during peak season
- Standard hotel atmosphere (less unique)
- Pool area can get crowded with families
Interesting Fact
Best Western Plus Canyon Pines has been recognized as one of the top-rated hotels for family travelers visiting Ogden Canyon, receiving the Best Western Plus “Excellence Award” for three consecutive years.
Alaskan Inn – Romantic Riverside Cabins & Suites
The Alaskan Inn offers a completely different experience from traditional hotels. This boutique lodge is nestled in a wooded canyon area directly along the Ogden River, providing an intimate and romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for couples seeking a unique getaway.
Key Details:
- Location: Within Ogden Canyon, riverside setting
- Style: Boutique lodge with themed cabins
- Policy: Adults-only (21+)
- Perfect For: Romantic getaways, honeymoons, anniversaries
Unique Features
The Alaskan Inn stands out with its distinctive offerings:
Accommodation Features:
- Private themed cabins (Alaskan, Wilderness, Glacier themes)
- In-room jacuzzi tubs in most cabins
- Cozy fireplaces for intimate evenings
- Continental breakfast delivered to your door
- Private river views and outdoor decks
- Unique Alaskan-themed décor and furnishings
Romantic Amenities:
- Couples’ massage services (by appointment)
- Private hot tubs on select cabin decks
- Champagne and chocolate packages
- Fireplace and romantic lighting
Booking & Availability
Reservation Options:
- Direct booking through Alaskan Inn Website
- Listed on Google Hotels
- Available on select third-party platforms
Booking Tips:
- Reserve well in advance, especially for weekends
- Check for seasonal packages and romantic add-ons
- Direct booking often includes additional perks
Guest Experience
The Alaskan Inn specializes in creating memorable experiences for couples:
Popular Occasions:
- Honeymoons and wedding anniversaries
- Romantic weekend retreats
- Couples’ staycations
- Special celebrations and proposals
Unique Experiences:
- Wake up to the sound of the Ogden River
- Enjoy breakfast in bed with canyon views
- Relax in private hot tubs under the stars
- Explore hiking trails directly from the property
Reviews & Highlights
Rating Summary:
- Google Reviews: 4.3★ (based on 200+ reviews)
- TripAdvisor: 4.4★
- Yelp: 4.2★
Guest Testimonials:
- “Most romantic getaway we’ve ever had”
- “Beautiful riverside location and peaceful atmosphere”
- “Exceptional service and attention to detail”
- “Perfect for a special anniversary celebration”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique, romantic atmosphere
- Direct river access and canyon location
- Personalized service
- Private, intimate setting
- Breakfast delivered to room
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Adults-only policy (not family-friendly)
- Limited dining options on-site
- Can book up quickly during peak season
Interesting Fact
The Alaskan Inn has been featured in several Utah travel blogs and is a popular choice for wedding elopement packages. The property has also been highlighted in “Rocky Mountain Bride” magazine as one of Utah’s most romantic lodging options.
General Overview: Hotels in Ogden Canyon
The Ogden Canyon area primarily features boutique hotels, mid-size accommodations, and specialty lodges rather than large chain hotels. This creates a more intimate and personalized experience for visitors.
Market Characteristics:
- Mostly boutique or mid-size hotels and inns
- High demand during spring and summer seasons
- Focus on outdoor recreation and scenic beauty
- Strong emphasis on romantic and family-friendly options
Search Trends & Intent
Based on search data and booking patterns, visitors to Ogden Canyon typically look for:
Popular Search Terms:
- “Romantic hotels Ogden Canyon”
- “Family-friendly lodging South Ogden”
- “Hotels near Ogden Canyon hiking”
- “Pet-friendly hotels Ogden Utah”
Booking Patterns:
- Peak season: May through September
- High demand for weekend bookings
- Advance reservations recommended (2-4 weeks)
Other Accommodation Options
| Property | Location | Style | Price Range |
| Compass Rose Lodge | Huntsville | Boutique Inn | $$$ |
| Hilton Garden Inn | Ogden City Center | Business Hotel | $$ |
| Local Airbnbs | Various Canyon Locations | Vacation Rentals | $-$$$ |
| Vrbo Cabins | Ogden Valley | Private Cabins | $$-$$$ |
Alternative Lodging:
- Compass Rose Lodge: Luxury boutique option in nearby Huntsville
- Hilton Garden Inn: Business-focused hotel in Ogden city center
- Vacation Rentals: Private homes and cabins available through Airbnb and Vrbo
Comparative Summary
| Feature | Best Western Plus Canyon Pines | Alaskan Inn |
| Style | Business/Leisure Hotel | Romantic Boutique Cabins |
| Price Range | $$ ($110-220/night) | $$$ ($180-350/night) |
| Adults-Only | No | Yes |
| Breakfast | Hot buffet breakfast | Delivered to room |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes | No |
| Pool/Spa | Indoor pool & hot tub | Private cabin hot tubs |
| Best For | Families, business travelers | Couples, romantic getaways |
| Location | South Ogden (canyon entrance) | Within canyon (riverside) |
| Booking | Best Western Site | Alaskan Inn Site |
| Notable Feature | Reliable chain quality | Unique themed cabins |
Local Insights & History
Ogden Canyon holds significant historical importance in Utah’s development:
- Early Settlement: The canyon was historically used by trappers and early Mormon settlers as a route through the Wasatch Mountains
- Transportation Hub: Served as a crucial passage for trade and travel in the 19th century
- Modern Development: Now serves as a major gateway to the Wasatch Mountains and popular ski resorts
Outdoor Recreation Hub
Both hotels serve as ideal bases for year-round outdoor adventures:
Summer Activities:
- Hiking and mountain biking
- Fly-fishing in the Ogden River
- Rock climbing and bouldering
- Photography and wildlife watching
Winter Activities:
- Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
- Alpine skiing at nearby resorts
- Winter photography
- Cozy cabin retreats
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Best Western Plus Canyon Pines offers pet-friendly rooms with advance notice. There may be additional fees, and pets must be well-behaved and supervised.
No, the Alaskan Inn maintains an adults-only policy (21+) and is specifically designed for romantic getaways and couples’ retreats.
The Alaskan Inn is physically located within the canyon and offers more direct access to trailheads, while Best Western Plus Canyon Pines is near the canyon entrance.
Yes, both properties offer scenic views. Best Western Plus Canyon Pines provides mountain views from many rooms, while the Alaskan Inn offers more immersive canyon and river surroundings.
Yes, both locations have several dining options nearby, including cafes, diners, and grills. Many restaurants offer delivery services to the hotels.
Both hotels are approximately 10-15 minutes by car from Ogden city center, depending on traffic and your specific destination.
Ogden Canyon offers two distinctly different but equally compelling lodging options for your Utah getaway. Best Western Plus Canyon Pines provides reliable, family-friendly accommodations with excellent amenities and value, making it perfect for families, business travelers, and those seeking comfortable, traditional hotel amenities.
Alaskan Inn, on the other hand, offers a unique, romantic experience with its themed cabins, riverside location, and adults-only atmosphere, making it ideal for couples, honeymooners, and those seeking a more intimate canyon experience.
Final Recommendations:
Choose Best Western Plus Canyon Pines if:
- You’re traveling with family or pets
- You prefer traditional hotel amenities
- You want reliable service and good value
- You need business facilities
Choose Alaskan Inn if:
- You’re planning a romantic getaway
- You want a unique, memorable experience
- You prefer intimate, boutique accommodations
- You’re celebrating a special occasion
Planning Tips:
- Book well in advance, especially for peak season (May-September)
- Consider your primary activities when choosing location
- Check for seasonal packages and special offers
- Read recent reviews before booking
Both properties offer excellent access to Ogden Canyon’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, ensuring your Utah mountain getaway will be unforgettable regardless of which accommodation you choose.