The Cache Valley Backcountry Film Festival in Hyrum, Utah, offers more than just a cinematic experience—it’s a gateway into the heart of adventure culture rooted in rugged landscapes and fierce wilderness. Set in a town where the Great Basin’s outback presses close, the festival spotlights films that capture the grit and thrill of outdoor exploration, from mountain trails coursing through pine-scented air to icy rivers daring paddlers to trust their currents.

Held annually, this festival brings adventurers, filmmakers, and enthusiasts together to celebrate stories told through the lens of the backcountry. The featured films range from intense climbs and backcountry skiing to remote hiking expeditions and environmental conservation efforts. Each screening immerses viewers in wild places that challenge the body and spirit, reminding attendees that nature is fiercely itself—a force to be met with respect.

Attending in Hyrum, visitors also have the chance to explore nearby outdoor trails, including Forest Service paths that wind through dense fir and aspen groves, offering a practical extension of the adventure themes on screen. Days can be spent on moderate hikes ranging from 4 to 7 miles with elevation gains between 800 and 1,200 feet, providing just enough challenge to feel accomplished without overexertion.

Planning your trip to the festival means thinking about timing and preparation. Early fall is ideal, when the air turns crisp and the Aspens begin their golden display, while summer months deliver long daylight to explore before screenings. Footwear with solid traction and weather-resistant layers will serve you well as mountain temperatures can vary quickly. Hydration is key; clear mountain springs and local cafes provide options to refill and recharge.

The festival is more than a film event; it’s an invitation to engage with the Cache Valley’s rugged storytelling landscape firsthand. As you watch the daring feats and quiet moments captured on screen, step outside and feel the same wild pulse—whether it’s the crunch of pine needles beneath boots or the restless whisper of wind moving through the canyon walls.

For casual adventurers and seasoned explorers alike, this fusion of film and outdoor life offers a practical and compelling call to step into a world where every path and story challenges you to be present, prepared, and inspired.