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Best day trips from Salt Lake City

The best places to escape Salt Lake City for a day — drives, train rides, and easy outings within 1–3 hours of the city.

Salt Lake City, UT, USA· Airport: SLC
Salt Lake City — Day trips | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Most day trips from Salt Lake City involve driving 45 to 120 minutes each way.
  • A rental vehicle is recommended for flexibility, especially when visiting multiple sites or national parks.
  • Park City and Ogden are accessible by public transit (UTA FrontRunner train, bus) for car-free options.
  • Antelope Island State Park, 50 miles north, offers wildlife viewing and Great Salt Lake access.
  • Alpine Loop Scenic Byway near Provo provides stunning mountain views, typically open late spring through fall.
  • Prepare for varied weather; pack layers, water, and sun protection regardless of destination.
  • Many destinations have entrance fees (e.g., state parks, national monuments); check in advance.

Salt Lake City serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes of Utah, offering convenient access to mountains, deserts, and historical sites within a few hours' drive. The city's central location means a variety of day trip options are easily reachable, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, scenic drives, or a change of pace from urban life. Many popular destinations are within a two-hour radius, allowing for a full day of exploration without excessive travel time.

To make the most of day trips from Salt Lake City, planning is key. Consider the season, as high-elevation areas like Park City or the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest can experience different weather conditions than the valley. Similarly, desert destinations south of the city will be significantly hotter in summer. Checking road conditions and park operating hours beforehand is always advisable, especially for state or national park entrances.

While a rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace, guided tours are available for many popular destinations like Park City or Antelope Island, often including transportation and pre-arranged activities. These can be a good option if you prefer not to drive or want expert commentary. Remember to pack essentials such as water, snacks, and appropriate layers, as weather can change quickly, particularly in mountain environments.

Driving times are generally manageable, with most significant attractions located within a 90-minute to two-hour drive. This allows ample time to enjoy your chosen destination and return to Salt Lake City before evening. For those with specific interests or complex itineraries, a CheapoTrav agent can help tailor your day trip plans.

In this guide

  • Top picks for day trips
  • How to get there from Salt Lake City
  • Best for nature
  • Best for food and drink
  • Tips for planning

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular mountain day trips from Salt Lake City?
For mountain scenery, Park City is a popular choice, approximately 45 minutes east. It offers scenic drives, resort activities, and Main Street exploration. The Cottonwood Canyons (Little Cottonwood Canyon leading to Alta and Snowbird, and Big Cottonwood Canyon to Brighton and Solitude) are about 30-45 minutes southeast and provide hiking trails, scenic views, and ski resort access depending on the season. In summer, you can often ride gondolas or chairlifts for expansive views without extensive hiking.
Are there any desert or unique geological day trips from Salt Lake City?
Yes, Antelope Island State Park, about an hour's drive north of SLC, offers unique desert and lake views. It's home to free-roaming bison, antelope, and birds. You can drive to the island, hike, or visit the Fielding Garr Ranch. Further south, about a 2-hour drive, Goblin Valley State Park features thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations called 'goblins,' offering a distinctive landscape for exploration and photography.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Can I visit a national park as a day trip from Salt Lake City?
While Utah's 'Mighty 5' national parks are generally too far for a comfortable day trip (requiring 3-5+ hours one-way driving), a closer option is Timpanogos Cave National Monument, about an hour south of Salt Lake City. It offers guided tours through impressive limestone caves. Note that access involves a strenuous uphill hike to the cave entrance and tours require advance reservations. It provides a taste of national park service sites within reasonable driving distance.
What's the best way to get around for day trips outside of Salt Lake City?
A rental car provides the most flexibility for day trips from Salt Lake City. Public transportation via UTA (Utah Transit Authority) FrontRunner commuter rail and bus system can get you to cities like Ogden or Provo, but reaching specific trailheads, state parks, or more remote attractions typically requires a vehicle. Some guided tour operators offer transportation to popular destinations like Park City or the Great Salt Lake.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Are there any historic or cultural day trip options near Salt Lake City?
South of Salt Lake City, about a 45-minute drive, Provo offers Brigham Young University's campus and various cultural sites. To the north, Ogden, also about 45 minutes away by car or FrontRunner train, boasts a historic 25th Street known for its railroad history and architecture, now home to shops and restaurants. Both cities provide a different cultural perspective from Salt Lake City's core.
What should I pack for a day trip from Salt Lake City?
For any day trip from Salt Lake City, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can change significantly from morning to afternoon, especially in higher elevations or desert environments. Always carry ample water, snacks, and sunscreen. Depending on your activity, bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. A basic first-aid kit and a charged phone are also essential, especially if heading to areas with limited services.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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