Summary of Day Trips
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is situated on the shores of the Great Salt Lake, surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountains. Despite its status as a major urban area, Salt Lake City maintains a small-town charm. This community-oriented city is welcoming and ideal for exploration.
At the heart of the city lies Temple Square, a prominent landmark housing the headquarters of the Mormon Church, exemplified by the Salt Lake Temple. After visiting the primary attractions, consider venturing beyond the city limits to discover additional gems. The following are 15 notable day trips from Salt Lake City to ignite your sense of adventure.
1. Bonneville Salt Flats
Renowned as the site of the Bonneville Speedway, the Bonneville Salt Flats are an essential natural wonder in Utah. Covering over 30,000 acres, this vast area of compacted natural salt formed during the Pleistocene era, following the complete evaporation of Lake Bonneville.
Ranging from six feet deep in some areas to just one inch in others, it is a captivating destination for geographers. The most picturesque times to visit are at sunrise and sunset, although witnessing a seasonal storm passing through the plains can be equally awe-inspiring.
2. Midway
The charming town of Midway is perhaps one of Utah’s best-kept secrets. Nestled in Heber Valley, Midway serves as the entry point to remarkable natural landscapes and family-friendly day excursions. Nature enthusiasts will delight in Wasatch Mountain State Park, an excellent place for morning hikes and exploration, as well as Cascade Springs.
For those interested in fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, Deer Creek Dam and Reservoir should be a priority. Midway is also home to numerous classic American diners, offering an ideal spot to refuel before returning to Salt Lake City.
3. Fishlake National Forest
Utah boasts some of the most visually appealing landscapes in the United States, and Fishlake National Forest is no exception. Towering aspen trees frame rugged mountainous meadows and vibrant, wildflower-filled prairies. Fish Lake, the namesake of this enchanting national forest, is regarded as Utah’s crown jewel, being the largest freshwater mountain lake in the state.
Throughout the year, each season brings new landscapes and natural vistas to explore in Fishlake National Forest.
4. Heber Valley Railroad
For train enthusiasts or families with children fascinated by locomotives, the Heber Valley Railroad presents a splendid day trip from Salt Lake City. This heritage railway extends from Heber City to Vivian Park, offering a 90-minute journey through some of Utah’s most stunning scenery, including Deer Creek Reservoir, which is rich in birdlife.
The Heber Valley Railroad team enhances the experience by hosting themed events and activities every week. Families will appreciate the prince and princess events for children, while adults can enjoy comedic outings.
5. Ogden Valley
Regardless of the season, Ogden Valley offers numerous opportunities for fun and recreation. Whether seeking active pursuits or a more leisurely experience, numerous activities are available to suit your desires. From rugged mountain peaks to gently flowing streams, options include horseback riding, mountain biking, and beyond.
Ogden Valley Canyon serves as an excellent site for rock climbing, while skilled climbers will find additional challenges on more advanced rock faces. In winter, Powder Mountain is the ideal location to enjoy skiing at Utah’s largest ski resort.
6. Crystal Hot Springs
If you seek relaxation and rejuvenation, look no further than Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville. Notably, these hot springs boast the highest mineral content globally, providing an extraordinary therapeutic experience.
Visitors can enjoy various pools with different temperatures, ensuring a comfortable experience, even when busy. For those wishing to extend their stay, nearby accommodations in Brigham City offer access to an array of dining options.
7. Provo
Located on the shores of Utah Lake, Provo is a vibrant university city characterized by its dynamic atmosphere. The open-minded community makes it an ideal location for leisurely days spent exploring local coffee shops or engaging in educational experiences.
The Brigham Young University Museum of Art features a diverse collection of contemporary artworks across various genres. Meanwhile, the BYU Museum of Paleontology provides insights into dinosaurs, fossils, and ancient history. Additionally, the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum presents captivating animal dioramas and environmental exhibits.
8. Solitude Mountain Resort
There is no need to travel far from Salt Lake City to experience winter sports. Solitude Mountain Resort stands out as one of Utah’s top ski locations and remains accessible throughout the year for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Visitors can rent equipment on-site and ride the ski lift or enroll in lessons suited to their ability.
The resort’s intimate atmosphere fosters a strong sense of community, allowing visitors to create lasting memories in a welcoming environment.
9. Mount Timpanogos
Commonly referred to as Timp, Mount Timpanogos is one of Utah’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks, standing as the second-highest peak in the Wasatch Range. While it maintains a rugged wilderness feel, the trails are well-established, making it one of the state’s most popular and challenging hiking destinations.
For those seeking a full adventure, the 15-mile round trip to the summit offers stunning vistas. However, those looking for less strenuous options can hike to Timpooneke Trailhead or tackle a portion of the ascent toward Timp Saddle.
10. Gobblers Knob
Gobblers Knob is a towering mountain peak that overlooks the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake City. This challenging hike is intended for avid hikers, as it follows the Alexander Basin Trail. After leaving the wildflower-filled meadows, the ascent to the summit at 10,246 feet requires determination.
The breathtaking views from the top reward every effort, offering vistas of Reynolds Peak to the east and Mt. Raymond to the southwest, alongside expansive views of Grandeur Peak and Salt Lake City to the south.
11. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
For those who enjoy leisurely drives through picturesque landscapes, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is an excellent choice. This byway, flanked by stunning mountains and dotted with serene lakes, even traverses parts of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, showcasing breathtaking views.
Numerous pull-off spots along the route provide opportunities for photography and short hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
12. Cedar City
Cedar City, located in Iron County, is a city rich in heritage and pioneer history. This charming location transports visitors back to the Wild West era. A visit to the Frontier Homestead State Museum promises an engaging experience for families, featuring a traditional stagecoach ride, numerous permanent exhibits, and insightful visiting displays.
Additionally, visitors may explore Park Discovery or venture to the Southern Utah Museum of Art to appreciate works by Salvador Dali and other notable artists.
13. Eden
The quaint village of Eden, situated in Weber County, serves as a gateway to some of Utah’s premier ski resorts. Proximity to Powder Mountain, Nordic Valley, and Snow Basin provides ample introduction to the state’s mountainous terrain.
For those preferring gentler hikes, Eden offers opportunities to stroll through wildflower-filled meadows while gazing up at the majestic mountains; an ideal blend of experiences. Local diners and restaurants provide a taste of traditional American cuisine with genuine Utah hospitality.
14. Antelope Island
Antelope Island presents a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a thriving population of bison, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and, notably, the island’s namesake: the pronghorn antelope. Antelope Island is teeming with avian species, attracting thousands of visitors from various locales.
Visitors can choose from an array of walking and hiking trails that meander through the island’s diverse ecosystems. It is essential to respect the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and refraining from feeding them. Photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities, although drones are permitted only on weekdays during the winter months.
15. Goblin Valley State Park
Have you ever encountered a hoodoo rock? Goblin Valley State Park is renowned for its thousands of these mushroom-shaped rock formations, referred to as “goblins” by locals. This uniquely scenic and red-hued landscape is not only photogenic but also offers fascinating geological insights.
These remarkable formations were created by an erosion-resistant layer of rock overlying softer sandstone, creating a visually stunning environment ideal for explorers seeking hidden treasures off the usual tourist routes.
