Looking to swap city streets for something a little wilder and more awe-inspiring? That’s exactly what I needed when I set out from Salt Lake City, and I was amazed at how much natural beauty I found—all in a single day’s drive. From alpine lakes to red rock canyons, each spot gave me a different slice of Utah’s soul. These day trips from Salt Lake City are the ones I always recommend when you want to reconnect with the land and come home feeling completely refreshed.
Highlights:
Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City:
Park City - 45-minute day trip from Salt Lake City - Ski on world-class slopes and explore vibrant historic Main Street in winter.
Ogden, Utah - Only a 35-minute drive - Walk along a lively historic district and explore exciting outdoor recreation spots.
Antelope Island State Park - 1 hour by car - See free-roaming bison and hike scenic trails along the Great Salt Lake.
Bear Lake - 2 hours and 15 minutes by car - Go boating on turquoise waters and admire stunning mountain scenery.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge - 1 hour and 15 minutes - Discover diverse bird species and walk along peaceful wetlands.
The Bonneville Salt Flats - 1 hour and 45 minutes - See endless white salt plains and admire breathtaking desert landscapes.
Cedar City - 4 hours by car - Explore Shakespearean theater and visit nearby national parks on a cultural trip.
Cove Fort - 2 hours and 30 minutes from Salt Lake City - Visit a well-preserved pioneer fort and learn about Utah’s early settlers.
Crystal Hot Springs - 1 hour and 30 minutes - Relax in natural mineral pools and enjoy a rejuvenating soak.
Eden - About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car - Admire stunning valley views and explore outdoor adventures in this quiet mountain town.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What makes Salt Lake City a unique destination?
- Salt Lake City is Utah's charming capital city, located on the banks of the stunning saltwater lake of the same name and known for its attractions connected to the region's Latter-Day Saints Church history.
- What skiing destinations are near Salt Lake City?
- Area visitors and residents can easily day trip to some of the Rocky Mountains' top skiing destinations, including the acclaimed Sundance Mountain Resort, which hosts the prestigious Sundance Film Festival each year.
- Are there attractions related to the 2002 Winter Olympics?
- Many attractions in the area preserve the history of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Winter Games, including Utah Olympic Park, located in Park City.
- What is special about the Bonneville Salt Flats?
- Stunning natural areas include the unique Bonneville Salt Flats, which create a tundra-like landscape and are known as one of the United States' top outdoor destinations for motor racing.
Best Time for Day Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah:
- March to May – Spring brings wildflowers, mild temps, and great conditions for hiking and national parks.
- June to August – Summer offers sunny skies perfect for mountain lakes, canyons, and alpine escapes.
- September to October – Crisp air and golden foliage make fall ideal for scenic drives and desert exploration.
- November – Cooler days with fewer crowds, perfect for cultural sites and peaceful nature spots.
- December to February – Winter shines with world-class skiing, snowy trails, and cozy mountain towns.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Park City - 45-minute day trip from Salt Lake City
- • Ogden, Utah - Only a 35-minute drive
- • Antelope Island State Park - 1 hour by car
- • Bear Lake - 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
- • Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge - 1 hour and 15 minutes
- • The Bonneville Salt Flats - 1 hour and 45 minutes
- • Cedar City - 4 hours by car
- • Cove Fort - 2 hours and 30 minutes from Salt Lake City
- • Crystal Hot Springs - 1 hour and 30 minutes
- • Eden - About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car