Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Salt Lake City, UT for a day of adventure and exploration? Look no further than the incredible day trips from Salt Lake City UT that offer a perfect getaway from the city life. From stunning national parks to charming small towns, there is no shortage of exciting destinations to explore just a short drive away from Salt Lake City. Join us as we uncover the best day trips from Salt Lake City UT that will leave you refreshed and inspired.
Park City
Travel tips
- Distance of Park City from Salt Lake City UT: 32 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 40 minutes by car
- How to get there from Salt Lake City UT: You can drive to Park City via I-80 E, or take the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) bus service from Salt Lake City to Park City. The bus station in Salt Lake City is located at 600 W 200 S, and the bus will drop you off at the Old Town Transit Center in Park City.
- Click for Google maps directions: Park City
Exploring Park City: Things to do
Park City is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its world-renowned ski resorts, including Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort, it’s a paradise for winter sports lovers. In the summer, Park City transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor concerts.
Apart from outdoor activities, Park City also offers a vibrant arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore the historic Main Street lined with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The Park City Museum provides a glimpse into the town’s mining history and the famous Sundance Film Festival.
For a unique experience, take a ride on the historic Park City Mountain Coaster or visit the Utah Olympic Park, where you can try your hand at bobsledding or watch athletes train. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious cuisine at one of the many award-winning restaurants in town.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Park City has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this dynamic mountain town and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains.
Antelope Island State Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: Approximately 41 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there: Take I-15 N from Salt Lake City, then follow signs for Antelope Island State Park. No direct public transportation available.
- Click for Google maps directions: Antelope Island State Park
Exploring Antelope Island State Park: Things to do
Antelope Island State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Salt Lake City. The park offers a unique experience with its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and recreational activities.
One of the top things to do at Antelope Island State Park is wildlife viewing. The park is home to a large population of bison, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat and capture memorable photos.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers hiking and biking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountains. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced hikers and bikers.
Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, swimming, and sunbathing at the park’s beaches along the Great Salt Lake. The salty waters of the lake provide a unique swimming experience, and the sandy beaches are perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Overall, Antelope Island State Park is a hidden gem near Salt Lake City that offers a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day trip, this park has something for everyone.
Sundance Mountain Resort
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: Approximately 45 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there: Take I-15 S from Salt Lake City, then follow US-189 S to UT-92 E in Provo Canyon. Continue on UT-92 E to reach Sundance Mountain Resort. The nearest bus station is the Provo Central Station, and the nearest train station is the Provo Amtrak Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sundance Mountain Resort
Exploring Sundance Mountain Resort: Things to do
Sundance Mountain Resort is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The resort offers a range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. One of the top things to do at Sundance is hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the surrounding mountains. The fresh mountain air and breathtaking views make it a perfect setting for a day of exploration.
For those seeking adventure, the resort also offers mountain biking trails that provide an adrenaline-pumping experience. Visitors can rent bikes on-site and tackle the rugged terrain while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the area. Additionally, Sundance Mountain Resort is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from near and far.
If relaxation is more your style, the resort’s spa facilities offer a range of treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate. From massages to facials, you can pamper yourself amidst the tranquil surroundings of the resort. Sundance also boasts a variety of dining options, including farm-to-table restaurants that serve up delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Overall, Sundance Mountain Resort provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy a wide array of activities in a serene mountain setting. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a peaceful retreat, Sundance has something for everyone.
Bonneville Salt Flats
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there: The best way to reach Bonneville Salt Flats from Salt Lake City is by car. Take I-80 W from Salt Lake City and continue on this route until you reach the Bonneville Salt Flats. There are no direct bus or train stations near the flats.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bonneville Salt Flats
Exploring Bonneville Salt Flats: Things to do
Bonneville Salt Flats is a must-see destination for those seeking a unique natural wonder. The vast expanse of white salt flats stretching as far as the eye can see offers a surreal and mesmerizing experience. One of the top things to do at Bonneville Salt Flats is to witness the stunning salt formations and the mirage effect that occurs on hot days, creating a breathtaking optical illusion.
Visitors can also engage in activities such as salt flat racing, where speed enthusiasts come to test the limits of their vehicles on the perfectly flat surface. The annual Speed Week event attracts racers from around the world, adding to the excitement and adrenaline of the place.
For those looking for a more leisurely experience, a peaceful walk on the salt flats under the vast open sky is a serene and calming activity. The unique landscape and the stark contrast of the white salt against the blue sky make for incredible photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera.
Overall, Bonneville Salt Flats offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines natural beauty with thrilling activities, making it a destination that should not be missed when visiting Utah.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: Approximately 40 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there: Take I-15 S from Salt Lake City, then follow signs for Timpanogos Cave National Monument. The nearest bus station is the Orem Central Station, and the nearest train station is the Provo Amtrak Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Exploring Timpanogos Cave National Monument: Things to do
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The main highlight of the monument is the stunning cave system that offers a unique underground adventure. Guided tours take visitors through narrow passageways adorned with intricate cave formations, providing a glimpse into the geological wonders of the region.
Aside from the cave exploration, visitors can also enjoy scenic hikes in the surrounding area. The Timpanogos Cave Trail offers breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and Utah Valley, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and diverse plant species along the way.
For those interested in history, the monument offers insights into the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area. Interpretive exhibits provide information on the cultural significance of the caves and the surrounding landscape, adding depth to the visitor experience.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, or a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a must-see destination in Utah. Plan your visit to explore the wonders that lie beneath the surface and immerse yourself in the rich history of this unique geological site.
Snowbird Ski Resort
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: 29 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: From Salt Lake City, take I-15 S to I-215 S, then take exit 6 for UT-190 E toward 9400 S. Follow signs for Snowbird Ski Resort.
- Click for Google maps directions: Snowbird Ski Resort
Exploring Snowbird Ski Resort: Things to do
Snowbird Ski Resort is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts in Utah. With its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities, it’s a must-see place for anyone looking to experience the thrill of the slopes. The resort boasts over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
One of the top things to do at Snowbird is to hit the slopes and enjoy the fresh powder that Utah is famous for. The resort offers a variety of runs, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging black diamond trails for the more experienced skiers and snowboarders. Snowbird is also known for its steep terrain and deep powder, making it a paradise for adrenaline junkies.
Apart from skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains through snowshoeing or snowmobiling tours. The resort’s tram ride to the top of Hidden Peak provides breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
After a day of outdoor adventures, visitors can unwind at one of the resort’s cozy lodges or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants. Snowbird Ski Resort truly offers a complete winter getaway experience for those seeking adventure and relaxation in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Great Salt Lake Marina
Travel tips
- Distance from Salt Lake City UT: 16 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by car
- How to get there: Take I-15 N from Salt Lake City and follow signs for Great Salt Lake Marina. There are no direct bus or train stations to the marina.
- Click for Google maps directions: Great Salt Lake Marina
Exploring Great Salt Lake Marina: Things to do
Great Salt Lake Marina is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Salt Lake City. The marina offers a unique experience with its stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and a variety of activities to enjoy.
One of the top things to do at Great Salt Lake Marina is bird watching. The area is a haven for bird species, including pelicans, gulls, and herons. Visitors can bring binoculars and observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
For those looking for adventure, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities at the marina. The calm waters of the Great Salt Lake provide a serene setting for a relaxing paddle or an exciting water adventure.
Fishing is another favorite pastime at Great Salt Lake Marina. Anglers can try their luck at catching a variety of fish species, including trout and catfish. The marina offers a peaceful and scenic environment for a day of fishing.
Overall, Great Salt Lake Marina is a hidden gem just a short drive from Salt Lake City, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore nature, or engage in outdoor activities, the marina has something for everyone to enjoy.
