Day Trips from Salt Lake City

Clock Icon 10 minutes read
Update Icon May 20, 2023

Welcome to our blog post about Salt Lake City day trips! If you’re seeking a day trip from Salt Lake City, then look no further – this post has some of the best ideas for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. In this post, we’ll be sharing some of the best day trip ideas that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

From visiting the Great Salt Lake and Bonneville Salt Flats to mountain biking in Park City and exploring Antelope Island State Park, there’s no shortage of amazing places to discover. We’ll also be highlighting some lesser-known gems like Goblin Valley State Park and Cedar City that offer a unique perspective on Utah’s stunning landscape.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway or weekend trip, we’ve got plenty of options too. Whether it’s soaking in hot springs or taking a scenic drive through Fishlake National Forest, there’s something for everyone on this list.

So get ready to pack your bags and hit the road – these day trips from Salt Lake City are sure to delight!

Great Salt Lake

Photo Credit: Zack Frank

The Great Salt Lake is a spectacular destination located just west of Salt Lake City. It’s the largest body of water west of the Great Lakes and offers stunning views, unique outdoor activities, and a plethora of vacation rental options.

At the Golden Spike National Historic Site, one can discover more about railroad history through multimedia presentations and displays that offer a comprehensive glimpse into this significant part of American culture. This site features relics from the locomotive to telegraphs, painting a vivid picture of this historic mode of transportation in America. Plus, there are interactive displays for kids so they can get involved too.

The Spiral Jetty art installation at Promontory Summit is another must-see while visiting The Great Salt Lake. This mesmerizing sculpture provides an intriguing look into Utah’s past as it winds its way around a saltwater lake with mesmerizing colors reflecting off its surface. Exploring the Spiral Jetty at Promontory Summit can be an unforgettable experience, offering a range of opportunities for learning and appreciation of stunning natural beauty.

For those seeking adventure during their stay at The Great Salt Lake area, there are plenty of hiking trails available around Mount Timpanogos Wilderness area in Provo. From short hikes along easy terrain to more challenging treks over rocky terrain – no matter your skill level – these trails offer something special to explore while taking in beautiful mountain vistas and getting some fresh air.

Investigating the expansive Great Salt Lake is a remarkable chance to get acquainted with Utah’s past and customs. For those looking for more adventure, outdoor activities such as hiking in the Mount Timpanogos Wilderness area are also available.

Outdoor Adventures

Photo Credit: Michael Rosebrock

Outdoor adventures are abundant in and around Salt Lake City. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or an extended weekend getaway, there is something to suit everyone’s needs. For those who love the outdoors, Fishlake National Forest offers excellent hiking trails with stunning views of Mirror Lake and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Dinosaur National Monument is also nearby and offers great hikes along the Colorado River as well as hot springs for soaking up some relaxation time after your adventure. Wasatch Mountain State Park is an ideal spot for those who crave nature; it boasts trails that traverse through verdant woodlands and fields of blooms in the summer. American Fork Canyon provides scenic routes with breathtaking views while Bridal Veil Falls offers passenger excursions on a delightful mountain lake. Other popular destinations include Goblin Valley State Park, Big Cottonwood Canyon, Cedar City, Utah Olympic Park and Powder Mountain Ski Resort.

For those looking to explore Mount Timpanogos Wilderness area in Provo specifically there are numerous trails available ranging from easy strolls through wooded areas to more challenging climbs up steep inclines – all offering spectacular panoramic views at their peak. The most popular hike starts at Aspen Grove Trailhead which takes hikers past lovely mountain peaks before ending at Emerald Lake Overlook where they can take in breathtaking vistas across the valley below. There are also several campgrounds scattered throughout this region so visitors can make a whole weekend out of it if they choose.

Outdoor Adventures provide a great way to explore the natural beauty of Utah, and if you’re looking for an urban adventure then College Towns are your next stop.

College Towns

Photo Credit: Ken Wolter

Provo and Cedar City are two college towns located just south of Salt Lake City that make great day trips for vacationers looking to explore Utah’s history, culture, and outdoor activities.

In Provo, visitors can experience the beauty of Mount Timpanogos Wilderness area with its numerous hiking trails or take a tour around Brigham Young University campus. With its year-round entertainment opportunities, Provo is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in one place.

Cedar City offers something unique – Homestead Resort. Located on the edge of Cedar City, Homestead Resort offers a variety of activities and attractions to make your stay enjoyable – from golf courses and pools to spas, restaurants, museums & galleries. It also serves as a gateway to many museums & galleries showcasing local arts culture in Cedar city. Whether you’re looking for an active getaway or some cultural exploration – there’s something here for everyone.

Closing sentence: College towns offer a unique and interesting day trip experience, allowing visitors to explore the local culture while also enjoying the natural beauty of Utah. Transition sentence: For those looking for something different, there are plenty of other must-see attractions in Salt Lake City that can make your visit memorable.

Other Must-Sees

Photo Credit: Cheri Alguire

Ogden, Utah is a great place to explore if you’re looking for some adventure and relaxation. Situated north of Salt Lake City, Ogden is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and fishing. At Antelope Island State Park, visitors can observe bison herds and other wildlife while trekking along the miles of trails with breathtaking views. For those who want something more low-key, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is an ideal spot for bird watching or a peaceful stroll along the shoreline.

Crystal Hot Springs near Honeyville is another must-see destination in northern Utah. This natural hot spring has two large pools filled with crystal clear water that stays at around 105 degrees Fahrenheit year round. It’s perfect for soaking away your worries while taking in gorgeous mountain scenery all around you.

Hidden Falls Adventure Park near Vernal provides thrills and excitement on their zip lines, obstacle courses, rock climbing walls and more. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to enjoy nature from up high – this park has something fun for everyone.

For those seeking out unique landscapes head over to Goblin Valley State Park where hoodoos (or goblins) made from red sandstone form an eerie landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy novel. Hike through these strange formations while admiring their beauty before heading back home after your day trip from vacation rentals nearby on RentByOwner.com .

If trains are more your speed then Heber Valley Railroad will be right up your alley – take a ride on this vintage train through Provo Canyon with its breathtaking views or even book one of their special events like Murder Mystery Dinners or Polar Express rides during Christmas time. Mueller Park Picnic Area also offers beautiful panoramic vistas alongside picnic tables so you can relax after exploring the canyon area below. And finally Sundance Mountain Resort which was founded by Robert Redford makes for an unforgettable experience whether it’s skiing down snow covered slopes during wintertime or attending concerts held at its amphitheater during summer months – there’s always something new happening here.

Finally, no visit to Northern Utah would be complete without seeing the Bonneville Salt Flats – a vast expanse of white salt crystals stretching across 30 square miles that make it look almost like being on another planet. Be sure to bring your camera as this surreal sight will stay etched in memory forever once you leave behind vacation rentals booked through RentByOwner.com.

FAQs in Relation to Day Trips From Salt Lake City

What to do within 2 hours of Salt Lake City?

For those seeking an unforgettable vacation experience, Salt Lake City provides a wealth of activities and attractions within easy reach. In two hours, travelers can discover some of Utah’s prime destinations like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, with incredible vistas and numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can also take in cultural experiences at Temple Square or experience history with tours through This is the Place Heritage Park. The nearby ski resorts offer great winter sports while fishing and boating are popular on nearby reservoirs like Deer Creek Reservoir and Jordanelle State Park. For those looking for an adventure, mountain biking trails abound throughout the area. With so many options within just two hours from Salt Lake City, there is something to do for everyone.

What is the #1 vacation attraction in Utah?

The #1 vacation attraction in Utah is Zion National Park. Located near the town of Springdale, this stunning park offers visitors breathtaking views of towering red cliffs and lush green valleys. Hiking trails range from easy to strenuous, providing something for all levels of hikers. Camping, bird-spotting, horseback riding and canyoning are all available to enjoy while taking in the magnificent vistas of Utah at Zion National Park. Visitors will find plenty to do at Zion National Park while taking in some of the most beautiful scenery Utah has to offer.

What is there to see between Salt Lake City and Zion?

For those travelling between Salt Lake City and Zion, there are numerous attractions to explore. From the Great Salt Lake State Park to Ogden Canyon, folks can experience a range of outdoor adventures such as camping, fishing, and boating. Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers stunning views of red sandstone cliffs with great opportunities for hiking and biking trails. Antelope Island State Park is home to bison herds, antelopes and other wildlife while Snowbasin Ski Resort provides skiing in winter months. For those who prefer history over nature; Brigham Young Winter Home & Historic Site preserves the 19th century homesteads while Fort Buenaventura State Park takes you back into early Utah’s pioneer life from 1845-1850. There’s something for everyone between Salt Lake City and Zion.

Why do people travel to Salt Lake City?

Salt Lake City is a superb spot for holidaymakers who want to savor the great outdoors, sample dynamic culture and cuisine, or just chill in an urban haven. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Salt Lake City is a great destination offering plenty of activities such as hiking, skiing and snowboarding in close proximity to five national parks and several ski resorts. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene with multiple art galleries, museums and performance venues showcasing local talent. For those seeking relaxation there are numerous spas offering massage treatments as well as luxury hotels that provide comfortable accommodations. Salt Lake City has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Visiting Salt Lake City offers a plethora of exciting day trips. From the Great Salt Lake to outdoor adventures, college towns and other must-sees, travelers will find plenty of options for an enjoyable getaway. From peaceful lakefronts to exciting outdoor activities, Salt Lake City offers a variety of experiences for travelers looking for an unforgettable getaway. Gather your things and plan an unforgettable journey – the perfect opportunity to create some incredible, lasting memories!

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and convenience with RentByOwner.com‘s selection of vacation rentals for your day trips from Salt Lake City, offering a variety of amenities to suit any budget. Book now and start planning your perfect getaway!

Featured Image Credit: Sean Pavone