10 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City!
Salt Lake City is one of the best bases for day trips in the U.S. because mountains, lakes, deserts, and small towns are all within a short drive. From the surreal Bonneville Salt Flats to wildlife on Antelope Island, each trip offers a different experience. In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 best day trips from Salt Lake City, explain each spot in detail and these destinations give you a chance to see more of Utah without needing an overnight stay.
1. Great Salt Lake State Park
Planning a day trip to Great Salt Lake State Park is just a short drive from Salt Lake City, making it easy to visit even if you only have a few hours. The lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and its high salt levels make floating on the water effortless. Visitors spend time walking along the shoreline, enjoying picnic areas, or watching the sunset. The park also has a marina where boating and kayaking are possible, and it serves as a starting point for exploring nearby Antelope Island. Wildlife is part of the experience too, with birds and brine shrimp making the lake an important ecosystem.
2. Logan
From Salt Lake City, a day trip to Logan takes about 90 minutes drive and offers a mix of small‑town charm and outdoor adventure. Once in Logan, visitors can explore the downtown area with local shops, cafes, and the historic Ellen Eccles Theatre. Nature lovers head straight to Logan Canyon, which has hiking trails, fishing spots, and colorful views in fall. Families enjoy the American West Heritage Center, where pioneer life is shared through hands‑on exhibits. Logan blends culture, history, and nature in a way that feels simple yet rewarding, with affordable dining and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to enjoy.
3. Denver, CO
Taking a day trip to Denver is a long but rewarding journey from Salt Lake City that gives travelers a chance to experience one of Colorado’s most vibrant cities. Once you arrive, Downtown Denver has the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian‑friendly area with shops, restaurants, and street performers. The Denver Botanic Gardens and Denver Zoo are family favorites, while the Denver Art Museum showcases culture and history. For those who enjoy nature, the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is only a short drive away and combines hiking trails with one of the most famous outdoor music venues in the world.
4. Jordanelle State Park
Just about a 40 minutes drive away from Salt Lake City, a day trip to Jordanelle State Park offers a refreshing outdoor escape. The centerpiece of the park is Jordanelle Reservoir, a large lake where visitors can swim, boat, kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax by the shore. There are marinas with rentals available, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment to enjoy the water. Picnic areas and campgrounds make it a good spot for longer stays, but even a day trip offers plenty of fun. The park is open year‑round, with summer focused on water recreation and winter offering snowshoeing and quiet walks.
5. Wasatch Mountain State Park
Planning a day trip to Wasatch Mountain State Park is just under an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City, making it a quick getaway. Visitors come here for hiking, biking, camping, and fishing, with trails ranging from simple walks to more challenging routes. In summer, the park is full of wildflowers and green landscapes, while fall brings colorful leaves that make the area especially scenic. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross‑country skiing, and access to nearby ski resorts. Families enjoy picnic areas and open campgrounds, while golfers can play at the Wasatch Mountain Golf Course inside the park.
6. Bear Lake
From Salt Lake City, the drive to the Bear Lake takes about 2.5 hours, but the scenic views along the way is enjoyable. Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” because of its bright turquoise color, created by natural minerals in the water. Families enjoy renting paddleboards or jet skis, while others prefer fishing or walking along the shoreline. The lake is also famous for its local raspberry shakes, which are sold at small shops around the area and have become a tradition for visitors. Picnic areas and campgrounds make it easy to spend more time outdoors, and nearby towns offer casual dining and lodging.
7. Ashley National Forest
From Salt Lake City, a day trip to Ashley National Forest is about 3 hours drive, making it manageable for a day of adventure if you’re up for an early start. Covering more than a million acres, the forest includes parts of the Uinta Mountains and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Visitors can spend the day hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs, with views of alpine lakes and rivers. Fishing is popular in the many streams and lakes, while boating and camping are available at Flaming Gorge. Families enjoy scenic drives, while more adventurous travelers explore backcountry routes.
8. Craters of the Moon National Monument, ID
The Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho is a unique adventure that feels like stepping onto another planet from Salt Lake City. Covering a large area of ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and caves, all formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. Visitors can walk along trails that pass through black rock fields and climb small volcanic cones for wide views of the area. The park has lava tubes, which are caves created by flowing lava, and some are open for exploration with flashlights. The visitor center provides exhibits and information about the geology and history of this unusual landscape.
9. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Taking a day trip to Uinta‑Wasatch‑Cache National Forest is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences from Salt Lake City. The forest stretches across millions of acres and includes parts of the Wasatch Mountains, the Uinta Mountains, and scenic canyons close to the city. The drive is short, with many trailheads and picnic areas less than an hour away. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular spots include Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon, both known for popular skiing spots, alpine scenery and wildlife.
10. Fishlake National Forest
From Salt Lake City, a day trip to Fishlake National Forest takes about 3 hours south, but it rewards visitors with one of Utah’s most peaceful natural settings. The forest is home to Fish Lake, the largest mountain lake in the state, known for clear water and excellent fishing. Surrounding the lake are aspen groves, including the famous Pando, considered one of the largest living organisms in the world because the entire grove shares a single root system. Hiking trails around the forest range from short walks to longer challenging routes that pass through meadows, streams, and mountain ridges.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the most popular day trips from Salt Lake City?
Some of the most popular day trips include the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park, and Park City. Many travelers also enjoy scenic drives through Big Cottonwood Canyon and visits to Bear Lake. Each of these places offers something different, from wildlife and water activities to mountain views and small‑town charm. They are close enough to reach in a single day, making them easy options for visitors.
2. Are there any family‑friendly day trips from Salt Lake City?
Yes, many day trips are perfect for families. Liberty Park and Sugar House Park are simple choices with playgrounds and open space. Families also enjoy Tracy Aviary, located inside Liberty Park, and Heber Valley, which offers train rides and hot springs. Antelope Island is another favorite, where kids can see bison and explore easy trails. These trips are affordable, safe, and fun for all ages.
3. What’s the cheapest way to travel for a day trip from Salt Lake City?
The cheapest way is usually by car, since most destinations are within one to two hours. Driving allows you to pack food, water, and supplies, which saves money compared to eating out. Public transport options are limited for many natural attractions, so car travel is the most practical. Carpooling with friends or family can make trips even more affordable. Planning ahead and bringing your own snacks helps keep costs low while still enjoying the outdoors.
4. Which day trips from Salt Lake City are best for nature lovers?
Nature lovers often choose Uinta‑Wasatch‑Cache National Forest, Wasatch Mountain State Park, and Ashley National Forest. These places offer hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Bonneville Salt Flats are also unique, with wide open landscapes that feel otherworldly. For water and mountain views, Bear Lake is a favorite. Each of these destinations gives travelers a chance to connect with nature in simple and meaningful ways.
5. Are there guided tours available for day trips from Salt Lake City?
Yes, guided tours are available for several destinations. At Antelope Island, rangers lead programs about wildlife and history. The Red Butte Garden offers tours focused on plants and conservation. Scenic train rides in Heber Valley are guided experiences that families enjoy. Some companies also offer day tours to the Bonneville Salt Flats and Craters of the Moon. Guided trips are helpful for learning more while exploring safely.
6. What should I pack for a day trip from Salt Lake City?
Packing depends on the destination, but some basics are always useful. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking. A hat and sunglasses help with sun protection, especially at places like the Bonneville Salt Flats or Great Salt Lake. If you plan to hike, carry a small backpack with extra layers in case the weather changes. For family trips, add picnic supplies and simple games for kids. Keeping it light but prepared makes the day easier and more enjoyable.
