30 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City Under 2 Hours
Salt Lake City is surrounded by mountains, lakes, historic towns, waterfalls, and unique desert landscapes, making it an excellent base for exploring Utah. Many of these places are less than two hours away, so you can enjoy a full day out without spending most of your time driving.
From Park City and Brighton to Antelope Island and the Bonneville Salt Flats, these 30 best day trips from Salt Lake City offer plenty of options for hiking, sightseeing, outdoor activities, and scenic drives.
Quick Tips for Your Salt Lake City Visit
Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the day trips on this list. Salt Lake City has good public transportation, but many of the best nearby destinations are outside the city and are much easier to reach by car.
Plan your trips around the season, too. Mountain roads can have snow well into spring, while summer brings warmer weather and better conditions for hiking, boating, and scenic drives. Check road conditions and opening hours before leaving, especially if you’re heading into the mountains.
Start early for popular spots and longer drives. That gives you more time at your destination and helps you avoid spending most of your day behind the wheel. Keep water, snacks, and a light jacket in the car, as weather can change quickly in Utah.
Midvale
Distance: 12 miles
Drive time: About 15 minutes
Midvale is one of the easiest day trips from Salt Lake City, especially if you don’t want to spend much time driving. This nearby city has a mix of restaurants, shops, parks, and local attractions, making it a simple choice for a short outing.
One of the highlights is Bohemian Brewery, where you can enjoy Czech- and Bavarian-inspired food and drinks. The large pretzels are a popular choice if you want something casual. Because Midvale is so close to Salt Lake City, it also works well as a quick afternoon or evening trip.
Hidden Falls
Distance: 21 miles
Drive time: About 30 minutes
Hidden Falls is a great choice if you want to see a waterfall without committing to a long hike. The falls sit in Big Cottonwood Canyon, making this an easy stop to combine with other mountain attractions in the area.
The short walk from the parking area leads to the waterfall, which is especially impressive in spring when snowmelt increases the flow. The trail can be wet or snowy depending on the season, so wear shoes with good traction and check conditions before you go.
Snowbird
Distance: 28 miles
Drive time: About 35 minutes
Snowbird is one of the best places to visit near Salt Lake City if you enjoy mountain scenery and outdoor activities. The resort is best known for skiing and snowboarding, with a long winter season thanks to its high elevation.
You can also visit during warmer months when the mountain becomes a base for hiking and other activities. Ride the Aerial Tram for wide views across the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley, or spend the day exploring the surrounding trails.
Thanksgiving Point
Distance: 30 miles
Drive time: About 30 minutes
Thanksgiving Point in Lehi is one of the best day trips from Salt Lake City for families, gardens, museums, and indoor activities. You can easily spend several hours here without needing to visit another attraction.
Ashton Gardens is a major highlight, especially during spring when the flowers are in bloom. The annual Tulip Festival is particularly popular and fills the gardens with colorful displays.
Park City
Distance: 33 miles
Drive time: About 40 minutes
Park City is one of the most popular day trips from Salt Lake City, and it’s easy to see why. This mountain town offers outdoor activities, historic streets, restaurants, shops, and plenty of things to do in every season.
Start at Utah Olympic Park, which hosted events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. You can visit the Olympic museums and learn about the athletes and events that made history here. For something more adventurous, you can try activities such as the bobsled experience.
Provo
Distance: 47 miles
Drive time: About 50 minutes
Provo sits at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains and makes an easy day trip south of Salt Lake City. The city is home to Brigham Young University and has a lively downtown area, but the surrounding mountains are the real draw for many visitors.
Drive into Provo Canyon to see Bridal Veil Falls, one of the area’s most recognizable natural attractions. The waterfall drops dramatically down the rocky canyon walls and is easy to reach from the road.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Distance: 38 miles
Drive time: About 45 minutes
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a great day trip from Salt Lake City for hiking and exploring underground caves. The guided cave tour takes you through narrow passages filled with colorful rock formations and requires a steep hike to reach the cave entrance.
The monument is in American Fork Canyon, so you can also enjoy mountain scenery along the drive. Cave tours are seasonal and require reservations, so check availability before planning your visit.
Sundance
Distance: 55 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour
Sundance is a mountain destination near Provo known for its scenic setting and outdoor activities. In winter, you can ski and snowboard at Sundance Mountain Resort, while summer and fall are great for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the surrounding scenery.
Ogden
Distance: 40 miles
Drive time: About 40 minutes
Ogden is a historic mountain city north of Salt Lake City with a walkable downtown and easy access to outdoor attractions. Start your visit along Historic 25th Street, where you’ll find restaurants, shops, bars, and historic buildings.
For families, George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park is a fun stop. The outdoor park features large dinosaur sculptures along paved paths, along with exhibits that explore Utah’s prehistoric past.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Distance: 60 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a great day trip for wildlife and birdwatching. The refuge protects wetlands where you can see ducks, pelicans, herons, and many other bird species.
The 7-mile auto tour route makes it easy to explore without a long hike. Bring binoculars, water, and sun protection, especially during warmer months.
Brighton
Distance: 31 miles
Drive time: About 40 minutes
Brighton is a great choice for a mountain day trip from Salt Lake City, particularly if you want to hike. The area is known for Brighton Resort and its beautiful alpine scenery.
One of the most popular hikes takes you past Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and Lake Catherine. The trail covers about 4.4 miles round trip and includes a significant climb, so allow plenty of time and bring enough water.
Eden
Distance: 50 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour
Eden is a small mountain community near Ogden, surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains. It is a good choice for a quieter outdoor day, with hiking, scenic drives, and mountain views in warmer months.
In winter, nearby ski areas make Eden a convenient base for snow activities. It is also easy to combine with Ogden or the surrounding mountain areas for a full day trip.
Antelope Island State Park
Distance: 44 miles
Drive time: About 55 minutes
Antelope Island State Park is one of the most unique places to visit near Salt Lake City. Located in the Great Salt Lake, the island is known for its wide-open landscapes, mountain views, wildlife, and opportunities to see bison.
The Buffalo Point Trail is a short hike that leads to panoramic views across the Great Salt Lake and surrounding landscape. You can also explore the island by car and stop at beaches, viewpoints, and other trails along the way.
Brigham City
Distance: 60 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour
Brigham City is a good day trip north of Salt Lake City, especially if you enjoy history, wildlife, and scenic drives. Visit the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to see birds and wetlands, or explore the historic downtown area.
The nearby Golden Spike National Historical Park can also be combined with Brigham City for a full day of sightseeing.
Heber City
Distance: 45 miles
Drive time: About 45 minutes
Heber City is a convenient base for exploring the mountains and outdoor attractions east of Salt Lake City. One of its biggest attractions is the Heber Valley Railroad, where you can take a scenic train ride through the surrounding valley.
You can also combine a visit to Heber City with a trip to Jordanelle State Park. The park surrounds Jordanelle Reservoir and offers boating, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities during the warmer months.
Jordanelle State Park
Distance: 40 miles
Drive time: About 45 minutes
Jordanelle State Park is a scenic day trip from Salt Lake City, with opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and relaxing by the water. The park surrounds Jordanelle Reservoir and offers beautiful mountain views, especially during the warmer months.
Heber Valley Artisan Cheese
Distance: 45 miles
Drive time: About 45 minutes
Heber Valley Artisan Cheese in Midway is a fun day trip for anyone who enjoys local food and farm experiences. The family-run farm makes a variety of cheeses and offers visitors a chance to see some of the animals behind the operation.
You can stop by the farm store to sample and buy locally made cheese. Depending on the season, you may also find special farm events and activities featuring animals such as goats and other farm favorites.
Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
Distance: 80 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a scenic mountain drive through the Uinta Mountains. The route offers alpine lakes, forests, mountain views, hiking trails, and fishing spots during the warmer months.
It is especially beautiful in summer and early fall when the roads are open and the scenery is at its best. Check seasonal road closures before visiting because snow can close parts of the route.
Utah Lake State Park
Distance: 46 miles
Drive time: About 40 minutes
Utah Lake State Park is an easy day trip from Salt Lake City for spending time outdoors. The park sits on the eastern shore of Utah Lake and offers views of the water with the Wasatch Mountains in the distance.
Summer is the best time to enjoy activities on the lake, including boating, swimming, and fishing. You can also walk around the shoreline, have a picnic, or simply relax by the water.
Homestead Crater
Distance: 47 miles
Drive time: About 50 minutes
The Homestead Crater in Midway is one of the most unusual places to visit near Salt Lake City. This natural geothermal spring sits inside a large, cone-shaped limestone formation and stays warm throughout the year.
Visitors can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive inside the crater. The water generally stays around 90 to 96°F, making it a relaxing option even when temperatures outside are cool.
Crystal Hot Springs
Distance: 75 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Crystal Hot Springs is a relaxing day trip from Salt Lake City, known for its naturally warm mineral pools. It’s a good choice when you want to spend a day soaking, relaxing, and enjoying a quieter getaway away from the city.
Fielding Garr Ranch
Distance: 52 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Fielding Garr Ranch is a historic site on Antelope Island and makes a natural addition to a visit to Antelope Island State Park. The ranch dates back to the 1800s and gives visitors a look at the island’s early ranching history.
The property includes historic buildings, barns, and other structures that tell the story of life on the island. You can explore the grounds and learn about the ranch through available interpretive programs and tours.
Because the ranch is located on Antelope Island, plan to combine this stop with the island’s wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. That way, you can make the most of the drive from Salt Lake City.
Golden Spike National Historical Park
Distance: 88 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Golden Spike National Historical Park in Corinne marks the location where the first transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869. The site commemorates the moment the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads were joined, creating a continuous rail connection across the United States.
Start at the visitor center to learn about the construction of the railroad and the people who helped build it. You can also see historic-style locomotives and watch demonstrations when they are scheduled.
The Tree of Utah
Distance: 95 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 25 minutes
The Tree of Utah is one of the strangest roadside attractions you can visit from Salt Lake City. Officially called Metaphor: The Tree of Utah, this colorful sculpture stands alone in the Great Salt Lake Desert.
Swedish artist Karl Momen created the artwork using rocks and other materials associated with Utah. Its unusual design makes it an interesting photo stop, especially when you’re already driving toward the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Bonneville Salt Flats
Distance: 111 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
The Bonneville Salt Flats are one of Utah’s most famous landscapes and an unforgettable day trip from Salt Lake City. This huge stretch of white salt sits in the western Utah desert and is known for its flat surface and wide-open views.
The area is famous for land-speed records, with racers using the flats to test how fast vehicles can go. When conditions are right, the landscape can also look like a giant mirror after rain creates a thin layer of water across the salt.
Spiral Jetty
Distance: 103 miles
Drive time: About 1 hour 55 minutes
Spiral Jetty is a massive earthwork on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake. Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, the spiral-shaped structure stretches into the lake and looks especially striking from above.
Getting there takes more effort than many other day trips on this list. The final section of the drive follows an unpaved road, and conditions can change depending on weather. Check the road before leaving and allow extra time for the slower drive.
More Day Trips from Salt Lake City
If you have more time around Salt Lake City, there are plenty of other places worth adding to your list. Some are seasonal, while others are better suited to visitors who want hiking, wildlife, scenic drives, or outdoor adventures.
Here are a few more day trips to consider:
- Little Sahara Recreation Area: Head south to ride ATVs across large sand dunes and enjoy an adventurous day outdoors.
- Fishlake National Forest: Spend the day hiking, fishing, camping, or enjoying the scenery around Fish Lake.
- Bear Lake State Park: This scenic lake sits on the Utah-Idaho border and is popular for swimming, boating, fishing, and beach activities. It is slightly more than two hours from Salt Lake City, so it is better for a long day.
- Lava Hot Springs: Cross into Idaho for hot pools, mountain scenery, and outdoor activities. Like Bear Lake, it pushes beyond the two-hour range, so plan accordingly.
Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City for Families
Families have plenty of easy day-trip options around Salt Lake City. Thanksgiving Point is one of the best choices because it combines gardens, museums, and activities in one location. Ogden is another good option, especially if your kids enjoy dinosaurs and outdoor attractions.
For a more outdoorsy day, head to Antelope Island State Park to look for bison and enjoy the open landscape around the Great Salt Lake. Park City also works well for families, with activities available in every season.
Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City for Nature Lovers
Utah makes it easy to escape the city and spend a day surrounded by mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and desert scenery. Brighton is a top choice for hiking, while Hidden Falls offers an easy way to see a waterfall without a long trek.
For wide-open landscapes, visit Antelope Island State Park or the Bonneville Salt Flats. The scenery is very different at each destination, but both offer excellent opportunities for photography.
Snowbird, Utah Lake State Park, and Spiral Jetty are also worth considering if you want to spend more time outdoors. Your best choice will depend on the season and the type of landscape you want to see.
Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City in Winter
Winter changes many of the destinations around Salt Lake City. If you want snow and mountain activities, Snowbird, Park City, and Brighton are among the best options. All three offer access to Utah’s famous winter landscapes and ski areas.
You can also visit Ogden and explore nearby Snowbasin or Powder Mountain. For something warmer, head to Homestead Crater and spend time in its naturally heated water.
Before driving into the mountains, check the weather and road conditions. Snow can affect travel times, and some hiking trails or attractions may close during winter.
How to Plan Your Salt Lake City Day Trips
Start by choosing destinations that match the amount of time you have. The closest places, such as Midvale, Hidden Falls, and Snowbird, are easy choices when you want more time at your destination. Longer drives, such as the Bonneville Salt Flats or Spiral Jetty, work better when you can leave early.
Try grouping nearby attractions together when possible. For example, you can combine Heber City, Heber Valley Artisan Cheese, and Homestead Crater into one day. Antelope Island State Park and Fielding Garr Ranch also make a natural combination.
Finally, check weather, road conditions, opening hours, and seasonal schedules before leaving. Utah’s mountain and desert conditions can change quickly, so a little planning can make your day trip much easier.
National Parks From Salt Lake City
Utah’s national parks are some of the biggest attractions in the state, but they are too far from Salt Lake City for a typical two-hour day trip. If you have a full weekend available, however, several make excellent road-trip destinations.
Capitol Reef National Park is the closest of Utah’s five national parks to Salt Lake City, but the drive takes more than three hours. Its red-rock cliffs, canyons, and scenic roads make the extra time worthwhile.
Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are both near Moab and take roughly four hours to reach. They are better suited to an overnight trip so you have enough time to explore beyond the main viewpoints.
Bryce Canyon National Park is also around four hours away. Its famous hoodoos and high-elevation landscape make it one of Utah’s most distinctive parks.
Zion National Park is farther south and usually takes about five hours to reach from Salt Lake City. It is possible to drive there for a very long day, but an overnight stay gives you much more time for hiking and sightseeing.
If you want something closer to the national parks experience, consider Goblin Valley State Park or Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve for a different type of landscape and fewer crowds.
The Best Utah Day Trips Start in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is a great base for exploring northern Utah. Within two hours, you can reach mountain towns, waterfalls, historic sites, hot springs, lakes, and unusual desert landscapes.
The best part is that you can choose a different type of adventure each day. Spend one day hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, visit a historic railroad site the next, or drive west to see the Bonneville Salt Flats. With so many options nearby, you can easily fill several days without driving for hours each way.
Conclusion
Salt Lake City is a great base for exploring more of Utah. Within two hours, you can reach mountain towns, waterfalls, alpine lakes, historic sites, hot springs, and unique desert landscapes.
Whether you want a quick escape or a full day of exploring, there are plenty of options to choose from. Pick the places that interest you most, check the weather and road conditions before you leave, and enjoy your time exploring beyond Salt Lake City.
FAQs About Day Trips from Salt Lake City
What are the best day trips from Salt Lake City?
Park City, Snowbird, Brighton, Ogden, Antelope Island State Park, and the Bonneville Salt Flats are among the best options.
What is the closest day trip from Salt Lake City?
Midvale is one of the closest options, just about 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City.
Can you visit Park City in one day?
Yes. Park City is about 40 minutes away, making it an easy day trip from Salt Lake City.
Can you visit the Bonneville Salt Flats in one day?
Yes. The Bonneville Salt Flats are about 1.5 hours from Salt Lake City and work well for a full-day trip.
Do you need a car for Salt Lake City day trips?
Yes. A rental car is the easiest way to reach most destinations outside Salt Lake City.
What is the best family day trip from Salt Lake City?
Thanksgiving Point is a great family-friendly option, with gardens, museums, and activities for different ages.
What is the best time for day trips from Salt Lake City?
Summer is great for hiking and water activities, while winter is ideal for skiing and snow activities in the mountains.
One Comment