Salt Lake City, Utah: 10 Short Day Trips Worth Taking
10 Easy Road Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah for a Fun Day Out
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| Trade city time for bison at Antelope Island, a stroll through Park City, waterfall views, and the surreal Bonneville Salt Flats on these easy Utah day trips. |
Need a quick escape from Salt Lake City, Utah? You’re in a great spot for it. One of the best things about living in or visiting Salt Lake City in Salt Lake County is how many fun places sit just beyond the county line. In less than a couple of hours, you can trade city streets for mountain lakes, scenic drives, small-town charm, or wide-open desert views.
If you’re craving fresh air, a change of scenery, or just a good excuse to grab snacks and hit the road, these day trips near Salt Lake City, Utah are perfect. I always think of these short drives like a reset button. You don’t have to plan a huge vacation to feel like you got away for a while.
Below are 10 out-of-county road trips from Salt Lake City that are easy, memorable, and packed with things to do. Best of all, every destination is outside Salt Lake County and in the surrounding counties listed.
1. Antelope Island State Park in Davis County
If you want one of the most iconic nearby getaways from Salt Lake City, start here. Antelope Island State Park sits in the Great Salt Lake and feels a world away from downtown, even though it’s a pretty easy drive north into Davis County.
The views are big, open, and unforgettable. You’ll see rocky hills, lake water stretching far into the distance, and if you’re lucky, bison wandering the island. The first time I went, it felt a bit like driving into a nature documentary.
- Watch for bison, antelope, and birds
- Walk or hike scenic trails
- Catch sunset over the lake
- Take photos of the wide-open landscape
This is a great road trip from Salt Lake City, Utah if you want nature without a long drive.
2. Snowbasin Resort near Morgan County
Looking for a mountain escape? Head toward Morgan County for a day around Snowbasin Resort. Even if you’re not skiing in winter, this area is beautiful year-round. In warmer months, the alpine views, hiking trails, and chairlift rides make it a fun day trip near Salt Lake City.
In fall, the changing leaves can be stunning. In winter, it turns into a classic snow-filled weekend trip idea. It’s one of those places that makes you want to linger a little longer than planned.
- Ride lifts for scenic views
- Hike mountain trails in summer
- Ski or snowboard in winter
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view
If you want fresh mountain air and postcard-style scenery, this one is hard to beat.
3. Park City Main Street in Summit County
Park City is one of the most popular day trips from Salt Lake City, Utah, and for good reason. Once you cross into Summit County, you’ll find a lively mountain town with shops, restaurants, galleries, and that classic Main Street feel.
It’s easy to spend hours strolling around here. Grab coffee, pop into local stores, and enjoy people-watching. If you’ve got friends or family in town and want a simple but fun outing, Park City usually gets an easy yes.
- Walk historic Main Street
- Shop for gifts and local goods
- Try a cozy café or nice dinner spot
- Visit during festivals or ski season
This nearby getaway works well any time of year, whether you want snow, sunshine, or just a fun change of pace.
4. Bonneville Salt Flats in Tooele County
For something totally different, drive west into Tooele County to the Bonneville Salt Flats. This place is famous for its flat, bright, almost unreal landscape. It looks so wide and white that it can feel like another planet.
If you’ve never been, it’s worth seeing at least once. On a clear day, the horizon seems to go on forever. It’s an amazing place for photos, quiet reflection, and that simple joy of being somewhere truly unique.
- Take striking photos on the salt
- Enjoy the surreal landscape
- Learn about the area’s racing history
- Pair it with a scenic drive across western Utah
This is one of the most iconic short road trips from Salt Lake City if you want unusual scenery and a memorable experience.
5. Bridal Veil Falls in Utah County
Want a waterfall without a huge hike? Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon is a favorite choice in Utah County. The falls are easy to reach and make a great stop for couples, families, or solo travelers who just want a little beauty in their day.
The water drops down the rock face in a way that feels calm and dramatic at the same time. It’s the kind of spot where you can stretch your legs, breathe deep, and remember why simple day trips are often the best ones.
- Walk the paved path near the falls
- Take family-friendly photos
- Enjoy canyon views nearby
- Combine it with more Provo Canyon stops
If you want an easy nature outing, this day trip from Salt Lake City, Utah checks all the boxes.
6. Heber Valley Railroad in Wasatch County
For a fun and slightly different outing, head to Wasatch County and hop aboard the Heber Valley Railroad. This classic train ride is charming, relaxing, and perfect if you want a slower-paced escape.
There’s something about a train ride that feels nostalgic in the best way. Like flipping through an old family photo album, it makes the day feel warm and memorable. Kids tend to love it, but honestly, adults do too.
- Ride a historic train through scenic valley views
- Enjoy themed rides during certain seasons
- Make it a family-friendly weekend trip
- Pair it with time in Heber City or Midway
This is a great nearby getaway if you want more than just a drive and would rather make the journey part of the fun.
7. Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area in Davis County
If quiet scenery and birdwatching sound good, Farmington Bay in Davis County makes an easy and peaceful road trip. This area is known for wetlands, wildlife, and wide views that feel calm almost the minute you arrive.
You don’t have to be a serious birder to enjoy it. Even a short visit can be refreshing. Bring binoculars if you have them, but even without them, the stillness here is part of the appeal.
- Watch migratory birds and local wildlife
- Drive or walk through scenic wetland areas
- Take nature photos
- Enjoy a peaceful break from city noise
For travelers searching for things to do near Salt Lake City, Utah that feel low-key and relaxing, this is a smart pick.
8. East Canyon State Park in Morgan County
East Canyon State Park is one of those places that works for almost any kind of traveler. Want to picnic? Great. Want to fish, boat, or simply sit by the water? Also great. Located in Morgan County, it’s an easy escape when you need lake views and open sky.
I like trips like this because they don’t need a big agenda. Pack a cooler, bring a chair, and let the day unfold. Sometimes the best road trip plan is barely having one.
- Go boating or kayaking
- Fish or relax by the reservoir
- Have a picnic with scenic views
- Enjoy camping if you turn it into a weekend trip
It’s one of the best nearby day trips from Salt Lake City for a laid-back outdoor break.
9. Deer Valley Resort in Summit County
Another excellent Summit County escape is Deer Valley Resort. Known for its polished mountain feel, Deer Valley is a strong pick for skiing in winter and scenic beauty in warmer months.
Even if you’re not planning a full ski day, the area is lovely for dining, events, and mountain views. It’s ideal when you want a quick getaway that feels a little special without being far from Salt Lake City.
- Ski in winter
- Ride scenic lifts in summer
- Enjoy mountain dining
- Look for concerts and seasonal events
If your idea of a good weekend trip from Salt Lake City, Utah includes a mountain-town vibe, Deer Valley is a solid choice.
10. Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah County
Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah County rounds out this list with a mix of natural beauty and cozy charm. Tucked into the mountains, it offers hiking, skiing, dining, and artsy touches that make it feel a little different from other destinations nearby.
It’s a lovely choice for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a simple mountain retreat. There’s a calm, tucked-away feeling here that makes it easy to unwind.
- Hike and explore in warmer months
- Ski or snowboard in winter
- Enjoy a nice meal in a scenic setting
- Turn it into a romantic nearby getaway
For a short road trip from Salt Lake City that feels both outdoorsy and relaxing, Sundance is a winner.
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah
Before you head out, here are a few quick tips to make your drive smoother:
- Check the weather: Utah conditions can change fast, especially in the mountains.
- Start early: You’ll beat traffic and have more time to explore.
- Pack layers: Even warm days can cool off quickly at higher elevations.
- Bring water and snacks: A simple move, but it makes every road trip better.
- Double-check seasonal access: Some spots are best at certain times of year.
Whether you want lakes, waterfalls, mountain towns, or wide-open spaces, there are plenty of things to do near Salt Lake City, Utah without staying in Salt Lake County. That’s what makes this area so fun for travelers. You can wake up in the city and be somewhere completely different before lunch.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Salt Lake City
The best part about taking short day trips from Salt Lake City, Utah is how easy they are. You don’t need a long vacation or a complicated plan. Just pick a direction, fill up the tank, and go see something new.
Have you been to any of these spots? Which one would you choose first for your next weekend trip or quick road trip? Share this post with a friend who loves easy travel ideas, and drop a comment with your favorite escape near Salt Lake City.
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