10 Best Road Trips from Salt Lake City – Weekend Trips from SLC

Are you looking for the best road trips from Salt Lake City, Utah? Salt Lake City’s stunning mountainous backdrop and central location make it an excellent starting point for several epic road trips and weekend getaways. There are many stunning weekend adventures, from the rugged beauty of national parks to charming small towns and scenic byways.

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Best Road Trips From Salt Lake City – Weekend Getaways From SLC

Here are some of the best road trips from Salt Lake City or must-do weekend trips from Salt Lake City, with things to do, mid-budget hotels, must-do tours, and scenic routes to follow.

Moab & Arches National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 233 miles (about 3 hours and 45 minutes)
• Route: Take I-15 S to US-6 E, then merge onto US-191 S to Moab.  

Moab is the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, making it a mecca for outdoor lovers. Arches’ striking red rock formations, including the iconic Delicate Arch, are otherworldly and perfect for hiking and photography. Moab has a charming small-town vibe with plenty of outdoor activities, delicious eateries, and local shops.

Things to Do:

• Arches National Park: Explore over 2,000 natural stone arches, go on the Delicate Arch hike, and enjoy scenic drives through the park. 
• Canyonlands National Park: Visit the Island in the Sky district for stunning canyon views and the Mesa Arch sunrise.
• Dead Horse Point State Park: Known for its breathtaking views over the Colorado River.
• Off-Roading: Moab is famous for its off-road trails like Hell’s Revenge.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Hotel Moab Downtown

Must-Do Tour – Canyonlands 4×4 Tour and River Cruise: A thrilling guided tour through the rugged terrain of Canyonlands followed by a calm boat ride along the Colorado River.

Useful Tips:

• Arches National Park often requires timed entry reservations during peak seasons, so book ahead.
• Visit Dead Horse Point State Park at sunrise or sunset for spectacular views.

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Bear Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 123 miles (about 2 hours)
• Route: Take I-15 N to Logan, then follow US-89 N to Bear Lake.

Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” due to its vibrant turquoise waters, Bear Lake is a one of the perfect summer getaways frpm Salt Lake city for water activities, relaxation, and scenic views. It’s an excellent destination for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind by the water.

Things to Do:

• Water Activities: Go kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing on Bear Lake’s clear waters.
• Bear Lake State Park: Relax on the beaches, swim, or explore the trails around the lake.
• Minnetonka Cave: This stunning limestone cave is a must-see, and guided tours are available.
• Garden City: Visit this quaint town on the lake’s shores for raspberry shakes, a local favorite.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Conestoga Ranch: A unique glamping experience with luxurious tents and wagons near the lake.

Must-Do Tour – Minnetonka Cave Tour: A guided exploration of the impressive underground limestone cave formations.

Useful Tips:

• Pack layers, as it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, even in the summer.
• For the best views, drive along the Logan Canyon Scenic Byway (US-89).

Park City

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 32 miles (about 40 minutes)
• Route: Take I-80 E to US-189 N/US-40 E toward Park City.

Famous for its world-class ski resorts and the annual Sundance Film Festival, Park City offers outdoor recreation and luxury year-round. In the summer, it becomes a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and enjoying the alpine scenery and therefore one of the perfect weekend getaways from SLC.

Things to Do:

• Historic Main Street: Stroll through the charming old mining town with boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
• Deer Valley Resort: In the summer, it’s a haven for mountain biking and hiking with scenic chairlift rides.
• Alpine Slide and Coaster: Thrill-seekers will love the alpine coaster and slide rides that descend the mountain.
• Utah Olympic Park: Experience the site of the 2002 Winter Olympics with zip lining, bobsledding, and museum exhibits.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Park City Peaks Hotel: A cozy and affordable stay close to the action with stunning views of the mountains.

Must-Do Tour – Guided Fly Fishing on the Provo River: A relaxing and scenic way to spend the day learning to fly fish.

Useful Tips:

• Book accommodations and lift tickets early during ski season as it gets crowded.
• Take the scenic Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway for stunning views as you drive into Park City.

Bonneville Salt Flats

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 120 miles (about 1 hour and 45 minutes)
• Route: Take I-80 W to the Bonneville Salt Flats.

The Bonneville Salt Flats is an extraordinary and otherworldly expanse of salt stretching across the Utah-Nevada border. It’s famous for land speed records and is also a great place for photography, stargazing, and witnessing unique natural beauty.

Things to Do:

• Photography: The flat, reflective surface of the salt flats makes for stunning sunset and sunrise photos.
• Speed Events: If you visit in August, check out Speed Week, where cars and motorcycles race across the flats.
• Stargazing: The remote location makes it ideal for viewing the night sky without light pollution.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Best Western Plus Wendover Inn: A comfortable stay nearby Wendover offers easy access to the salt flats.

Must-Do Tour – Bonneville Salt Flats Stargazing Tour: A guided night tour for stargazing and learning about the celestial wonders visible from this unique location.

Useful Tips:

• Wear sunglasses as the sun reflecting off the white surface can be blinding.
• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen as there is no shade, and temperatures can rise quickly.

Bryce Canyon National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 270 miles (about 4 hours and 30 minutes)
• Route: Take I-15 S, exit UT-20 E, and then take US-89 S to UT-12 E to reach Bryce Canyon.

Bryce Canyon is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos, which create a maze of colorful, jagged spires. The park offers breathtaking viewpoints and some of the best stargazing in the world, as it’s one of the darkest places in the country.

Things to Do:

• Bryce Amphitheater: Visit the famous viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the hoodoos.
• Navajo Loop Trail: A popular hike through the canyon, offering up-close views of the rock formations.
• Rim Trail: A more leisurely hike that offers panoramic views of the park from above.
• Stargazing: Bryce Canyon has some of the darkest skies, making it ideal for stargazing and astronomy programs.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Bryce Canyon Pines: A cozy lodge with rustic cabins near the park entrance.

Must-Do Tour – Bryce Canyon Horseback Riding Tour: A unique way to explore the canyon from the saddle.

Useful Tips:

• Bring warm layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evening.
• Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the hoodoos.

Zion National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 308 miles (about 4 hours 30 minutes)
• Route: Take I-15 S to UT-9 E toward Zion National Park.

Zion National Park is one of Utah’s most iconic destinations, renowned for its towering red rock cliffs, slot canyons, and lush river valleys. The diversity of landscapes makes it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering everything from challenging hikes to peaceful riverside strolls.

Things to Do:

• Angels Landing: One of the most famous (and thrilling) hikes in the world, with dizzying heights and breathtaking views.
• The Narrows: A unique hike through the Virgin River, where you’ll wade through water and walk between towering canyon walls.
• Canyon Overlook Trail: A shorter hike offering panoramic views of the park.
• Kolob Canyons: A quieter, less-visited section of the park with stunning scenic drives and hikes.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Zion Canyon Lodge: Located just outside the park, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the park’s shuttle system.

Must-Do Tour – Zion Canyoneering Adventure: Explore some of Zion’s hidden slot canyons with a guided tour that includes rappelling and hiking.

Useful Tips:

• Zion National Park operates a shuttle system so that parking can be limited—plan to park in Springdale and take the shuttle.
• Visit during the off-season (fall or spring) to avoid the peak crowds of summer.

Jackson Hole & Grand Teton National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 277 miles (about 5 hours)
• Route: Take I-15 N to US-26 E, then US-89 N toward Jackson.

Jackson Hole offers an authentic Wild West experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Tetons.

Grand Teton National Park is a hiker’s paradise with dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The area is also perfect for skiing in winter and scenic drives year-round.

Things to Do:

• Jenny Lake: Take a boat ride across the lake or hike the Jenny Lake Loop for incredible views of the Tetons.
• Wildlife Safari: Spot moose, elk, bears, and other wildlife in the park, especially around Oxbow Bend.
• Jackson Town Square: Explore this charming town with its wooden boardwalks, western shops, and famous antler arch.
• Teton Village: In the winter, this is a world-class ski destination, but in the summer, enjoy hiking and scenic gondola rides.

Mid-Budget Hotel – The Lexington at Jackson Hole: A cozy, western-themed hotel located near the heart of Jackson.

Must-Do Tour – Wildlife Safari Tour: Join a guided tour to spot the park’s famous residents, from bison to grizzly bears.

Useful Tips:

• Arrive early at popular trailheads like Jenny Lake to secure parking.
• If you visit in winter, check the weather and road conditions, as snow can impact travel.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 175 miles (about 3 hours)
• Route: Take I-80 E, then follow US-40 E to UT-44 N.

Flaming Gorge is an outdoor lover’s dream with its striking red cliffs, expansive reservoir, and endless fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. The area’s rugged beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape from city life.

Things to Do:

• Boating & Fishing: The reservoir is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, and you can rent boats to explore the stunning waters.
• Red Canyon Overlook: Hike to this breathtaking viewpoint for panoramic views of Flaming Gorge.
• Sheep Creek Geological Loop: A scenic drive through dramatic geological formations and towering cliffs.
• Rafting the Green River: For a more thrilling experience, take a rafting trip down the Green River.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Red Canyon Lodge: A cozy lodge offering log cabins and lakeside views right in the heart of the recreation area.

Must-Do Tour – Green River Rafting Tour: This guided rafting tour through the Flaming Gorge Canyon offers a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Useful Tips:

• Flaming Gorge can get hot in summer, so if you’re spending time outdoors, bring plenty of water and sun protection.
• The area is less crowded than Utah’s national parks, making it a peaceful alternative for those looking to avoid the crowds.

Capitol Reef National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 218 miles (about 3 hours and 30 minutes)
• Route: Take I-15 S to UT-24 E.

Capitol Reef is one of Utah’s lesser-known national parks, offering just as much beauty as its more famous neighbors. Known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful rock formations, and fruit orchards, Capitol Reef is perfect for those looking for solitude and stunning landscapes.

Things to Do:

• Scenic Drive: The park’s 8-mile Scenic Drive takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the park.
• Hickman Bridge Trail: A moderate hike to a stunning natural rock bridge.
• Fruita Orchards: Depending on the season, you can pick fresh fruit from the park’s historic orchards.
• Cathedral Valley: Take a 4×4 drive through this remote, stunning valley filled with towering monoliths.

Mid-Budget Hotel – Capitol Reef Resort: A rustic lodge offering cabins, teepees, and wagons with stunning views of the park’s red rock formations.

Must-Do Tour – Cathedral Valley Jeep Tour: Explore the remote and rugged Cathedral Valley with a guided off-road adventure.

Useful Tips:

• Capitol Reef is more remote than other Utah parks, so if you’re exploring the backcountry, bring plenty of food, water, and fuel.
• Visit the Fruita Historic District to taste pioneer history and fresh pie from the Gifford Homestead.

Great Basin National Park

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 234 miles (about 4 hours)
• Route: Take I-80 W to US-93 S and NV-487 to Baker.

Great Basin National Park is one of Nevada’s best-kept secrets. It offers a mix of alpine scenery, ancient bristlecone pines, and stunning caves. The park’s high elevation offers cooler temperatures in the summer and incredible stargazing year-round.

Things to Do:

• Lehman Caves: Take a guided tour of this stunning underground cave system with unique formations.
• Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive: A beautiful 12-mile drive to the base of Wheeler Peak, with hiking trails and picnic spots.
• Bristlecone Pine Trail: Hike to see some of the oldest living trees in the world, dating back over 4,000 years.
• Stargazing: Great Basin is one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing due to its remote location and dark skies.

Mid-Budget Hotel – The Border Inn: A simple but cozy motel on the Utah-Nevada border offers easy access to the park.

Must-Do Tour – Lehman Cave Tour: Explore the park’s stunning cave system with a guided tour that delves into its unique history and geology.

Useful Tips:

• The park’s high elevation means temperatures can be much cooler than nearby desert areas, so pack layers.
• The scenic drive and many hiking trails are closed in winter, so plan accordingly if visiting in the colder months.

Useful Tips – Salt Lake City Weekend Trips

• Start Early – For popular destinations like Zion National Park or Jackson Hole, starting your drive early helps avoid traffic and secure parking at popular spots. Early mornings are also the best time to enjoy hiking and sightseeing before the crowds arrive.
• Check Weather Conditions – Utah and surrounding areas have diverse climates. Check the weather forecast before you head out, especially in winter or during monsoon season when roads can be affected by snow or flash floods. Higher elevation areas like Grand Teton may experience cooler temperatures.
• Pack Smart – Bring layers for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially for desert destinations like Capitol Reef or Zion National Park. Always carry snacks, especially when visiting remote areas like Flaming Gorge or Great Basin.
• Book Accommodations in Advance—Weekend trips from Salt Lake City can be popular, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays). To secure a spot, book your hotels, cabins, or campsites well in advance. Places like Zion and Jackson Hole can fill up quickly.
• Fuel Up – Some road trip destinations like Flaming Gorge or Great Basin are in remote areas where gas stations are few and far between. Ensure your vehicle has a full gas tank, especially if driving through more isolated regions.
• Plan for Park Entrance Fees – Many national parks, such as Zion, Capitol Reef, and Grand Teton, charge entrance fees. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass. It covers entrance fees for all U.S. national parks for one year.
• Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service – Cell phone reception can be spotty or nonexistent in remote areas. Download maps, directions, and trail guides ahead of time so you will stay aware of the situation. Consider using apps like AllTrails or offline maps from Google Maps.
• Check for Permits and Restrictions – Some popular hikes and activities require permits (e.g., Angels Landing in Zion), and many parks have seasonal road closures (e.g., Great Basin in winter). Research your destination in advance to ensure you’re prepared for any required permits.
• Leave No Trace – Utah’s natural landscapes are beautiful but fragile. To help preserve the environment for future visitors, pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and stick to marked trails.
• Bring Adventure Gear—If you’re visiting national parks, proper hiking boots, a daypack, trekking poles, or binoculars for wildlife viewing are always useful. Also, consider renting or bringing outdoor gear like kayaks, bikes, or snowshoes, depending on the season and destination.

These road trips from Salt Lake City are perfect for weekend getaways that offer something for everyone, from adventurous hikes to relaxing lakeside retreats. Experience the stunning red rock formations of Moab or the serene beauty of Bear Lake; these destinations are worth every mile.

I hope you will soon plan any of these weekend getaways from Salt Lake City, which are stunning road trips from Salt Lake City, Utah.

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