Great Salt Lake Utah: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Utah’s Great Salt Lake is one of the most iconic and unusual natural wonders in the western United States. Often compared to the Dead Sea because of its extreme salinity, this massive inland lake is not only visually stunning but also offers unique outdoor experiences, fascinating wildlife encounters, and incredible photo opportunities. For first-time visitors, exploring the Great Salt Lake is about more than just seeing a body of water, it’s about immersing yourself in a surreal landscape shaped by salt, sky, and silence.
Overview
The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, spanning about 1,700 square miles. Its salinity levels are so high that most fish can’t survive in it, but it’s a haven for brine shrimp and migratory birds. The lake fluctuates in size depending on rainfall and snowmelt and is surrounded by islands, state parks, and desert landscapes. Whether you’re looking for calm, quiet nature escapes or unique places to hike, float, or camp, the Great Salt Lake has it all.
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How to Get There
The Great Salt Lake is located just west of Salt Lake City, making it one of the easiest natural landmarks to reach in Utah.
- By Car: Take I-80 west from Salt Lake City to reach Great Salt Lake State Park (approx. 16 miles from downtown). For Antelope Island, take I-15 north to Syracuse, then head west on Antelope Drive to the causeway entrance.
- By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport is the closest major airport and is only about 20 minutes away by car.
- By Public Transit: Options are limited, so driving is the most efficient way to explore the lake and surrounding areas.
Best Times to Visit
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons to visit the Great Salt Lake. During these months, temperatures are mild, and bug activity is low. Summer can be beautiful but also brings heat and swarms of gnats and brine flies. Winter visits are possible but chilly and more limited in terms of access to trails and campsites.
- Best Months: April–June and September–October
- Avoid if possible: July and August (heat and insects)
10 Best Things to Do
- Float in the Saltwater – The salinity makes it easy to float effortlessly, a must-try experience.
- Explore Antelope Island State Park – Hike, bike, or drive to scenic viewpoints and look for wild bison and pronghorn.
- Watch the Sunset – The lake’s shallow waters reflect vibrant colors that create stunning sunsets.
- Visit the Great Salt Lake Marina – Launch a kayak, go boating, or simply relax by the water.
- Hike to Buffalo Point – A short trail on Antelope Island with panoramic views of the lake.
- Take a Photography Tour – Catch surreal shots of salt flats, mirror-like water, and open desert.
- Birdwatch at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge – A world-class location for spotting waterfowl and shorebirds.
- See the Spiral Jetty – A remote but fascinating land art installation on the north shore.
- Camp Under the Stars – Enjoy dark-sky conditions from campgrounds on Antelope Island.
- Visit the Saltair Pavilion – Once a glamorous resort, it’s now a quirky concert venue and photo-worthy site.
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
- Buffalo Point Trail (Easy) – A quick and scenic 0.5-mile hike with expansive views and a great spot for sunset.
- Frary Peak Trail (Moderate) – The highest point on Antelope Island with a 6-mile round trip and rewarding views.
- Mount Olympus Trail (Advanced) – Located near Salt Lake City, this challenging 7-mile round-trip hike gains over 4,000 feet in elevation.
5 Hidden Gems
- Ladyfinger Point – A less-trafficked spot on Antelope Island ideal for solitude and photography.
- Farmington Bay – An excellent birding spot few tourists visit, especially good during spring migrations.
- Stansbury Island – A quieter alternative to Antelope Island with off-the-beaten-path trails and rock art.
- City Creek Canyon – Tucked just north of downtown Salt Lake City, this peaceful canyon offers shady walks and picnicking.
- Lee Creek Trail – A hidden hike on Antelope Island with interpretive signs and interesting geology.
Packing List
- My Amazon gear list
- Lightweight clothing (with layers for wind and sun)
- Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat
- Insect repellent (especially in summer)
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Water and snacks
- Camera and tripod
- Swimsuit and towel (if floating)
- Light jacket for cooler evenings
- National or state park pass (if applicable)
Sample Itinerary (1–5 Days)
Day 1:
Arrive in Salt Lake City and head to the Great Salt Lake State Park for a sunset float and walk along the marina.
Day 2:
Drive to Antelope Island. Hike Buffalo Point, visit the visitor center, and camp overnight under the stars.
Day 3:
Tackle Frary Peak or take a more relaxed wildlife viewing tour. Visit Ladyfinger Point for quiet lake views.
Day 4:
Take a scenic drive to the Spiral Jetty, explore the art, and enjoy a picnic with lake views.
Day 5:
Explore Salt Lake City’s natural spots like City Creek Canyon or Gilgal Gardens before heading out.
Where to Stay
- Salt Lake City Hotels – Stay downtown for easy access to restaurants, museums, and day trips.
- Tooele or Magna – Smaller towns with budget-friendly lodging close to the lake.
- Antelope Island Campgrounds – For a true nature immersion, camp at Bridger Bay or White Rock Bay.
- Vacation Rentals – Options are available in Syracuse and Farmington for families or longer stays.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The lake’s high salt content can irritate your skin and eyes. Shower after swimming if possible.
- Biting gnats and brine flies are common during summer, bug spray is a must.
- Bring your own water and snacks; services on Antelope Island are limited.
- Cell service can be spotty in remote areas, so download maps or bring printed ones.
- Entry fees are required for state parks and Antelope Island, bring cash or a card.
Similar Sights
Final Thoughts
The Great Salt Lake is one of the most underrated destinations in Utah, offering both natural beauty and peaceful solitude. Whether you’re floating in its unusual waters, hiking to breathtaking overlooks, or photographing its mirror-like reflections, the lake leaves a lasting impression. With the right planning, a visit to this unique ecosystem can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want, and a truly unforgettable addition to any Utah road trip.
