Great Salt Lake

Great Salt Lake Travel Guide

The Great Salt Lake, located in the northern part of the U.S. state of Utah, is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It is a remnant of the prehistoric Lake Bonneville, which once covered much of Utah. The lake is known for its high salinity, which is up to seven times saltier than the ocean, and its unique ecosystem.

Getting There

Getting to the Great Salt Lake is straightforward, as it is located close to Salt Lake City, Utah.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is located about 10 miles west of downtown Salt Lake City. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to the Great Salt Lake.

By Car:

• The Great Salt Lake is easily accessible by car from Salt Lake City. The most popular access point for visitors is Antelope Island State Park, which is connected to the mainland by a causeway. The park can be reached by taking I-15 to exit 332 and then following the signs to the park.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Great Salt Lake is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These seasons offer the best conditions for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

The summer months (July to August) can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The lake can also have a strong odor during the summer months due to the high salinity and the growth of certain types of bacteria.

The winter months (November to March) can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, winter is also a great time to visit if you are interested in seeing migratory birds, as the Great Salt Lake is an important habitat for many bird species during their winter migration.

Top Attractions and Activities

1. Antelope Island State Park: The largest island in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and a variety of bird species. The park offers hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing.

   
   

2. Spiral Jetty: A famous earthwork sculpture created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, Spiral Jetty is located on the northeastern shore of the lake and is made entirely from mud, salt crystals, and basalt rocks.

   
   

3. Saltair: A historic resort located on the southern shore of the lake, Saltair has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike since it was first built in the late 19th century. Today, it is a popular spot for concerts and events.

   
   

4. Bird Watching: The Great Salt Lake is an important habitat for migratory birds, and there are several bird watching areas around the lake where visitors can see a variety of bird species.

   
   

5. Swimming and Floating: The high salinity of the lake makes it easy to float, and there are several designated swimming areas around the lake where visitors can experience this unique sensation. The optimal location for swimming and lounging on the beaches is at Antelope Island State Park. Local residents suggest swimming in the lake's southern region, which is distanced from the recreational area.

   
   

6. Great Salt Lake Marina: The marina offers boat rentals and other recreational opportunities, as well as beautiful views of the lake.

   
   

7. Buffalo Point: A popular spot for hiking and picnicking, Buffalo Point offers stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountains.

   
   

8. Visitor Centers: The park has several visitor centers that offer educational exhibits and information about the natural and cultural history of the area.

   
   

9. Sunset and Sunrise Watching: The lake is known for its beautiful sunsets and sunrises, which can be enjoyed from various points around the lake.

Where to Stay

When visiting the Great Salt Lake, there are several options for accommodations both inside and outside the park:

• Inside the Park:

  • Antelope Island State Park offers camping facilities with beautiful views of the lake. There are several campgrounds to choose from, including Bridger Bay Campground and White Rock Bay Campground.

• Salt Lake City:

  • As the nearest major city, Salt Lake City has a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. The city also offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

• Layton and Farmington:

  • These towns are located to the south of the park and offer additional accommodations, including hotels and motels. They are also close to other attractions, such as Lagoon Amusement Park and Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area.

• Ogden:

  • Located to the north of the park, Ogden has several hotels and motels, as well as a historic downtown area with shops and restaurants.

Other Tips

• Check out the Great Salt Lake State Park Website for more details.

• Bring plenty of water, as the high salinity of the lake can be dehydrating.

• Be aware that the lake can have a strong odor, especially in the summer months.

• Be respectful of wildlife, and follow all park regulations.