Best Scenic Drives in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah is the perfect place for a beautiful and memorable road trip. The city is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, deep canyons, fast-moving rivers, and shimmering lakes that can be admired on a scenic drive.

In addition to these natural wonders, Salt Lake City has fantastic restaurants, fascinating museums and art galleries, an abundance of outdoor activities, as well as historic sites from the original Mormon settlers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or an exciting urban adventure, Salt Lake City has something to offer everyone.

From leisurely drives into the mountains to picturesque roads around the lake and downtown cityscape views, take your pick of the various scenic drives found in Salt Lake City. Heading east on Big Cottonwood Canyon takes you along a winding route through forested hills with panoramic canyon views.

At night, stargazing provides an unparalleled experience under the dark sky of this area. If you’re looking for more city sights and sounds, make your way downtown on I-15 or State Street and enjoy stunning views of the skyline while listening to live music from some of the best local bands in town.

There are also plenty of options for those who prefer water-centric routes; take a road trip around Saltair Beach or Antelope Island to appreciate its tranquil shorelines and spectacular sunsets. No matter what route you choose for your scenic drive in Salt Lake City, you’re sure to find something unforgettable along every twist and turn!

Overview Of Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is the capital and most populous city of the US state of Utah. It is home to the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Located in Salt Lake Valley, the city has an estimated population of more than 200,000 people, with a greater metropolitan area population of around 1.2 million.

The economy of Salt Lake City is highly diversified, driven by sectors such as trade, transportation and utilities, information technology, construction and real estate, finance and insurance services, education health services and government services. Many major corporations have headquarters or regional offices here including Goldman Sachs, Dell Computer Corporation and Questar Corporation.

The city’s attractions include the historic Temple Square–home to numerous religious landmarks such as the Salt Lake Temple–and Park City Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding in wintertime. Other popular sites include The Leonardo museum dedicated to science and creativity; Hogle Zoo; Red Butte Garden; Great Salt Lake; Clark Planetarium; Utah’s Hogle Zoo; This Is The Place Heritage Park; Tracy Aviary; Gilgal Garden sculptures gardens; Liberty Park – home to ski jumps used in 2002 Winter Olympics held in Utah; Seven Peaks Waterpark Provo; Lagoon Amusement park Farmington; Antelope Island State Park –a large island in Great Salt Lake offering boat trips into lake’s bays as well as biking trails along its shoreline.

In addition to its many attractions for tourists and visitors, Salt Lake City offers a vibrant nightlife with a range of bars, nightclubs and live music venues from local bands or international stars performing at the Energy Solutions Arena or Maverik Center. There are also numerous art galleries throughout downtown that showcase works from both local artists as well as renowned painters from around the world.

Salt Lake City is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking/biking/rafting along nearby Wasatch Range mountain trails or skiing/snowboarding down slopes at resorts like Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort or Brighton Ski Resort just outside the city limits. Shopping options abound with outlets located on Main Street or Crossroads Mall featuring designer wear fashions along with plenty of restaurants serving up cuisines from all over the world like Japanese sushi bars or Mexican cantinas–all within easy reach of downtown hotel accommodations offering comfortable lodgings that cater to business travelers as well recreational vacationers alike.

Overview Of Salt Lake City

Why Scenic Drives Are A Great Way To Explore Salt Lake City

Exploring Salt Lake City via a scenic drive is an excellent way to experience the beauty of this vibrant city. With stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, you’ll be able to appreciate the diverse landscape from a whole new perspective.

The city is full of interesting attractions, including historical sites, outdoor recreational activities, outdoor performances and live music, arts and culture venues, as well as unique shopping areas. Taking a leisurely drive through the city’s streets will allow you to soak up all of its splendor in one go.

One particularly popular route for those interested in exploring Salt Lake City is along State Street. This historic thoroughfare runs from north to south through the heart of downtown and is packed full of unique landmarks and attractions such as Temple Square—home to two iconic Mormon temples—and Vivint SmartHome Stadium where Real Salt Lake plays soccer.

Other not-to-be-missed sights on State Street include City Creek Center, an outdoor shopping mall featuring over 110 stores; Gateway, a large outdoor entertainment complex; and The Leonardo museum which features interactive exhibits related to science and technology.

The University of Utah campus also offers plenty of scenery for those wanting a close-up view of the Wasatch Mountains. Here visitors can take in breathtaking vistas while meandering around campus or even catch glimpses through some of its grand Gothic Revival buildings like Kingsbury Hall and Presidents Circle. The university’s grounds are also home to several noteworthy museums such as The Natural History Museum of Utah which showcases more than 1.2 million objects from around the world, providing both educational exhibits and entertaining activities for kids (as well as adults).

Finally, no drive around Salt Lake City would be complete without taking advantage of some opportunities for outdoor recreation that are just waiting to be discovered. Nearby Hogle Zoo features a variety of animals such as African Lions, Giraffes and Zebras while Sugar House Park offers plenty of open space for hiking or biking with stunning views overlooking downtown Salt Lake City. Not far away is Antelope Island State Park where visitors can enjoy camping, horseback riding or simply explore miles upon miles off pristine beaches along the Great Salt Lake’s shores.

In conclusion, taking a scenic drive through Salt Lake City is an ideal way to get an overview tour that combines different aspects such as history, culture and nature into one comprehensive package. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon activity or just want to check out some fascinating sites in one go – there are plenty of attractions that will leave you feeling enriched by your journey when it’s all said and done!

Salt Lake City

 

Big Cottonwood Canyon Drive, from Salt Lake City to Brighton

Big Cottonwood Canyon Drive is one of the most iconic scenic drives in Salt Lake City, offering spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains as it winds its way along the canyon floor from Salt Lake City to Brighton. Along the way, you’ll be treated to lush forests, towering cliffs and awe-inspiring peaks that will take your breath away. As you drive, you’ll pass by Butterfield Canyon, one of the most picturesque areas in the entire region. At this point, you can stop to admire Pinecrest Peak and the beautiful Red Butte Garden before continuing on your journey.

The drive continues to get more stunning as it takes you past granite gorges marked with glacial erosions, through narrow canyons carved into the mountainsides that offer breathtaking views at every turn. As you continue your trek upwards towards Brighton, take a moment to appreciate the wildflowers blooming alongside winding trails and mountain streams glittering in the sun. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Albion Basin, a high-altitude meadow surrounded by alpine tundra and white quartzite cliffs where you can find all sorts of wildlife including bear cubs and bighorn sheep.

Once you’ve reached Brighton Ski Resort, take some time to explore its many ski runs and enjoy some of Utah’s finest powder skiing before heading home for a well-deserved rest. Big Cottonwood Canyon Drive isn’t just a stunningly beautiful drive – it’s also an important part of Utah’s history and culture that provides visitors with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether it’s just a leisurely Sunday afternoon drive or a day trip full of outdoor activities such as hiking or mountain biking – Big Cottonwood Canyon Drive has something for everyone!

Big Cottonwood Canyon Drive

Little Cottonwood Canyon Drive, from Salt Lake City to Alta

Little Cottonwood Canyon Drive is one of the most beautiful scenic routes in Salt Lake City. Located just 20 miles southeast of downtown, it winds its way up to the charming ski town of Alta. With its spectacular views, this drive is a must-do for any visitor to the area.

Driving along Little Cottonwood Canyon Road starts with an impressive entrance at 9100 South Wasatch Boulevard in Salt Lake City. Immediately on the left side you will find a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Wasatch Mountains, while on the right side you will see the lush green meadows of Tanner Park.

As you travel further up the canyon, you will be treated to stunning panoramic vistas at every turn. The road is lined with tall evergreens and aspens that change vibrant hues throughout each season – from deep greens during summer months to dramatic oranges and reds when fall arrives. You may even spot some wildlife along the way – deer, elk, and moose are all commonly seen around this area.

The drive continues until you reach 8600 feet above sea level where Alta awaits. This quaint ski village offers plenty of winter fun such as skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice skating and much more! However, it’s also great for summertime activities like hiking, biking and camping too!

For those looking for an amazing scenic drive close by to Salt Lake City that provides incredible views and plenty of outdoor activities then Little Cottonwood Canyon Drive is your perfect destination!

Little Cottonwood Canyon Drive from salt lake city

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, from Kamas to Evanston, Wyoming

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a breathtaking journey from Kamas to Evanston, Wyoming. This stunning route is one of the most scenic drives in Salt Lake City and provides travelers with unparalleled views of the Wasatch Mountains. Along this road, visitors will be able to witness beautiful mountain peaks, lush forests, and sparkling lakes set against the backdrop of picturesque valleys.

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway begins in Kamas and winds its way up through the Uinta Mountains to Evanston, passing through small towns and villages along the way. As you drive along this route, you can take in incredible views of mountains like Provo Peak and Mount Timpanogos that make up part of Utah’s magnificent Wasatch range. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway also passes by several lakes including Strawberry Reservoir and Deer Creek Reservoir where you can experience some great fishing opportunities or stop for a picnic lunch with family or friends.

In addition to enjoying the gorgeous scenery along this byway, visitors will be able to explore some of Utah’s unique cultural attractions as well. Stop in Heber City to visit the historic Heber Valley Railroad before heading out on your drive or spend time exploring nearby Kamas where you can find old-time stores and restaurants that evoke a simpler era. There are also numerous trails that offer recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and more so you can get outdoors and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

From start to finish, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers an unforgettable driving experience that should not be missed when visiting Salt Lake City. Whether it’s for a peaceful weekend away or an amazing road trip destination, this scenic stretch of highway is sure to leave travelers feeling inspired and refreshed. So don’t delay – plan your next adventure today!

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, from American Fork to Provo Canyon

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a breathtaking drive that takes you from the city of American Fork to Provo Canyon in Salt Lake City. The route provides a unique insight into the diverse terrain and landscapes of Utah, with mountain peaks, alpine forests, high desert plateaus, and rolling hills all along the way. For those looking for a scenic drive that they can enjoy while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city’s busy streets, this stretch of highway is an ideal option.

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway begins at American Fork, just north of Salt Lake City. After passing through American Fork, travelers will find themselves surrounded by majestic mountaintops as they ascend up towards Provo Canyon. Along the way you’ll be treated to stunning views of Utah Valley, with its lush green meadows, flowing streams and rivers, and snow-capped mountains looming in the distance. The drive also passes through some small towns such as Charlestonsville and Lehi before heading into Provo Canyon. This area is known for its picturesque beauty featuring waterfalls, forests full of evergreen trees, rocky cliffsides and colorful wildflowers growing in abundance during the spring season.

Once you reach Provo Canyon, you’ll be greeted by an amazing sight – Mount Timpanogos looming large over the valley below. This 11000-foot peak is one of Utah’s most iconic natural landmarks and it adds to the already incredible scenery along this stretch of road. You can take some time to explore the canyon or just enjoy its beauty from afar as you continue your journey down toward Salt Lake City itself.

On your way back southbound from Provo Canyon there are several other points of interest including Soldier Hollow – where you can go tubing in winter months or hike around during summertime – as well as Aspen Grove which offers miles of trails for nature lovers all year long.

All in all, taking a drive between American Fork and Provo Canyon via The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway offers travelers an unparalleled view of some truly incredible landscapes found throughout Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range; so if you’re looking for an exciting road trip filled with stunning views then get ready to experience this unforgettable journey!

Alpine Loop Scenic Byway from American Fork to Provo Canyon

Parley’s Canyon Drive, from Salt Lake City to Park City

Parley’s Canyon Drive, from Salt Lake City to Park City, is a beautiful and breathtaking scenic route that offers stunning views of Utah’s majestic Wasatch Mountains. This picturesque drive will take you past lush pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear alpine lakes.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the historic mining towns of Parleys Summit and East Canyon. You can also catch glimpses of wildflowers growing along the narrow canyon walls as well as bighorn sheep grazing in the meadows. The entire drive takes about an hour and a half each way, so it’s perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

The road winds gently between the two cities, with plenty of places to stop for photos or to explore some of the area’s hidden gems. Make sure to pack your camera; this stretch of highway offers some truly stunning mountain vistas that are sure to make you reach for your camera more than once! Stop at one of the many overlooks along Parley’s Canyon Drive, where you can soak up panoramic views of all four ski resorts in Park City as well as miles and miles of unspoiled wilderness stretching into the horizon.

For those who like outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing and camping along this route. There are several trails accessible right off Parley’s Canyon Drive that take you deep into the alpine forest or high up on ridges overlooking dramatic mountain valleys below. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventurous detour into nature’s wonders, Parley’s Canyon Drive won’t disappoint!

Guardman’s Pass, from Park City to Brighton

Guardman’s Pass is a scenic drive in Salt Lake City that takes travelers from Park City to Brighton. This route showcases some of the most stunning views of Utah’s beautiful Wasatch mountain range, as well as its lush pine forests.

The trip begins in Park City, a bustling ski town full of exciting outdoor activities and attractions. As you wind your way along the road, you’ll be able to take in breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lofty evergreens, as well as panoramic vistas over the picturesque valleys below.

In addition to its natural beauty, Guardman’s Pass also offers a variety of interesting historical sites and monuments along the way. From the original Mormon settlement at Parley’s Summit to the Old Stone Church in Brighton, visitors will be able to journey through some of Utah’s rich cultural heritage.

At its highest point lies Redman’s Peak- a majestic summit with sweeping views across the entire valley floor and beyond. There are several picturesque pullouts for visitors keen on taking photos or admiring the view. On clear days you can see all the way to Kennecott Copper Mine at Bingham Canyon, making this one of the most scenic drives in the state.

Along with incredible mountain views, Guardman’s Pass is home to an abundance of wildlife ranging from migrating birds and deer, to elk and moose during certain times of year. For those looking for adventure there are also plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, ATV trails, snowmobiling areas and rock climbing spots along this stretch of road. With its stunning scenery and multiple attractions, Guardman’s Pass is an ideal destination for travelers wanting a truly memorable driving experience in Salt Lake City!

 

Emigration Canyon Drive, from Salt Lake City to Emigration Canyon

Emigration Canyon Drive is one of the most stunning and iconic scenic drives in Salt Lake City. Starting from downtown Salt Lake City, the drive takes you up Emigration Canyon, a winding road that follows the course of Emigration Creek. The views along this stretch of road are truly breathtaking; you can take in the beauty of Mt. Olympus, Grandeur Peak, and Parley’s Peak as you ascend to higher elevations.

The canyon itself is filled with natural wonders to explore. From wildflowers to majestic wildlife, there’s something here for everyone. Stop at Memory Grove Park or Red Butte Garden to take a break from the drive and enjoy some of nature’s finest beauty.

As you drive further up the canyon, witness the change in landscape – shady forests give way to wide-open meadows dotted with grazing animals – before eventually reaching the summit of Big Mountain Pass, where you can take in panoramic views stretching all across Salt Lake Valley below you.

For those interested in history, a stop by This Is The Place Heritage Park is recommended. Here visitors can learn about Mormon pioneers who arrived here 150 years ago and built up communities in what was then an isolated wilderness area. The park contains many replica buildings such as houses and mills used by these settlers to recreate their old way of life so visitors can really get a sense of what it must have been like for them back then.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Emigration Canyon Drive also offers several outdoor activities for people looking for something more active than sightseeing. Hikers will love trekking through nearby trails while cyclists can cruise down miles of quiet roads carved into the mountainside during their ride through this breathtaking landscape. Picnickers will discover plenty of spots along the way with amazing views while rock climbers can test their skills on the cliffs and boulders located around Big Mountain Pass near Little Dell Reservoir at the top of canyon.

Whether it’s visiting historical sites, taking picturesque drives through nature or engaging in outdoor activities—Emigration Canyon Drive has something special to offer everyone who visits Salt Lake City!

Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, from Nephi to Payson

The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway is a breathtakingly beautiful drive that stretches from Nephi to Payson in Salt Lake City, Utah. Travelers of this scenic byway will be treated to breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and the valleys below.

Along the way, you will be able to take in stunning views of Mount Nebo, the highest point in the Wasatch Range. The drive itself takes you through some of the most picturesque countryside that Utah has to offer. As you wind your way along the highway, you will pass through towns like Mona and Spanish Fork, offering visitors a glimpse into small-town life in Utah.

Along Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, travelers can expect to see plenty of wildlife such as deer or elk grazing nearby. This area is also home to many different species of birds including bald eagles and red-tailed hawks soaring above. In addition, there are several notable sites along this scenic route including Devil’s Kitchen, a natural rock formation carved out by centuries of erosion; Miners Basin Overlook, a great spot for taking in sweeping panoramic views; and Big Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead where hikers can explore miles of trails that lead up to dramatic overlooks with views stretching for miles.

In between these popular spots are plenty more hidden gems like isolated meadows filled with wildflowers in spring and summer months and abandoned railroad tracks that run right alongside the road. With its rolling hills, lush forests and incredible mountain backdrops it’s easy to understand why so many people come back year after year just to experience this picturesque drive again and again. Whether you’re looking for an extended weekend getaway or just want some time away from it all, traveling along Nebo Loop Scenic Byway will not disappoint!

Provo Canyon Drive, from Orem to Heber

Provo Canyon Drive is a scenic stretch of road which winds its way through the majestic Wasatch Mountain Range of Utah, running from Orem to Heber City. This beautiful drive will take you along a route with breathtaking views and an array of activities for all ages. Enjoy the tall snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lakes in this region as you travel down Provo Canyon Drive.

Along the way there are plenty of opportunities for fun recreation, including camping spots, hiking trails, fishing spots, and rock climbing areas. As you make your way through the different stretches of road, each offers something unique to experience; from the incredible overlooks to roadside attractions that offer something special along this journey.

The scenery changes drastically throughout the entire route, making it an enjoyable experience even if one chooses to drive straight through without stopping at any of these attractions. On one side of the canyon you’ll find vast stretches of open land dotted with wildflowers and lush vegetation, while on the other side dramatic cliffs rise up above you and grand views emerge offering a panorama like no other.

Various historical sites are scattered throughout this area as well such as Native American ancient ruins and pioneer homesteads; these provide visitors with a glimpse into Utah’s past while they enjoy all that this area has to offer today. Popular tourist attractions such as Sundance Resort can be found here too where visitors can find skiing or attend events held in their award-winning theater. There’s also Cascade Springs where visitors can take in its serene beauty; it consists of a series of cascading waterfalls across terraced ledges surrounded by beautiful foliage and wildlife ranging from deer to rare birds. Visitors can also enjoy dining out at local restaurants or partake in some shopping at nearby stores before continuing their travels down Provo Canyon Drive.

Provo Canyon Drive from Orem to Heber

Monte Cristo Scenic Byway, from Huntsville to Woodland

The Monte Cristo Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in Salt Lake City, taking you from Huntsville to Woodland. This stunning stretch of road offers breathtaking views and countless opportunities to explore the surrounding area. Along the way, you will pass through rugged mountains and dense forests, as well as lush meadows and awe-inspiring canyons. Every turn along this byway presents a unique experience, with something new and exciting to discover around each bend.

The nearly 45-mile journey starts in Huntsville, a small mountain village located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. Here, travelers can take a break for lunch or a quick stop for pictures before continuing along the winding road. As you make your way further into the mountains, you’ll pass by several small towns including Woodruff and Eden before arriving in Woodland. Upon reaching Woodland, visitors are treated to stunning views of Pineview Reservoir and Mount Ogden. A short drive up Ogden Canyon will provide even more incredible scenery including rushing rivers and majestic waterfalls cascading down steep cliffsides.

For those looking for outdoor recreation opportunities during their drive, there are plenty of places to go hiking and camping throughout this region. The Uinta National Forest has miles of trails that are perfect for exploring, while nearby Powder Mountain Ski resort provides winter sports enthusiasts with plenty of opportunities for downhill skiing or snowboarding on some of Utah’s best slopes.

Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable drive with spectacular scenery or an outdoor adventure filled with thrilling activities, the Monte Cristo Scenic Byway is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that is sure to stay with you long after your journey has ended!

Monte Cristo Scenic Byway from Huntsville to Woodland

Tips for Enjoying the Drive

To make the most of your scenic drive in Salt Lake City, here are some tips to consider:

  1. Get an early start and avoid peak rush hour traffic. The best time to enjoy the scenic drive is usually during the early morning hours when you can experience the city without any of the hustle and bustle. There is nothing like taking in the sights of this vibrant city when it is still quiet.
  2. Check out some of the local landmarks along your route. There are many places of interest, such as Temple Square and Red Butte Garden, that are worth stopping at to take pictures and enjoy the sights. Other attractions include Memory Grove Park, This Is The Place Heritage Park, and The Leonardo Museum.
  3. Make sure to bring a camera or your smartphone as Salt Lake City offers plenty of stunning views that are perfect for capturing on film or video. From breathtaking urban vistas to inspiring mountain tops, you won’t want to miss anything!
  4. Consider taking a detour off of your planned path in order to stumble upon hidden gems or unique experiences. You never know what you may find!
  5. Listen to some good music while you drive so you can get into a relaxed state of mind and enjoy the trip even more!
  6. Take advantage of all that Salt Lake City has to offer by stopping at one (or more) of its many restaurants for a bite to eat or simply for refreshments before continuing on your journey. Some top picks include Caffe Molise, La Caille Restaurant & Bakery, Bruges waffles & frites, Vinto Pizzeria, Pig & A Jelly Jar, and Current Fish & Oyster – just to name a few!
  7. And last but not least: make sure that you pull over from time to time and get out of your car for a few minutes for some fresh air and stretching! Taking regular breaks will help keep you refreshed so you can really take in all that Salt Lake City has to offer during your scenic drive!

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit scenic drives in Salt Lake City is during the spring or fall months when there is an abundance of beautiful blooms and the temperatures are mild. During the spring, wildflowers begin to bloom across the hillsides, giving visitors gorgeous views and abundant opportunities to take stunning photographs. This time of year also offers some excellent chances to view incredible wildlife such as mule deer and bighorn sheep. The fall season sees cooler temperatures and vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges on the trees that line roadsides. Both of these times of year provide excellent conditions for stress-free driving through winding mountain roads.

When planning your trip around Salt Lake City’s scenic routes be sure to bring along layers because no matter what time of year it is you never know when those temperatures can change quickly due to elevation changes. Also bring plenty of water and snacks since many parts of these routes don’t have close access to amenities like restaurants or gas stations; even cell phone service can be spotty at best depending on what part you’re driving through.

It’s essential that you come prepared when taking these drives in order to make sure you have a safe journey back home! There are plenty of sites online that can provide information about which roads have been rated as easy or difficult by other drivers so you can plan accordingly before heading out on your adventure. Don’t forget cameras either so you can capture all the amazing sights found along these breathtaking routes!

Preparing for the Drive:

Preparing for the Scenic Drive in Salt Lake City is an exciting and adventurous experience. Whether you are a local or a tourist, you will enjoy the stunning views and beautiful sights that this amazing city has to offer. The best way to explore Salt Lake City is by taking a drive along its scenic routes, which allow you to take in some of the most breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains, the Great Salt Lake, and Utah’s sprawling desert landscape.

When planning your scenic drive in Salt Lake City, it is important to be aware of the various road conditions that may exist during different times of year. In particular, spring and summer months tend to bring more rain and snow melt which can create slippery roads and difficult driving conditions. During these times it is important to pay close attention to weather forecasts so that you can be prepared for any unexpected situations.

Additionally, if possible it’s good to check with local authorities before setting out on your journey just in case road closures have been implemented due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

The most popular scenic drives in Salt Lake City start from either Big or Little Cottonwood Canyons. These two canyons provide drivers with incredible views from their winding mountain roads all the way down into downtown Salt Lake City. Many people choose to begin their journey at one of these canyons and then head east towards downtown as they follow State Route 65 until they reach their destination. Along the way, travelers are treated to magnificent panoramic vistas of Mount Olympus, Grandeur Peak, Bells Canyon Reservoir, Emigration Canyon Wilderness Area and many other breathtaking sites within Wasatch Front Range.

Aside from enjoying beautiful mountain scenery while driving through these canyons there are plenty of outdoor activities available during warmer weather months such as hiking trails, fishing spots full of trophy trout and bird watching opportunities where visitors have chance encounters with local wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles soaring across the sky above them.

In addition to all these amazing experiences driving through Salt Lake City also offers travelers glimpses into historic neighborhoods filled with traditional architecture like classic Victorian-style homes as well as iconic landmarks like Utah State Capitol building which was built over 100 years ago at the heart of downtown SLC.

Whether you are traveling alone or with friends & family we recommend setting aside plenty of time for your scenic drive in Salt Lake City because no matter how much time you spend exploring this city its natural beauty will always leave you wanting more!

Must-Have Supplies:

If you’re wanting to go on a scenic drive in Salt Lake City, then you’ll need to make sure that you have some essential supplies. It’s best to come prepared with the following items, so you can make the most out of your trip and have an enjoyable time.

First, make sure you carry plenty of water. The Salt Lake City area is quite dry, so it’s important to stay hydrated while you enjoy your scenic drive. Additionally, pack some snacks such as trail mix or granola bars to provide extra energy throughout the journey.

Next, bring a map or GPS navigation system with directions ready for your destination. Knowing where you are going will help prevent getting lost and provide peace of mind during the ride. Also consider having a paper map handy in case your phone loses power or service.

In addition, include your sun protection essentials like sunglasses and sunscreen – even if it is cloudy outside! The elevation in Salt Lake City is approximately 4500 feet above sea level which makes the sun’s rays stronger than usual. Sunburns can be easily prevented by taking these precautions before heading out on your scenic drive adventure.

Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone so that you can capture all of the beautiful sights along the way! Taking pictures during your trip will create lasting memories of all of the amazing views and experiences encountered during your journey through Salt Lake City’s picturesque landscape.

Road Conditions:

Salt Lake City is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic drives in the world. From winding mountain roads that offer breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains to long stretches of straight highway, driving in Salt Lake City can be an enjoyable experience.

The roads in Salt Lake City are generally well-maintained, both by federal and local authorities. The city’s Department of Public Services is responsible for ensuring that all roads throughout the city are kept safe and properly plowed during winter months. Additionally, Utah’s Department of Transportation works hard to keep roads clear of debris and potential hazards with regular street sweeping efforts.

In terms of traffic, Salt Lake City does tend to have a moderate amount of congestion during rush hour periods. However, many highways such as I-15 provide multiple lanes that allow for faster speeds outside normal business hours. Some intersections may become quite crowded at certain times of day due to an increase in tourism or other factors. However, most vehicles can easily navigate these areas without difficulty during less busy periods.

As far as scenic drives go, there are numerous options to choose from within the Salt Lake Valley region. The Bonneville Salt Flats area provides stunning views and wide open spaces while Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of the most popular routes for those looking for a leisurely drive through nature’s beauty. There are also several mountain pass routes that take you through some incredible alpine scenery – including access to ski resorts throughout the area.

Drivers in Salt Lake City should also take note that weather conditions can drastically change road conditions at any given time – particularly during winter months where snowfall can quickly make surfaces slippery and hazardous even on major highways such as I-80 or I-15. For this reason it’s important to always keep safety a priority when navigating any roadways – especially those located in mountainous terrain where visibility and grip can be compromised due to inclement weather or other environmental factors such as wind or fog.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Scenic Drives Salt Lake City is a great place to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities. The area is well known for its stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains, and there are plenty of opportunities to go hiking, biking, or camping. With various trails that range from beginner to advanced levels, it’s easy to find the perfect route for your adventure.

In addition to the breathtaking scenery, there are also many historical sites nearby that offer interesting insight into the area’s rich history. Whether you’re a local looking for an exciting weekend getaway or a visitor wanting to experience something unique, Scenic Drives Salt Lake City has something for everyone. From its incredible natural beauty to its fascinating culture and heritage, this is one destination you don’t want to miss!