Fun Things To Do In Salt Lake City: Your Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide

ByEric James Updated on

Planning a trip to Salt Lake City and wondering if it’s more than just a city? You might see the grid-like streets and the impressive temple, but look up. Those towering peaks of the Wasatch Front aren’t just a pretty backdrop; they are a world-class playground waiting for you.

I promise this guide will take you beyond the typical tourist checklist. We’re going to skip the long lines and dive straight into the heart of what makes this place a true adventurer’s basecamp. This is your practical, no-nonsense manual for exploring the incredible outdoors just minutes from downtown.

We’ll cover the best day hikes for every skill level, scenic drives that will leave you breathless, and the essential gear and safety know-how you need to explore confidently. Let’s get you prepped for an unforgettable adventure.

Why Salt Lake City is an Unbeatable Basecamp for Outdoor Adventure

What makes SLC so special isn’t just one thing—it’s the incredible proximity of rugged wilderness to urban convenience. You can grab a great cup of coffee downtown and be standing at a trailhead surrounded by aspen and pine trees less than 30 minutes later.

This unique geography offers a massive advantage. You have immediate access to the steep, dramatic canyons of the Wasatch Range, the vast and surreal landscape of the Great Salt Lake, and the sprawling desert terrain just a short drive away.

The benefits of fun things to do in Salt Lake City are clear: you get four distinct seasons of adventure. World-class skiing and snowshoeing in the winter give way to wildflower-filled hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer. Fall brings stunning colors to the canyons, and spring offers a refreshing escape as the snow melts. It’s a year-round hub for anyone who lives to be outside.

Essential Day Hikes Minutes from Downtown

You don’t need to plan a multi-day expedition to experience the mountains here. Some of the most rewarding views are accessible in just a few hours. Here’s a breakdown of our favorite local trails, perfect for getting your boots dirty without straying far from your home base.

For the Beginner: Ensign Peak Trail

If you have just an hour or two, this is the hike to do. It’s a short, relatively easy 1-mile round trip that delivers one of the best panoramic views of the entire Salt Lake Valley, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding mountains.

It’s a fantastic spot for a sunset hike, but be sure to bring a headlamp for the walk down. For gear, all you really need are some comfortable walking shoes or light hikers, a water bottle, and your phone for photos. This is one of the most accessible fun things to do in Salt Lake City tips we can offer.

For a Moderate Challenge: The Living Room Lookout Trail

This local favorite gets its name from the makeshift “couches” and “chairs” made of sandstone slabs at the summit, offering a perfect place to sit and soak in the view. The trail is a steady 2.5-mile climb, gaining about 1,000 feet in elevation.

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The path can be rocky and uneven, so we recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, like the Merrell Moab 3. A small daypack, such as the Osprey Daylite Plus, is perfect for carrying at least a liter of water, snacks, and a light windbreaker, as it can get breezy at the top.

For the Summit Seeker: Mount Olympus

Let’s be clear: this is a serious hike. The Mount Olympus trail is a grueling 7.5-mile round trip that gains over 4,100 feet in elevation. The final push to the summit involves a non-technical but exposed scramble that requires confidence and careful footing.

Do not attempt this without proper preparation. You’ll need durable hiking boots with excellent ankle support (think Salomon X Ultra 4), at least 3 liters of water, and reliable navigation tools like a GPS device or the AllTrails app downloaded for offline use. Start early to avoid the afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms. This is where you learn how to Fun things to do in Salt Lake City safely at a higher level.

Beyond the Hike: More Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City’s Outdoors

Hiking is just the beginning. The diverse landscape around SLC offers a variety of ways to get your adrenaline pumping or simply enjoy the majestic scenery. This is a complete Fun things to do in Salt Lake City guide for the multi-sport adventurer.

Scenic Drives Through the Wasatch Canyons

For RV and campervan owners, or anyone wanting epic views without the strenuous hike, the scenic drives up Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are a must. In the summer, the roads wind past granite cliffs and gurgling streams. In the fall, they become a tunnel of brilliant yellow, orange, and red aspen leaves.

Check the UDOT Traffic app before you go, especially during winter, as road restrictions (4WD/chains required) are common. The Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway, connecting Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City, is a stunning summer drive but closes in the winter.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

The granite walls of Little Cottonwood Canyon and the quartzite of Big Cottonwood Canyon offer legendary rock climbing routes for all skill levels. From the beginner-friendly top-roping at the “Grit Mill” area to the world-class bouldering problems found throughout, there’s a reason climbers flock here.

If you’re new to climbing, do not go alone. Hire a local guide service like the Utah Mountain Adventure Guides. They’ll provide all the necessary gear (helmet, harness, shoes) and teach you the safety fundamentals to get you started on the right foot.

Paddling on the Great Salt Lake

Paddling on America’s Dead Sea is a truly unique experience. Launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Antelope Island State Park and explore the lake’s surreal, salty waters. You’ll be rewarded with incredible sunsets and a feeling of immense solitude.

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Be aware of the common problems with fun things to do in Salt Lake City‘s most famous lake: the brine flies. They don’t bite but can be very dense. A head net can be a trip-saver. Also, be sure to rinse yourself and all your gear thoroughly with fresh water afterward to remove the corrosive salt.

How to Prepare for Your Salt Lake City Adventure: A Practical Guide

Success in the mountains is all about preparation. The weather can change in an instant, and the high altitude affects everyone differently. Following these best practices will ensure your adventure is safe and enjoyable.

Understanding Altitude and Acclimatization

Salt Lake City sits at about 4,200 feet above sea level, and most trails quickly climb thousands of feet higher. If you’re coming from sea level, you will feel this. The air is thinner, and your body has to work harder.

The solution is simple:

  1. Hydrate: Start drinking extra water the day before you arrive and continue throughout your trip. Dehydration makes altitude sickness worse.
  2. Take it easy: Don’t plan your most strenuous hike for your first day. Give your body a day or two to adjust to the elevation.
  3. Listen to your body: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or get a headache, stop, rest, and hydrate. If symptoms persist, descend to a lower elevation.

Packing the Right Gear for Mountain Weather

Never trust a sunny forecast in the mountains. A beautiful morning can turn into a cold, rainy, or even snowy afternoon without warning. The key is layering.

Your packing list should always include:

  • A moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic, never cotton).
  • An insulating mid-layer, like a fleece or a puffy jacket.
  • A waterproof and windproof outer shell, like the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket.
  • Sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are non-negotiable at high altitudes.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Exploration: Best Practices for SLC

Part of being a responsible outdoor adventurer is leaving the places we love better than we found them. Practicing sustainable Fun things to do in Salt Lake City ensures these beautiful trails and canyons remain pristine for generations to come. This is our informal Fun things to do in Salt Lake City care guide for the environment.

Pack It In, Pack It Out

This is the golden rule of the outdoors. Whatever you bring with you—food wrappers, water bottles, even apple cores and banana peels—must be packed out with you. Bring a small bag specifically for your trash.

Respect Wildlife and Stay on Trail

The trails are there for a reason: to protect the fragile mountain ecosystem from erosion. Cutting switchbacks or wandering off-trail causes lasting damage. Always observe wildlife from a distance and never, ever feed them. This protects both them and you.

Conserve Water in the High Desert

Utah is a desert state, and water is a precious resource. Be mindful of your water consumption, whether you’re at a campsite, in an RV, or at your hotel. Every drop counts in preserving this beautiful but arid environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City

What is the best time of year to visit Salt Lake City for outdoor activities?

For hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, the best seasons are late spring (May-June) after the snow melts and fall (September-October) for cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winter (December-March) is prime time for skiing and snowboarding.

Do I need a special vehicle to access the canyons?

In summer and fall, a standard 2WD vehicle can access the paved roads in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. However, from November 1 to May 1, traction laws are in effect, and you will need a 4WD/AWD vehicle or a 2WD with snow tires or chains to drive up the canyons.

Are the trails near Salt Lake City dog-friendly?

This is a critical question. Dogs are not allowed on any trails in Big or Little Cottonwood Canyons, as these areas are protected watersheds that supply the valley’s drinking water. Millcreek Canyon is a popular dog-friendly option, with specific on-leash and off-leash days. Always check trail regulations before you go.

How do I deal with the bugs at the Great Salt Lake?

The non-biting brine flies and gnats can be intense, especially in the warmer months. The best defense is to wear long sleeves and pants, use a bug repellent containing DEET, and consider bringing a head net for maximum comfort if you plan to spend significant time near the shoreline.

Salt Lake City is so much more than a stopover—it’s a destination. It’s a place where true, rugged adventure is not only possible but incredibly accessible. By preparing properly, packing the right gear, and respecting the natural environment, you can unlock a world of exploration.

The mountains are calling. Gear up, plan smart, and get out there to explore the wild side of Salt Lake City. Stay safe and happy trails!

Eric James
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