Things To Do In Salt Lake City: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventurer’S
You’ve seen the photos: jagged peaks piercing a brilliant blue sky, seemingly rising right from the city streets. Salt Lake City isn’t just a destination; for outdoor lovers, it’s a world-class basecamp. But with so many canyons, trails, and wild spaces at your fingertips, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
You’re looking for more than just a list of tourist spots. You want a real, trail-tested plan to explore the raw beauty that makes this place a legend among adventurers.
This guide is your action plan. We’ll cut through the noise and give you the essential things to do in Salt Lake City if you’re here to hike, camp, and connect with the wild. We’ll cover epic day hikes, where to pitch your tent or park your van, and the critical safety prep needed for this unique high-altitude desert environment.
Conquering the Wasatch Front: Essential Day Hikes Near SLC
The Wasatch Mountains are SLC’s backyard playground, offering immediate access to stunning alpine scenery. These trails are the perfect way to get your boots on the ground and your head in the clouds. This is a core part of any outdoor-focused Things to do in Salt Lake City guide.
For Sweeping Valley Views: The Living Room Lookout
This classic SLC hike is a local favorite for a reason. It’s a relatively short but steep climb that rewards you with one of the best panoramic views of the entire Salt Lake Valley. The “furniture” made of sandstone slabs at the top makes for a perfect spot to rest and soak it all in.
It’s an ideal first hike to get acclimated. Pro tip: Start early to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds, and bring at least a liter of water, even for a short hike.
For Alpine Lakes & Wildflowers: Cecret Lake Trail
Located up Little Cottonwood Canyon in the Alta ski area, this trail is an absolute stunner, especially from July to August when the wildflowers are in full bloom. The path is gentle and leads to a pristine alpine lake cradled by Sugarloaf Peak.
This area is a protected watershed, so remember that swimming is not allowed. It’s a fantastic example of eco-friendly Things to do in Salt Lake City that prioritize conservation.
For a Real Quad-Burner: Mount Olympus
If you’re looking for a serious challenge, Mount Olympus is it. This is a strenuous, 7.5-mile round-trip hike with over 4,100 feet of elevation gain, culminating in a rocky scramble to the summit. The payoff is an unparalleled, 360-degree view that makes every step worthwhile.
Do not attempt this hike without proper gear, including sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support like the Merrell Moab 3, plenty of water (at least 3 liters), and a solid understanding of your physical limits. This is where Things to do in Salt Lake City best practices for safety are non-negotiable.
Your Complete Outdoor Adventure Playbook for SLC
Beyond hiking, the diverse landscape around Salt Lake City offers a ton of opportunities for adventure. Here are a few more must-do activities to add to your itinerary, making this a truly comprehensive Things to do in Salt Lake City experience.
Exploring the Great Salt Lake: More Than Just a View
The lake itself is a unique ecosystem. Head to Antelope Island State Park, a massive island connected by a causeway. You can hike, watch for the island’s free-roaming bison herd, or even go for a float in the hyper-saline water (just be prepared to rinse off afterward!).
For a different perspective, consider renting a kayak to explore the shoreline. The sunsets over the lake are legendary and offer incredible photo opportunities.
Rock Climbing & Bouldering in the Cottonwood Canyons
The granite walls of Little Cottonwood Canyon and the quartzite of Big Cottonwood Canyon are world-renowned climbing destinations. You’ll find everything from beginner-friendly bouldering problems to challenging multi-pitch trad routes.
If you’re new to climbing, consider hiring a local guide service. They can show you the ropes safely and provide all the necessary gear.
Mountain Biking the Bonneville Shoreline Trail
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail (BST) is an expanding network of trails that traces the shoreline of the ancient Lake Bonneville. It offers miles of accessible singletrack with great views of the city, suitable for various skill levels.
It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon and get a feel for the local mountain biking scene. Always wear a helmet and yield to hikers.
Setting Up Camp: Best Spots for Tents, RVs, and Vans
Finding a place to rest your head is a key part of any adventure. Whether you need full hookups or prefer the solitude of the forest, the area around SLC has you covered. Here are some top Things to do in Salt Lake City tips for camping.
Developed Campgrounds: Spruces and Tanners Flat
Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Spruces and Tanners Flat Campgrounds are excellent choices for those who want amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. They are beautiful, well-maintained, and close to numerous trailheads.
Heads up: These spots are extremely popular. You absolutely must book your site months in advance on Recreation.gov, especially for weekend trips.
Dispersed Camping 101: Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
For the more self-sufficient traveler, dispersed camping (free camping in designated areas) is a fantastic option. Large portions of the surrounding National Forest are open for this, but it comes with responsibilities.
You must be fully self-contained, pack out everything you pack in (including human waste), and follow all fire restrictions. Use apps like The Dyrt or iOverlander to find potential spots, but always cross-reference with official U.S. Forest Service maps and regulations. This is the heart of sustainable Things to do in Salt Lake City.
Essential Gear & Safety: Prepping for High-Altitude Adventure
The mountains are beautiful, but they demand respect. The high altitude and desert climate create unique challenges. Addressing these common problems with Things to do in Salt Lake City before you go is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.
The Altitude Factor: Acclimatizing and Staying Hydrated
Salt Lake City sits at about 4,200 feet, and the nearby trails quickly climb to 8,000 feet or more. Altitude sickness is a real risk. Take your first day easy, drink more water than you think you need, and avoid heavy alcohol consumption.
If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or get a severe headache, descend to a lower elevation immediately. There’s no shame in turning back; the mountain will be there tomorrow.
Layering is Life: Your Four-Season SLC Clothing System
Weather in the Wasatch can change in an instant. A sunny morning can turn into a cold, rainy afternoon without warning. The key is a smart layering system.
- Base Layer: A moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetic shirt (never cotton).
- Mid Layer: An insulating fleece or a puffy jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff.
- Outer Shell: A waterproof and windproof jacket, such as one with a GORE-TEX membrane.
The Ten Essentials: Non-Negotiable Gear for Every Outing
Never head into the backcountry without the Ten Essentials. This isn’t just a gear list; it’s a safety system.
- Navigation (Map & Compass, and/or a GPS device like a Garmin inReach)
- Headlamp/Flashlight
- Sun Protection (Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
- First-Aid Kit
- Knife or Multi-Tool
- Fire Starter (Lighter, waterproof matches)
- Emergency Shelter (Emergency blanket or bivy)
- Extra Food
- Extra Water (And a way to purify it, like a Sawyer Squeeze filter)
- Extra Clothes (Your layering system)
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Exploration: Best Practices for SLC
Part of being an outdoor enthusiast is protecting the places we love. Following Leave No Trace principles is critical, especially in this fragile high-desert environment. This is your eco-friendly Things to do in Salt Lake City care guide.
Mastering Leave No Trace Principles
The seven principles of Leave No Trace are your roadmap to responsible recreation. This includes packing out all your trash (even fruit peels), staying on designated trails to protect delicate vegetation, and respecting wildlife from a distance.
Never feed wild animals. It harms their health, alters their natural behaviors, and can make them a danger to other humans.
Wildlife Safety: Coexisting with Moose, Deer, and More
The Wasatch is home to moose, deer, mountain lions, and black bears. While encounters are rare, it’s important to be aware. Make noise while you hike, especially in dense brush or near streams, so you don’t surprise an animal.
Store all food and scented items in a bear-resistant container or a proper bear hang when camping in the backcountry. Check with local ranger stations for the most current wildlife advisories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to do in Salt Lake City
What is the best time of year to visit Salt Lake City for outdoor activities?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the best weather, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is great for high-alpine hikes and wildflowers but can be very hot in the valley. Winter is world-famous for skiing and snowboarding.
Do I need a special pass to hike or camp near Salt Lake City?
For most day hiking in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, you do not need a pass. However, some canyons (like Millcreek Canyon) have a small fee per vehicle. Developed campgrounds always require a fee and reservations, and State Parks like Antelope Island have an entrance fee.
Is it safe to swim in the Great Salt Lake?
Yes, it’s safe, but it’s more like floating! The high salt content makes you incredibly buoyant. Be careful not to get the water in your eyes, as it will sting. Most public access points have freshwater showers for rinsing off afterward.
How do I deal with the altitude in the Wasatch Mountains?
The best method is gradual acclimatization. Spend a day or two in the city before tackling a high-elevation hike. Stay exceptionally well-hydrated, avoid overexertion, and listen to your body. If you feel unwell, descend.
Now you have the blueprint. You know the trails, the campsites, and the critical safety measures to explore confidently. Salt Lake City is more than a spot on the map—it’s a gateway to unforgettable adventure.
Gear up, get out there, and discover the wild heart of the Wasatch. Stay safe, and happy trails!
- Things To Do In Toledo Washington: Your Basecamp For Mount St. Helens - November 28, 2025
- Couple Things To Do In St. Louis: Your Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide - November 28, 2025
- Fun Things To Do In St. Louis – The Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide - November 28, 2025