Things to Do at Great Salt Lake

Covering approximately 1,700 square miles with salinity levels reaching 27% (eight times saltier than ocean water), the Great Salt Lake creates unique floating experiences where swimmers cannot sink due to extreme buoyancy, while the lake's mineral-rich waters attract millions of migrating birds to surrounding wetlands. Antelope Island State Park charges $10 per vehicle for day use and offers the best lake access with hiking trails, bison viewing opportunities, and Frary Peak summit that provides panoramic views across the lake's changing colors from deep blue to pink depending on algae blooms and mineral concentrations. The lake's south shore beaches feature facilities for showering off the sticky salt residue that coats swimmers, while the Great Salt Lake Marina (when water levels permit) offers boat rentals for $50-80 per hour to explore the lake's remote islands where pelican colonies nest on rocky outcroppings. Visit during late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable for swimming and brine flies that feed millions of birds create fascinating natural phenomena, though bring old swimwear as salt stains are permanent and the sulfur-rich air carries distinctive mineral scents that remind visitors of the lake's prehistoric origins when it covered much of the western United States.

Great Salt Lake sits 20 miles northwest of downtown Salt Lake City. Getting there takes planning since public transit doesn't reach the area-rent a car instead. Take I-80 west toward the airport, then follow signs to your destination. The Great Salt Lake Marina works best for most visitors. It's a 30-minute drive from downtown and offers the easiest lake access. Antelope Island requires crossing a 7-mile causeway that's pretty impressive. Spiral Jetty is different. You'll drive north for over an hour, then tackle a bumpy dirt road that can wreck your day. Check road conditions before you go-seriously.