Discover

Salt Lake

Discover the ultimate basecamp for your national park adventures in the heart of the American West – Salt Lake. Encompassing the stunning Great Salt Lake, this vibrant region in Utah offers an unmatched gateway to nature’s grandeur. With its dynamic urban atmosphere and serene lakeside beauty, Salt Lake is not just a destination but the perfect launchpad for exploring the nearby national parks. Experience a unique fusion of thrilling outdoor escapades and cultural allure, all while being ideally situated to embark on your journeys through some of the nation’s most breathtaking landscapes.

 

What You’ll Love Most About Salt Lake

  • Centrally located, the Salt Lake region provides easy access to stunning national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches, making it the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts
  • Marvel at the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, offering unique recreational opportunities such as sailing, kayaking, and floating in its saline waters
  • Enjoy year-round adventures including hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the surrounding Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges
  • Experience a vibrant mix of cultural attractions, from historical sites and museums to diverse culinary experiences and lively local festivals
  • Take in breathtaking landscapes with panoramic views of majestic mountains, serene lakes, and expansive deserts that showcase the natural splendour of the region
  • Encounter a variety of wildlife, including the iconic bison of Antelope Island, the abundant bird species around the Great Salt Lake, and the diverse flora and fauna in the nearby canyons and forests
  • Skiing - Visit Salt Lake/Austen Diamond Photography

  • Family hiking Cottonwood Canyons - Visit Salt Lake/Austen Diamond Photography

  • Natural History Museum - Visit Salt Lake/Michael Kunde

  • University of Utah Football - Visit Utah/Steve Greenwood

  • Laziz Kitchen - Visit Salt Lake/Austen Diamond Photography

  • Temple Square - Visit Utah

  • Admiring the Cottonwood Canyons - Visit Salt Lake/Austen Diamond Photography

  • Great Salt Lake views - Visit Salt Lake/E. Schramm

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 4℃
  • 7℃
  • 13℃
  • 17℃
  • 22℃
  • 28℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 26℃
  • 19℃
  • 10℃
  • 4℃
  • 6
  • 5
  • 7
  • 7
  • 6
  • 3
  • 2
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January transforms Salt Lake City into a winter sports paradise, with the nearby Wasatch Mountains drawing skiers and snowboarders to their powdery slopes. Downtown offers restaurants and vibrant cultural events to enjoy after a day on the snow.

February

In February, the snowy conditions persist, perfect for visiting the Olympic Park in Park City or exploring the city’s indoor attractions like the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. Temperatures often range between -5°C and 5°C.

March

With March comes the start of spring, though snow may linger in the mountains. It’s a great time for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, as well as exploring the Salt Lake Temple grounds before the blossoms appear.

April

April sees the city warming up, with highs of around 15°C. Blossoms brighten local parks like Liberty Park and the Red Butte Garden, making it a delightful month for outdoor strolls and picnics.

May

As May arrives, warmer temperatures and clearer skies invite hiking adventures in nearby canyons, like Big Cottonwood and Millcreek. Farmers’ markets return, offering fresh produce and local crafts.

June

June welcomes summer with highs of about 28°C, making it ideal for paddleboarding on the Great Salt Lake or exploring Antelope Island State Park. Outdoor festivals like the Utah Arts Festival add vibrancy to the city.

July

July is the height of summer, with temperatures peaking around 35°C. Pioneer Day celebrations on the 24th bring parades, fireworks, and historical reenactments, showcasing Utah’s heritage.

August

In August, warm evenings are perfect for outdoor concerts at Red Butte Garden or catching a minor league baseball game at Smith’s Ballpark. It’s also a great time for scenic drives through the surrounding mountains.

September

As September arrives, temperatures ease to around 25°C, and the mountains turn golden with fall foliage. The Utah State Fair adds a touch of nostalgia with carnival rides and local exhibits.

October

October is all about crisp air, pumpkin patches, and haunted attractions. The autumn colours in canyons like Little Cottonwood are breathtaking, making this a prime time for scenic hikes.

November

November sees cooler days, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C. The city begins preparing for winter festivities, and the first snowflakes hint at the upcoming ski season.

December

December brings holiday cheer, with the Temple Square lights illuminating the city and festive events like the Christkindlmarkt. Nearby ski resorts open for the season, offering world-class snow adventures.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

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