Skip to content 
18 Best Weekend Trips from Salt Lake City
Road Trip Ideas from Salt Lake City
There are so many incredible places to visit 2-6 hours outside of Salt Lake City so whether you are a local or visiting Utah for the first time, here are some of the top places to go on weekend road trips from Salt Lake City.
1-Moab
An outdoor lover’s playground, Moab is one of my favorite places in Utah and one of the top weekend trips from Salt Lake City. With two national parks, a state park and plenty of adventures to be had, what’s not to love?
Moab is located in eastern Utah and is the gateway to red rock formations, mesas and buttes carved by the Green and Colorado rivers. You can find dinosaur tracks at Bull Canyon Overlook and Copper Ridge.
Check out my Moab blog post here for a detailed guide!
This is the only place you can visit in Utah with two national parks in one convenient location. River rafting and off roading are other really popular activities here. Downtown Moab is filled with restaurants, microbreweries, shops and galleries.
There are tons of food options from regional southwestern fare to world-class gourmet. Stay at Moab Under Canvas for a unique experience glamping in the desert or stay at these amazing cabins we stayed at in Moab with the most insane views and even our own hot tub!
Don’t have a car with you? No problem! You can book a Moab tour here.
2-Bear Lake
This natural fresh water lake in northern Utah is often compared to the Caribbean because of its beautiful blue turquoise waters.
Read next: Top Things to do in Bear Lake
This is a perfect place to relax for the weekend and go boating, fishing, jet skiing and canoeing. You have to try a raspberry shake while you are here because they are world famous! My personal favorite is at Zipz.
3-Yellowstone Bear World/Idaho Falls
One of my families favorite weekend trips from Salt Lake City is Idaho Falls. 3 hours north of Salt Lake City is the beautiful city of Idaho Falls and Yellowstone Bear World is nearby in Rexburg.
Bear World is a really fun place to visit for families and it is a park where you actually get to drive around while bears, bison, and elk walk around your car. My 3 year old absolutely loved it. There is also a mini amusement park for kids, a petting zoo and a new Dinosaur park with life size dinosaurs- this was so fun for the little kids on our recent family trip!
Idaho Falls is also a great place to visit in the summer or Fall. We love seeing the waterfalls in front of the temple, the Idaho Falls zoo and The Japanese Friendship Garden.
If you buy this pass, you can get free entrance into Yellowstone Bear World and it works for so many other amazing attractions in Utah like Lagoon, waterparks, mini golf and so much more! If you use code GLOBETROTTINGGINGER, you will actually get 70% off!
4-The Grand Canyon
One of the best weekend trips from Salt Lake City is to the Grand Canyon. You can access the north or south rims of the Grand Canyon on a road trip from Salt Lake City, but the South rim is further and will take more hours to get to.
Grand Canyon National Park, in Arizona, is home to much of the immense Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history.
My family recently visited the South rim of the Grand Canyon and loved it. We stayed at this resort only a short drive away and absolutely loved it. They had a great on site restaurant, swimming pool, bowling alley and arcade and it was in a great location.
5-Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a huge man made reservoir on the Colorado River on the border of Utah and Arizona. Most of Lake Powell is located in Utah and it is a huge vacation spot visited by more than two million people every year.
Lake Powell is a great place to go camping or spend a week on a house boat. This area is absolutely beautiful and shouldn’t be missed.
6-Goblin Valley
Goblin Valley State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Utah. The park features thousands of hoodoos (or referred to locally as goblins!-thus the name).
These hoodoos are formations of mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles of all shapes and sizes. This is definitely a fun and unique place to explore and will definitely be fun to explore if you have kids!
7-St. George
St. George is the southern most city in Utah and one of my very favorite. There are countless things to do in this area with incredible hiking through red rock filled state parks.
There are also lots of water activities at Sandhollow State Park which reminds me of a mini Lake Powell. We absolutely love staying at this hotel here.
Check out two of my most popular posts on St. George here and here.
8-Southern Utah
Southern Utah is wildly popular and receives thousands and thousands of visitors each year. I absolutely love this area of Utah and there is so much to do with two National Parks- Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, state parks, many lakes and tons of other outdoor adventures in red rock canyons.
I have a whole post about the top things to do in Southern Utah here. My guide goes beyond the typical guides and also shows you places only Utah locals know about.
9-Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is definitely worth a visit. It’s the least visited national park in Utah which makes it even more special because you can actually go to certain areas and feel like you have the whole place to yourself.
Capitol Reef National Park is in Utah’s south-central desert. It surrounds a long wrinkle in the earth known as the Waterpocket Fold, with layers of golden sandstone, canyons and striking rock formations. Among the park’s sights are the Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and Capitol Reef, known for its white sandstone domes. In the north are the towering monoliths of Cathedral Valley.
Definitely check out this hotel for your weekend trip from Salt Lake City to Capitol Reef. The rooms are cabin style with the most amazing views and there is a glamping option with cute tipis outside!
To read more about Capitol reef, check out my post here.
10-Las Vegas
Las Vegas is probably one of the most popular weekend trips from Salt Lake City, but this time, skip the usual Strip scene and explore the quirky, artsy side of Las Vegas! Only a 5.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City, Sin City is calling your name.
Check into the luxurious Four Seasons, the charming Paris Las Vegas, or the stylish Westin for a comfortable stay. Then, dive into the fascinating world of neon at the Neon Museum, where retired signs come to life. Head to the Seven Magic Mountains, an Instagram-famous art installation that’s pure magic.
Explore the Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas, grab a bite to eat at one of the many celebrity-chef restaurants, and take in the breathtaking views of the High Roller observation wheel. Trust me, this Vegas trip will be one for the books!
Check out my guide to Las Vegas here.
11- Escalante
Uncover the natural wonders of Escalante, Utah, a hidden gem just a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Kodachrome Basin State Park, with its vibrant red rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque camping sites.
For a comfortable and stylish base, stay here, offering incredible glamping airstreams and cabins with really nice community bathrooms, a swimming pool and even a drive in movie theatre! You are also surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
With its unique geological formations, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, Escalante and Kodachrome Basin State Park offer an unforgettable weekend escape from Salt Lake City, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
12- Kanab
If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Salt Lake City, I highly recommend Kanab, Utah! This charming little town is only a 4.5-hour drive away and is packed with natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm.
I recently visited Kanab and had an absolute blast exploring the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, the sand caves, exploring Belly of the dragon and soaking up the quirky vibes of the town’s vintage shops and cafes. Plus, it’s the perfect base for visiting the nearby North Rim of the Grand Canyon (a total must-see, trust me!). Kanab has stolen my heart, and I know it’ll steal yours too.
Check out this glamping resort that has amazing domes you can sleep in while on your weekend trip to Kanab!
13- Grand Junction
Discover the hidden gem of Grand Junction, Colorado, just a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Nestled in the scenic Colorado National Monument, this charming town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm.
Explore the stunning red rock formations, hike through the monument’s scenic trails, or take a scenic drive along the Colorado River. Visit the Museum of Western Colorado to uncover the region’s fascinating history, or stroll through downtown’s quaint shops and galleries.
With its breathtaking vistas, Grand Junction is an ideal weekend escape from Salt Lake City, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxing retreat.
14- Island Park, Idaho
Island Park is such a hidden gem in Idaho and it is honestly so beautiful there. It is a 4.5 hour drive from Salt Lake City. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Explore the vast expanses of the Island Park Reservoir, hike through the scenic trails of the Targhee National Forest, or take a leisurely boat ride along the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. Visit the historic Big Springs, where crystal-clear waters emerge from the earth, or simply unwind in a cozy cabin surrounded by towering pines.
With its abundant wildlife, breathtaking vistas, and peaceful atmosphere, Island Park is an ideal weekend getaway road trip from Salt Lake City, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing escape from the city. Not to mention, it’s very close to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National park. My family stayed in this incredible cabin when we visited Island Park.
15- Victor, Idaho/Teton Valley
My family and I recently visited Victor, Idaho and Teton Valley on a road trip from Salt Lake City and we fell in love. It’s a 4.5 hour drive from Salt Lake City. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Teton Range, surrounded by rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and abundant wildlife.
For a luxurious twist on camping, head to Moose Creek Ranch, where glamping accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Enjoy horseback riding, fly fishing, or simply take in the majestic views from the ranch’s picturesque setting. It’s also a perfect spot for a day trip to Jackson Hole and Teton National Park.
Explore the charming town of Victor, with its quaint shops, artisanal cafes, and authentic Western charm. With its unparalleled natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and cozy glamping retreats, Victor and Teton Valley offer an unforgettable weekend escape from Salt Lake City, perfect for nature enthusiasts, couples, and families alike.
16- Jackson Hole
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, just a scenic 5-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Nestled in the heart of the Teton Range, this charming mountain town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and rustic charm.
Hike through Grand Teton National Park’s stunning landscapes, explore the National Elk Refuge, or take a leisurely stroll along the Snake River. After a day of exploring, cozy up in a cabin or lodge and enjoy the local cuisine, from farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal coffee shops.
With its unparalleled natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality, Jackson Hole is one of the ideal weekend trips from Salt Lake City, offering a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
17- Yellowstone National Park
Get ready for the ultimate adventure! Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination, and I’m obsessed! Only a 5-hour drive from Salt Lake City, America’s first national park is packed with geysers, hot springs, and an incredible array of wildlife (hello, bison, elk, and grizzlies!).
I spent a weekend exploring the Grand Prismatic Spring, watching Old Faithful erupt, and hiking through the stunning landscapes of the Lamar Valley. And let’s not forget the sunsets – absolutely breathtaking!
Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just looking for an unforgettable experience, Yellowstone has something for everyone and is one of the best weekend trips from Salt Lake City. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Read next: 2 Day Yellowstone Itinerary
18- Dinosaur National Monument
Located in Northeastern Utah on the border with Colorado, Dinosaur National Monument is a really cool place to visit to learn more about dinosaurs and geology. There are also tons of outdoor adventures you can go on and there is something for everyone.
You can visit a dinosaur quarry, go on driving tours around the park, hike many trails, go white-water rafting, bird watching, fishing, biking and more.
This park also boasts some of the most incredible dark skies and is designated an International Dark Sky Park so it is perfect for star gazing and trying your hand at astro photography.
So there you have it- 18 Best Weekend road trips from Salt Lake City!
