The Salt Lake City: Bonneville Salt Flats Tour offers an engaging day trip for those eager to see one of Utah’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Priced at $145 per person and lasting about one day, this tour takes you on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Bonneville Salt Flats, with plenty of interesting stops en route. The tour is designed for small groups—limited to 9 travelers—which makes for a more personal experience, and includes snacks, water, and a guide who shares insights about the geology and history of the area.

While the drive is quite lengthy, the stops along the way help break up the journey. This tour is well-suited for those who enjoy learning about unique landscapes, taking photos, and exploring natural sites with a knowledgeable guide. Keep in mind, the tour does not include lunch, so plan accordingly if you want a full day of adventure.

Key Points

Price and Duration: 1-day tour costing $145 per person with a 1.5-hour drive each way.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 9 travelers for a more personalized touch.
Highlights: Scenic drive, geological and historical insights, and photo stops at the Salt Flats.
Stops En Route: Visitors Center, Tree of Life Sculpture, and views of the Great Salt Lake.
Activities: Short, flat walk out onto the Salt Flats—easy and accessible.
Included Amenities: Snacks, water, binoculars, and an air-conditioned vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Journey to Utah’s Geological Treasure

The tour begins with a comfortable van departure from Salt Lake City, heading toward the Bonneville Salt Flats, a landscape visible from very few places worldwide. The total drive takes around 1.5 hours, but the experience is enriched by stops along the route, which include a visit to the Visitors Center near the Great Salt Lake and the Tree of Life Sculpture. These stops provide context and great photo opportunities, setting the tone for the main attraction.

The drive itself offers stunning views of the southern edge of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding wilderness, making it a memorable part of the trip. The guide shares fascinating geological facts about the salt flats, explaining their unique formation and how they change seasonally—dry in summer, often wet in winter.

For broader city exploration in Salt Lake City, we've covered these other tours

Exploring the Bonneville Salt Flats

Once at the Salt Flats, the tour features a short walk or hike across the flat, easy terrain, covering about one mile out and back. When the flats are wet, the calm surface creates mirror-like reflections of the mountains in the background, offering incredible photo opportunities. If the flats are wet, the guide brings gum boots so travelers can walk out into the flats comfortably.

The landscape’s vastness and stark whiteness make it a perfect spot for stunning landscape photographs. The flat, expansive terrain allows for breathtaking views, and the guide provides insights into the site’s geological history and current state. This stop is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with the easy terrain suitable for most.

The Guide and Small Group Dynamics

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide who shares knowledge about the history, geology, and culture of the Salt Flats. The small group setting, limited to 11 participants, means personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. The guide’s storytelling style makes the experience engaging, especially when explaining the significance of the Salt Flats and their role in land speed records and racing history.

The group size also fosters a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for taking photos, enjoying the scenery, and soaking in the landscape without feeling rushed. The tour includes binoculars, allowing for closer views of distant features or wildlife.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive comfortable even on warmer days. Snacks and bottled water are provided, helping keep energy levels high during the day. Since the tour involves a long drive and some walking, it is recommended for those who are comfortable with minimal physical activity and able to handle the travel distance.

The tour is wheelchair accessible but is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the terrain at the Salt Flats. Smoking is not allowed during the tour to maintain a clean environment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it easier to plan without pressure, especially if travel plans are subject to change.

While you're exploring Salt Lake City, here are other experiences we've looked into

Bonneville Salt Flats Tour: An Unmissable Utah Adventure

This tour offers a unique chance to see and experience one of nature’s most surreal landscapes. The combination of a scenic drive, engaging stops, and the opportunity to walk out onto the vast Salt Flats creates a memorable day. The small group setting and expert guide ensure a more intimate experience.

While the drive is lengthy and the tour does not include lunch, the stunning photo opportunities and educational insights more than compensate. It’s a compelling option for travelers interested in geology, natural landscapes, or simply wanting to stand on a world-famous salt flat.

The Salt Lake City: Bonneville Salt Flats Tour provides an affordable, well-organized, and visually captivating experience suited for curious explorers and landscape lovers alike.

Ready to Book?

Salt Lake City: Bonneville Salt Flats Tour

4.5

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Salt Lake City to the Salt Flats?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours each way.

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $145 per person includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide, snacks, water, and binoculars.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves a short, flat walk out onto the Salt Flats, which is easy and accessible for most, but it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain.

Can I walk out onto the Salt Flats?
Yes, when the flats are wet, the guide provides gum boots, and you can walk out into the flats for photos. The walk is about one mile out and back.

What stops are made along the route?
Stops include the Visitors Center, the Tree of Life Sculpture, and views of the Great Salt Lake. These stops help break up the drive and provide scenic photo opportunities.

Is food included during the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Snacks and bottled water are provided.

How many people are in each tour group?
The tour is limited to 11 participants, creating a small, personal experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and possibly a camera for photos. The tour provides binoculars and snacks.

Is the tour suitable in all seasons?
The Salt Flats are generally dry in summer but can be wet in winter, offering mirror-like reflections when wet. The timing can affect the landscape’s appearance.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

This Bonneville Salt Flats Tour combines scenic travel, educational stops, and a chance to stand on one of the most captivating natural features in Utah. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious about geology, this tour delivers a memorable day with comfortable logistics and expert guidance.