From SLC: Bonneville Salt Flats and Raceway Day Trip

Discover the Bonnieville Salt Flats and Raceway Day Trip from Salt Lake City, priced at $134 per person. This 12-hour tour is organized by Jupiter Legend Corporation, which holds a 4.6 rating based on traveler feedback. It offers a comprehensive look at one of Utah’s most iconic sites, with highlights including the salt flats landmark signs, the remains of Lake Bonneville, and the world-famous Bonneville Salt Flats International Raceway.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in automotive history, unique landscapes, and Utah’s natural wonders. The experience combines scenic sightseeing with a strong educational aspect, especially about the land speed records set here. The trip includes professional transportation and a guided commentary, but does not cover meals or personal expenses.

While the tour provides a broad overview of the area’s natural and historical significance, visitors should keep in mind that entry to the salt flats for fun is not permitted to protect the environment. The tour ends at Salt Lake City International Airport, making it a convenient option for those with later flights.

Key Points

• Price: $134 per person for a 12-hour trip from Salt Lake City
• Highlights: Bonneville Salt Flats, International Raceway, Lake Bonneville remains, salt flats landmark signs
• Includes: Transportation, driver-guide, taxes, and fees
• Excludes: Meals, personal expenses
• Timing: Tours depart in the morning (around 09:50) and conclude at Salt Lake City International Airport
• Rating: 4.6 from travelers, praised for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Departure Points and Schedule from Salt Lake City

This tour departs from several centrally located hotels, including SpringHill Suites, La Quinta Inn, Radisson Hotel, and Tru Hilton, all at 09:50. The group then heads directly to the salt flats, making for a seamless start. After spending approximately 30 minutes at the Bonneville Salt Flats, the tour continues for about 40 minutes at the Salt Flats International Raceway and the Salt Flats Sign. The day concludes with transportation back to the Salt Lake City International Airport.

Travelers should plan their flights accordingly; the tour suggests booking flights departing after 17:00 for domestic or after 18:00 for international flights. This schedule provides enough time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats cover around 260 square kilometers in northwestern Utah, west of the Great Salt Lake. Known as the “Sky Mirror”, they are the remnants of a vast prehistoric salt lake. Their flat, reflective surface has made them a favorite for photographers and racing enthusiasts alike. The salt flats are a designated National Register of Historic Places site, recognizing their importance for automotive history and natural beauty.

The salt flats are especially famous for hosting the Bonneville Salt Flats International Race every August. Since the early 20th century, this area has been the venue for world land speed records, attracting high-speed vehicles and racing teams. The flats’ unique surface and expansive open space make it a natural setting for record-breaking attempts.

Travelers should note that entering the salt flats for recreation is not permitted to preserve the environment. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the landscape from designated viewpoints and photography spots.

The Race Track and Its Historic Significance

The Bonneville Salt Flats International Raceway is a dedicated racing zone within the salt flats, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history dates back to 1912, with a significant boost in popularity during the 1930s when Abu Jenkins and Sir Malcolm Campbell competed here for land speed records.

The raceway is famed for its set many land speed records due to the flat, smooth salt surface. However, by 2014, the race event was canceled because of reduced salt thickness and track surface. Despite this, the track remains a symbol of speed and innovation, drawing visitors interested in automotive achievements.

During the tour, travelers get an up-close view of the race track, learn about its history, and see the signs marking the landmarks of this legendary racing site. The area’s environment and history combine to create a compelling story of human ambition and natural wonder.

Visiting the Remains of Lake Bonneville and Salt Marshes

Part of the tour involves stopping at the remains of Lake Bonneville, an ancient lake that once covered much of present-day Utah. The tour guides explain how this prehistoric lake left behind the largest salt marshes in the region, which are visible from the salt flats.

These remains highlight the geological history of Utah and provide context for the landscape’s current features. Visitors get a brief but informative explanation of how Lake Bonneville shaped the land, and how its remnants continue to influence the environment today.

The salt marshes add a distinctive aspect to the scenery, contrasting with the expansive, reflective salt flats. They serve as a reminder of Utah’s geological past and the natural processes that formed this remarkable area.

More Great Tours Nearby

Landmark Road Signs and Photography Opportunities

A key part of the tour is stopping at salt flats landmark road signs. These signs serve as iconic markers for the area and provide excellent photo opportunities, allowing visitors to capture the vastness of the salt flats and the striking landscape.

Photographers appreciate the clear, unobstructed views and the legendary setting of these signs. The landscape’s natural mirror-like surface, combined with the signage, creates ideal conditions for photos that emphasize the scale and unique beauty of the salt flats.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, and water to prepare for the outdoor exposure. The guides often share insights about the best angles and times of day for photography.

The Land Speed Record History at Bonneville

The Bonneville Salt Flats have a storied history as the site of numerous land speed records. From the early 20th century, racers and automotive pioneers have used this flat, expansive terrain to push the limits of speed.

The tour provides a narrative about the land speed records set here and the legendary figures involved, such as Malcolm Campbell and others. Visitors learn about how the environment and conditions of the salt flats make it uniquely suitable for record-breaking attempts.

While current events at the raceway are less frequent due to environmental concerns, the history remains a major draw, making the area a symbol of human innovation and pursuit of speed.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This day trip includes professional transportation that adapts based on the number of participants, ensuring comfortable travel. The guides are knowledgeable, providing educational commentary throughout the day. The tour is designed for easy participation, with no strenuous physical activity involved.

Note that the tour does not accept personal tickets or City Passes for attraction entry, and entry to the salt flats for fun is not permitted. Wheelchair access is not available, so travelers with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.

The tour ends at Salt Lake City International Airport, making it a practical choice for travelers with connecting flights. The tour is fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Salt Flats and Raceway Tour?

This tour suits anyone interested in Utah’s natural landscapes, automotive history, or geological features. Visitors who appreciate professional guides and want a convenient, organized experience will find it very worthwhile.

It’s especially appealing for photographers, history buffs, and speed enthusiasts. However, those seeking interactive experiences like walking on the salt flats for recreation should know that entry for fun is restricted.

Travelers looking for a full-day, educational, and scenic outing near Salt Lake City will find this tour offers a well-rounded look at one of Utah’s most distinctive environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, a professional driver-guide, taxes, and fees are included in the $134 price. Meals and personal expenses are not covered.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and cash are recommended for outdoor comfort and convenience.

What are the pickup times and locations?
The tour departs at 09:50 from several hotels in Salt Lake City, including SpringHill Suites, La Quinta Inn, Radisson Hotel, and Tru Hilton.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is 12 hours, with stops at key sites and time for sightseeing and photography.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women can join if they are 24 weeks pregnant or less; wheelchairs are not supported.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions on entering the salt flats?
Yes, visitors are not allowed to enter the salt flats for recreation to protect the environment.

Will I get to see land speed records?
While you visit the raceway and learn about its history, the actual current events at the race are less frequent due to environmental concerns, but the site’s history is thoroughly covered.

Is transportation provided back to the airport?
Yes, the tour concludes with transportation back to Salt Lake City International Airport.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, allowing for flexible planning.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing insights about the salt flats and raceway.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby