Discover the magic of the Great Salt Lake—North America's most surprising natural wonder. From floating adventures to wildlife photography, learn everything you need to know about this extraordinary destination.
What Makes the Great Salt Lake Unique?
Most people see a lake. We see an adventure playground where science meets spectacular nature. Just 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake, the Great Salt Lake isn't just water—it's North America's largest saltwater marvel, offering experiences you won't find anywhere else.
A Scientific Wonder
The Great Salt Lake isn't your average body of water. With salinity levels nearly nine times higher than the ocean, this geological marvel creates a unique ecosystem that defies expectations. Formed over millions of years, the lake covers approximately 1,700 square miles—making it the largest salt lake in the Western Hemisphere.
Fun Fact: The lake's salinity can fluctuate between 5% and 27%, depending on water levels—that's like nature's own chemistry experiment happening right before your eyes.
Seasonal Experience Guide: The Lake, All Year Round
Why visit just once when the Great Salt Lake offers something unique every season? Each time of year brings its own magic, making repeat visits a must.
Spring: Migratory Bird Paradise
Late April to mid-May transforms the lake into a feathered festival. Millions of migratory birds—including American avocets, Wilson's phalaropes, and eared grebes—turn the shoreline into a living, breathing ecosystem. The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve offers front-row seats to this natural spectacle.
Summer mornings at Bridger Bay Beach offer glassy waters perfect for floating. As the day progresses, the lake becomes a photographer's dream. Sunset turns the water rose gold, thanks to unique algae that create a pink-hued landscape.
Pro Tip: Pack a waterproof camera. Trust us, you'll want to capture these surreal moments
October brings the Annual Bison Roundup—a Wild West adventure where around 700 bison thunder across Antelope Island's golden landscapes. This family-fun event is perfect for spending the day on the island. Photographers, this is your moment: dramatic skies, massive animals, mountain backdrops.
Most visitors overlook winter, but it's the lake's most photogenic season. Salt-crusted shores create Mirabilite Formations. These salt mineral deposits can only be seen during specific winter conditions and do not last for a specific amount of time.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers in the winter, spring and fall—the weather can shift quickly. And always pack extra water, especially in the summer heat.
Ever dreamed of effortlessly floating on water? At the Great Salt Lake, high salinity makes it possible for anyone to float like a cork. Imagine lying back, arms stretched wide, as you gaze up at an endless blue sky. Hit Antelope Island State Park's beaches early in the morning for calm waters and fewer brine flies, making your experience even more serene.
Pro Tip: Bring water shoes—the lakebed can be a little rough on bare feet. And don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes; that salty water leaves quite the residue!
Looking for the perfect way to explore the sights and wildlife of Antelope Island and the Great Salt Lake? Rent an E-bike! Join a custom tour around Antelope Island or create your own adventure with a self-guided rental.
Wind the roads of antelope island, and stop for expert level photos of the Bison at every turn. Our favorite time to go? Hit the road just before sunset and see how the Salt Lake turns every shade of orange, pink and blue.
Pro Tip: Sunset and sunrise bike rides are where the magic happens. The colors of the sky reflecting off the salty water create a surreal, mirror-like effect—a moment you’ll want to capture.
Transportation: Rideshare operators do not pick up from the park. Avoid being stranded by renting a car or contact Antelope E-Bikes for a shuttle tour.
The Great Salt Lake is a haven for wildlife, offering a rare chance to see creatures in their natural habitat. From graceful pelicans gliding over the water to bison grazing on Antelope Island, the diversity is astounding. Photographers flock here to capture the lake’s ethereal beauty, especially during golden hour when the landscape seems to glow.
Fall brings the annual Bison Roundup—an unforgettable spectacle of cowboys, bison, and wide-open landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced shutterbug or just love snapping pics for social media, you won’t want to miss it.
Pro Tip: Bring a telephoto lens if you have one. The wildlife can be shy, and you’ll want those up-close shots without disturbing them. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards! Want the really good stuff? Head to the lake's north arm in early morning or late afternoon when the light gets all kinds of dramatic on those pink waters. The salt crystals coating the shoreline create natural reflectors, making every shot look like it's been professionally lit. Even amateur photographers walk away with gallery-worthy shots here.
Minutes, Not Miles: Accessing the Lake from Downtown
Reaching the Great Salt Lake is quick and easy. In under 45 minutes, you can trade the city streets for salt-crusted shores. Whether you drive yourself or join a guided tour, you’ll be soaking up the lake’s unique beauty in no time.
Pro Tip: Heading back downtown after your lake adventure? Reward yourself with lunch around 9th & 9th—one of Salt Lake’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its eclectic dining options and artsy vibe.
Notice: Rideshare operators do not pick up from the park. Avoid being stranded by renting a car!
The Great Salt Lake offers more than just floating. Here are a few ways to expand your visit:
Wildlife Viewing: Spot antelope, bison, and migratory birds in their natural habitat. Antelope Island is a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Photography: From vast salt flats to vibrant sunsets, this destination is a dream for photographers. Don’t miss capturing the reflections on the water during dawn or dusk.
Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one and explore miles of scenic trails around the lake and Antelope Island.
Pro Tip: Make sure to check trail conditions before heading out. After rain, some areas can be muddy and harder to navigate.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, water shoes, plenty of water, a hat, and a camera. If you’re biking or hiking, don’t forget to bring snacks!
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best conditions for floating, biking and photography—plus, you’ll avoid the midday heat.
Safety Tips: Be aware of weather changes and bring insect repellent to manage the brine flies. And always let someone know your plans if you’re heading out solo.
The beauty of visiting the Great Salt Lake is how seamlessly it fits into a broader Salt Lake City adventure. Start your day dipping your toes in the lake, then head back downtown for world-class dining, shopping, and culture. Feeling more adventurous? Head up into the Wasatch Mountains for an afternoon hike.
Pro Tip: Cap off your day with a concert at The Depot or catch a Utah Jazz game at the Delta Center—you’ll be back from the lake in time for the opening act or tip-off.
The Great Salt Lake faces ecological challenges due to changing water levels and climate factors. Local organizations and volunteers are working tirelessly to protect this natural wonder for future generations.
How You Can Help: Join a lake cleanup, donate to conservation efforts, or simply spread the word about the lake’s importance.
Pro Tip: Stay informed by signing up for newsletters from local conservation groups. Every bit of awareness helps!
The Great Salt Lake is more than a destination—it's a symbol of Salt Lake City’s unique blend of nature, adventure, and urban culture. Whether you’re here for a quick float or an extended stay, there’s always something new to discover.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without trying a local favorite—saltwater taffy. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your salty adventure.
