If you’re craving nature with a side of surreal landscapes, head to Antelope Island. Located in the Great Salt Lake, this state park is perfect for hiking, biking, or just sitting quietly while bison roam casually nearby. Pro tip: Stick around for sunset—the reflections on the lake are pure magic and will have your Instagram followers swooning. 

A short ninety-minute drive from Salt Lake City, and you’re in the ever-popular Bonneville Salt Flats, home to the famous Speed Week. This prehistoric, evaporated salt lake covers 30,000 acres. With a bit of imagination, the barren and unique landscape can feel like another planet. If you schedule your visit to coincide with sunrise or sunset, you’ll return with some unreal photographs of the setting. 

A quick drive north lands you in Ogden, a city that feels like Salt Lake’s quirky cousin. Stroll down Historic 25th Street for unique shops, galleries, and great eats. If you’re in the mood for adventure, the nearby mountains offer epic hiking trails and some of the best rock climbing in the state. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Hill Aerospace Museum, where you can marvel at fighter jets and aviation history. 

Nestled just beyond the Wasatch Mountains, Heber Valley is the perfect mix of relaxation and fun. Take a scenic ride on the Heber Valley Railroad, aka the “Heber Creeper,” or soak your cares away at the Homestead Crater, a natural hot spring inside a limestone dome. Feeling hungry? Stop by Midway for Swiss-inspired dining in this charming alpine village.

Just south of Salt Lake County, Provo Canyon offers outdoor adventures galore. Hike to the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, a two-tiered cascade that’s worth the trek. If you’re up for something more relaxing, take a drive on the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, especially during fall when the leaves are putting on a technicolor show. 

Head north to Logan Canyon for some of the prettiest scenery in Utah. Hike through green valleys, explore caves, or enjoy a scenic drive. If you’ve got the time, keep going to Bear Lake, often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its impossibly turquoise water. Rent a paddleboard or just enjoy a famous Bear Lake raspberry shake. 

For a drive that’s just as good as the destination, head east on the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. This stunning road takes you through the Uinta Mountains, with plenty of stops for hiking, picnicking, or fishing. At the top, Mirror Lake offers reflective views that are, well, exactly what the name suggests.