Summer Outdoor Adventure
Embark on this three-day summer adventure in Salt Lake, where extraordinary hiking and biking await in the picturesque Wasatch Mountains. Explore the city's renowned mountain trails, then unwind each evening with outdoor green spaces in the city and a culinary exploration of Salt Lake’s diverse dining scene. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of outdoor thrills and delicious gastronomy in Utah's vibrant capital!
Transportation: With destinations across the city and up into the mountains, we recommend access to a car for this itinerary.
Day 1: Hiking and Tram Ride
Breakfast: Eggs in the City
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the aptly (and deliciously) named Eggs in the City. This cozy, laid-back spot serves up generous portions of breakfast classics with a creative twist, all in a warm, eclectic setting. Nestled in the heart of Millcreek, it's just minutes from the base of the Wasatch Mountains—making it a perfect launching point if you're heading out for a hike.
Morning: Hiking in Little Cottonwood Canyon
Little Cottonwood Canyon, located just minutes from downtown Salt Lake offers a wealth of hiking opportunities that showcase the area's stunning natural beauty. Among these, the trails to Albion Basin and Cecret Lake stand out for their scenic vistas and accessibility.​
Lunch: The Summit at Snowbird
Head to Snowbird and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at The Summit, a mountain-top restaurant perched at 11,000 feet on Hidden Peak. Accessible only by a scenic ride on the Snowbird Aerial Tram or a challenging alpine hike, this unique spot offers more than just a meal—it’s an adventure.
Afternoon: Snowbird Aerial Tram Ride
Take the aerial tram ride from Snowbird to the top of Hidden Peak for one of the most scenic experiences in the Wasatch Mountains. The tram climbs over 2,900 vertical feet in just under 10 minutes, delivering you to the summit at 11,000 feet. From the top, you're treated to panoramic views stretching across Little Cottonwood Canyon and beyond.
Dinner: Franklin Ave
Finish your day with a cozy dinner at Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen, where classic elegance meets modern flavor in the heart of downtown. This stylish spot serves up elevated comfort food like short rib stroganoff, buttermilk fried chicken, and miso-glazed salmon, all perfectly paired with craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're out for date night or a night out.
Breakfast: Oasis Cafe
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Oasis Café, a local favorite known for its hearty and diverse menu. With a cozy, garden-like setting to enjoy your breakfast and popular picks to order like the savory huevos rancheros, fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, and the power-packed garden scramble you can't go wrong with this perfect morning boost.
Morning: Hike Lake Blanche
Lake Blanche isn't just another pretty alpine lake - it's the crown jewel of Big Cottonwood Canyon, tucked beneath towering peaks that could make the Swiss Alps jealous. This trail climbs 2,700 feet through the Twin Peaks Wilderness to deliver one of the Wasatch Range's most photographed views.
Afternoon: Picnic at Donut Falls
For the afternoon, combine a hike with a picnic lunch at Donut Falls. This is a unique spot where water cascades through a hole in the rock, creating a donut-like effect. It's a short, easy walk to reach the falls.
Evening: Van Ryder
Finish your second day of exploration with a gorgeous view of the Wasatch Mountains from the rooftop patio at Van Ryder, perched atop the Le Méridien in downtown Salt Lake City. This stylish rooftop bar and lounge offers a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a big day.
Breakfast: Marmalade Brunch House
​Start your day with a delightful brunch at Marmalade Brunch House, a chic spot in Salt Lake City's Marmalade district. Known for its trendy American classics and French-inspired delicacies, this eatery offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for any brunch enthusiast. Popular dishes include the Crème Brûlée French Toast, Blueberry & Lemon Curd Pancakes, and the Brie Bacon Jam Burger.
Afternoon: Wild Encounters at Antelope Island
Drive from downtown Salt Lake and suddenly you're watching 700-pound bison roam free against the shimmering backdrop of the Great Salt Lake. Antelope Island isn't playing around – it delivers the kind of wilderness you'd normally drive hours to find. Hike the Frary Peak Trail for panoramic views that'll make your Instagram followers think you left the country, or bike the smooth shoreline paths where the salty breeze keeps you cool. Forget basic wildlife spotting – here you'll see bison doing bison things just a stone's throw from your car.
Dinner: Cosmica
Wind down at Cosmica in the Central 9th and Granary Neighborhood. The carefully crafted menu brings a fresh take to your classic Italian. With house-made pasta, naturally leavened pizza, and a thoughtful selection of low-intervention wines and unique spirits, it’s the perfect spot for a unique and flavorful evening.
Evening: Sugarhouse Park
Spend your evening at Sugarhouse Park, a popular spot for picnics, frisbee, or just relaxing as you watch the sun set over the Wasatch Mountains.
Evening: Sugar House Station
Head over to Sugar House Station, one of Salt Lake's newest bars and food halls! It features a variety of options, including Proper Brewing & Burger, Greek Tyrant by Aristo, Santo Taco, Sugar House Distillery, Casot Wine Bar, and more. Be sure to bring your ID—this is a 21+ establishment.