Great Salt Lake: salt flats, Antelope Island and Golden Spike

Route description

Start in Wendover, on the Nevada line, and drive east on I-80. The Bonneville Salt Flats begin almost at once, and a rest area about 15 km from town has a viewing platform and information boards. Races are held on the salt in late summer and autumn. Do not drive onto the flats when they are wet, as vehicles sink into the mud and salt corrodes the underside.

The next 170 km of I-80 cross an empty desert with few services, so fill up before leaving Wendover. Great Salt Lake State Park, at exit 104, is the closest place to Salt Lake City to walk down to the water and watch the sunset. The lake level varies greatly from year to year. Continue into Salt Lake City for Temple Square and supplies.

Drive north on I-15 to exit 332 and cross the 11 km causeway to Antelope Island State Park. Bison, pronghorn and mule deer roam freely; the paved road runs down the east side to the Fielding Garr Ranch. The island’s campgrounds are simple, with no hookups at most sites. Biting midges can be fierce in May and June, so bring repellent.

From I-15, take Utah 13 and Utah 83 west past Corinne to Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, where replica locomotives run on summer days. Spiral Jetty lies about 25 km further on gravel roads, with a signposted route from the visitor center; the lake may have retreated far from the coil. Return the same way to Brigham City, known for its peach orchards and Mormon tabernacle.