Name: Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center
Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108

As Utah's state museum of natural history, this top attraction provides an introduction to the science found in Utah's remarkable landscape. With engaging exhibits, the Museum features Utah's remarkable paleontology discoveries, fascinating gems and minerals, preserved artifacts from Utah's prehistoric peoples, an exploration of the region's ecosystems, and stories told by Utah's Indigenous nations of today.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Salt Lake Valley from our Sky Terrace and experience natural history as only Utah can offer it.

The Museum also hosts regularly rotating traveling exhibitions from world-class producers. The latest details can be found on the NHMU website.

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Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center

Salt Lake is where mountain adventure meets city amenities. The towering Wasatch Mountains embrace the Salt Lake Valley and provide a dramatic backdrop to our vibrant, active, urban environment. Hike to dramatic waterfalls or alpine lakes, then refresh with award-winning cuisine. Explore the Great Salt Lake, then rock the night away to music that suits your specific tastes -- whether that's jazz, pop, symphony, or anything in-between. Race down snow covered slopes and then apres with local craft brews. How you spend your time in Salt Lake is as unique as you.

Visit Salt Lake

Salt Lake is the place where the Wasatch mountain peaks frame city streets. Sure, Salt Lake's famed for our winter powder ([four legendary ski resorts](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/) just 30 minutes from downtown), but that's just one season's story. Summer brings families [hiking through wildflower meadows](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/) before cooling off at a Jazz game or the Gateway fountains. Autumn paints our mountain canyons in gold, perfect for morning strolls that end at local coffee shops. Spring? That's when you might spot baby bison on Antelope Island before heading to the Eccles Theater for a Broadway show. Our soaring Wasatch Mountains rise dramatically from downtown Salt Lake, creating a place where every day offers both natural wonders and urban energy. And while we sit perfectly between the [national parks](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/state-national-parks/) with Yellowstone's geysers and Utah's red rock country, the real magic happens right here, where everyone can [discover the history](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/about-salt-lake/) of the city as they find their own rhythm between mountain adventure and city life.

Sports Salt Lake

**Red Butte Garden and Arboretum** is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West, a regional center for plant-focused science education, conservation and research, and cultural enrichment. As part of a state arboretum that encompasses the University of Utah campus, the Garden cultivates an essential urban forestland of about 2,000 trees in 456 different taxa. Community-funded, the Garden is renowned for its diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and spectacular mountain setting, with almost 590,000 springtime blooming bulbs, award-winning horticulture-based educational programs, and an iconic outdoor summer concert series.

More info on the [Red Butte Garden website](https://redbuttegarden.org/).

Included in these Attractions Passes:

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum - Utah's Botanical Garden

The Living Room trail is a must-do hike located right in the heart of downtown with a beautiful overlook of Salt Lake City.

This popular, well-trafficked hike is perfect for anyone looking to get outdoors but that still wants to remain close to the city. Its infamous name comes from the red rock "couches" & "chairs" that can be found at the end of the hike, where you can sit and enjoy a snack or beverage while overlooking the city. Located in the foothills of Salt Lake, right above The Natural History Museum of Utah, The Living Room Hike is a must-try hike for anyone visiting! It is an out-and-back trail that will take you approximately 1.5-3 hours hiking time, and is doable for any level hiker.

**Author’s recommendation**  
If you're feeling adventurous, bring a headlight and head up to watch sunset from the best living room in town!

**Tips and suggestions**  
It can be incredibly hot in the summer months to hike this trail as there is direct sunlight and no cool canyon air. Be on the lookout for rattlesnakes and other wildlife, and always keep your distance from the animals. Ideal times to hike are spring or fall. If you enjoy winter hiking, it is a great trail to experience (you may even get lucky and see moose during less crowded winter months)

The Living Room Hike

An incredible, moderately steep hike to the top of a beautiful peak overlooking the Salt Lake valley.

The first half of the upwards trail follows the same route as the Living Room Hike, and then branches off to higher elevations. It is a well-trafficked cardio workout with a good mix of shaded areas and exposed mountainside trail with amazing views. A moderately difficult trail, it has a relatively short distance to a great payoff at the top. Also known as the Big Beacon Mount Wire Trail, the top has an old airway beacon that affords another 25 feet of elevation.

**Local's recommendation:** An excellent spring, summer, or fall hike. Can be hiked in the winter with proper weather gear.

**Details**

**Difficulty:** Moderate - steep sections, no technically difficult parts

**Highest point:** 7126 ft

**Lowest point:** 4977 ft

**Best time of year:** Year round

**Safety information:** As with any trail in the foothills, watch for rattlesnakes, especially in summer months. Wear closed-toed shoes when hiking, be aware of your surroundings, and always look carefully before placing hands or feet. Be sure to stay hydrated.

**Roadbook**

Start at the Living Room Trailhead, which can be accessed from multiple places along Colorow Road. Park at the southmost end of the street where you'll see a sign that reads "trail entrance" covered in a bunch of stickers. There are several trails you can take that will lead you to the same spot. Eventually you'll see a big "174" yellow sign, turn left there. From there, keep heading straight, uphill, and stay to the right. Toward the end of the trail, you will come to a small, unsigned trail split - stay right to reach Mount Wire (left will take you to the Living Room).

- Start point - The Living Room Trailhead, 383 Colorow Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 - 0 mi
- Highest point, 7123 ft - 2.6 mi
- Lowest point, 4977 ft - 5.1 mi
- Mount Wire - Destination - 5.1 mi

**How to Get There**

**Public transport:** You can take Trax + UTA bus routes to Natural History Museum which will get you close to the trailhead. See UTA schedules and maps at https://www.rideuta.com

**Parking:** On the street parking is available for free all along Colorow Road.

Mount Wire Trail

We are your east-bench go to for eclectic American comfort food. Simple craft cuisine, 12 local craft beers and a huge assortment of local spirits. Come for the amazing food and stay for the creative desserts!

Thistle & Thyme

Wakara Bar is a great spot to watch the game and catch up with friends. There are flat screen TV's, an outdoor patio, local craft beers on tap, and a gourmet bar menu.

Wakara Bar

Experience living history at [This Is The Place Heritage Park.](https://www.thisistheplace.org)

Located at the historic location of the Mormon pioneers’ entry to what was then the Republic of Mexico, this Utah state park celebrates the heritage of the many cultures and people that have called the valley of the Great Salt Lake home.

The Park offers experiences crafted to awaken the pioneer within every historian, ponderer, adventurer, artist, or naturalist. Connect to the story and spirit of the American west with [monuments](https://www.thisistheplace.org/general-info/pioneers-of-1847-monument/), [exhibits](https://www.thisistheplace.org/todays-fun/pioneer-childrens-memorial/), and [interactive events](https://www.thisistheplace.org/heritage-village/) that blend past with present to commemorate unique traditions and legacies. Discover immersive theater, engaging historical interactions, an [exceptional general store](https://www.thisistheplace.org/shopping/gift-shop/), and [food](https://www.thisistheplace.org/food/heritage-grill/) created by our award-winning chef. For a more intimate visit, try a curated tour with our park historian, a trail ride guided by experienced wranglers, or a quiet nature walk.

With 415 acres of beauty nestled into the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains and a full complement of seasonal events to explore, This Is The Place Heritage Park offers a literal and figurative view of history that inspires. Connect to your inner pioneer with an unforgettable visit today.

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Looking for things to do in Salt Lake City? Visit Foothill Cultural District during your next trip to Utah and discover the heart of Salt Lake City's cultural life. With trails to hike, zoo animals to watch, trains to ride, dinosaur bones to dig, beds to sleep in, gardens to stroll, Olympic sports to remember, Buffalo Soldiers to visit, and fine art to enjoy, there's something for everyone. And it's all within three square miles in Salt Lake's foothills. The districts nine venues include: Utah's Hogle Zoo, This is the Place Heritage Park, Red Butte Garden, Fort Douglas Museum, Natural History Museum, Utah Museum of Fine Arts, The Tracy Aviary, The Tower at Rice Eccles Stadium and University Guest House. More information and attraction coupons can be found at http://www.foothillcd.com. The Salt Lake Tribune hailed Foothill Cultural District as its “Editor’s Choice” first runner up and the “People’s Choice” second runner up as the state’s Tourism Top Spot. Read more here: http://www.foothillcd.com. https://www.hoglezoo.org;

Foothill Cultural District

"The elegance of life in the city, set against the rugged, mountainous backdrop of the Wasatch Mountain Range. It tends to cultivate an active lifestyle; whether your activity is social or sporty.[Farmer's markets](https://www.slcfarmersmarket.org/), bike lanes, nightlife, great food, and at least two lifetimes worth of recreation in the vertical feet that overlook the town. Witness the growth of this unique city's environmentally-minded attitude. And be a part of it by riding a [bike](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/bike-tours)! We offer not only Guided Bicycle Rides, but also guided [Walking Tours](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/reserve-bike-tours/walking-tour) of Downtown SLC, and [Hiking Tours](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/reserve-bike-tours/hiking-tours) of the surrounding hills up on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. In early 2023, we will launch our new Food Tour of SLC as well!"

Salt Lake Bicycle Tours

Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine combines excellence in teaching, research, and clinical expertise to train tomorrow's physicians for the rapidly changing world of medicine. With over 1,000 physicians and researchers, and 23 science departments.

Orthopedic Center, University of Utah Health Sports Medicine

Home of the University of Utah Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams, and the Women’s Gymnastics Team. Capacity: Approximately 15,000. Located Twenty-five minutes east from Salt Lake International Airport.

Jon M. Huntsman Center

Utah's Hogle Zoo creates champions for wildlife. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy hundreds of resident animals in the [African Savanna](https://www.hoglezoo.org/african-savanna/), [Great Apes](https://www.hoglezoo.org/great-apes/), [Primate Forest](https://www.hoglezoo.org/primate-forest/), [Small Animal Building](https://www.hoglezoo.org/small-animal-building/), [Rocky Shores](https://www.hoglezoo.org/rocky-shores/), [Asian Highlands,](https://www.hoglezoo.org/asian-highlands/) and the new [Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah exhibit](https://www.hoglezoo.org/wildutah/). Your visit helps support conservation efforts worldwide.

Since 1974, Hogle Zoo has been a proud member of the [Association of Zoos and Aquariums](https://www.aza.org/), meeting and exceeding the highest animal care, [wellbeing](https://www.hoglezoo.org/wellbeing/), and facilities standards.

- [Plan your visit to Utah's Hogle Zoo](https://www.hoglezoo.org/plan-your-visit/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/plan-your-visit/)
- [See upcoming events](https://www.hoglezoo.org/events/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/events/)
- [Become a member](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)
- [See education classes and programs](https://www.hoglezoo.org/education-programs/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/education-programs/)
- [Work at Utah's Hogle Zoo](https://www.hoglezoo.org/jobs/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)
- [Read Hogle Zoo stories and announcements](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoo-stories/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoo-stories/)

**MORE TO DO. MORE TO ZOO.  
Swing by Hogle Zoo to see the newest residents**

- Meet Weila: Weila, a female Bornean orangutan born on June 21, 2025, is thriving under the care of her foster mom, Acara. Guests may now spot them in the Great Apes lobby or outdoor habitat; look closely, as Weila’s hair blends in with Acara. Their favorite resting spots include high shelves and hammocks. [Learn more about Weila's journey →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/orangutan-weila/)
- Meet Basil: Basil, born on March 30, 2025, is growing up quickly and changing right before our eyes. Basil is now one of the most active members of the troop, often seen leaping across branches and swinging from ropes. [See Basil →](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOD3XZllMZD/)
- Meet Addo: Born May 30, 2024, Addo is a western lowland gorilla who’s quickly becoming a guest favorite. His growing confidence is a joy to watch, and his development offers a unique opportunity to witness the early stages of gorilla life. [Watch Addo play →](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPAFZFYCvbh/)

Check out the zoo's [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hoglezoo/) (@HogleZoo) for [daily programs](https://www.hoglezoo.org/things-to-do/), including keeper chats and animal demonstrations.

**ZOOBREW - EVERY POUR PROTECTS**  
Your favorite night out just got wilder! ZooBrew brings adults-only (21+) evenings to life with local craft beverages, bites, and wildlife at Hogle Zoo. Sip, stroll, and snack as you explore the zoo after hours, where every experience supports wildlife and wild places. It’s a night out for the big kids, with purpose behind every pour.

[2026 ZooBrews](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoobrew/) run from 6:30–9:30 p.m. on select evenings:

- [Thursday, May 21](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/may-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, June 17](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/june-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, July 15](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/july-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, August 12](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/august-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, October 14](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/october-zoobrew/)

ZooBrew is where great taste meets a greater purpose. Every visit to Hogle Zoo supports wildlife conservation efforts in Utah and around the world. From constructing ranger stations in Nigeria to outfitting orangutan research teams in Borneo and monitoring western toad populations in Utah, Hogle Zoo and its partners are inspiring action by connecting people and animals. By attending ZooBrew, you’re taking meaningful action for wildlife worldwide.  
  
**EXCLUSIVE TOURS AT HOGLE ZOO**  
Book an exclusive zoo tour with your family and friends and get the most out of your zoo visit. You can even book multiple tours daily, and our Education team will create a whole itinerary for you! [Learn more about exclusive tours at Hogle Zoo →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/)

- Pull out your stethoscope and discover what it's like to be a veterinarian during our [L.S. Skaggs Animal Health Center Tour](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/). You'll tour an off-exhibit space not regularly open to visitors. Look at x-rays and blood samples, and meet an ambassador animal as you learn how veterinarians help to maintain the health of the zoo's animals.
- Book a [VIP Cart Tour](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/) and see Hogle Zoo before opening! This 2-hour VIP cart tour of the zoo is catered to your group's interests and is led by one of our expert tour guides in a 7-passenger, open-air golf cart.

**HOGLE ZOO ACHIEVED ASSOCIATION OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS ACCREDITATION WITH A PERFECT INSPECTION**  
Hogle Zoo is celebrating a milestone achievement—a perfect score during our accreditation inspection from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). In September 2025, AZA granted accreditation to Hogle Zoo with a rare perfect score, indicating there were no lesser or major concerns throughout the zoo. In AZA’s 51 years of granting accreditations, Hogle Zoo is only the 10th organization to achieve a perfect score and a clean evaluation. [Learn more about Hogle Zoo's accreditation →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)  
  
*“At Hogle Zoo, we're more than just a fun place to experience. Our team and the community can take pride in knowing their support helps us create champions for wildlife. Through our team's dedication to professional excellence, we're making a lasting impact on the animals under our care, the guests we inspire, and wildlife conservation efforts around the world. A perfect score reflects the dedication of our entire zoo team, including animal care, veterinary services, administrative leadership, facilities, finance, operations, education, conservation, guest services, volunteers, advancement, and human resources. Everyone played a role in reaching this milestone."* -Liz Larsen, Chief Mission Officer of Hogle Zoo.  
  
**SALT LAKE COUNTY'S ZOO, ARTS & PARKS (ZAP) PROGRAM**  
Hogle Zoo is supported by the Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP) Program. Hogle Zoo thanks the residents and visitors of Salt Lake County for their continued support of arts, culture, and recreation within our community. [Learn more](https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/zap/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)

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Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center

About Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center

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