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

<p> Every July 24, Utah comes alive with Pioneer Day, a vibrant celebration in honor of Brigham Young and the first Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. This state holiday blends frontier heritage with modern festivities, making Salt Lake City especially festive. Events span the week surrounding July 24, offering something for families, couples, history buffs, and outdoor lovers alike.</p>

<h2 aria-level="2" paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{170}" paraid="427639560" role="heading">Why Visit Salt Lake for Pioneer Day?&nbsp;</h2>
 <p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">Salt Lake City offers one of the most dynamic Pioneer Day experiences in the state. Here&#39;s why visitors return each year:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li data-end="349" data-start="273"><strong data-end="28" data-is-only-node="" data-start="0">A Unique Utah Tradition:</strong> Pioneer Day is rooted in Utah&#39;s history and commemorates the arrival of Mormon pioneers on July 24, 1847, and has been celebrated annually since at least 1849.&nbsp;</li>
	<li data-end="428" data-start="352"><strong data-end="26" data-is-only-node="" data-start="0">Week‑Long Festivities:</strong> While July 24 is the official observance, many cities, including Salt Lake City, host week‑long celebrations such as <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad342f124e053ecfd187" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/events/" target="_blank">parades, rodeos, concerts, marathons, and exhibitions.</a></li>
	<li><strong data-end="33" data-is-only-node="" data-start="0">Heritage Meets Entertainment:</strong> Expect historical reenactments and frontier‑themed events alongside live music, drone shows, and <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5d1b9f6bb9ffd090d5b4d75f" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/experience-utah-days-of-47-and-beyond/" target="_blank">rodeo spectacles</a>.</li>
	<li data-end="508" data-start="471"><strong data-end="20" data-is-only-node="" data-start="0">Family‑Friendly:</strong> Highlights include interactive events&mdash;rodeo petting zoos, pony rides, and fun runs that engage all ages.</li>
	<li data-end="550" data-start="511"><strong data-end="18" data-is-only-node="" data-start="0">Outdoor Bonus:</strong> Salt Lake&rsquo;s natural beauty&mdash;hiking in Big and Little Cottonwood, relaxing in <a data-sv-linklookup-id="55159" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/liberty-park/55159/" target="_blank">Liberty Park</a>&mdash;goes hand in hand with the urban celebrations.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Event Highlights</h2>

<p>Each year brings new events, but here are some signature celebrations that happen annually in and around Salt Lake City:&nbsp;</p>
 <h3 paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">Days of &rsquo;47 Parade&nbsp;</h3>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">One of the oldest and largest Pioneer Day parades, held annually on July 24. Expect themed floats, marching bands, equestrian groups, cultural performances, and reenactors. The parade dates back to 1849 and is a central celebration each year.</p>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Highlights:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Themed Floats</strong>: Over 30 vibrant floats showcasing pioneer themes, many sponsored by local organizations.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Marching Bands</strong>: High school and community bands from across the state adding music and flair to the parade.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Equestrian Units</strong>: Riders and horse-drawn wagons paying tribute to the transportation methods of pioneers.</li>
</ul>
 <h3 paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281">Utah Days of &#39;47 Rodeo at the Utah State Fairpark</h3>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281">A staple event featuring traditional rodeo competitions&mdash;bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, team roping&mdash;combined with family attractions like mechanical bull rides, pony rides, and food vendors.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Highlights:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Bareback Riding: </strong>Riders staying atop a bucking horse.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Steer Wrestling: </strong>Competitors race to bring a steer to the ground. Team Roping: Two ropers work together to catch a steer by the horns and hind legs.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Saddle Bronc Riding:</strong> Riders aiming to stay on a bucking horse.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Bull Riding: </strong>Riders attempt to stay atop a bucking bull for eight seconds.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{248}" paraid="1315894281"><strong>Family-friendly activities:</strong>&nbsp;mechanical bull rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, food trucks, and live music, make it an ideal outing for all ages.</li>
</ul>
 <h3 paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">Pioneer Day&nbsp;at This Is The Place Heritage Park</h3>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">A living history experience with pioneer-era demonstrations (e.g., blacksmithing, candle‑making), historic homes, folk music, train rides, and hands-on games.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Highlights:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Historical Reenactments: </strong>Watch costumed interpreters demonstrate pioneer skills like blacksmithing and candle-making.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Interactive Exhibits</strong>: Explore restored pioneer homes and engage in fun, educational activities.</li>
	<li paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942"><strong>Live Entertainment</strong>: Enjoy traditional folk music and storytelling sessions. Historic Train Rides: Ride on replica trains while learning about Utah&#39;s railroad history.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h3 paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{1}" paraid="581890628">Deseret News Marathon and 5K</h3>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{1}" paraid="581890628">Utah&rsquo;s oldest marathon (since 1970), the Deseret News Marathon and 5K offers runners and walkers the chance to explore Salt Lake City&rsquo;s historic streets (including through the Days of &#39;47 parade) while celebrating Utah&rsquo;s pioneer history. Whether you&#39;re a seasoned marathoner or a casual 5K participant, the scenic route offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains.</p>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{1}" paraid="581890628">Best place to watch runners emerge from the canyon is <a data-sv-linklookup-id="54354" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Utah&#39;s Hogle Zoo</a> parking Lot. And the finish line is at <a data-sv-linklookup-id="55159" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Liberty Park</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">Drone Show at Liberty Park&nbsp;</h3>

<p paraeid="{1dd343c7-71b8-404f-b23d-2f05b4a8a76a}{176}" paraid="1360671942">A modern, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireworks, the drone show at Liberty Park lights up the sky with synchronized drones, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle set to music. The show is a crowd favorite and a perfect end to the day&#39;s festivities.</p>
 <h2 aria-level="2" paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{31}" paraid="919835251" role="heading">Know Before You Go</h2>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{57}" paraid="692327498">&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Local Tips</h3>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{37}" paraid="1437251084">The parade route fills up early (really early!)&mdash;bring lawn chairs, breakfast, and sunscreen if you want a front-row spot&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{51}" paraid="328982406">For the best drone show view at Liberty Park, sit on the grassy hill near the pond&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{57}" paraid="692327498">Don&rsquo;t miss the old-fashioned sarsaparilla at This Is The Place&mdash;it&rsquo;s a local favorite&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h3 paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{79}" paraid="2082352377">Travel Planning Tips</h3>

<p dir="auto"><b data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Book Accommodations Early</b>: Hotels tend to fill up quickly during Pioneer Day week, so it&rsquo;s advisable to book early, especially if you&#39;re attending popular events like the parade or rodeo.</p>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{91}" paraid="377473227"><strong>Where to Stay:&nbsp;</strong>Downtown Salt Lake puts you within walking distance of the parade, Temple Square, and the Deseret News Marathon start line. The Liberty Park area is convenient for the drone show and park-based events.</p>
 <p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{107}" paraid="1981535216"><strong>Public Transportation:</strong> Plan ahead for road closures around downtown on July 24. <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/public-transportation/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TRAX</a> light rail is running regular daily service hours and offers a good alternative to driving. Many events also have bike parking or are within walking distance from downtown hotels. <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/greenbike-slc/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">GreenBike</a>, Salt Lake City&rsquo;s bike-share program, is another convenient way to get around during the festivities, with stations located near parade routes and Liberty Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{139}" paraid="290451037"><strong>Budget-Friendly Options:</strong> Many Pioneer Day events are free, including the parade and drone show. Some festivals offer discounted tickets for kids or advance purchase pricing.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2 aria-level="2" paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{31}" paraid="919835251" role="heading">What Else to Do in Salt Lake</h2>
 <p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{157}" paraid="1351064913">Visiting for Pioneer Day? Round out your trip with these local highlights:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{163}" paraid="910197569"><a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/church-history-museum/54756/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Church History Museum</a> &ndash; Learn about the journey of Utah&rsquo;s early settlers&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{172}" paraid="2085798117"><a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/attractions/historic-sites/historic-temple-square/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Temple Square</a> &ndash; Explore the gardens, architecture, and visitor center&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{181}" paraid="2093381911"><a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/city-creek-canyon-trail/70581/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">City Creek Canyon</a> &ndash; A shaded hike just minutes from downtown&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{190}" paraid="659832433"><a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/utahs-hogle-zoo/54354/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Utah&rsquo;s Hogle Zoo</a> &ndash; A family favorite, especially on cooler July mornings&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{190}" paraid="659832433"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="60001" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Natural History Museum of Utah</a>&nbsp;- enjoy&nbsp;interactive exhibits and hands‑on adventures inspire curiosity for all ages.</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{190}" paraid="659832433"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="54428" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Red Butte Garden</a>&nbsp;- wander the&nbsp;stunning botanical displays and stunning seasonal displays overlooking the valley.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h2 aria-level="2" paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{31}" paraid="919835251" role="heading">Why Pioneer Day is a Must-See Event in Salt Lake City</h2>
 <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody" dir="auto">Pioneer Day&nbsp;in Salt Lake City is an immersive celebration that brings Utah&rsquo;s rich history to life through parades, rodeos, festivals, and modern-day entertainment. Whether you&rsquo;re a local or a first-time visitor, Salt Lake City&#39;s Pioneer Day festivities promise a memorable experience. Celebrate Utah&rsquo;s pioneer spirit and modern culture, making it a perfect occasion to explore the heart of the Beehive State. Don&rsquo;t miss this vibrant celebration of Utah&#39;s history, culture, and community.</p>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{205}" paraid="1195630448">Pioneer Day may be the headliner, but Salt Lake&rsquo;s July calendar is packed with even more summer fun.</p>

<p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{205}" paraid="1195630448"><strong>Be sure to check out:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{211}" paraid="562463096"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63649" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/the-twilight-concert-series/63649/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Twilight Concert Series</a> &ndash; Local and national acts perform at open-air venues&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{220}" paraid="337464327"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="680abf9682971634f2717fca" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/visitors-guide-to-the-wasatch-wildflower-festival/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Wasatch Wildflower Festival</a> &ndash; Celebrate mountain blooms in full color&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{233}" paraid="1788294234"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="649f1aaacfa96a07d226fc7e" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/event/2025-sandy-city-hot-air-balloon-festival/69424/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Sandy Hot Air Balloon Festival (early August)</a> &ndash; Just south of Salt Lake City, this festival is worth the drive&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <p paraeid="{0476ad7e-b790-453e-9612-079988ed3416}{246}" paraid="1997386144">Looking for a place to stay? Browse hotel options <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/places-to-stay/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{7cb17b04-798b-4681-a182-fd30e62c9f47}{4}" paraid="1438274310">For a full list of events and updates, visit our Salt Lake <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/events/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Events Calendar</a>.&nbsp;</p>


<p> Every July 24, Utah comes alive with Pioneer Day, a vibrant celebration in honor of Brigham Young and the first Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. This state holiday blends frontier heritage with modern festivities, making Salt Lake City especially festive. Events span the week</p>

Celebrate Pioneer Day in Salt Lake City: A Unique Utah Tradition

<h2>From Urban Gems to Mountain Escapes</h2> <p>Summer in Salt Lake means culture-packed city blocks sit just 30 minutes from wildflower-dotted mountain trails. Pack your hiking boots AND your concert tee&#x2014;this guide is your ticket to that sweet spot where urban energy meets mountain escape.</p> <h2>Live Music and</h2>

Epic Summer Things to Do in Salt Lake City

<h2>Hop onboard and discover the American Southwest like never before.</h2>

<p>Canyon Spirit rail journey takes passengers on a three-day elevated&nbsp;train experience&nbsp;with stops in Salt Lake, Moab, Glenwood Springs and Denver. Enjoy this beautiful train ride through the Rocky Mountains to Utah&rsquo;s red rock vistas. The train&rsquo;s panoramic windows allow for incredible views of dramatic mountain passes and storied landscapes.</p>

<p>From the moment you board, Canyon Spirit is designed to be as unforgettable as the landscapes outside your panoramic window. Settle in for the all-inclusive Signature experience. Enjoy regionally inspired gourmet dining, curated alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and engaging stories from your Hosts. Step onto the viewing platform for fresh air and breathtaking photos, or elevate the journey with the Premier upgrade, featuring enhanced dining, an exclusive lounge car, and more space to relax.</p>

<h3>Three Day Rail Journey Itinerary:</h3>
 <h4>Starting in Salt Lake:</h4>

<p><strong>DAY 1: Salt Lake City to Moab</strong></p>

<p>Begin your journey in Salt Lake City and travel onboard Canyon Spirit, where you&rsquo;ll enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast and lunch, along with a variety of included snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Travel past Provo, through the historic Thistle Tunnels, over Soldier Summit, and into the stunning Price River Canyon. As the dramatic Book Cliffs rise in the distance, you&rsquo;ll arrive in Thompson Springs and transfer to the adventure-filled town of Moab. Wrap up your day with a relaxing evening and overnight stay in Moab.</p>
 <p><strong>DAY 2: Moab to Glenwood Springs</strong></p>

<p>Set out from Moab in the afternoon onboard Canyon Spirit and enjoy two delicious, locally inspired meals as the red rock scenery gives way to sweeping mountain views. Cross the Utah-Colorado border and continue to the charming hot springs resort&nbsp;town of Glenwood Springs, where you&#39;ll spend the night.</p>

<p><strong>DAY 3: Glenwood Springs to Denver</strong></p>

<p>Travel eastward onboard Canyon Spirit, savoring breakfast and lunch as you pass through breathtaking canyons, follow the path of the Colorado River, and cross the Continental Divide. Your unforgettable journey concludes in Denver.</p>
 <h4>Limited Time Offer</h4>

<p>Book your unforgettable experience and save up to $700 USD* per couple.</p>

<p>*Terms and Conditions Apply*</p>

<h2>Hop onboard and discover the American Southwest like never before.</h2> <p>Canyon Spirit rail journey takes passengers on a three-day elevated train experience with stops in Salt Lake, Moab, Glenwood Springs and Denver. Enjoy this beautiful train ride through the Rocky Mountains to Utah&#x2019;s red rock vistas.</p>

Canyon Spirit Has Arrived in Salt Lake

<p>Salt Lake has a way of surprising people. Beyond the mountains and the powder days, Utah&rsquo;s capital is packed with unexpected claims to fame, from world-class architecture and buzzy indie festivals to one of the saltiest lakes on Earth. Whether&nbsp;you&rsquo;re&nbsp;visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city through a local lens, here are a few things Salt Lake is known for that might just surprise you.</p>
 <h2>One of the easiest ski cities in the world&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Few places combine a major metro area with world-renowned&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="60e7472347f1243f999a6ead" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">skiing</a>&nbsp;quite like Salt Lake. Visitors can land at Salt Lake City International Airport and be on the slopes in less than an hour. The region&rsquo;s ski resorts are consistently ranked among the best in North America thanks to Utah&rsquo;s famous &ldquo;Greatest Snow on Earth,&rdquo; varied terrain and seamless access from the city.</p>
 <h2>The Great Salt Lake, where you can float effortlessly</h2>

<p><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad592f124e053ed01d69" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/neighborhoods/great-salt-lake/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The Great Salt Lake</a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth, with salinity levels high enough to support human buoyancy&nbsp;similar to&nbsp;the Dead Sea. The lake&rsquo;s surreal landscapes, pink-hued water in some&nbsp;areas&nbsp;and expansive sunsets make it one of Utah&rsquo;s most iconic natural wonders and a must-see for visitors.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Hosting the 2034 Winter Olympics&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Salt Lake is once again stepping onto the world stage. Utah was selected to host the 2034 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, marking the return of the Games after the widely praised 2002 Winter Olympics. With existing&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad592f124e053ed01dad" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/attractions/olympic-venues/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">venues</a>&nbsp;already in place and a deep-rooted winter sports culture, Salt Lake continues to be recognized as a premier global destination for winter recreation.</p>
 <h2>An airport to downtown train connection that&rsquo;s surprisingly rare</h2>

<p>Salt Lake&rsquo;s TRAX light rail system connects&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad612f124e053ed02b30" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/airports-airlines/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Salt Lake City International Airport</a>&nbsp;directly to downtown, making it easy for travelers to go from baggage claim to hotels,&nbsp;restaurants&nbsp;and attractions without renting a car. While common in some larger international cities, direct airport rail access is still relatively rare for a U.S. city of Salt Lake&rsquo;s size.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>A nationally recognized arts scene</h2>

<p>Utah ranks among the top states in the country for&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad3a2f124e053ecfde25" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/arts-culture/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">arts</a>&nbsp;participation and has the highest concentration of working artists in the nation. From live music and contemporary dance to Broadway productions and independent galleries, Salt Lake&rsquo;s arts scene punches far above its weight and continues to grow as a creative hub in the Mountain West.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Kilby Block Party&rsquo;s rise as a major indie music festival</h2>

<p>What started as a local music celebration has grown into one of the West&rsquo;s most talked-about indie festivals.&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="67c0ecc4a5647fce6b2fbc27" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/a-visitors-guide-to-the-kilby-court-block-party/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Kilby Block Party</a>&nbsp;now attracts major national acts while&nbsp;maintaining&nbsp;the independent spirit that made it a favorite in the first place. The festival has helped cement Salt Lake as an emerging music destination with a strong local scene.&nbsp;</p> <h2>Architecture lovers travel here for the library alone&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="69f39e0a06c712dc279090a8" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/guide-to-the-salt-lake-city-library/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Salt Lake City Public Library</a>&nbsp;is internationally recognized for its striking design by renowned architect Moshe Safdie. The downtown building features sweeping curves, natural light-filled&nbsp;spaces&nbsp;and a rooftop garden overlooking the Wasatch Mountains. The rooftop is also home to beehives, adding another unexpected layer to one of the city&rsquo;s most beloved public spaces.</p>
 <h2>A museum built right into the foothills&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dadaa2f124e053ed0bc9d" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/arts-culture/museums/natural-history-museum-of-utah/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Natural History Museum of Utah</a>&nbsp;is known not only for its exhibits, but also for its award-winning design. Built into the foothills above Salt Lake, the museum has earned national and international recognition, including honors from the American Institute of Architects, for the way it blends into the surrounding landscape while&nbsp;showcasing&nbsp;Utah&rsquo;s natural history.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2 aria-level="4" paraeid="{d605e712-9590-4767-9157-b3a33db316b2}{59}" paraid="1623658576" role="heading">Mexican food worth traveling for&nbsp;</h2>

<p paraeid="{d605e712-9590-4767-9157-b3a33db316b2}{65}" paraid="1851277363"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5b35069d117554466f556ee0" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/red-iguana/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Red Iguana</a>&nbsp;has earned a national reputation for its Mexican cuisine, especially its famous mole sauces. Frequently ranked among the best Mexican restaurants in the U.S., the longtime Salt Lake favorite has become a rite of passage for visitors looking to experience one of the city&rsquo;s most iconic meals.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2 aria-level="3" paraeid="{cef93d29-9d7c-4f5d-9667-2ae4b06cef8b}{232}" paraid="1415348709" role="heading">Home to nationally accredited wildlife attractions&nbsp;</h2>

<p paraeid="{cef93d29-9d7c-4f5d-9667-2ae4b06cef8b}{238}" paraid="615778193">Both&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="54354" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/utahs-hogle-zoo/54354/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Utah&rsquo;s Hogle Zoo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="54723" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/loveland-living-planet-aquarium/54723/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Loveland Living Planet Aquarium</a>&nbsp;are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a distinction held by only a fraction of facilities nationwide. Both are also supported through Utah&rsquo;s Zoo, Arts &amp; Parks&nbsp;program,&nbsp;a voter-approved funding model often recognized nationally for helping sustain cultural and educational institutions across the state.</p>
 <h2>Fry sauce. Yes, really.</h2>

<p>No conversation about Utah food culture is complete without fry sauce. The beloved condiment, typically a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise, is widely considered to have originated in Utah and&nbsp;remains&nbsp;a staple at burger joints throughout the state. Order fries&nbsp;almost anywhere&nbsp;in Salt Lake and&nbsp;there&rsquo;s&nbsp;a good chance fry sauce will be part of the experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salt Lake has a way of surprising people. Beyond the mountains and the powder days, Utah&#x2019;s capital is packed with unexpected claims to fame, from world-class architecture and buzzy indie festivals to one of the saltiest lakes on Earth. Whether you&#x2019;re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the</p>

Did you know Salt Lake is known for...

<p>The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here&nbsp;and it&#39;s the biggest tournament the sport has ever seen. 104 matches, 48 nations, and Salt Lake has a front-row seat. Whether you&#39;re after the perfect pint, a killer plate of wings (or nachos),&nbsp;or just a room full of people who actually care, we&#39;ve rounded up the best spots in Salt Lake&nbsp;to catch every moment.</p>

<p>Wear your colors, bring your voice, and enjoy the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Salt Lake!</p>
 <h2>Netherlands vs. Japan</h2>
 <h3>Sugar House Station</h3>

<p><strong>Sunday, June 14, 2:00 PM&nbsp;<i>|&nbsp;</i>2155 S Highland Dr, SLC | 21+</strong></p>

<p>Head to Sugar House with Council Member Sara Young for the neighborhood&#39;s<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://sugarhousestation.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://sugarhousestation.com/" target="_blank"> go-to food hall</a>. <strong>A Sunday 2:00 PM</strong> kickoff is practically made for this place. Arrive early, grab a table&nbsp;and let the multi-vendor setup work in your favor. With 6&nbsp;food-vendors to choose from and two bars,&nbsp;you&#39;re well covered on drinks and snacking.</p>
 <h2>Argentina vs. Algeria</h2>
 <h3>Woodbine Food Hall</h3>

<p><strong>Tuesday, June 16,&nbsp;7:00 PM&nbsp;|&nbsp;545 W 700 S, SLC</strong></p>

<p>Council Chair Puy picks <a data-sv-linklookup-id="71568" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/woodbine-food-hall/71568/" target="_blank">Woodbine</a>, and it&#39;s hard to argue with him. This Granary District food hall brings 7 vendors under one roof, meaning you can graze your way through the entire match without missing a second. Start with a Burmese-style beef and rice bowl, grab a wood-fired slice from Mozz Artisan Pizza, and finish with a scoop of ice cream on a cookie from Chunky Cookies. Wash it all down with a drink from the Drift Bar and settle into one of the communal tables. For a social watch party setting, it doesn&#39;t get much better.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Mexico vs. South Korea</h2>
 <h3>The Green Pig Pub</h3>

<p><strong>Thursday, June 18, 7:00 PM</strong>&nbsp;<strong>|&nbsp;31 E 400 S, SLC | 21+</strong></p>

<p><a data-sv-linklookup-id="61700" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/the-green-pig-pub/61700/" target="_blank">The Green Pig</a> is a downtown Salt Lake institution, and a proper sports bar built for exactly this kind of <strong>Thursday night </strong>match. Order a round of their famous&nbsp;jumbo house wings&nbsp;alongside a cold pint from their well-stocked taps. If you want something more substantial, the blackened salmon tacos and&nbsp;classic, hand cut fries&nbsp;have both earned loyal followings. With screens everywhere and a lively crowd, this is prime atmosphere for a Mexico match with your District 4 rep.</p>
 <h2>Brazil vs. Haiti</h2>
 <h3>Neighbors Bar</h3>

<p><strong>Friday, June 19 - 7:00 PM |&nbsp;430 E 900 S, SLC | 21+</strong></p>

<p>Council Member Carlsen&#39;s pick is a neighborhood gem tucked into the 9th &amp; 9th area. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.slc-neighbors.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.slc-neighbors.com/" target="_blank">Neighbors</a> is a lively bar with a surprisingly serious kitchen. The&nbsp;cheesesteak is legit, and the popcorn chicken tossed with basil 7 white pepper powder is a must-order. For drinks, ask about the Joni Negroni with Beehive decade dry gin, Genepy and Dolin dry vermouth, a genuinely surprising&nbsp;cocktail. <strong>Friday night</strong> energy, a Brazil match, and a true local bar: this one&#39;s going to feel like a community event.</p>
 <h2>Germany vs. Ivory Coast</h2>

<h3>Black Sheep Bar &amp; Grill</h3>

<p><strong>Saturday, June 20 - 2:00 PM |</strong>&nbsp;<strong>1400 S Foothill Dr, SLC | 21+</strong></p>

<p>Join Dan Dugan of&nbsp;District 6 to watch Germany and the Ivory Coast battle it out at&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.theblacksheepbarandgrills.com/foothill" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.theblacksheepbarandgrills.com/foothill" target="_blank">Black Sheep Bar &amp; Grill</a>. Tucked into the Foothill area, this is a no-frills sports bar is the perfect&nbsp;place for a&nbsp;<strong>Saturday afternoon</strong> match.&nbsp;Order the traditional wings and a cold beer to start, and don&#39;t leave without trying the chili verde burrito.&nbsp;The guacamole burger is another solid pick if you want something to settle in with for the full 90 min. Screens everywhere, friendly staff, and a laid-back crowd that knows how to watch a game.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Mexico vs. Czechia</h2>

<h3>Casa Del Pollo Mexican Grill</h3>

<p><strong>Wednesday, June 24 - 7:00 PM&nbsp;<i>|</i>&nbsp;1628 W 700 N, SLC</strong></p>

<p>Council Member Victoria Petro saves the best pairing for the end of the month. Watching Mexico play at the beloved&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://share.google/UqBirRDLKWEAN5V7v" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://share.google/UqBirRDLKWEAN5V7v" target="_blank">Casa Del Pollo Mexican Grill</a>. This restaurant is&nbsp;a Mexican&nbsp;gem with Sinaloa-style classics located in&nbsp;Rose Park. Casa Del Pollo&nbsp;serves&nbsp;up&nbsp;perfectly cooked Sinaloa-style chicken with grilled onions, jalape&ntilde;os, rice, beans, and corn tortillas. Get the street tacos&nbsp;or go full Pollo Estilo Sinaloa&nbsp;with rice and beans. it&#39;s a fitting and festive celebration in the group watch party series.</p>
 <h2>Where to Watch more FIFA World Cup matches in Salt Lake</h2>
 <h3><strong>Additional Watch Party Locations</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="70516" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/flanker-kitchen-%26-sporting-club/70516/" target="_blank">Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club</a> (The Gateway)&nbsp;</strong></li>
	<li><strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63008" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/beer-bar/63008/" target="_blank">Beer Bar</a> (Downtown)&nbsp;</strong></li>
	<li><strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="61707" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/the-state-room/61707/" target="_blank">The State Room</a> (Downtown)&nbsp;</strong></li>
	<li><b><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63623" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/club-karamba/63623/" target="_blank">Famous Karamba</a> (Downtown)&nbsp;</b></li>
	<li><b><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.fiddlerssugarhouse.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.fiddlerssugarhouse.com/" target="_blank">Fiddler&#39;s</a> (Sugar House)&nbsp;</b></li>
	<li><strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://megaplex.com/film/HO00004318/soccer-celebration-mexico-vs-south-africa" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://megaplex.com/film/HO00004318/soccer-celebration-mexico-vs-south-africa" target="_blank">Megaplex Sandy</a>&nbsp;watch party (Jordan Commons) - ticketed event</strong></li>
	<li><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://seatgeek.com/rsl-soccer-celebration-tickets?_gl=1*6lpean*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzkyOTk3NjMuQ2p3S0NBand0N1hRQmhCa0Vpd0F0U3RwcDd4NVJQWnMxTlAzZWZHVnNMbjdnaDJ5S1luTWp0SlFuSk4xZzhlYkhBaGgyejFMRnhoakp4b0NhZDBRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTgxNjE5OTQ4OC4xNzc5Mjk5NzYz*_ga*NjIxMDgyMzc2LjE3NzkyOTk3NjM.*_ga_THCEB8SDHF*czE3ODExMjYxODQkbzMkZzAkdDE3ODExMjYyMDEkajQzJGwwJGgw" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://seatgeek.com/rsl-soccer-celebration-tickets?_gl=1*6lpean*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzkyOTk3NjMuQ2p3S0NBand0N1hRQmhCa0Vpd0F0U3RwcDd4NVJQWnMxTlAzZWZHVnNMbjdnaDJ5S1luTWp0SlFuSk4xZzhlYkhBaGgyejFMRnhoakp4b0NhZDBRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTgxNjE5OTQ4OC4xNzc5Mjk5NzYz*_ga*NjIxMDgyMzc2LjE3NzkyOTk3NjM.*_ga_THCEB8SDHF*czE3ODExMjYxODQkbzMkZzAkdDE3ODExMjYyMDEkajQzJGwwJGgw" target="_blank"><strong>America First Field</strong></a>&nbsp;<strong>watch party&nbsp;(Sandy) - ticketed event&nbsp;</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here and it&apos;s the biggest tournament the sport has ever seen. 104 matches, 48 nations, and Salt Lake has a front-row seat. Whether you&apos;re after the perfect pint, a killer plate of wings (or nachos), or just a room full of people who actually care, we&apos;ve rounded up</p>

Where to Watch the FIFA World Cup in Salt Lake

<h2>A local&#x2019;s guide to the iconic Salt Lake restaurants that define the city&#x2019;s food scene.</h2> <p>There&#x2019;s a fictional version of Salt Lake that outsiders still cling to: a buttoned-up mountain town where people eat casseroles and go to bed at 9 p.m. I once believed it too. But when I moved here three years</p>

Where to Eat in Salt Lake City: 15 Iconic Restaurants That Define the City

<p>Salt Lake is an underrated gem where people disappear into the mountains before work, where ski resorts loom behind Trader Joe&#x2019;s parking lots, and where you can spend the afternoon paddleboarding on a glassy lake before ending the night at a well-curated wine bar or experimental art show.</p> <p>What makes</p>

Best Salt Lake Attractions: A Local’s Guide to the City’s Must-Visit Spots

<p>Here&#39;s what makes Salt Lake different: while other cities make you choose between mountains or craft beer, we&#39;ve perfected the art of having both&mdash;minutes, not hours, apart. Whether you&#39;re chasing panoramic views or that perfect IPA, Salt Lake pairs accessible trails with standout breweries in a way that&#39;ll make you wonder why you ever settled for just one or the other.</p>

<h2>1. Bonneville Shoreline Trail + Level Crossing Brewing Co.</h2>

<p>Want the perfect introduction to Salt Lake&#39;s trail-to-brewery game? This pairing is your answer. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail delivers sweeping valley views without the commitment of an all-day adventure, and Level Crossing? They get it&mdash;after you&#39;ve earned those views, you want a beer that matches the scenery.</p>
 <p>Just minutes from downtown, the <a data-sv-linklookup-id="65950" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/bonneville-shoreline-mountain-biking%3a-hilltop-road-to-terrace-hill-junction/65950/" target="_blank">Bonneville Shoreline Trail</a> offers sweeping valley views and flexible hiking or biking routes. After exploring rolling terrain once covered by ancient Lake Bonneville, cool off at<a data-sv-linklookup-id="70063" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/level-crossing-brewing-company/70063/" target="_blank"> Level Crossing Brewing Co.</a> Their industrial-chic atmosphere and vintage railcar d&eacute;cor create the perfect post-trail landing spot for a refreshing IPA and wood fired&nbsp;pizza.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Trail Type:</strong> Multi-use (hike, trail run, or mountain bike)</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong> Choose-your-own-length; this trail stretches more than 100 miles across the Wasatch Front</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy to moderate</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> Panoramic valley views, rolling terrain, easy access from the city</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Brewery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong> Industrial-cool with a spacious patio and vintage railcar d&eacute;cor</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Beer:</strong> Suss It Out Rye IPA</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong> Brick oven pizzas and pub snacks</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong> 11 AM&ndash;10 PM daily</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Not required, walk-ins welcome</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Popular trailheads: </strong>Terrace Hills, Natural History Museum, Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge</li>
	<li>Parking available at trailheads</li>
	<li>Great year-round with snow-free conditions most of the year</li>
</ul>



 <p><strong>Fun Fact:</strong> The Bonneville Shoreline Trail traces the ancient Lake Bonneville, which once covered much of western Utah&mdash;you&#39;re literally hiking the edge of prehistoric waters.</p>
<h2>2. Millcreek Pipeline Trail + Uinta Brewing Company</h2>

<p>Here&#39;s why locals love this combo:<a data-sv-linklookup-id="55146" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/millcreek-canyon/55146/" target="_blank"> Millcreek Canyon</a> is our collective backyard escape, and Uinta&#39;s been perfecting post-hike pints since 1993. The Pipeline Trail&#39;s shaded paths and sunset vistas pair beautifully with Uinta&#39;s rustic taproom vibes&mdash;it&#39;s like they planned it this way.</p>
 <p>Millcreek Canyon&#39;s shaded<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/utah/mill-creek-pipeline-trail" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#"> </a><a data-sv-linklookup-id="65917" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/mill-creek-pipeline-mountain-bike-trail-via-rattlesnake-gluch/65917/" target="_blank">Pipeline Trail</a> is beloved for its dog-friendly paths and sunset vistas. After your hike, reward yourself at&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="60790" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/uinta-brewing-company/60790/" target="_blank">Uinta Brewing&#39;s</a>&nbsp;rustic taproom, famous for the iconic Cutthroat Pale Ale. Perfect for winding down with a snack from local food trucks.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Type:</strong> Hiker-friendly with moderate elevation gain</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong>&nbsp; Choose-your-own-length; this out and back trail runs 14+ miles, but feel free to turn around at any of the multiple overlooks!</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Moderate - hard</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> Canyon views, shaded sections, dog-friendly</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Brewery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong> Spacious taproom with a rustic-industrial feel</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Beer:</strong> Cutthroat Pale Ale (named after Utah&#39;s state fish, naturally)</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong>&nbsp;Full kitchen with a wide array of menu options</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong> 11 AM--8 PM daily, open until 10 PM Fridays, closed Sundays</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Not required</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Trailhead: </strong>Start at<strong>&nbsp;</strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="65917" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/mill-creek-pipeline-mountain-bike-trail-via-rattlesnake-gluch/65917/" target="_blank">Rattlesnake Gulch trailhead</a> for a 4 mile out and back (Millcreek Canyon, $5 vehicle fee)</li>
	<li>Great for sunset hikes&mdash;bring a headlamp for the return</li>
	<li><strong>Note:</strong> Millcreek Canyon allows dogs off-leash on odd-numbered days (because even our pets need scheduling)</li>
</ul>
 <p><strong>Cultural Note:</strong> Millcreek Canyon is beloved by locals for its quick access and tree-lined trails&mdash;it&#39;s where many Salt Lakers escape for post-work hikes and weekend decompression.</p>

<h2>3. City Creek Canyon + Red Rock Brewing Company</h2>

<p>Some pairings just make sense: a leisurely trail that follows a bubbling creek right into the mountains, then a short trip to one of Salt Lake&#39;s most beloved brewpubs. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="55145" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">City Creek Canyon</a> proves that accessibility doesn&#39;t mean sacrificing beauty, and Red Rock&#39;s been the perfect post-adventure landing spot since 1994.</p>
 <p>Ideal for a leisurely stroll or an easy bike ride along a bubbling creek, City Creek Canyon blends nature with urban accessibility. Finish your exploration at the warm, inviting&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="54539" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/red-rock-brewing-company/54539/" target="_blank">Red Rock Brewing Company</a>, a local favorite since 1994, and indulge in their award-winning Elephino Double IPA and hearty meals.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Type:</strong> Paved for the first few miles, great for road bikes and casual walks</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong> Up to 6.2&nbsp;miles out and back</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> Follows a bubbling creek into a shaded canyon<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Brewery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong> Classic brewpub with a warm, inviting atmosphere</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Beer:</strong> Elephino Double IPA (yes, the name&#39;s as fun as it sounds)</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong> Full menu including pizzas, burgers, and salads</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong> Mon&ndash;Thu 11 AM&ndash;11 PM; Fri 11 AM&ndash;12 AM, Sat 10:30 AM&ndash;12 AM, Sun 10:30 AM&ndash;11 PM</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Recommended for weekends</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li>Bike-friendly route, popular with both locals and visitors</li>
	<li>Rentals available nearby via <a data-sv-linklookup-id="72010" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/greenbike/72010/" target="_blank">GREENbike</a> SLC</li>
</ul>
 <p><strong>Local Flavor:</strong> Red Rock Brewing has been a staple in Salt Lake&#39;s craft beer scene since 1994, back when craft beer was still explaining itself. They&#39;ve never had to.</p>

<h2>4. Donut Falls Trail + Epic Brewing Company</h2>

<p>Want to know the secret to Salt Lake&#39;s appeal? It&#39;s places like Donut Falls&mdash;typically less than 45 minutes from downtown, you&#39;ll find one of Utah&#39;s most Instagram-worthy waterfalls. Short hike, big reward. And Epic Brewing? They apply that same philosophy to their beers: bold, full-flavored brews that pack as much punch as that waterfall you just photographed.</p>

<ul>
</ul>
 <p>The short, family-friendly hike to<a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/donut-falls-trail/70435/"> </a><a data-sv-linklookup-id="70435" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Donut Falls</a> rewards visitors with one of Utah&#39;s most photogenic waterfalls. Afterward, head to&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="59101" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Epic Brewing</a> for an equally impressive experience with bold-flavored brews like the Big Bad Baptist Imperial Stout in a modern taproom setting.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Type:</strong> Family-friendly hike with scenic payoff</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1.5 miles round trip</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> Forested trail, creek crossings, waterfall that flows through a rock &quot;donut&quot; formation</li>
</ul>

<ul>
</ul>
 <h3>Brewery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong> Modern taproom focusing on high-alcohol, full-flavored beers</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Beer:</strong> Big Bad Baptist Imperial Stout (it&#39;s as bold as it sounds)</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong> No kitchen; food trucks on select days</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong> Mon&ndash;Thu 11 AM&ndash;9 PM; Fri&ndash;Sat 10 AM&ndash;11 PM; Sun 11 AM&ndash;7 PM</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Not required</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li>Trailhead is less than 45 minutes from downtown Salt Lake in <a data-sv-linklookup-id="55175" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/big-cottonwood-canyon/55175/" target="_blank">Big Cottonwood Canyon</a></li>
	<li>Arrive early&mdash;parking fills fast, especially on weekends</li>
	<li>Dogs not allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon due to watershed protection</li>
</ul>
 <p><strong>Fun Fact:</strong> Donut Falls might be Utah&#39;s most photographed waterfall. The rock formation really does look like a donut, and the beer really does taste better after the hike.</p>

<h2>5. Emigration Canyon Road Ride + Squatters Pub Brewery</h2>

<p>Here&#39;s what road cyclists love about Salt Lake: you can earn serious canyon views without dealing with traffic nightmares.&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="65930" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Emigration Canyon&#39;s</a> steady climbs and scenic curves make for the perfect morning ride, and Squatters has been the ideal post-ride reward since 1989&mdash;that&#39;s a lot of satisfied cyclists.</p>
 <h4><meta charset="utf-8"></h4>

<p>Road cyclists will appreciate Emigration Canyon&#39;s steady climb and scenic curves. Post-ride, recharge at<a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/squatters-pub-brewery/68191/"> </a><a data-sv-linklookup-id="54455" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Squatters Pub Brewery</a>, a historic downtown hotspot serving robust Hop Rising Double IPA and a diverse menu, catering to cyclists and craft beer enthusiasts alike.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Type:</strong> Road biking</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong> ~14 miles out and back</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Moderate with steady incline</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> Scenic winding canyon, low traffic on weekdays</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Brewery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong> Historic brewpub with a lively downtown atmosphere</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Beer:</strong> Hop Rising Double IPA (it&#39;ll lift your spirits as much as those climbs)</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong> Extensive menu featuring pub classics and vegetarian options</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong> Mon&ndash;Fri 11:30 AM&ndash;11 PM; Sat&ndash;Sun 9 AM&ndash;11 PM</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Recommended for weekends</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li>Start from Rotary Glen Park near the Hogle Zoo, plenty of parking nearby</li>
	<li>Watch for afternoon traffic on weekends</li>
</ul>
 <p><strong>Did You Know?</strong> Squatters was one of Salt Lake&#39;s original brewpubs, back when craft beer was still a rebellion. Now it&#39;s a tradition.</p>

<h2>6. Jordan River Parkway + Mountain West Cider</h2>

<p>Sometimes the best adventures happen on flat ground. The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="65925" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/jordan-river-parkway-road-cycling/65925/" target="_blank">Jordan River Parkway</a> proves that urban trails can surprise you&mdash;birdwatching between downtown buildings, anyone? And at&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="65590" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Mountain West Cider</a>? They&#39;re not afraid to experiment, just like you&#39;re not afraid to explore something unexpected.</p>
 <p>For an easy, urban outdoor adventure, Jordan River Parkway delivers birdwatching opportunities and river views. End your day at Shades Brewing, known for adventurous beers like their Kveik Thai Tom Kha. With elevated pub bites and an experimental brewing style, this pairing offers a unique urban vibe.</p>

<h3>Trail Overview</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Type:</strong> Urban paved trail ideal for bikes, scooters, and joggers</li>
	<li><strong>Distance:</strong> 45 miles total; create your own route</li>
	<li><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy</li>
	<li><strong>Highlights:</strong> River views, wetlands, birdwatching</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Cidery Details</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Vibe:</strong>&nbsp;Easy and bright with&nbsp;local, seasonal flavors.</li>
	<li><strong>Must-Try Cider: </strong>Cottonwood Hopped, a favorite year-round option offering mosaic &amp; centennial hops for the perfect after-ride drink.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Food:</strong> Full kitchen with appetizers, sandwiches and weekly specials&mdash;expect elevated paninis,&nbsp;shareable snacks, and weekend specials</li>
	<li><strong>Hours:</strong>&nbsp;Tues&ndash;Thu 11 AM&ndash;9 PM, Fri&ndash;Sat 11 AM&ndash;10 PM, Sun 11 AM&ndash; 7&nbsp;PM, Closed: Mon</li>
	<li><strong>Reservations:</strong> Not required</li>
</ul>

<h4>Need-to-Know Tips</h4>

<ul>
	<li>Access from multiple points; Fairpark or South Salt Lake trailheads recommended for visitors</li>
	<li>Ideal for a casual ride or family-friendly outing</li>
</ul>
 <p><strong>Eco Angle:</strong> This parkway is part of a long-term greenway effort connecting communities from Utah Lake to the Great Salt Lake&mdash;it&#39;s conservation meets recreation, and it works.</p>

<h2>FAQs</h2>
 <p>Ready to discover what makes Salt Lake different? Use our<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5b3fabd4117554466f584332" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/the-best-hiking-trails-near-salt-lake/" target="_blank"> top hikes guide</a> or grab a<a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/tours-experiences/salt-lake-brewery-pass/"> </a><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5b883bf7cf5d58bd7892e0ba" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/tours-experiences/salt-lake-sips-trail/" target="_blank">Salt Lake Sips Trail&nbsp;</a>guide and create your own trails-to-ales story. Because here, the best adventures are measured in minutes, not hours.</p>


<p>Here&apos;s what makes Salt Lake different: while other cities make you choose between mountains or craft beer, we&apos;ve perfected the art of having both&#x2014;minutes, not hours, apart. Whether you&apos;re chasing panoramic views or that perfect IPA, Salt Lake pairs accessible trails with standout breweries in a way</p>

6 Epic Hike-or-Bike-and-Brew Adventures in Salt Lake

<p>Can you believe one of the most beautiful libraries in the world is right here in Salt Lake? The <a data-sv-linklookup-id="64576" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Salt Lake City Main Library</a> is one of the most jaw-dropping, activity-packed, community-rich spaces in the entire state, and it&#39;s completely free to explore. Whether you&#39;re a lifelong local who&#39;s somehow never made it inside, or a visitor looking to discover what makes this city tick, this place deserves a spot at the top of your list.</p>

<p>Here&#39;s everything you need to know about one of Salt Lake&#39;s most beloved landmarks.</p>

<h2>A Building Worth Going Out of Your Way to See</h2>
 <p>Before you even step inside, stop and take it in. The Salt Lake City Main Library, all 240,000 square feet of it, was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie in collaboration with locally-based VCBO Architecture. The result is a soaring, light-filled masterpiece that has turned heads since it opened in 2003.</p>

<p>And the accolades back it up:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Ten Most Beautiful Libraries in the World </strong>&mdash; ABC News, 2013</li>
	<li><strong>AIA/ALA Library Building Award </strong>&mdash; American Institute of Architects &amp; American Library Association, 2005</li>
	<li><strong>Honor Award for Outstanding Architecture</strong> &mdash; American Institute of Architects, 2004</li>
	<li><strong>Design Award for Best Public/Institutional Building</strong> &mdash; Prestressed Concrete Institute, 2003</li>
</ul>

<p>Inside, you&#39;ll find six floors of airy, naturally lit space housing 500,000 borrowable materials, galleries, a 300+ seat auditorium, meeting and study rooms, and a whole ecosystem of shops and services. It&#39;s a city within the city.</p>
 <h2>Over 125 Years in the Making</h2>

<p>The City Library has been serving Salt Lake since 1898, making the current building its fourth home. What started as a single flagship location has grown into a nine-branch system that reaches every corner of the city.</p>
 <h2>The Best Free View in Salt Lake (Seriously)</h2>

<p>The library is home to one of Salt Lake&#39;s best-kept secrets. A newly remodeled Rooftop Terrace with 360-degree views of the Wasatch Mountains, the city skyline, and golden western sunsets behind the historic City and County Building.</p>

<p>Grab a coffee, find a shaded corner, crack open a book, and just... breathe. It&#39;s open every day, weather permitting, and it&#39;s completely free. This is Salt Lake at its finest.</p>

<h2>Don&#39;t Forget to Say Hi to the Bees</h2>

<p>No, really. The Main Library has its own resident honeybee colonies, maintained by library staff who have been trained in beekeeping. You can peek at the hives from an indoor viewing area on the 5th floor or spot them from the Rooftop Terrace. These industrious little residents are award-winning too; their honey took first place at the Utah State Fair Honey Sweepstakes in 2016. The Beehive State living up to its name, one hive at a time.</p>
 <h2>Shop, Sip, and Style Yourself at the Library</h2>

<ul>
</ul>
 <p>The Main Library isn&#39;t just about borrowing books, it&#39;s a full-on destination. Here&#39;s who you&#39;ll find inside:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Hugo Coffee:</strong> Fuel up at this women-owned caf&eacute; named after its founder&#39;s rescue dog. Hugo donates a portion of proceeds to animal rescue organizations across the country. A latte never felt so good.</li>
	<li><strong>The Library Store: </strong>Score gently-used books, graphic novels, movies, and City Library merch at seriously great prices. Every purchase directly funds library programs and initiatives throughout the year.</li>
	<li><strong>The Salon at Library Square: </strong>For over 20 years, actress and stylist Princess Kennedy has created Utah&#39;s premier all-inclusive space for gender-diverse and queer people and their allies. A safe, affirming place to explore identity and presentation, right here in the library.</li>
	<li><strong>The English Garden &amp; Art at the Main: </strong>Browse beautiful flowers and floral gifts at The English Garden or explore Art at the Main, a co-operative gallery showcasing the work of some of Utah&#39;s best local artists.</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Art for Everyone, Free of Charge</h2>

<p>Local artists can apply to display their work in the library&#39;s gallery spaces at no cost, and the result is a constantly rotating showcase of Utah&#39;s creative talent. Find work displayed in the Gallery at Library Square on the 4th floor, the Lower Urban Room, the Teen Lounge on the 2nd floor, and the Children&#39;s Gallery in the Lower Urban Room. Applications open twice a year, so keep an eye out if you&#39;re an artist looking for a space to shine.</p>
 <h2>Grow Something at the Community Garden</h2>

<p>Yes, the library has a garden. The City Library employs a staff gardener who leads free workshops, seed swaps, and maintains The Plot, a community garden right at the Main Library. Each year, 16 garden beds are awarded to Salt Lake residents via a random drawing. From spring through fall, winners can grow whatever they please. It&#39;s the perfect gateway to urban gardening, whether you&#39;re a seasoned pro or have never touched a trowel in your life.</p>
 <h2>Something for Everyone, Every Single Week</h2>

<p>The City Library doesn&#39;t sleep. Every week, free programs and events run at all nine library locations, tailored for every age group imaginable:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Babies &amp; Toddlers</strong>: Book Baby, Preschool Storytime, and Playtime give the littlest ones a head start on reading while sparking imagination and cooperation.</li>
	<li><strong>Kids:</strong> Reading Challenges, tinkering workshops, graphic novel clubs, and STEM sessions that make learning feel like play.</li>
	<li><strong>Tweens &amp; Teens</strong>: Zine clubs, book clubs, ACT Study Sessions, College Application Workshops, and a packed calendar of hangouts and special events.</li>
	<li><strong>Adults: </strong>Free yoga classes, author talks, book clubs, parenting classes, knitting/crochet club, and more.</li>
</ul>

<p><em><strong>Stay in the loop</strong>: subscribe to the Saturday e-newsletter, follow @slcpl on social, or visit slcpl.org/events.</em></p>
 <h2>This Summer: Unearth a Story</h2>

<p>Get ready for the library&#39;s biggest program of the year. Summer Reading kicks off May 30 and runs through August 1, and this year&#39;s theme is dino-mite: &quot;Unearth a Story.&quot; <strong>Best of all, it&#39;s free for everyone to participate!</strong></p>
 <p>Kids, teens, and adults are all invited to read more, explore their community, and earn prizes along the way. Sign up at any of our 9 locations across Salt Lake, or online at <a href="http://slcpl.beanstack.org">slcpl.beanstack.org</a>. Everyone receives a prize just for signing up, then, as you complete the challenge through reading and fun activities, you can earn a halfway prize, a completion prize, and even enter to win a Grand Prize basket!</p>

<p>Parents and caregivers, this is also a fantastic opportunity to practice early literacy skills with babies and toddlers, literacy begins from day one! Encourage little ones by talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing together all summer long.</p>

<p>Why does Summer Reading matter? Studies show that kids who don&#39;t read over the summer can lose up to two months of reading development, known as the Summer Slide. Reading outside of school improves comprehension, vocabulary, and spelling, and helps kids return to the classroom ready to focus and learn. It also builds empathy and imagination; as poet Natalie Diaz puts it, reading is &quot;a way of practicing the imagination necessary to broaden our capacities to understand ourselves and others.&quot;</p>

<p>All summer long, expect a packed lineup of events and programming tied to the dinosaur theme, roaring good times guaranteed.</p>

<p><em>Visit slcpl.org/events to see what&#39;s coming up near you.</em></p>
 <h2>More Seasonal Highlights Not to Miss</h2>
 <ul>
	<li><strong>Summer Concerts: </strong>Live local music under the evening sun at most City Library branches. Check slcpl.org/summerconcerts for the schedule.</li>
	<li><strong>Free Rooftop Yoga: </strong>Summer yoga classes on the Rooftop Terrace with a mountain view that no gym can compete with.</li>
	<li><strong>Alt Press Fest:</strong> Every fall, meet local zine-creators, DIY-publishers, and artists in one of the city&#39;s most creative annual gatherings.</li>
	<li><strong>Big Used Book Sales</strong>: Held periodically throughout the year at the Main Library (with smaller sales at branch locations). Bookworms, mark your calendars.</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Nine Libraries Across the City &mdash; One Right Near You</h2>

<p>The Main Library is the flagship, but The City Library system stretches across all of Salt Lake with eight neighborhood branch locations. Whether you&#39;re on the east side or the west side, there&#39;s a library built for your community, offering the same free programs, events, and resources that make this system so special.</p>

<p><strong>The nine branches of The City Library:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Main Library </strong>&mdash; 210 East 400 South | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm, Sun 11am&ndash;5pm | 801-524-8200</li>
	<li><strong>Anderson-Foothill &mdash;</strong> 1135 South 2100 East | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8611</li>
	<li><strong>Ballpark Library Lab </strong>&mdash; 1406 S West Temple St | Drop-in: Mon, Tue, Fri 12&ndash;6pm, and every third Saturday, 10am-4pm. | 801-594-8694</li>
	<li><strong>Chapman </strong>&mdash; 577 South 900 West | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8623</li>
	<li><strong>Corinne &amp; Jack Sweet &mdash;</strong> 455 F Street (9th Ave) | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8651</li>
	<li><strong>Day-Riverside &mdash;</strong> 1575 West 1000 North | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8632</li>
	<li><strong>Glendale &mdash; </strong>1375 South Concord | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8660</li>
	<li><strong>Marmalade &mdash;</strong> 280 West 500 North | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8680</li>
	<li><strong>Sprague &mdash;</strong> 2131 South 1100 East | Mon&ndash;Thu 10am&ndash;8pm, Fri&ndash;Sat 10am&ndash;6pm | 801-594-8640</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Plan Your Visit</h2>

<p>The Salt Lake City Main Library is located at 210 E 400 S and is open seven days a week. Admission is always free. Parking is available in the underground garage.</p>

<p>Whether you&#39;re coming for a book, a view, a coffee, a concert, or just a quiet place to think, the library has a spot for you.</p>

<p>Can you believe one of the most beautiful libraries in the world is right here in Salt Lake? The <a data-sv-linklookup-id="64576" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Salt Lake City Main Library</a> is one of the most jaw-dropping, activity-packed, community-rich spaces in the entire state, and it&apos;s completely free to explore. Whether you&apos;re a lifelong local who&apos;s somehow</p>

Your Ultimate Guide to the Salt Lake City Library

<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{6}" paraid="1440891289">As the sun dips behind the Wasatch, Salt Lake&rsquo;s stages come alive. Summer brings a wave of outdoor concerts across the city, with artists like Lorde, Bonnie Raitt and Death Cab for Cutie leading the lineup.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s&nbsp;the kind of setting where the backdrop is just as memorable as the music.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 aria-level="4" paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{8}" paraid="577792325" role="heading">Major Music&nbsp;Events</h2>
 <h3>Kilby Block Party</h3>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{19}" paraid="471139330"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="67c0ecc4a5647fce6b2fbc27" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/kilby-court-slcs-open-air-live-local-music-venue/">Kilby Block Party</a> returns each May to the Utah State Fairpark with one of the most talked-about festival lineups of the year. Lorde,&nbsp;The&nbsp;xx, Turnstile and Hayley Williams lead the bill, drawing fans from across the country for a multi-day, multi-stage experience packed with food, art and nonstop music. Entering its seventh year, Kilby has built a reputation as the largest indie music festival in Salt Lake, with&nbsp;roughly 25,000&nbsp;attendees per day traveling in from around the world. The&nbsp;Fairpark&nbsp;is just minutes from downtown, with TRAX light rail offering easy access to the venue.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{23}" paraid="181186410">&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Redwest Music Festival</h3>

<p paraeid="{de1a5fc1-bacf-4068-9126-f96f655334c7}{73}" paraid="131825487">Redwest Music Festival&nbsp;brings country to the forefront each October at the Utah State Fairpark. Now in its second year, the three-day festival features more than 30 artists across two stages, including Ella Langley, Shaboozey, Sam&nbsp;Barber&nbsp;and Tucker Wetmore. Expect a high-energy crowd, large-scale production and a full fall weekend dedicated to country music.&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Stadium Venues</h3>

<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{14}" paraid="244436540"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="55347" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">America First Field</a> and its outdoor plaza are also bringing in major touring acts. Shows include Noah Kahan, Foster the People and Motionless in White, offering a stadium-style concert experience in the south valley.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{16}" paraid="239871897"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63650" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">Rice-Eccles Stadium</a> adds even more star power with large-scale shows. Post Malone and Jelly Roll bring their stadium tour to campus, alongside Zach Bryan, turning the University of Utah into one of the biggest concert stages of the summer.</p>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{29}" paraid="930486043">&nbsp;</p>
 <h2 paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{6}" paraid="1440891289">Outdoor Concert Series</h2>
 <h3>Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre</h3>

<p>Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre is where the biggest tours of the summer roll through. Kesha brings The Freedom Tour, followed by Pitbull with special guest Lil Jon, delivering high-production shows in a large-capacity venue built for major headliners.&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Red Butte&nbsp;Outdoor Concert Series</h3>

<p><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5aea1964bc8feaeb31445853" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/red-butte-garden-outdoor-concert-series/" target="_blank">Red Butte Outdoor Concert Series</a> pairs national acts with one of the most scenic venues in the city. Set in the foothills above Salt Lake, the garden overlooks the valley, giving every show a built-in backdrop of sunset views and mountain silhouettes. The summer-long series runs from May through September and consistently draws major artists like Ziggy Marley, Wynton Marsalis, Maren Morris, Alabama Shakes and Bonnie Raitt. Part of the experience is making a night&nbsp;of it. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring their own chairs,&nbsp;blankets&nbsp;and picnic dinners, creating a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere that feels&nbsp;distinctly&nbsp;Salt Lake.</p>
 <h3><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63649" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/the-twilight-concert-series/63649/" target="_blank">Twilight Concert Series</a></h3>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{19}" paraid="471139330"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="63649" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">The Twilight Concert Series</a> keeps downtown buzzing with a lineup that includes Old Crow Medicine Show, Freddie Gibbs, MUNA, Goose and The War on Drugs. Now in its 39th year, the series features a mix of nationally recognized artists and local musicians, making it a staple of Salt Lake&rsquo;s summer music scene. Hosted at the Gallivan Center and Civic Center,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s&nbsp;an accessible, urban concert experience right in the heart of downtown.</p>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{23}" paraid="181186410">&nbsp;</p>
 <h3 aria-level="3" paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{45}" paraid="1143324017" role="heading">Outdoor Music Across the Valley</h3>

<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{26}" paraid="1248514453">Granary Live&nbsp;is quickly becoming a go-to outdoor venue for indie,&nbsp;electronic&nbsp;and alternative acts. Located in the Granary District just five minutes south of downtown, the space&nbsp;blends&nbsp;an industrial backdrop with an open-air setup that gives shows a more local, neighborhood feel while still drawing recognizable touring artists.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{28}" paraid="219918582"><a data-sv-linklookup-id="62916" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/sandy-city-amphitheater/62916/" target="_blank">Sandy City Amphitheater</a> offers a more intimate way to catch big names, set against a mountain backdrop south of&nbsp;the city. This season includes Jimmy Eat World and Death Cab for Cutie, blending nostalgia with a relaxed, scenic concert experience.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2 paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{6}" paraid="1440891289">Local Favorites</h2>
 <h3>Utah Blues Festival</h3>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{37}" paraid="1292454059">The Utah Blues Festival returns to the Gallivan Center for its 10th annual event, taking place June 12 and 13, 2026. Headliners include Tab Benoit and Tommy Castro, alongside a lineup of nationally recognized blues artists. Beyond the music, the festival features free workshops, food&nbsp;trucks&nbsp;and a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere, earning its reputation as one of the finest blues festivals in the country.</p>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{39}" paraid="1799408970">&nbsp;</p>
 <h3 aria-level="3" paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{66}" paraid="27269633" role="heading">Grid City Music Fest</h3>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{68}" paraid="633366115">Grid City Music Fest&nbsp;blends local energy with touring acts in South Salt Lake&rsquo;s creative Granary District.&nbsp;Part&nbsp;of Grid City Beer Works, the three-day festival takes place each August and turns the neighborhood into a walkable music hub filled with outdoor stages, local&nbsp;art&nbsp;and community events. One of the highlights is the festival&rsquo;s mural and street art bus tour, where attendees can explore the area&rsquo;s creative scene while enjoying food and drinks along the way.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{70}" paraid="1190840048">&nbsp;</p>
 <h3 aria-level="3" paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{76}" paraid="122235532" role="heading">Mondays in the Park</h3>

<p aria-level="3" paraeid="{6d3e43f7-2c39-445c-8a0d-6f2d27d3ced7}{76}" paraid="122235532" role="heading">Mondays in the Park at Liberty Park offers a free, easygoing way to enjoy live music in one of Salt Lake&rsquo;s most beloved green spaces,&nbsp;located&nbsp;just southeast of downtown. Bring a blanket, pack a&nbsp;picnic&nbsp;and settle in for a rotating lineup of local artists in a casual, community-focused setting.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>Whether you&#39;re looking for a&nbsp;breezy summer concert, a big name night of rocking out, or a unique sound with a dramatic backdrop, Salt Lake has you covered. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad3b2f124e053ecfe086" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/events/concerts-live-music/" target="_blank">Explore all our live music and concert options.</a></p>


<p paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{6}" paraid="1440891289">As the sun dips behind the Wasatch, Salt Lake&#x2019;s stages come alive. Summer brings a wave of outdoor concerts across the city, with artists like Lorde, Bonnie Raitt and Death Cab for Cutie leading the lineup. It&#x2019;s the kind of setting where the backdrop is just as memorable as the music. </p> <h2 aria-level="4" paraeid="{52f1eedc-b1e0-45ee-8a5f-8ad90d9c5275}{8}" paraid="577792325" role="heading">Major Music</h2>

Outdoor Concerts in Salt Lake

<p>When summer arrives in Salt Lake, the whole valley shifts into a different gear. From June through October, the calendar fills fast. Free downtown concert series, mountain wildflower festivals, arts events, street fairs, and a state fair that closes out the season in style. The Wasatch Mountains are</p>

Summer Festivals in Salt Lake

<h2>Lights, Camera, Salt Lake: The Ultimate Guide to Salt Lake&#39;s Film Festival Scene</h2>

<p>Salt Lake doesn&#39;t just love film, it celebrates it. Year-round, the city rolls out the red carpet for independent filmmakers, documentary storytellers, animation artists, horror enthusiasts, and everything in between. With more than a dozen film festivals lighting up venues across the city each year, plus organizations dedicated to educating the next generation of creators and supporting the local industry behind the scenes, Salt Lake has become one of the most vibrant film communities in the West. Whether you&#39;re a die-hard cinephile or just looking for something unforgettable to do on a Friday night, Salt Lake&#39;s film scene has a seat saved for you.</p>
 <h2>Salt Lake Film Festivals&nbsp;</h2>
 <h3>Wasatch Mountain Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>May | Granary District | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>If adventure had a film festival, it would look like this. In its 11th year, the&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://wasatchfilmfestival.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://wasatchfilmfestival.org/" target="_blank">Wasatch Mountain Film Festival</a> is a week-long celebration of outdoor adventure and environmental documentary filmmaking, bringing impactful stories to life through the eyes of explorers, authors, photographers, and filmmakers from around the globe. Head to Salt Lake&#39;s Granary District on <strong>May 2, 2026,</strong> for screenings of this year&#39;s top adventure films, inspiring talks from world-class changemakers at the Mountain Speaker Series, hands-on Adventure Filmmaker Workshops, and plenty of ways to connect with the community at the Filmmaker&#39;s Lounge and beyond. Expect to leave with a serious case of wanderlust and maybe a few new items on your bucket list.</p>

<p><strong>More Information:</strong> <a href="https://wasatchfilmfestival.org/festival/">Festival Details | Wasatch Mountain Film Festival</a></p>

<p><strong>Buy Passes</strong>: <a href="https://wasatchfilmfestival.org/festival/tickets-passes/">Festival Passes &amp; Tickets | Wasatch Mountain Film Festival</a></p>
 <h3>TumbleWeeds Film Festival for Kids</h3>

<p><strong>May | West Jordan Library | West Jordan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Film is for everyone, even the youngest storytellers.&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://tumbleweedskids.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://tumbleweedskids.org/" target="_blank">TumbleWeeds Film Festival for Kids</a> showcases films made about kids and for kids, featuring a student film competition and creative workshops designed to inspire Utah&#39;s next generation of filmmakers. This year&#39;s festival theme, Passion in Action, puts the spotlight on the power of making a positive difference, whether through art, science, sports, helping others, or protecting the planet. It&#39;s a reminder that kids&#39; passions matter, and that even the smallest ideas can spark meaningful change. Catch the fun on <strong>April 25, 2026, </strong>at the West Jordan Library.</p>

<h3>Cauldron International Film and Video Festival</h3>

<p><strong>May | Salt Lake City Public Library | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p><strong>(Updated dates: June 24 - June 27)</strong></p>

<p>Cinema with no rules, and proud of it. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.cauldronfilmfestival.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.cauldronfilmfestival.com/" target="_blank">Cauldron International Film and Video Festival</a>&nbsp;hits the Salt Lake City Public Downtown Library <strong>June 24 -&nbsp;</strong><strong>June 27&nbsp;2026</strong>, aiming&nbsp;to become a premier destination for radical, rule-breaking cinema. Rogue documentaries, avant-garde films, abstract video art, genre-bending storytelling, if it&#39;s unconventional, Cauldron is here for it. Best of all, all screenings are free and open to the public. Come as you are.</p>
 <h3>Utah Arts Festival &mdash; Fear No Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>June | Salt Lake City Public Library | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>The name says it all. Now in its 22nd year, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://uaf.org/film" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://uaf.org/film" target="_blank">Fear No Film Festival</a>&nbsp;is the fearless film showcase embedded within the beloved Utah Arts Festival, and while the festival buzzes around you, the films themselves are completely free, no ticket required. This year&#39;s lineup features 77 short films curated into 14 programs spanning narrative, documentary, and animated shorts, plus the signature Midnight and KIDS! programs that keep things fresh for every kind of audience. Continuing this year is a special focus on emerging talent, with two narrative blocks highlighting first-time filmmakers and groundbreaking student work. No matter your style, Fear No Film has something to pull you in, surprise you, and send you home seeing the world a little differently. Head to the Salt Lake City Downtown Library Auditorium <strong>June 18&ndash;21, 2026,</strong> settle into your seat, and let the stories take you somewhere new.</p>
 <h3>Māsima Pacific Islands Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>June | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>A celebration of voice, culture, and cinema. Co-presented with the Utah Pacific Island Film Series, the&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.pik2ar.org/upifs" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.pik2ar.org/upifs" target="_blank">Māsima Pacific Islands Film Festival</a>&nbsp;celebrates Pacific Islander filmmakers, films &amp; artists in the heart of Salt Lake. Join the community <strong>June 23&ndash;25, 2026,</strong> for a festival that honors the rich storytelling traditions of the Pacific Islands.</p>

<h3>Davey Fest</h3>

<p><strong>June | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Short films, big impact. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://daveyfilm.org/Davey-Fest" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://daveyfilm.org/Davey-Fest" target="_blank">Davey Fest</a>&nbsp;screens films supported by Davey Foundation grants alongside standout shorts from Utah, across the U.S., and around the world. Head to the festival <strong>June 25&ndash;27, 2026</strong>, for a packed lineup that proves great stories don&#39;t need two hours to land.</p>
 <h3>ZepFest</h3>

<p><strong>September | Murray Theater | Murray</strong></p>

<p>Think film festival, then think bigger. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.zepstonemedia.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.zepstonemedia.com/" target="_blank">ZepFest</a>, the Zepstone International Film &amp; Music Festival, is a grass-roots, IMDb-qualifying celebration that mashes up film, music, the arts, literature, podcasts, innovation, and fashion under one roof. Catch the action<strong> September 21&ndash;26, 2026</strong> at the Murray Theater. This one&#39;s a whole vibe.</p>

<h3>Haymaker Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>September | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>For the ones who live for the action.&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.haymakerff.com/home" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.haymakerff.com/home" target="_blank">Haymaker Film Festival</a>&nbsp;is a one-of-a-kind celebration of action cinema, stunt performers, and the independent filmmakers who make it all look effortless. Catch the high-octane showcase <strong>September 25&ndash;26, 2026</strong> at The Beehive, this one&#39;s not for the faint of heart.</p>

<h3>Utah Dance Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>October | Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Where movement meets the moving image. The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.utdancefilmfest.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.utdancefilmfest.com/" target="_blank">Utah Dance Film Festival</a>&nbsp;is an annual international showcase that screens and awards dance films, hosts hands-on workshops, and amplifies Utah&#39;s performing arts and film production scenes. Accepted films are screened on <strong>October 9-10, 2026,</strong>&nbsp;with additional events taking place, including screenings of winning films as well as live performances. It&#39;s the kind of thing you&#39;ll be talking about long after the credits roll.</p>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
 <h3>Opening Weekend Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>October | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Local films deserve a local audience. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://openingweekendff.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://openingweekendff.com/" target="_blank">Opening Weekend Film Festival</a>&nbsp;rolls out the red carpet for Salt Lake&#39;s own filmmakers <strong>every October</strong>, giving homegrown stories the celebration they deserve. Keep an eye out for dates, and make sure to show up for your community&#39;s creative voices.</p>

<h3>Frightlake Horror Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>October | Seth&#39;s Cemetery | West Valley City&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Horror fans, this one&#39;s yours. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://frightlake.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://frightlake.com/" target="_blank">Frightlake</a>&nbsp;is Utah&#39;s indie horror film festival, the place where local horror filmmakers and enthusiasts come to geek out together. From super shorts to full features, if it&#39;s in the horror genre, Frightlake wants to see it. Consider this your permanent haunt. This year&#39;s festival takes place on <strong>October 3, 2026.</strong></p>

<h3>Utah Queer Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>November | Utah Film Center | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Stories that matter, told with pride. Formerly known as Damn These Heels, the&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://utahqueerfilmfestival.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://utahqueerfilmfestival.org/" target="_blank">Utah Queer Film Festival</a>&nbsp;brings LGBTQ+ life, ideas, and art to the screen through dramatic and documentary films from all over the world. For over 22 years, this festival has been a celebration of queer stories, voices, and community. Catch the next celebration <strong>November 6&ndash;8, 2026 </strong>at the Utah Film Center.</p>
 <h3>Utah International Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>January | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Short or long, narrative or experimental, great storytelling deserves a great stage. The <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://theutahfilmfestival.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://theutahfilmfestival.com/" target="_blank">Utah International Film Festival</a>&nbsp;delivers just that, offering filmmakers from around the world a professional theatrical platform to showcase their work. With a special love for short-form cinema, this festival is where bold, exceptional stories get their moment in the spotlight. Among those stories are short films created by and about local nonprofits, shining a light on the essential work happening quietly across our communities, and one of the most meaningful ways to shape a better, more compassionate future for us all. Make sure to book tickets to&nbsp;this event in <strong>early January.</strong></p>

<h3>Daybreak Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>Details to Come | South Jordan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Quirky, thought-provoking, and open to everyone in Utah, that&#39;s the <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.mydaybreak.com/live_news_detail_T16_R1234" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.mydaybreak.com/live_news_detail_T16_R1234" target="_blank">Daybreak Film Festival</a>. This annual showcase features short films and documentaries (up to 20 minutes) created by filmmakers across the state, with <strong>2026 details coming soon</strong>. If you&#39;ve got a story to tell, this one&#39;s your stage.</p>

<h3>Utah Nonprofit Film Festival</h3>

<p><strong>November | Salt Lake City</strong></p>

<p>Where purpose meets the big screen. The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.utahnonprofits.org/utah-nonprofit-film-festival/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.utahnonprofits.org/utah-nonprofit-film-festival/" target="_blank">Utah Nonprofit Film Festival</a> is an inspiring celebration of community, service, and the people who show up for others. By elevating nonprofits and their supporters, this festival creates a powerful shared sense of what&#39;s possible when we work together.&nbsp;Mark your calendars for <strong>early November </strong>to witness how Utah nonprofits are changing lives.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Salt Lake Film Communities</h2>
 <h3>Salt Lake Film Society</h3>

<p>Salt Lake&#39;s independent film scene has a home, and it&#39;s a good one. The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://slfs.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://slfs.org/" target="_blank">Salt Lake Film Society</a> keeps cinematic culture alive and thriving through Broadway Centre Cinemas, with the historic Tower Theatre set to rejoin the lineup after a well-deserved renovation. Whether you&#39;re catching a critically acclaimed documentary or a boundary-pushing indie feature, SLFS is where film lovers come to feel right at home.</p>

<h3>Utah Film Commission</h3>

<p>The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://film.utah.gov/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://film.utah.gov/" target="_blank">Utah Film Commission</a> is the behind-the-scenes force that helps filmmakers find the perfect location, navigate a shoot, and tap into everything the state has to offer. Part of the Governor&#39;s Office of Economic Opportunity, their mission is simple: put Utah on the map for film, television, and commercial production, and nurture the homegrown talent that makes it all happen.</p>

<h3>Utah Film Center</h3>

<p>Film has the power to change minds, spark empathy, and build community, and the <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://utahfilmcenter.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://utahfilmcenter.org/" target="_blank">Utah Film Center</a>&nbsp;knows it. This nonprofit harnesses that power through film exhibition, media arts education, and artist support, connecting audiences and creators across the state. From raising critical awareness to growing a thriving local filmmaking ecosystem, they&#39;re making sure Utah&#39;s story gets told.</p>

<h3>Spy Hop</h3>

<p>The next generation of Utah filmmakers is already in training. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://spyhop.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://spyhop.org/" target="_blank">Spy Hop</a>&nbsp;is a digital media arts center offering after-school, in-school, summer camps, and youth-in-care programs for students ages 9&ndash;19. Whether they&#39;re into film, music, audio, or design, Spy Hop meets young creators at every skill level and helps them find their voice.</p>

<h3>Sketch2Screen</h3>

<p>Utah&#39;s animation community has a gathering place. <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.sketch2screen.net/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.sketch2screen.net/" target="_blank">Sketch2Screen</a>&nbsp;exists to bring animators together, building connections, sparking learning, and opening doors to new opportunities. Whether you&#39;re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is where the Salt Lake animation scene comes to grow.</p>

<h3>Utah Documentary Association</h3>

<p>Documentary filmmaking is better together. The&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.utahdocs.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.utahdocs.org/" target="_blank">Utah Documentary Association</a> is a grass-roots, volunteer-led community of nonfiction filmmakers, professionals, hobbyists, students, and enthusiasts alike. The Steering Committee meets monthly to plan events, drive initiatives, and advocate for documentary filmmakers across the state. Want in? Pull up a chair.</p>

<h3>PIK2AR</h3>

<p>The Utah Pacific Island Film Series is presented by Pacific Island Knowledge 2 Action Resources (<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.pik2ar.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.pik2ar.org/" target="_blank"><strong>PIK2AR</strong></a>), an organization dedicated to strengthening under-resourced communities through food access, economic empowerment, survivor safety, and the arts as pathways to identity and healing. Through film, PIK2AR bridges communities, celebrates Pacific Island cultures, and brings culturally relevant storytelling to the screen, preserving rich traditions while opening doors to opportunity and wellness for all.</p>

<h3>Cutthroat Grip, Lighting &amp; Stage</h3>

<p>Ready to bring your vision to life in Salt Lake City? <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.itscutthroat.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.itscutthroat.com/" target="_blank">Cutthroat Grip</a>&nbsp;is more than just a studio, it&#39;s a creative hub where photo, video, and film professionals can connect, collaborate, and create. With a spacious stage fully equipped with grip, lighting, and camera support gear, every detail has been designed to keep your cast, crew, and clients focused, comfortable, and inspired. Whether you&#39;re just starting out or deep in production, Cutthroat Grip is where Salt Lake City productions come to get serious.</p>
 <h2>Film Festivals Around Utah</h2>
 <ul>
	<li>DOCUTAH- St. George, February</li>
	<li>Bowline Film Festival- Green River, March</li>
	<li>Desertscape International Film Festival- St. George, April</li>
	<li>Utah Surf Film Festival- Kaysville, June</li>
	<li>Bicknell International Film Festival- Bicknell, July</li>
	<li>Phenomecon- Vernal, September</li>
	<li>HorrorFest International Film Festival- St. George, September</li>
	<li>Red Rock Film Festival- St. George, September</li>
	<li>HiveFest: Ogden&rsquo;s International Film Festival- Ogden, September</li>
	<li>Orem Film Festival- Orem, September</li>
	<li>FilmQuest- Provo, October</li>
	<li>It&rsquo;s Only A Movie! Film Festival- Lindon, October</li>
	<li>Bluff Arts Festival- Bluff, October</li>
	<li>Dark Cinema Film Festival- Tooele, October</li>
	<li>Ogden Mountain Film Festival- Ogden, November</li>
	<li>Park City Film</li>
</ul>


<h2>Lights, Camera, Salt Lake: The Ultimate Guide to Salt Lake&apos;s Film Festival Scene</h2> <p>Salt Lake doesn&apos;t just love film, it celebrates it. Year-round, the city rolls out the red carpet for independent filmmakers, documentary storytellers, animation artists, horror enthusiasts, and everything in between.</p>

The Ultimate Guide to Salt Lake's Film Festival Scene

<p><em><strong>Updated: 03/31/2026</strong></em></p>

<h2>James Beard Salt Lake Finalists &amp; Semifinalists 2026</h2>

<p>Salt Lake is home to a plethora of exquisite&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad3c2f124e053ecfe23e" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/restaurants/" target="_blank">restaurants</a>,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad5f2f124e053ed027c2" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/nightlife-entertainment/bars-lounges/" target="_blank">bars</a>, and other eateries that offer&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="61fc062581318f5b3cd7a389" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/restaurants/cuisine-types/" target="_blank">unique and classic cuisines</a>&nbsp;fit to satisfy the cravings of any foodie.</p>

<p>Over the years, the renowned culinary institute&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.jamesbeard.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.jamesbeard.org/" target="_blank">James Beard Foundation</a>&nbsp;has recognized the quality and character of over a dozen local food spots, a trend which continues stronger than ever in 2026.</p>
 <h3>A Brief History of The James Beard Foundation</h3>

<p>The James Beard Foundation was founded in 1986 in honor of the champion of the American culinary dream, James Andrew Beard. James Beard, a chef,&nbsp;teacher, writer and culinary icon, created a lasting impact in the American culinary scene&nbsp;through his 50+ year career and&nbsp;dedication to education of&nbsp;the culinary arts. Beard was heralded as the &ldquo;Dean of American cookery&rdquo; and following a lifelong culinary career,&nbsp;the foundation began with the purpose of leading chefs and the broader industry towards a new standard of excellence.</p>

<p>The cornerstone of the James Beard&nbsp;Foundation is belief in the&nbsp;vibrant, equitable and sustainable restaurant industry that leads culture, the economy and communities throughout America. The James Beard Awards&nbsp;identify those in the culinary industry with exceptional talent in many arenas, including hospitality and media. There are over 23 categories, including Outstanding Bar, Best New Restaurant, Best Chef and Cookbook of the Year. Some categories have multiple award winners while others are restricted to a solo recipient.</p>
 <h2>Finalist Best Chef</h2>

<p>The Best Chef category is broken into twelve regions: California, Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Mountain, New York State, Northeast, Northwest and Pacific, Southeast, South, Southwest, and Texas. On&nbsp;March 31st, the James Beard Foundation nominated two&nbsp;finalists&nbsp;from Salt Lake.</p>
 <h3>Nick Zocco, Urban Hill</h3>

<p><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.urban-hill.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.urban-hill.com/" target="_blank">Urban Hill,</a>&nbsp;located in the Post District, an up-and-coming&nbsp;area of Salt Lake is being recognized for the third year in a row. Chef Nick Zocco,&nbsp;well known for beating Bobby Flay on his Food Network&nbsp;Show &quot;Beat Bobby Flay&quot; has now been recognized for three years as Best Chef Semifinalist in the Mountain West.</p>

<p>After working with the owners of Hill Top Hospitality in Park City, he joined&nbsp;Urban Hill from the beginning as an opportunity to build from the ground up.&nbsp;Zocco has&nbsp;centered the menu&nbsp;around seafood, his favorite food to cook. Standout dishes include the Crudo, a light but sensational dish with&nbsp;aguachile, jalapeno, pickled onion, brined cucumber, cilantro and furikake&nbsp;as well as the Lump Crab Chile Relleno (nick&rsquo;s winning dish that beat Bobby Flay)&nbsp;with New&nbsp;Mexico red chile, black bean pur&eacute;e, pickled onion &amp; chile, crema, and cilantro.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:</strong>&nbsp;Golden Eagle Black Cod (fregola sarda, delicata squash, smoked dashi, scallion-ginger vinaigrette, gochujang-citrus glaze, benne seed).</p>
 <h3>Travis Herbert, Felt Bar &amp; Eatery</h3>

<p>Located at 341 Main Street,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://feltslc.com/kitchenmenupdf" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://feltslc.com/kitchenmenupdf" target="_blank">Felt Bar &amp; Eatery</a>, is a warm welcome to the hustle and bustle of Salt Lake City. Head Chef Travis Herbert maintains a constantly changing menu&nbsp;while upholding the restaurant&#39;s status as a beacon of hospitality in the downtown area. From experience as a corporate chef with&nbsp;Fleming&#39;s Steakhouse, Chef Travis was brought on by the best in the business, Richard Romney, of Takashi and Post Office Place to help open Felt Bar &amp; Eatery.</p>

<p>This 21+ cocktail bar and upscale eatery proves that experience matters. Exceptionally crafted cocktails include the&nbsp;Oaxacan Old Fashioned, made with reposado&nbsp;tequila, mezcal, and agave with&nbsp;chocolate bitters. Another highlight, the Rome, Italy, is a unique cocktail experience made with gin, Aperol, dry vermouth, sundried tamato jam, lemon, burrata cheese foam, basil oil, and aleppo oil. For&nbsp;dinner try&nbsp;the Korean-style BBQ ribs, tender pork ribs with sticky-icky sauce and a miso-corn souffle. From the Raw Bar, try the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo,&nbsp;a raw scallop, zhoug, mango miso, with pickled fresco, aleppo oil and watercress for a bright and colorful dish.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>Apricot &amp; Bourbon Glazed Pork Chop (Apricot-bourbon glaze, crushed toasted almonds, blueberry gastrique, fresh watercress, fried red onion).&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Semifinalist Best Chef</h2>

<p>In January of 2026, Salt Lake&#39;s food scene was awarded 5 semifinalist chefs&nbsp;in the Mountain category including Andrew Fuller with Oquirrh, Milo Carrier, with Arlo, and Tommy Nguyen from the Pearl.&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Milo Carrier, Arlo</h3>

<p>Located on an off-street of the Utah State Capitol,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.arlorestaurant.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.arlorestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Arlo</a>&nbsp;sits&nbsp;high above&nbsp;the rest.&nbsp;This elevated, chef-driven restaurant is where you&#39;ll find all the Salt Lake&nbsp;locals with sophisticated tastes. The menu, crafted by Chef Milo Carrier, is a reflection of his diverse culinary influences. Inspired by his mother and grandmother, as well as the innovative flavors he has discovered through global culinary adventures, the menu showcases Chef Carrier&#39;s unique blend of time-honored traditions and international culinary exploration. The&nbsp;honed ingredient-driven menu&nbsp;translates into food that&#39;s both technically precise and deeply personal.</p>

<p>Drawing on his Utah roots, Chef Milo highlights seasonal, locally grown vegetables. With a seasonal menu, Chef Milo brings out the freshness and flavors that make Arlo&#39;s dishes so&nbsp;special. Menu highlights&nbsp;include the vegetable tart, a baked goat cheese custard with parmesan and caramelized onion, buttermilk vinaigrette and frisee along with the duck (or short rib)&nbsp;ravioli, with porcini mushroom, gouda and as described in the menu, &quot;and other things&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>The Duck Ravioli (confit duck with porcini mushrooms, gouda, and other things. celery root and orange, a bit of endive).</p>
 <h3>Andrew Fuller, Oquirrh</h3>

<p>Two blocks east of the Eccles Theater,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://oquirrhslc.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/oquirrh-restaurant/70796/" target="_blank">Oquirrh</a>, provides&nbsp;one of the finest food and dining experiences in Salt Lake City. Chef Andrew Fuller, nominated in 2023, 2025 and now&nbsp;in 2026&nbsp;possesses&nbsp;a passion for supporting local artisans and incorporating this into the menu.</p>

<p>Named for the Oquirrh mountain range to the west of the city, Chef Andrew&nbsp;prepares artistic and reimagined dishes, updated seasonally and refined with precision. These dishes include&nbsp;creative takes such as the charred savoy cabbage with cabbage puree, marmalade vinaigrette and brown butter breadcrumbs, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;confit chicken pot pie with fennel, mushroom, puff pastry and thyme or&nbsp;the steamed mussels + bone marrow with PEI mussels, chicken broth, fennel pollen and confit garlic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>The Wagyu Eye of Ribeye (Sunchoke and Potato Gratin, Rapini, Kale Chip, with Natural Jus).</p>
 <h3>Tommy Nguyen, The Pearl</h3>

<p>Located within the food-centric neighborhood of central 9th is the renowned Vietnamese kitchen and cocktail bar,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.thepearlslc.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.thepearlslc.com/" target="_blank">The Pearl</a>. The menu, designed by the James Beard Nominated Chef, Tommy Nguyen, is inspired by his family heritage and multi-decade career in iconic Salt Lake eateries including Takashi and&nbsp;The Post Office Place (also nominated for a James Beard award).&nbsp;Perfecting these Vietnamese recipes has taken Chef Nguyen&nbsp;a lifetime, and this dedication is clearly represented in the presentation and taste.</p>

<p>Standout items include the&nbsp;Caramel Pork Belly, a braised pork belly in coconut caramel sauce with quail eggs and cilantro leaves. If you are looking for an expertly crafted cocktail on the sweeter side, try the You and Qua Me with aged rum, coconut, pandan, lime, meletti amaro, and brown sugar boba.&nbsp;The Pearl also specializes in the famous Vietnamese dish, Pho, exclusively on&nbsp;Sunday nights,&nbsp;that sells from 6pm until sold-out.</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>Blue Mussels and Toast (dashi Beurre monte, Chinese sausage, chives with baguette).&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Semifinalist Best New Restaurant</h2>
 <h3>Junah</h3>

<p>In spring of 2025, the&nbsp;first Japanese &amp; Italian fusion restaurant opened&nbsp;in Salt Lake and this unique&nbsp;cuisine has made quite the impression.&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://junahslc.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://junahslc.com/" target="_blank">Junah</a>, a semifinalist&nbsp;for Best New Restaurant is&nbsp;tucked away in the central 9th neighborhood and&nbsp;is packing the punch. The name for the cuisine, tagged &quot;Itameshi&quot; translates to &quot;Italy&quot; and &quot;food&quot; in Japanese and is the first of its kind to come to Utah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The menu is constantly changing making each new visit an interesting new exploration of this revitalized cuisine, though you can count on a few staples.&nbsp;The Tagliolino al Mentaiko is a refined take on Japanese-Italian fusion, featuring housemade tagliolino rolled thin and cooked to a silky al dente, coated in a creamy sauce that brings subtle brininess and umami depth.&nbsp;The Tagliata di Bosco is a classic Italian preparation done with precision, highlighting a tender, medium-rare grilled steak with a caramelized exterior, sliced tagliata-style and paired with earthy, forest-inspired elements that complement the natural richness of the beef. Junah&rsquo;s Arancini offers a thoughtful twist on the traditional, with a crisp golden exterior and a creamy rice interior, elevated by a light seafood component that introduces a subtle salinity and balance, making the dish feel both familiar and unexpectedly refined.</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>Pancetta Brasata con Polenta (red wine glaze, polenta, string saut&eacute;ed spinach).&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Semifinalist Outstanding Bar</h2>
 <h3>Post Office Place</h3>

<p>This hidden gem off Market Street&nbsp;in downtown Salt Lake City proudly serves some of the finest cocktails in the Mountain West. Contemporary in design,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.popslc.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.popslc.com/" target="_blank">Post Office Place</a>&nbsp;offers one of the largest selections of Japanese whisky and is the &ldquo;little brother&rdquo; of neighboring&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.takashisushi.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/takashi/54945/" target="_blank">Takashi</a>, a staple sushi restaurant in the Salt Lake food scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Diners can anticipate a unique&nbsp;Asian fusion cuisine highlighted by&nbsp;exquisitely crafted cocktails. Standout cocktails&nbsp;include&nbsp;the Eco Aero,&nbsp;a light, easy-drinking cocktail made with Mikibito &quot;gin,&quot; a shochu-based spirit infused with Japanese botanicals like yuzu and sansho, along with acid-adjusted cucumber juice, shiso, basil, and a rice-based &quot;vermouth&quot; called Japanese Dry Bermutto, topped with soda water. Make sure to try their&nbsp;Seabream Ceviche, a classic ceviche with innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion ingredients, including diced madai (Japanese snapper), a creamy yet bright cashew leche de tigre, red onion, jalape&ntilde;o, cilantro oil, and a cashew furikake, served with plantain chips. The Post Office Place is now offering Omakase nights, bringing a&nbsp;high level&nbsp;of creativity and innovation&nbsp;that blends traditional omakase with modern flavors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recognized by James Beard in 2023, and now again in 2026, the Post Office Place, is a standout worthy of its&nbsp;praise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pictured:&nbsp;</strong>Wabi Sabi (an &quot;old fashioned&quot; style cocktail with&nbsp;rye whisky, Fukano Select, which is a Japanese rice-based whisky, and a clarified pistachio-walnut orgeat on the&nbsp;side).&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Past&nbsp;Semifinalists&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Salt Lake is proud to be called home by many a-past semifinalists for the James Beard awards. Categories of semifinalist contenders include Best Chef, Outstanding Bar, Outstanding Bakery, Outstanding Hospitality and more.</p>
 <h6>Water Witch</h6>

<p>Located in the heart of the central 9th neighborhood,&nbsp;Water Witch is a well-known Salt Lake establishment that stands out for its eccentric atmosphere and surprising alcoholic&nbsp;concoctions. With fresh takes on the classics, as well as bartender&#39;s choice, a roulette of sorts, you&#39;ll never grow bored at Water Witch. Come for the curated drinks, stay for the great music and local crowd.&nbsp;</p>
 <h6>Table X Bread</h6>

<p>Located in Millcreek,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://tablexrestaurant.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://tablexrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Table X</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://tablexbread.toast.site/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://tablexbread.toast.site/" target="_blank">Table X&nbsp;Bread</a>&nbsp;are in a category of their own. Created due to&nbsp;the demand of sourdough from Table X and other&nbsp;local restaurant&nbsp;patrons, Table X Bread&nbsp;sources flour from Central Milling, a local&nbsp;milling company in Logan, Utah.&nbsp;The perfected and daily hand-made final products are&nbsp;astounding. With&nbsp;interchanging pastries, croissants and over a dozen types of sourdough loafs, Table X Bread continues to outshine as one of the best bakeries in Utah.</p>
 <h6>Bar Nohm</h6>

<p><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.barnohm.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.barnohm.com/" target="_blank">Bar Nohm</a>, located in the central 9th neighborhood, next door to Water Witch,&nbsp;led by Chef David Chon, is an Izakaya restaurant and bar&nbsp;that emphasizes David&rsquo;s Korean heritage, with Japanese, American and French influences. Partnering with Water Witch, Chon brings a precise vision that mixes high quality cocktails with meticulously crafted recipes for a combination worthy of the recognition.&nbsp;</p>
 <h6>Valter&#39;s Osteria</h6>

<p>Established in 2012,&nbsp;following the opening of&nbsp;Il Sansovino and Cucina Toscana,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.valtersosteria.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.valtersosteria.com/" target="_blank">Valter&#39;s Osteria</a>&nbsp;was made with a simple philosophy: everyone deserves to feel special. Valter Nassi&#39;s philosophy continues on today, through his hard-working team that upholds a commitment of kindness, precision and joy with every shift.&nbsp;Awarded in 2024 for Outstanding Hospitality, Valter&#39;s Osteria focuses on specialty ingredients, daily specials rooted in Italian countryside flavors and table-side presentations. As Valter would say, &quot;Hospitality is not a job. It is a way of life&quot;.&nbsp;</p>
 <h6>The Angry Korean</h6>

<p>Converting from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar in 2019,&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="69762" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/the-angry-korean/69762/" target="_blank">The Angry Korean</a>&nbsp;is Young-Ho Kang and Peter Kim&rsquo;s spin on modern Korean cuisine. Located in South Jordan, a south central suburb of Salt Lake, their doors are open seven days a week. These contenders for Best Chef offer popular dishes like the Korean junkyard fries served with Bulgogi gravy, melted cheese, and topped with Bulgogi and pickled jalapenos.</p>
 <h6>Mazza</h6>

<p>For over two decades, Ali Sabbah at&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="61688" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/mazza-middle-eastern-cuisine/61688/" target="_blank">Mazza</a>&nbsp;has proudly served authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in Salt Lake while using the highest quality ingredients and offering an expansive variety of menu items. One dish that has garnered high praise is the Mazza lamb shank served bone-in and braised with their special blend of spice, aromatics, wines, and liqueurs and served with fragrant rice and a side salad. Mazza&nbsp;prides themselves in serving all-natural lamb, beef, and chicken as well as providing the largest selection of Middle Eastern beer and wine in the United States.</p>


<p><em><strong>Updated: 03/31/2026</strong></em></p> <h2>James Beard Salt Lake Finalists &amp; Semifinalists 2026</h2> <p>Salt Lake is home to a plethora of exquisite <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad3c2f124e053ecfe23e" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/restaurants/" target="_blank">restaurants</a>, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad5f2f124e053ed027c2" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/nightlife-entertainment/bars-lounges/" target="_blank">bars</a>, and other eateries that offer <a data-sv-linklookup-id="61fc062581318f5b3cd7a389" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/restaurants/cuisine-types/" target="_blank">unique and classic cuisines</a> fit to satisfy the cravings of any foodie.</p> <p>Over the years, the renowned culinary institute <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.jamesbeard.org/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.jamesbeard.org/" target="_blank">James Beard</a></p>

James Beard 2026 Awards Highlight Salt Lake Semifinalists

<p>America&#39;s Mountain City is truly a year-round destination known for skiing in the winter, festivals in the spring, mountain adventures&nbsp;in the summer and leaf-spotting in the fall. With moderate temperatures throughout the year, Salt Lake is prime for city strolls and accessible trails around every corner. If you want strolls that lead&nbsp;to coffee shops or bike rides that follow rivers&nbsp;with stunning mountain views,&nbsp;urban hiking in Salt Lake&nbsp;might be exactly what you are looking for.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We&rsquo;ve got your list of urban hikes (and bikes), that&rsquo;ll help you meet your step goal for the day and get you seeing the city in a whole new way.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Paved Hiking Routes&nbsp;</h2>
 <h4>Jordan River Trail</h4>

<p><strong>45.3 miles | 692 ft (elevation) | time depends on distance | Easy</strong></p>

<p>This paved, family-friendly multi-use hiking route follows the Jordan River for 45.3 miles with an elevation gain of 692 ft. There are many trailheads, public transit areas, and parks dispersed throughout for easy access on and off the trail. On this serene escape you will find bikers, trail-runners, strollers, and stunning&nbsp;Wasatch Mountain views.&nbsp;</p>
 <h4>Parley&rsquo;s Historic Nature Park Trail Loop</h4>

<p><strong>1.9 miles | 255 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1 hour | Easy </strong></p>

<p>This quick 2-mile loop is the perfect&nbsp;urban hike that will transport you right into nature.&nbsp;This small section of Parley&#39;s trail has multiple&nbsp;benches,&nbsp;an off-leash dog park, and stunning views of Parley&rsquo;s canyon and the Wasatch Mountain range. The route is primarily paved with a few unpaved sections, great for hiking, biking and&nbsp;dog-walking.</p>
 <h4>Sandy Canal Trail</h4>

<p><strong>4.7&nbsp;miles | 1.5 -&nbsp;2 hours | Easy</strong></p>

<p>This urban trail&nbsp;is a stunning route for those looking for an easy jaunt on a paved path. Bring the strollers, bikes&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;dog too!&nbsp;The trail follows the canal through Sandy and the White City into the City of Draper and&nbsp;connects various destinations including shopping, parks and even&nbsp;museums. The parks along&nbsp;the route&nbsp;include the Lone Peak Park, Storm Mountain Park, and the Mehraban Wetland Park.&nbsp;</p>
 <h4>Draper Canal Trail</h4>

<p><strong>3.2 miles | 1 - 1.5 hours&nbsp;| Easy&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This trail is a multiuse route in Draper that follows a&nbsp;historic irrigation channel and weaves through residential neighborhoods, parks and schools.&nbsp;The trail connects to the Porter Rockwell Trail on the north and south end for those wanting to explore a little more! The trail has a steep incline on the connection to the Porter Rockwell trail but is quite flat otherwise. You may even find a horseback rider or two sharing the trail with dog-walkers, runners and power-walkers alike.&nbsp;</p>
 <h4>9 Line Trail</h4>

<p><strong>8.5 miles | 167 ft (elevation) | 2.5 &ndash; 3 hours | Easy</strong></p>

<p>The 9-line trail is a paved pathway that follows W 900 South for 8.5 miles. There are multiple coffee shops, stores,&nbsp;restaurants and parks along the route including <a data-sv-linklookup-id="69741" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/normal-ice-cream/69741/" target="_blank">Normal Ice Cream</a>, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://central9th.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://central9th.com/" target="_blank">Central 9th Market</a>, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.lokicoffeeco.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.lokicoffeeco.com/" target="_blank">Loki Coffee</a>, and&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="70086" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/salt-%26-honey-market/70086/" target="_blank">Salt &amp; Honey</a>.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s the perfect route for biking and walking any time of year. Just make sure to stay on the sidewalk next to the line and watch for bikers! If you want to use the path to bike, 900 South has multiple <a data-sv-linklookup-id="72010" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/greenbike/72010/" target="_blank">GREEN-Bike</a> Stations for your convenience.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Wildlife Spotting</h2>
 <h4>The Miller Park Loop</h4>

<p><strong>.8 miles | 82 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1hr) | Easy</strong></p>

<p>Located within Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park, in the heart of Salt Lake City, this family-friendly trail is the perfect hike to explore all year round (weather permitting). This hidden oasis, tucked away in a popular Salt Lake City neighborhood, is a quick stroll&nbsp;that follows the Red Butte Creek. This little trail is perfect for birdwatching, picnicking and&nbsp;wildflower spotting.&nbsp;</p>
 <h4>City Creek Canyon Trail</h4>

<p><strong>6.2 miles | 66ft | 2.5 - 3 hours | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>Start this trail at memorial park, a beautiful oasis in the city, situated under the Utah State Capitol. From there, follow a paved path up to the trailhead of City Creek Canyon. Bike, hike or stroll up the canyon for as long as you would like. This popular hiking trail&nbsp;is the perfect hike to enjoy in spring, fall, winter and summer.</p>
 <h2>City Views (foothill hikes)&nbsp;</h2>
 <h4>Ensign Peak Trail and Overlook</h4>

<p><strong>1 mile | 374 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1 hour | Moderate</strong></p>

<p>This scenic hike begins at the Ensign Peak trailhead in the neighborhoods above the Utah State Capitol. This short but steep trail offers panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake, the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains, and the entire Salt Lake valley. Keep an eye out for wildflowers scattered throughout the hills in the spring and make sure to check the weather in winter before heading out!&nbsp;</p>
 <h4>Living Room (Mount Wire)</h4>

<p><strong>5 miles | 2,000 ft (elevation) | 3.5 - 4 hours | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>Start the Living Room hike off the Bonneville shoreline trail for a nice, steep trail with glorious views of the valley. In the spring, look out for wildflowers, in the fall, spot changing leaves and bring spikes if you plan on hiking in the winter. If you want to continue on to Mount Wire,&nbsp;follow the signs to George&rsquo;s hollow and begin the narrow trek up the narrow gully for even more stunning&nbsp;views of the valley and the Oquirrh Mountains. This steep hike is a very popular route for hikers, dogs, and trail-runners alike.</p>
 <h4>Avenues Twin Peaks</h4>

<p><strong>3.7 miles | 1,003 ft (elevation) | 2 &ndash; 2.5 hours | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>Situated on the Bonneville Shoreline trail, this 3.7-mile route is the perfect all-year round hike (weather permitting) with great wildflower spotting in the spring! This steep traverse can be challenging but certainly worth it due to the stunning views of the valley.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Urban Hiking: Planning &amp; Preparation</h2>
 <ul>
	<li><strong>Best Time to Urban Hike: </strong>Urban hiking can be done all-year-round but make sure to check the weather before going out.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Weather: </strong>Always check the forecast before heading out on your hike. Summer temperatures can get high, so prepare accordingly.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Preparation:&nbsp;</strong>Bring water and snacks on&nbsp;your hike&nbsp;and make sure to map your route beforehand.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Where to Rent Bikes: </strong>For E-bike&#39;s try out GREEN-bike with locations throughout Salt Lake.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Getting Around Salt Lake:</strong> Utilize UTA buses, Trax light rail&nbsp;or <a data-sv-linklookup-id="61fc065381318f5b3cd7d1e6" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/parking/" target="_blank">plan ahead for parking</a> as spaces fill quickly for major events.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Family-Friendly Tip:</strong> Choose stroller-friendly trails and&nbsp;parks like Liberty&nbsp;and Sugar House Park, which offer shaded areas and numerous free activities.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h2>What to do Next</h2>

<p>Looking for activities to do after your urban stroll?&nbsp;Here are some year-round activities that you can enjoy while in Salt Lake.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>Add on to your Salt Lake itinerary&nbsp;with these fun activities:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Visit the </strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="60001" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/natural-history-museum-of-utah-at-the-rio-tinto-center/60001/" target="_blank"><strong>Natural History Museum</strong></a><strong>:</strong> A fascinating stop for families seeking interactive learning experiences.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Enjoy sunset rooftop drinks:</strong> Wind down with a drink at one of <a data-sv-linklookup-id="67db2ae869411305caf0b2db" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/best-rooftop-bars-in-salt-lake-for-stunning-views-delicious-cocktails/" target="_blank">downtown Salt Lake&rsquo;s rooftop bars</a>.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Stroll through </strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="54428" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/red-butte-garden-and-arboretum-utahs-botanical-garden/54428/" target="_blank"><strong>Red Butte Garden</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Enjoy peaceful paths and beautiful blooms.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Outdoor dining:</strong> Relax and dine at some of Salt Lake&rsquo;s charming <a data-sv-linklookup-id="67e6b60fda50745978fad0b9" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/best-patios-for-dining-drinks-in-salt-lake/" target="_blank">restaurant patios</a>.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Shopping at </strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="58660" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/city-creek-center/58660/" target="_blank"><strong>City Creek Center</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Explore Salt Lake&#39;s premier shopping destination for fashion, food, and fun.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Plan Your Urban Hiking Adventure</h2>
 <p>For more hiking adventures (outside the city), check out the<a data-sv-linklookup-id="5b3fabd4117554466f584332" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#"> best hiking trails near Salt Lake</a>, our <a data-sv-linklookup-id="699f7819b16d99f173e72da5" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">spring hiking guide</a>, and <a data-sv-linklookup-id="6849f770c0d0f37b7b7e4fcc" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#">where to see the best colors this fall</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Looking for more in-season activities after the hike?&nbsp;You can also explore the full <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad342f124e053ecfd187" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/events/" target="_blank">events calendar</a>, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad342f124e053ecfd20f" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/places-to-stay/" target="_blank">book your stay</a>, and discover&nbsp;events like the <a data-sv-linklookup-id="67c0ecc4a5647fce6b2fbc27" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/a-visitors-guide-to-the-kilby-court-block-party/" target="_blank">Kilby Block Party</a>,&nbsp;Red Butte Garden <a data-sv-linklookup-id="63643" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="false" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/red-butte-outdoor-concert-series/63643/" target="_blank">concerts</a>, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="676092a4208adc40ab655736" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_landing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/winter-roundup/" target="_blank">Winter Roundup</a>, and the<a data-sv-linklookup-id="66e1f9fc2e45a0f3bebfd9c4" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_blog_blog_post_leisure_blog" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/blog/stories/post/the-antelope-island-bison-roundup/" target="_blank"> Annual Bison Roundup</a>&nbsp;happening throughout the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>America&apos;s Mountain City is truly a year-round destination known for skiing in the winter, festivals in the spring, mountain adventures in the summer and leaf-spotting in the fall. With moderate temperatures throughout the year, Salt Lake is prime for city strolls and accessible trails around every</p>

Salt Lake City’s Best Urban Hiking Trails

<p>When snow still caps the Uinta and Oquirrh mountaintops, pink buds pop and frame the sidewalks. On Capitol Hill, a visual story takes shape&nbsp;about&nbsp;the history and symbolism of cherry trees and the beginning of spring.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>If&nbsp;you&rsquo;ve&nbsp;ever been to Salt Lake in April, you may have experienced the floral show that surrounds the Utah State Capitol. For&nbsp;a very limited&nbsp;time, 433 Yoshino cherry trees bloom brightly, covering the Memorial Walkway and painting the Utah State Capitol in a sea of&nbsp;white and&nbsp;pink.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you plan your trip&nbsp;just right,&nbsp;you might be able to see this phenomenon occur&nbsp;as cherry&nbsp;trees&nbsp;only bloom once a year and their delicate petals fall quickly.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>A Brief&nbsp;History of Cherry Blossoms in Utah&nbsp;</h2>
 <p paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{18}" paraid="583777097">In&nbsp;1931,&nbsp;the first&nbsp;collection&nbsp;of flowering cherry trees&nbsp;were&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;in&nbsp;Seattle,&nbsp;Washington,&nbsp;and&nbsp;planted&nbsp;at the Utah State Capitol&nbsp;on Arbor Day&nbsp;of that year&nbsp;in an effort to&nbsp;beautify the&nbsp;Capitol grounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{20}" paraid="964361909">Following World War&nbsp;II,&nbsp;in 1945,&nbsp;Japan gifted&nbsp;Kwanzan&nbsp;cherry trees to&nbsp;Utah. The gift from Japan&nbsp;was meant to&nbsp;symbolize&nbsp;the transience of life, hope and diplomatic ties, creating a&nbsp;lasting friendship between the two nations.&nbsp;This was the second gift to the U.S.&nbsp;from Japan,&nbsp;the first being&nbsp;the gift of&nbsp;3,000 cherry trees to Washington D.C.&nbsp;in 1912.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{22}" paraid="1938422894">In 1999,&nbsp;almost 55 years&nbsp;after&nbsp;the arrival of the&nbsp;Kwanzan&nbsp;cherry trees,&nbsp;a tornado destroyed many of the&nbsp;trees&nbsp;which, at the time,&nbsp;were reaching the end of their life.</p>
 <p>During the Capitol Restoration period that started in 2004, the&nbsp;Kwanzan&nbsp;cherry trees were in such bad condition following the tornado&nbsp;in 1999&nbsp;that 433 Yoshino cherry trees were&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;from&nbsp;Portland&nbsp;Oregon&nbsp;to replace&nbsp;the&nbsp;gifted&nbsp;Kwanzan&nbsp;cherry trees.&nbsp;During the restoration period,&nbsp;the cherry trees were&nbsp;grafted so that&nbsp;the branches of the trees would create a desirable tunnel over the Memorial Walkway path encircling Capitol Hill.&nbsp;This intentional design now creates the arching canopy visitors&nbsp;walk&nbsp;through each spring, framing the blossoms into one of the Capitol&rsquo;s most photographed seasonal moments.&nbsp;</p>
 <h2>Visiting the Cherry Blossoms</h2>
 <p paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{28}" paraid="923853795">The&nbsp;Yoshino cherry trees&nbsp;typically bloom at the end of March&nbsp;and can last&nbsp;into the first two weeks of April.&nbsp;The&nbsp;start of the bloom&nbsp;is&nbsp;temperature&nbsp;dependent,&nbsp;shifting the&nbsp;starting&nbsp;period&nbsp;over&nbsp;the course of&nbsp;a&nbsp;few weeks.&nbsp;To stay on top of the cherry&nbsp;blossom period, follow the&nbsp;official&nbsp;Utah State Capitol Instagram for&nbsp;timely&nbsp;updates.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{30}" paraid="270976457">If you are&nbsp;planning&nbsp;on viewing&nbsp;the cherry blossom&nbsp;trees&nbsp;this year,&nbsp;there are&nbsp;plenty&nbsp;of ways to&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;them!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{32}" paraid="263090883"><strong>Picnic:</strong>&nbsp;Many locals will picnic&nbsp;on the Capitol lawn. Grab lunch&nbsp;at&nbsp;one of Salt&nbsp;Lake&rsquo;s many restaurants&nbsp;and&nbsp;head&nbsp;to Capitol hill to enjoy&nbsp;cherry blossom season like the locals do.&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{34}" paraid="733234321"><strong>Walk</strong>:&nbsp;If you&nbsp;are looking for a history lesson,&nbsp;you can&nbsp;walk the .7 miles of the Memorial Walkway&nbsp;and&nbsp;take in the&nbsp;memorials and statues along the way.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{36}" paraid="357562655"><strong>Tour:</strong>&nbsp;Don&rsquo;t&nbsp;forget to check out the&nbsp;inside of&nbsp;Utah State Capitol for a guided or self-guided tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li paraeid="{a934fbc5-6259-4196-b0fb-d1e69ce5795e}{36}" paraid="357562655"><strong>Parking:</strong>&nbsp;Cherry blossom season draws in a crowd for good reason. If parking at the Capitol is full, consider visiting earlier or later in the day, or park downtown and enjoy a short stroll up Capitol Hill. The walk itself comes with some pretty great views too.</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Frequently Asked Questions: Utah State Capitol</h2>


<p>When snow still caps the Uinta and Oquirrh mountaintops, pink buds pop and frame the sidewalks. On Capitol Hill, a visual story takes shape about the history and symbolism of cherry trees and the beginning of spring. </p> <p>If you&#x2019;ve ever been to Salt Lake in April, you may have experienced the floral</p>

Cherry Blossom Season in Salt Lake: Visiting the Utah State Capitol in Spring

<p>Itching for hiking season to begin again? You may be in luck if you happen to be planning a trip to Salt Lake this spring. While spring hiking always depends on the weather, in Salt Lake the lower mountain trails could be ready for adventurers in early March. And, the conditions that make spring hiking so delightful&mdash;light-to-breezy weather, chilly mornings and sunny afternoons&mdash;last well into June. Mountain wildflowers will start blooming mid-May and last through the rest of spring, filling the trails and hillsides&nbsp;with color.</p>

<p>From canyon hikes to river strolls, easy family jaunts to steep hikes with breathtaking waterfalls, we&rsquo;ve got your spring hiking guide to Salt Lake. As you plan a spring hike, check the weather since late season snow and snowmelt run-off can impact trails.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bring the right gear (spikes may be necessary) and include extra layers in your pack with plenty of water and snacks.</p>

<h2>The Best Spring Hikes in Salt Lake</h2>

<h3>Short &amp; Sweet Spring Hikes</h3>
 <h4>Pipeline Overlook via Rattlesnake Gulch and Pipeline trail </h4>

<p><strong>4 miles | 823 ft (elevation) | 2-2.5 hours (estimated time) | Moderate </strong></p>

<p >Looking for a challenging but worthy spring hike? Rattlesnake Gulch is a great trail to try out. With decent elevation gain leading to stunning views of the valley, this is the perfect way to test your legs during the shoulder season.  </p>
 <h4>Neff&rsquo;s Canyon Loop  </h4>

<p><strong>1.3 miles | 459 ft (elevation) | Loop | Moderate  </strong></p>

<p>Neff&rsquo;s Canyon Loop is a great spring route which gains elevation quickly in a shorter distance, allowing for great views of the valley. This is a popular trail all year round, so you may find hikers, snowshoers (dependent upon the weather) and the occasional dog or two. </p>


 <h3>Family Friendly Hikes</h3>
 <h4>Temple Quarry Trail</h4>

<p><strong>.3 miles | 22 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1 hour (estimated time) | Easy </strong></p>

<p>This trail is an easy paved loop that has a gentle grade and many fun historic sites along the route. This is a great spring hike for families as it is short, wheelchair and stroller accessible, and a great learning opportunity for kids of all ages.</p>
 <h4>Bear Canyon Bridge via Bonneville Shoreline  </h4>

<p><strong>3.6 miles | 511 ft (elevation) | 1.5 - 2 hours (estimated time) | Easy </strong></p>

<p>The very well-known Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge is the perfect spring hike with easy access to other trails in the area. This family-friendly trail offers beautiful views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear and start early to avoid crowds.  </p>
 <h4>Alien Tower via Deer Ridge Trailhead</h4>

<p><strong>2.5 miles | 534 ft (elevation) | 1-1.5 hours (estimated time) | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>The Alien Tower trail awards the best of both worlds with views of the valley and mountains on each side of the trail. This short out-and-back with a gentle incline&nbsp;provides incredibly rewarding views making it the perfect way to spend your spring morning or afternoon.</p>

<p>Called Alien tower for the &quot;otherworldly&quot; structure at the top, which marks the turn-around point. This structure is actually a survey marker used to determine the heights of mountain peaks.&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Waterfall&nbsp;Trails&nbsp;(Late April through&nbsp;May)&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>
 <h4>Heughs Canyon Trail</h4>

<p><strong>3 miles | 1,240 ft (elevation)| Out and back | Hard </strong></p>

<p>The Heughs Canyon trail is the perfect spring waterfall hike. This challenging traverse is rewarded with a breathtaking waterfall and stunning views. The trailhead is located within a neighborhood without public parking,&nbsp;but don&rsquo;t let that stop you from exploring this hidden gem as it is not the trail to miss. A small, designated gravel lot for this trailhead is located at Wasatch Blvd and East Canyon Cove Drive. This adds a short walk through the neighborhood to the trailhead.</p>
 <h4>Rocky Mouth Falls </h4>

<p><strong>.7 miles | 278 ft (elevation) | Out and back  </strong></p>

<p >The Rocky Mouth Falls trail in Sandy is a very popular hiking route that leads you to a deep cascade waterfall. While the hike is quite short, it gains elevation quickly so be prepared for a bit of a rocky climb. In spring, you may have to avoid water along the trail, so come with sturdy and waterproof hiking shoes.  </p>
 <h4>Ferguson Canyon View Point</h4>

<p><strong>3.3 Miles | 1,459 ft (elevation) | Out and back | Hard </strong></p>

<p>A popular route for climbers, trail-runners and birders alike, the Ferguson Canyon View Point trail is a rewarding hike with great views of the Salt Lake valley, multiple waterfalls along the way and wildflowers sprinkled throughout. While it is on the challenging side, this stunning hike is well worth the effort.</p>
 <h4>Lower Falls via Bells Canyon Trail</h4>

<p><strong>4.8 miles | 1,515 ft (elevation) | Out and back | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>This short but challenging hike in the Wasatch Mountain range is both rocky and steep. The payoff is show-stopping views of the valley and a great place to rest at the lower falls&#39; waterfall. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for a nice break at the falls before making the trek back down.</p>
 <h3>Urban&nbsp;Hiking&nbsp;&amp; Biking</h3>
 <h4>Jordan River Trail</h4>

<p><strong>45.3 miles | 692 ft (elevation) | time varies by distance&nbsp;| Easy </strong></p>

<p>This paved, family-friendly multi-use hiking route follows the Jordan River for 45.3 miles with an elevation gain of 692 ft. There are many trailheads, public transit areas, and parks dispersed throughout for easy access on and off the trail. On this serene escape you will find bikers, trail-runners, strollers, and more with scenic views.</p>
 <h4>Parley&rsquo;s Historic Nature Park Trail Loop </h4>

<p><strong>1.9 miles | 255 ft | .5 - 1 hour | Easy  </strong></p>

<p>This quick 2-mile loop is one part of Parley&rsquo;s trail through Salt Lake City. This section of the trail has benches throughout, an off-leash dog park, and stunning views of Parley&rsquo;s canyon and the Wasatch Mountain range. The route is primarily paved with a few sections unpaved, great for hiking and biking.  </p>
 <h4>The Miller Park Loop  </h4>

<p>.<strong>8 miles | 82 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1hr) | Easy </strong></p>

<p>Located within Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park, in the heart of Salt Lake City, this family-friendly trail is the perfect hike to explore in spring. This hidden oasis, tucked away in a popular neighborhood, is a quick jaunt that follows the route of a creek, perfect for birdwatching, picnicking and spotting wildflowers.  </p>
 <h4>City Creek Canyon Trail</h4>

<p><strong>6.2 miles | 662ft | 2.5 - 3 hours | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>Start this trail at Memory Grove&nbsp;Park, a beautiful oasis in the city, situated under the Utah State Capitol. From there, follow a paved path up to the trailhead of City Creek Canyon. Bike, hike or stroll up the canyon <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.slc.gov/utilities/city-creek-canyon/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.slc.gov/utilities/city-creek-canyon/" target="_blank">(dependent upon the day)</a> for as long as you would like. Beloved year-round, this trail is especially magical in spring.&nbsp;</p>
 <h3>Where to See Spring Flowers&nbsp;(Mid-May through June)</h3>
 <h4>Utah State Capitol | Memorial walkway</h4>

<p><strong>.7 miles | 20 minutes | Easy </strong></p>

<p>If you plan your trip just right, you can witness the Yoshino Cherry blossoms bloom at the Utah State Capitol. From late March to early April, witness the short bloom of these trees surrounding the capitol grounds with wonderful views of the city and the mountain ranges surrounding Salt Lake.</p>
 <h4>Ensign Peak Trail and Overlook</h4>

<p><strong>1 mile | 374 ft (elevation) | .5 - 1 hour | Moderate</strong></p>

<p>This scenic hike begins at the Ensign Peak trailhead in the neighborhoods above the Utah State Capitol. This short but steep trail offers panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake, the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains, and the entire Salt Lake valley. In late spring, make sure to keep an eye out for wildflowers scattered throughout the hills.</p>
 <h4>Avenues Twin Peaks </h4>

<p><strong>3.7 miles | 1,003 ft (elevation) | 2 &ndash; 2.5 hours | Moderate  </strong></p>

<p>Situated on the Bonneville Shoreline trail, this 3.7-mile route is the perfect spring hike for wildflower spotting. This steep traverse can be challenging but with the stunning views it awards, it is certainly worth it.  </p>
 <h4>Living Room (Mount Wire)</h4>

<p><strong>5 miles | 2,000 ft (elevation) | 3.5 - 4 hours | Moderate </strong></p>

<p>Start the Living Room hike off the Bonneville shoreline trail for a nice, steep trail with glorious views and wildflowers dispersed throughout. Follow the signs to Georges&nbsp;Hollow and begin the narrow trek up the narrow gully to Mt. Wire for vast views of the valley and the Oquirrh Mountains. This steep hike is a very popular route for hikers, dogs, and trail-runners alike.</p>
 <h4>Little Mountain Trail </h4>

<p><strong>3.8 miles | 872 ft (elevation) | 2 &ndash; 2.5 hours | Moderate  </strong></p>

<p>This is an easy to moderate hike that gets you up to some beautiful views of Emigration and Parley&#39;s Canyon quite quickly. This moderately-trafficked hike is family-friendly, and since it starts pretty high up, will allow you access a smaller peak without having to climb too much.</p>

<h4>Jack&rsquo;s Mountain  </h4>

<p><strong>2.7 miles | 1,295 ft (elevation) | 2 &ndash; 2.5 hours | Hard  </strong></p>

<p>Also known as Jack&rsquo;s Mailbox Peak, the summit offers incredible views of the valley, and fields of wildflowers from mid-May through July. The trail is quite slippery and steep on the descent, so make sure to prepare accordingly.  </p>
 <h4 >Wild Rose Trail </h4>

<p><strong>2.4 miles | 341 ft (elevation) | 1 &ndash; 1.5 hours | Moderate  </strong></p>

<p >This 2-and-a-half-mile trail is a great spring hike for wildflower sightings mid-May through July and great views of the Salt Lake Valley and City Creek Canyon. Just minutes from downtown, this foothill trail is the perfect sunset and sunrise hike.  </p>
 <h2>Practical Visitor Info: Spring Hiking in Salt Lake</h2>
 <p>When preparing to go on a spring hike in Salt Lake, you&rsquo;ll want to check the weather forecast prior to heading out. </p>

<p>If you are interested in hiking more mountainous terrain in Salt Lake, always check for snow levels and bring spikes if necessary. Make sure to pack layers, bring plenty of water, food, and an emergency safety kit. For hikes closer to the city, make sure to bring appropriate clothing and plenty of water. </p>

<p>Trails can become hazardous due to weather, so make sure to get condition reports on the trail you are interested in hiking before you venture out. Whether you&rsquo;re hiking in the mountains or looking for a more casual stroll, stay prepared.  </p> <h3>Transportation: Spring Hiking</h3>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Public Transport:</strong> The <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/public-transportation/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">UTA buses</a> provide access close to some trailheads.</li>
	<li><strong>GREEN-Bike:</strong> A great way to experience some of the more urban hikes is to rent a bike through&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="72010" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/greenbike/72010/">GREEN-bike</a>. The Jordan River Trail, City Creek Canyon, the 9-Line and the River Parkway Trail are all trails to ride or walk.</li>
	<li><strong>Car Rentals: </strong>Recommended for accessing trails in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Stay up to date with weather conditions and make sure your vehicle is <a href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/transportation/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">equipped for mountain driving, especially in winter.</a> If you are plan on driving up the canyons.</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Plan Your Hike Today</h2>

<p>Spring is when Salt Lake&rsquo;s hiking magic really comes to life. One minute you&rsquo;re downtown, the next you&rsquo;re stepping onto a trail lined with early wildflowers, fresh greenery, and big Wasatch views. Whether your idea of a perfect spring hike is a mellow loop through Red Butte Garden or stretching your legs on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, there&rsquo;s a trail that fits the mood. In Salt Lake, spring hiking isn&rsquo;t just about getting outside; it&rsquo;s about catching the city and the mountains in their best in-between moment. </p>

<p>Itching for hiking season to begin again? You may be in luck if you happen to be planning a trip to Salt Lake this spring. While spring hiking always depends on the weather, in Salt Lake the lower mountain trails could be ready for adventurers in early March. And, the conditions that make spring</p>

Spring Hiking in Salt Lake: The Best Trails, Conditions & Tips

<p><em><strong>Updated: 02/12/26</strong></em></p>

<p>The <strong>2025-26</strong> Salt Lake ski season is in full&nbsp;swing! Here&#39;s your&nbsp;guide to the four legendary Wasatch Mountain ski resorts.&nbsp;Whether you are headed up&nbsp;<strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="55143" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/little-cottonwood-canyon/55143/" target="_blank">Little Cottonwood</a> (</strong>Alta, Snowbird), <strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="55175" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/big-cottonwood-canyon/55175/" target="_blank">Big Cottonwood</a> </strong>(Brighton,&nbsp;Solitude) or <strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad5d2f124e053ed02472" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/ski-resorts/" target="_blank">all four&nbsp;resorts</a></strong>, check out the&nbsp;up-to-date snow conditions&nbsp;on each, so you have all the information you need for an&nbsp;ultimate day on the mountain.</p>

<h3><em>Weather Pattern Shift for mid-February 2026</em></h3>

<p>A shift in the dominant weather pattern has snow storms predicted to cover all 4 Cottonwood resorts with abundant powder over the next few weeks.</p>

<h4>That means 3+ feet of fresh powder for you to enjoy.</h4>

<h5><strong>Resort Incoming Snow&nbsp;Projections (Feb 12-28, 2026):&nbsp;</strong></h5>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Alta: 46&quot;+&nbsp;</strong></li>
	<li><strong>Snowbird: 46&quot;+</strong></li>
	<li><strong>Brighton: 40&quot;+&nbsp;</strong></li>
	<li><strong>Solitude: 38&quot;+</strong></li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Source: <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://opensnow.com/" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://opensnow.com/" target="_blank">Open Snow</a></strong></p>

<h2>February 2026 Conditions Report</h2>
 <h3>Snowbird</h3>

<p>If&nbsp;you&rsquo;re&nbsp;riding up Little Cottonwood this ski season, chances are you&rsquo;re&nbsp;in for a treat. Lower&nbsp;than average wait times, 14/14 open lifts and 121&nbsp;open trails to explore&nbsp;the&nbsp;whole day&nbsp;away. Get in early and leave late because you&nbsp;aren&rsquo;t&nbsp;going to&nbsp;want to miss&nbsp;any&nbsp;of&nbsp;it.&nbsp;Start off your day in Mineral Basin, where you&rsquo;ll&nbsp;find the locals. With the sun&nbsp;shining down&nbsp;on the bowl, the snow is ripe for gliding.&nbsp;As you hit&nbsp;midday, find your way down to Gad 2 and experience pure bliss with more than enough runs to satisfy any skier or snowboarder. Looking for a break? Check out Snowbird&rsquo;s newest addition, The Nest for&nbsp;fine fare and picturesque views.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Lifts Open:&nbsp;</strong>14/14</li>
	<li><strong>Runs Open:</strong> 121/149</li>
	<li><strong>Events:</strong>
	<ul>
		<li>Every Wednesday - Saturday, enjoy&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody" data-outlook-id="c4eed1e4-3a3e-4467-aaaa-e4092aad84f7" href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_atrium-2Dmusic_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=rE58veJu8nlTDlo5qSdqdsgqly6hz4DbS_VqPuxB39c&amp;e=" title="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_atrium-2Dmusic_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=rE58veJu8nlTDlo5qSdqdsgqly6hz4DbS_VqPuxB39c&amp;e=">Apr&egrave;s in the Atrium</a></li>
		<li>Head to Snowbird on January 31st, for&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody" data-outlook-id="858e058b-a134-4d0d-bbca-181010c35b72" href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_ski-2Dlike-2Da-2Dgirl_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=7V8mWZHDeawIovU5yosdIyUMtRm5QDgk3pbKXUyQ4W8&amp;e=" title="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_ski-2Dlike-2Da-2Dgirl_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=7V8mWZHDeawIovU5yosdIyUMtRm5QDgk3pbKXUyQ4W8&amp;e=">Women&rsquo;s Ski &amp; Ride Pop-Up</a>&nbsp;</li>
		<li>Get tickets to the&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2" data-outlook-id="b09908b4-feea-4d83-9c7c-7a6667242004" href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_full-2Dmoon-2Ddinner_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=dG8P-WaHmDZG8pcZnMPLFrODyLfsr3pqM4nFfHlRFZ8&amp;e=" title="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_full-2Dmoon-2Ddinner_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=dG8P-WaHmDZG8pcZnMPLFrODyLfsr3pqM4nFfHlRFZ8&amp;e=">Full Moon Dinner</a><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3" data-outlook-id="5bfa2701-e5f2-43c1-a89f-932b8aa5d715" href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_full-2Dmoon-2Ddinner_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=dG8P-WaHmDZG8pcZnMPLFrODyLfsr3pqM4nFfHlRFZ8&amp;e=" title="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.snowbird.com_activities-2Devents_events_events-2Dcalendar_full-2Dmoon-2Ddinner_&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&amp;r=fkGTksr5pA7LEbQranHAk_cpR8eJyEl2wgI2IdsJAr4&amp;m=uS6ZXFhoePG8CYJbTJPrL2PozUCv9SkvKg0g_Iv1Ve5cabfTanRGQJScMG2DvRwd&amp;s=dG8P-WaHmDZG8pcZnMPLFrODyLfsr3pqM4nFfHlRFZ8&amp;e=">&nbsp;</a>on Sunday, Feb 1</li>
		<li>Follow Snowbird on&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.instagram.com/snowbird?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.instagram.com/snowbird?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more up to date information.&nbsp;</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Alta</h3>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a593ca73-507b-46da-88c1-1569f1771292}{232}" paraid="1083968447" xml:lang="EN-US">Hidden&nbsp;away at the end of Little&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;is the Alta Ski Area.&nbsp;Heading into February with 5/5 lifts open, there is no better time to visit. 104&nbsp;runs are open so there&rsquo;s endless terrain&nbsp;and almost no waiting. Bluebird days&nbsp;in&nbsp;the forecast means you can grab&nbsp;those&nbsp;sunnies&nbsp;and hike up to Catherine&rsquo;s Area&nbsp;and find untouched powder.&nbsp;Take&nbsp;Wildcat&nbsp;lift&nbsp;up&nbsp;and&nbsp;choose from 11&nbsp;black and blue&nbsp;runs to&nbsp;glide&nbsp;down to&nbsp;the&nbsp;base. Check out the&nbsp;infamous&nbsp;Goldminer&rsquo;s Daughter&nbsp;or stop&nbsp;mid-mountain at the Watson Shelter for a snack break&nbsp;then head&nbsp;back&nbsp;out for a day of&nbsp;blissful&nbsp;skiing,&nbsp;where the lift close times are some of the latest in the Wasatch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a593ca73-507b-46da-88c1-1569f1771292}{235}" paraid="576406820" xml:lang="EN-US"><strong>Lifts Open: </strong>5/5 &nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a593ca73-507b-46da-88c1-1569f1771292}{235}" paraid="576406820" xml:lang="EN-US"><strong>Runs Open:</strong>&nbsp;104/118&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Events:</strong>
	<ul>
		<li>Attend the Curt and Adam Nasbitt Memorial&nbsp;<a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.alta.com/events/groundhog-day-race" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.alta.com/events/groundhog-day-race" target="_blank">Groundhog Day race</a> on Feb 2nd.</li>
		<li><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.alta.com/events/snowshoe-with-a-naturalist" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.alta.com/events/snowshoe-with-a-naturalist" target="_blank">Snowshoe with a Naturalist</a>, lose the skis and strap on a pair of snowshoes with the Cottonwood Canyons foundation.&nbsp;</li>
		<li>On March 7th &amp; 8th, <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.alta.com/events/backcountry-basecamp" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.alta.com/events/backcountry-basecamp" target="_blank">Backcountry BASECAMP</a> heads to Alta.</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
	<li>Follow <strong>Alta</strong>&nbsp;on <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.instagram.com/altaskiarea?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.instagram.com/altaskiarea?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for more up to date information.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 <h3>Solitude</h3>

<p>Solitude Mountain Resort is riding strong with consistently groomed terrain, dependable coverage on core runs, and a wide mix of cruisers, steeps, and technical lines that keep days feeling dynamic. Faster access via the Eagle Express lift makes getting around the mountain smoother, while Honeycomb Canyon (open, except for avalanche mitigation) continues to be a standout for more adventurous laps.&nbsp;Little Dollie&rsquo;s is a perfect place for visitors of all ages to get a&nbsp;warm&nbsp;waffle or&nbsp;try an only-in-Utah&nbsp;dirty soda.&nbsp;Add in a high-energy atmosphere on busy days, and Solitude delivers a full, vibrant mountain experience from first chair to last run.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><b>Lifts Open: 7</b>/8&nbsp;</li>
	<li><b>Runs Open: 61</b>/82</li>
	<li><strong>Events:</strong>
	<ul>
		<li>Head to Moonbeam Patio for a <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/moonbeam-patio-apres-dj_january-7" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/moonbeam-patio-apres-dj_january-7" target="_blank">DJ during Apres</a> on Saturday and Sundays in January, February and March</li>
		<li>Explore the Nordic trails of <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/nordic-nights_march-weekend-1" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/nordic-nights_march-weekend-1" target="_blank">Solitude by moonlight</a> and torch fire, followed by complimentary s&rsquo;mores and hot chocolate.</li>
		<li>Check out <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/soli-parks-steel-showdown_february" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.solitudemountain.com/things-to-do/events-and-activities/soli-parks-steel-showdown_february" target="_blank">Soli Parks Steel Showdown</a> to show off at Solitude&#39;s Rail Jam Series&nbsp;on Feb 15th.</li>
		<li>Follow Solitude on <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.instagram.com/solitudemountain?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.instagram.com/solitudemountain?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for more up-to-date information.&nbsp;</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
</ul>
 <h3><strong>Brighton</strong></h3>

<p>Brighton Ski Resort is in great shape, with well-groomed runs, dependable coverage across key areas of the mountain, and a strong mix of open terrain for all ability levels. From smooth cruisers to playful park laps and scenic turns through Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton delivers consistently fun days on snow.&nbsp;Check out their new Snow Blossom Bistro for some ramen between&nbsp;runs.&nbsp;The resort recently celebrated its 89th season, a reminder of Brighton&rsquo;s long legacy as one of Utah&rsquo;s most beloved local mountains.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s&nbsp;a great time&nbsp;to enjoy corduroy mornings, softer afternoon turns, and Brighton&rsquo;s laid-back mountain vibe.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Lifts Open:</strong>&nbsp;8/8</li>
	<li><strong>Runs Open:&nbsp;</strong>73/76</li>
	<li><strong>Events</strong>:
	<ul>
		<li><a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/ski-with-a-ranger" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/ski-with-a-ranger" target="_blank">Ski with a Ranger</a>: Join a Naturalist Ranger for a free, guided tour every Thursday in January - March.&nbsp;</li>
		<li>Check out Brighton&#39;s <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/crawfish-boil" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/crawfish-boil" target="_blank">Crawfish Broil</a>&nbsp;to celebrate Mardi Gras on February 17th.&nbsp;</li>
		<li>Enjoy <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/easter-at-brighton" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.brightonresort.com/events/easter-at-brighton" target="_blank">Easter at Brighton</a> and start your morning with a pancake breakfast on the Alpine Rose deck.</li>
		<li>Follow Brighton on <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.instagram.com/brightonresort?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.instagram.com/brightonresort?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&amp;igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for more up-to-date information.&nbsp;</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
</ul>
 <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
 <h2>Ready to Hit the Slopes?</h2>

<ul>
</ul>
 <p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5e9405cd-9d3c-41f8-829f-a24bcbc2614c}{123}" paraid="1960176684" xml:lang="EN-US">Across the Cottonwood Canyons, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude are all delivering strong on-mountain experiences with well-maintained terrain, wide-open runs, and a range of options for every ability level. From big alpine&nbsp;trails&nbsp;in Little Cottonwood to approachable cruisers and lively park scenes in Big Cottonwood, each resort brings its own personality while offering consistently enjoyable days on snow.&nbsp;Together, the four resorts offer more than 400 runs served by&nbsp;nearly 40&nbsp;lifts,&nbsp;showcasing&nbsp;the variety, scenery, and energy that make skiing and riding in the Wasatch such a standout experience.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
</ul>


<p><em><strong>Updated: 02/12/26</strong></em></p> <p>The <strong>2025-26</strong> Salt Lake ski season is in full swing! Here&apos;s your guide to the four legendary Wasatch Mountain ski resorts. Whether you are headed up <strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="55143" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/little-cottonwood-canyon/55143/" target="_blank">Little Cottonwood</a> (</strong>Alta, Snowbird), <strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="55175" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_listings_listing" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/listing/big-cottonwood-canyon/55175/" target="_blank">Big Cottonwood</a> </strong>(Brighton, Solitude) or <strong><a data-sv-linklookup-id="5a8dad5d2f124e053ed02472" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_main" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/ski-resorts/" target="_blank">all four resorts</a></strong>, check out the up-to-date snow conditions</p>

2025-26 Ski Conditions Report

<p>Bluebird days, deep snowpack, fewer crowds, and easy access to both mountains and city life make spring the sweet spot for skiing in Utah.</p> <h2>Why Spring Skiing in Salt Lake Is the Season&#x2019;s Best-Kept Secret</h2> <p>Picture this: you wake up to blue skies in Salt Lake, grab breakfast, and by late morning you&#x2019;re</p>

Spring Skiing Near Salt Lake: Trade Sand for Snow and Spring Break on the Slopes

<h2><em>Travel + Leisure Names Salt Lake in 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026</em></h2>

<p><i>Published November 2025 &mdash; Source: Travel + <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.travelandleisure.com/author/travel-leisure-editors" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/author/travel-leisure-editors" target="_blank">Leisure Editors</a></i></p>

<p>Travel + Leisure&nbsp;has named Salt Lake City one of its &ldquo;50 Best Places to Travel in 2026,&rdquo; recognizing the destination as a standout for its blend of outdoor adventure, urban vitality, and growing reputation on the world stage. This recognition reinforces what visitors and locals already know: Salt Lake offers an unbeatable combination of mountain access and city life.</p>
 <h3>A Leader&rsquo;s Perspective</h3>

<blockquote>
<p>&ldquo;Travel + Leisure&rsquo;s recognition of Salt Lake as a top destination for 2026 shows how quickly our city is rising on the global stage. Salt Lake&rsquo;s cultural scene, dining, and year-round mountain access are resonating with travelers in a new way. Visit Salt Lake is proud to help elevate that story and to build a destination that continues to grow, evolve, and inspire.&rdquo;<br />
&mdash;&nbsp;<i>Kaitlin Eskelson, President &amp; CEO, Visit Salt Lake</i></p>
</blockquote>
 <h2><b>What Sets Salt Lake Apart for 2026</b></h2>

<p>Salt Lake&rsquo;s appeal comes from its &ldquo;big-city thrills&rdquo; positioned within arm&rsquo;s reach of the mountains. Travel + Leisure highlights its rising cultural and culinary scenes and improved access. Specifically, the editors note Salt Lake City among U.S. destinations because it&rsquo;s gaining traction in categories such as &ldquo;Food &amp; Drink,&rdquo; &ldquo;Big City,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Adventure.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2026, travelers can expect to experience downtown Salt Lake&rsquo;s award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and neighborhoods like the 9th &amp; 9th and the Maven District. Then, within under 45 minutes, explore world-class ski resorts or hiking trails in the Wasatch Range. That seamless urban-to-alpine access is what sets Salt Lake apart and what Travel + Leisure&rsquo;s editors singled out for this year&rsquo;s list.</p>
 <h2><b>Learn More</b></h2>

<p>Read the full article on Travel + Leisure:&nbsp;<i><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4" href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-go-2026-11840319" title="https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-go-2026-11840319">50 Best Places to Travel in 2026</a>.</i></p>

<h2><em>Travel + Leisure Names Salt Lake in 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026</em></h2> <p><i>Published November 2025 &#x2014; Source: Travel + <a data-sv-linklookup-id="https://www.travelandleisure.com/author/travel-leisure-editors" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_external_link" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/author/travel-leisure-editors" target="_blank">Leisure Editors</a></i></p> <p>Travel + Leisure has named Salt Lake City one of its &#x201C;50 Best Places to Travel in 2026,&#x201D; recognizing the destination as a standout for its blend of outdoor adventure, urban</p>

Travel + Leisure Names Salt Lake City a Top Destination for 2026

<p>Salt Lake is set to take center stage this winter as&nbsp;<b>Silicon Slopes and Visit Salt Lake</b>&nbsp;launch a reimagined, four-day global innovation festival in the heart of downtown. Tickets are now on sale for&nbsp;<b>SUMMIT</b>, the premier gathering for founders, creators, investors, and industry leaders shaping the future of Utah&rsquo;s innovation ecosystem.</p>
 <p>Now in its 10th year, Silicon Slopes&rsquo; flagship Summit is expanding its footprint and experience in 2026, bringing together big-stage moments, hands-on labs, cultural showcases, and opportunities to connect with the people driving what&#39;s next. The week will also highlight signature Visit Salt Lake programming, offering attendees a broader look at the culture, collaboration, and community that define the region.</p>
 <p>Explore<a data-sv-linklookup-id="687a87bdeb2180fb9e100c2d" data-sv-linklookup-type="plugins_nav_navitem_primary_microsites" data-sv-targetauto="true" href="#"> SUMMIT.ing&nbsp;</a>for ticket details, programming highlights, and what to expect at SUMMIT 2026.</p>


<p>Salt Lake is set to take center stage this winter as <b>Silicon Slopes and Visit Salt Lake</b> launch a reimagined, four-day global innovation festival in the heart of downtown. Tickets are now on sale for <b>SUMMIT</b>, the premier gathering for founders, creators, investors, and industry leaders shaping the</p>

Visit Salt Lake

Destination Management Organization