FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers regarding rules, access times, and conditions at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Can you drive on the Bonneville Salt Flats?
Yes, you can drive on the salt flats, but only when they are completely dry. Driving on wet or flooded salt is strictly prohibited. You must also avoid the brown mud flats, where vehicles frequently sink.
How much does it cost to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats?
General public access is completely free. There are no entrance gates or fees. You only need to pay if you require a commercial permit or book a guided tour.
When is the best time to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats?
It depends on what you want to do. Visit between July and October for dry driving conditions. Visit between November and May to see the mirror-like flooded reflections.
Why is there water on the Bonneville Salt Flats?
During winter and spring, rainfall and seasonal runoff flood the flat crust. Because the ground is perfectly flat, a thin layer of water sits on top, creating a massive reflective mirror.
Can you camp at the Bonneville Salt Flats?
No overnight camping is permitted directly on the salt flats. Visitors must find camping on adjacent BLM-managed lands or stay in hotels in nearby Wendover.
How far is the Bonneville Salt Flats from Salt Lake City?
The salt flats are situated 120 miles west of Salt Lake City. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours directly via Interstate 80.
What is the closest city to the Bonneville Salt Flats?
Wendover is the closest city, located just 10 miles west of the flats on the Utah/Nevada border. It offers gas stations, restaurants, and hotels.
When is Speed Week at Bonneville Salt Flats?
Racing events like Speed Week are typically held in late summer (usually August). During these permitted events, general public access is restricted to designated spectator areas.
How were the Bonneville Salt Flats formed?
The landscape is a remnant of Pleistocene-era Lake Bonneville. The massive lake covered much of Utah until it began drying up about 10,000 years ago, leaving behind 147 million tons of salt.
Is it safe to walk on the Bonneville Salt Flats barefoot?
It is not recommended. The salt crust is hard, jagged, and highly abrasive. You should wear closed-toe shoes or sturdy boots when walking on the flats.
Where are the rest stops at the Bonneville Salt Flats?
The primary stop is the Westbound Rest Area at Mile Marker 10 on I-80. It features bathrooms, a foot-washing station, and safe pedestrian access directly onto the salt edge.
Does the salt ruin your car at Bonneville Salt Flats?
Salt residue is highly corrosive to metal. If you choose to drive onto the crust, you must thoroughly wash the undercarriage of your vehicle immediately afterward to prevent rust damage.