Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
The salt flats sit 120 miles west of Salt Lake City on Interstate 80. Proper timing and preparation are essential for a safe trip.
Getting there
Access is primarily by car or guided tour from Salt Lake City.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive west from Salt Lake City on Interstate 80. The primary access points are the Westbound Rest Area at Mile Marker 10 or the Bonneville Speedway access road at Exit 4. | 1.5 to 2 hours from Salt Lake City | Free | A high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is not necessary to reach the flats, but exercise extreme caution if choosing to drive onto the salt crust. |
| Tour: Book a guided day trip or photography tour departing from Salt Lake City. | 4 to 8 hours (half or full day) | $100 - $250 | Tours often include round-trip transport, historical commentary, and stops at the best viewing and photography locations. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Late summer and early fall (July to October) offer dry salt suitable for driving and racing events. Winter and spring (November to May) typically feature a thin layer of water. This creates a famous mirror-like reflection. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C).
What to bring
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There are zero services or facilities directly on the salt crust.
Stock up on food, water, and fuel in nearby Wendover.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your trip.
A quick round-trip to walk on the salt and take photos.
- Depart Salt Lake City
Drive west on I-80 for about 90 minutes.
- Westbound Rest Area
Pull off at Mile Marker 10. Walk directly onto the salt crust from the parking lot.
- Bonneville Speedway
Take Exit 4 to see the famous racing access road. Do not drive on wet salt.
- Return Drive
Head back east to Salt Lake City.
Combine the salt flats with nearby towns and viewpoints.
- Drive West
Head toward Wendover on I-80.
- Speedway Access
Explore the main access road at Exit 4.
- Lunch in Wendover
Cross into the border town for food and gas.
- Silver Island Mountains
Drive part of the backcountry byway for elevated views of the flats.
Essential Packing and Rules
Always pack high SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. The white salt reflects sunlight intensely. Bring at least one gallon of drinking water per person. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring towels to wipe salt off your skin and gear.
Overnight camping directly on the flats is strictly prohibited. You must pack out all your trash. Do not attempt to drive on the light brown mud flats bordering the white salt, as vehicles sink easily.
Easiest way to do it
Bonneville Salt Flats Adventure
6 h 4.7 (177)
- Bottled water
- In-person guide is licensed or certified
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$149per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Are there bathrooms?
There are bathrooms at the Westbound Rest Area at Mile Marker 10. There are no facilities out on the main salt flats.
Will my cell phone work?
Cell service is generally reliable along Interstate 80 and near the rest areas, but it may drop if you drive deep into the flats or surrounding mountains.
Can I fly a drone?
Recreational drone use is typically allowed, but commercial drone usage or filming requires a specific permit from the BLM Salt Lake Field Office.