From Salt Lake City: Bonneville Salt Flats Guided Tour

Discover the captivating Bonneville Salt Flats, a natural wonder just outside of Salt Lake City. This guided tour whisks you away from the city streets and into a world unlike any other – a boundless expanse of pristine white salt that seems to stretch on endlessly. As you explore this unique landscape, you’ll uncover the rich history behind land speed racing and witness the iconic Tree of Utah sculpture that stands as a testament to the region’s beauty. Are you ready to experience the breathtaking Bonneville Salt Flats for yourself?

This experience made our article of 11 Best City Tours In Salt Lake City (With Prices).

Key Points

• Guided 6-hour tour from Salt Lake City to the Bonneville Salt Flats, with free cancellation and pickup from select hotels.
• Explore the stunning 30,000-acre salt flats and the Great Salt Lake State Park, home to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.
• Admire the iconic 87-foot-tall "Tree of Utah" sculpture, a unique landmark along the tour.
• Learn about the history of land speed racing events held on the salt flats, with notable records dating back to the 1930s.
• Enjoy panoramic photo opportunities throughout the tour, capturing the breathtaking natural scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Take a half-day guided tour from Salt Lake City to the mesmerizing Bonneville Salt Flats.

The 6-hour tour costs $149 per person and is likely to sell out, so book early. Free cancellation allows a full refund up to 24 hours prior.

The 6-hour tour costs $149 per person and is likely to sell out, so book early. Free cancellation allows a full refund up to 24 hours prior.

Pickup from select Salt Lake City hotels is included, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The small-group tour has a maximum of 14 participants and offers wheelchair-accessible transportation.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who provide detailed insights into Utah’s natural wonders and culture during this immersive experience.

Highlights of the Bonneville Salt Flats Tour

The Bonneville Salt Flats tour offers a captivating glimpse into Utah’s natural wonders.

Spanning nearly 30,000 acres, the stark, white landscape of the salt flats is a remarkable sight. Visitors can explore the Great Salt Lake State Park, home to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.

Along the way, they’ll spot the iconic 87-foot-tall "Tree of Utah" sculpture, a unique art installation. The tour also provides insight into the history of land speed racing events held on the salt flats.

With panoramic photo opportunities and an informative guide, this tour delivers an immersive experience in Utah’s stunning natural environment.

Exploring the Great Salt Lake State Park

As visitors make their way to the Bonneville Salt Flats, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the Great Salt Lake State Park, home to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.

The park offers stunning views of the lake, which covers an impressive 1,700 square miles. Guests can marvel at the unique geology and wildlife, including a variety of migratory birds.

The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Tree of Utah sculpture, an 87-foot-tall artwork that stands as a testament to the region’s natural wonders.

Exploring the state park adds depth to the overall Bonneville Salt Flats experience.

The Iconic Tree of Utah Sculpture

Towering over the Bonneville Salt Flats, the iconic Tree of Utah sculpture stands as a captivating addition to the region’s natural wonders.

Commissioned by millionaire Ogden businessman Harry Turtledove, the 87-foot-high sculpture was created by Iranian artist Karl Momen in 1986.

This striking piece features a branching, tree-like structure made of concrete and steel, painted in bright hues of red, yellow, and blue.

Visitors are drawn to the sculpture’s striking presence, complementing the vast, otherworldly expanse of the salt flats.

As a unique landmark, the Tree of Utah offers a visually stunning contrast against the plain, geometric landscape.

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Capturing Panoramic Photographs

While exploring the Bonneville Salt Flats, visitors can capture breathtaking panoramic photographs of the unique landscape.

The vast, flat expanse of salt stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a stunning visual backdrop. Photographers can take advantage of the wide-open spaces to frame expansive shots that showcase the scale and beauty of the salt flats.

The vast, flat expanse of salt stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a stunning visual backdrop for expansive, breathtaking photographs.

The clear skies and reflective salt surfaces allow for excellent lighting conditions, perfect for capturing dramatic, sweeping images.

With the right camera and eye for composition, visitors can preserve memories of this otherworldly environment.

Understanding Land Speed Racing History

The Bonneville Salt Flats have long been a mecca for land speed racing enthusiasts, with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The flat, expansive surface of the salt flats has provided the perfect setting for daring drivers to push the boundaries of speed. Over the years, numerous land speed records have been set and broken at Bonneville, showcasing the incredible engineering and bravery of the participants. The following table highlights some key facts about the history of land speed racing at this iconic location:

| Year | Top Speed (mph) | Driver |

| — | — | — |

| 1935 | 276.815 | George Eyston |

| 1947 | 394.196 | John Cobb |

| 1965 | 600.601 | Art Arfons |

| 1970 | 622.407 | Gary Gabelich |

| 1983 | 633.468 | Richard Noble |

Transportation and Accessibility Details

For those interested in experiencing the vast, awe-inspiring Bonneville Salt Flats, the tour offers comfortable transportation to get you there.

Participants are picked up from select hotels in Salt Lake City and transported in a cozy van. The small group size is limited to 14 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to visitors with mobility needs. With the tour’s comprehensive services, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning salt flats without worrying about logistics.

The seamless transportation and accessibility make this tour a hassle-free way to explore this natural wonder.

Guided Tour Experience and Traveler Reviews

A key aspect of the guided tour is the live, informative commentary provided by the knowledgeable guides.

They offer detailed explanations about Utah’s natural resources and cultural history, which travelers consistently praise. Guides are noted for their friendliness and expertise, enriching the overall experience.

Positive reviews highlight the enjoyable and informative nature of the tour, with travelers impressed by the guides’ ability to bring the unique landscape to life.

The guided experience is a crucial component, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the Bonneville Salt Flats and the surrounding areas during the half-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but doesn’t provide any other food or refreshments. Bringing a packed lunch or snacks is recommended for the 6-hour excursion.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour includes stops at the Great Salt Lake State Park and other designated locations where participants can use the restrooms provided.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the Bonneville Salt Flats Guided Tour. The tour is designed for human participants only, and bringing pets would not be permitted due to safety and logistical concerns.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Guests can’t extend the tour duration on their own. The standard tour is a 6-hour half-day experience from Salt Lake City. If travelers need a longer tour, they’ll need to inquire about other tour options from the activity provider.

Is There a Discount for Larger Groups?

There’s no mention of group discounts in the tour details. However, the tour has a small group size limit of 14 participants, so larger groups may need to book multiple tours to accommodate their party.

The Sum Up

The Bonneville Salt Flats guided tour from Salt Lake City offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the region. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and stunning photo opportunities, this half-day adventure provides an immersive experience into the rich history and captivating landscapes of this iconic destination. Whether you’re a land speed racing enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable outdoor excursion, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: