Salt Lake City: Great Salt Lake Guided Tour

Discover the remarkable wonders of the Great Salt Lake on this guided tour. Explore the historic Saltair Beach Resort, observe the diverse migratory bird wetlands, and experience the lake’s unique buoyancy. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the lake’s extraordinary salinity and its impact on the ecosystem. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the captivating secrets of this natural wonder. Join us and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

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Key Points

A 2-hour guided tour of Great Salt Lake State Park and Marina, priced at $69.99 per person with a limited group size of 13 participants.
Highlights include the historic Saltair Beach Resort, migratory bird wetlands, the lake’s high salinity, scenic overlooks, and insights for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the unique architecture and storied past of the Saltair Beach Resort, a former entertainment destination.
The tour provides guided insights into the diverse avian life and the ecological importance of the migratory bird wetlands.
Participants can learn about the lake’s extreme salinity, which can reach up to ten times that of the ocean, and its unique ecosystem.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Great Salt Lake Guided Tour is a 2-hour activity that explores the unique natural wonders of the Great Salt Lake State Park and Marina.

Priced at $69.99 per person, the tour has a limited group size of 13 participants and is conducted in English by a live guide.

Travelers can enjoy the tour’s flexibility, as they can reserve their spot now and pay later. Plus, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour offers a chance to witness the lake’s remarkable buoyancy and observe the diverse migratory bird species that thrive in the area.

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Highlights of the Tour

Visitors embark on a captivating journey as they explore the Great Salt Lake State Park and Marina, where they’ll uncover the historic Saltair Beach Resort, fondly known as the "Coney Island of the West."

They’ll witness the mesmerizing migratory bird wetlands, home to over 250 species that flock to the lake’s shores.

The unique buoyancy of the lake, up to ten times saltier than the ocean, offers a chance to experience the "Dead Sea" of America.

Scenic overlooks at the Observation Deck provide photo opportunities of the lake and Rocky Mountains, making this tour a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Exploring the Saltair Beach Resort

One of the highlights of the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour is the chance to visit the historic Saltair Beach Resort, affectionately known as the "Coney Island of the West."

Guests will explore the resort’s unique architecture and learn about its storied past as a popular entertainment destination in the early 20th century.

Saltair Beach Resort first opened in 1893 and quickly became a beloved attraction, hosting concerts, dances, and amusement park rides.

Saltair Beach Resort first opened in 1893 and quickly became a beloved attraction, hosting concerts, dances, and amusement park rides.

Though it has faced challenges over the years, including a devastating fire, the resort’s iconic pavilion remains a symbol of Salt Lake City’s history and culture.

Observing Migratory Bird Wetlands

As visitors explore the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour, they’ll have the opportunity to observe the park’s remarkable migratory bird wetlands.

Home to over 250 species, these wetlands attract millions of birds annually as they travel along the Pacific Flyway.

Guides will point out various species and share insights about their behaviors and adaptations to the lake’s unique ecosystem.

Visitors can watch as the birds forage, nest, and take flight, providing a captivating glimpse into the vibrant avian life that thrives in this remarkable salt-rich environment.

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Experiencing the Unique Buoyancy of the Lake

The Great Salt Lake‘s extraordinarily high salinity is what gives the water its remarkable buoyancy.

Visitors can experience this unique phenomenon firsthand by:

Gently floating on the lake’s surface, effortlessly supported by the salt-dense water.
Experiencing the ease of movement, with little effort required to stay afloat.
Marveling at the ability to lie back and read a book or relax while suspended in the briny solution.

This one-of-a-kind experience allows guests to truly appreciate the lake’s distinct, natural characteristics, making for an unforgettable adventure.

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Learning About the Salinity of the Great Salt Lake

Though the Great Salt Lake is often referred to as America’s "Dead Sea," its salinity is a key factor that makes it truly unique. The lake’s salinity can reach up to ten times that of the ocean, due to its endorheic basin and lack of outflow. This extreme salinity supports a distinct ecosystem, with the brine shrimp, or "sea monkeys," as the only creatures that can survive in its hypersaline waters. Visitors can learn more about the lake’s salinity and its scientific significance at the on-site Visitor Center exhibits.

| Characteristics | Great Salt Lake | Atlantic Ocean |

| — | — | — |

| Salinity | Up to 10x higher | Around 3.5% |

| Water Density | Higher | Lower |

| Aquatic Life | Brine shrimp | Diverse marine life |

| pH Level | Alkaline | Neutral |

Visiting the Visitor Center

Visitors to the Great Salt Lake Visitor Center can enjoy a wealth of scientific and historical exhibits that shed light on the unique characteristics of this remarkable inland sea.

The center features:

Detailed displays that explain the lake’s extreme salinity and its impact on the ecosystem.
Interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the diverse array of migratory birds that call the wetlands home.
Engaging educational resources that explore the area’s rich cultural heritage and the legacy of the early settlers who sought to harness the lake’s resources.

Meeting and Parking Information

Participants meet curbside in front of the Radisson Downtown Hotel, 10-15 minutes before the scheduled tour departure.

Arriving early is recommended to allow time to park and walk to the meeting location. Paid parking is available in the lot directly across the street at 40 John Stockton Drive, Salt Lake City.

Guests should plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure they’ve time to park and reach the tour pickup point on time.

The tour has a limited group size, so punctuality is important to avoid missing the departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour. The tour is limited to 13 participants, and bringing pets would disrupt the experience for other guests. Only service animals are permitted on the tour.

Is This Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, baby strollers, or those with mobility issues. The walking is minimal, but access may be challenging. Visitors should check with the tour operator for specific accessibility accommodations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, the activity is suitable for all ages and abilities, with minimal walking required, making it accessible to a wide range of participants.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer luggage storage, but participants can’t bring large bags. Small, collapsible items are allowed. It’s best to leave non-essential belongings at your hotel or car before the tour.

Is Food and Drink Available During the Tour?

Food and drink are not provided during the tour. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages. There are no on-site concessions available, so plan accordingly for the 2-hour experience.

The Sum Up

The Great Salt Lake guided tour in Salt Lake City provides a unique opportunity to explore the park’s historic sites, marvel at its diverse wildlife, and experience the lake’s remarkable salinity. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can learn about the lake’s fascinating history and ecology, making it an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Don’t miss the chance to discover the wonders of this one-of-a-kind natural wonder.