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Salt Lake City

Many tours of canyon country start and end in Salt Lake City because it’s a city that has it all. Not only are there several major National Parks nearby, Salt Lake City has family vacation attractions of its own. 

 

The city was founded by Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young who was the president of the Church of Latter Day Saints, in 1847. Strolling into what’s now Salt Lake City, he proclaimed “This is the place!”. The LDS Church still has a major presence in the city, and is home to their world headquarters, plus there are attractions where you can find out more about the history and structure of the church. Just walking around the city you probably won't notice too much church influence during your vacation, but the liquor laws might be more strict than you're used to! 

 

There are a half dozen world-class ski resorts all within an hour's drive of the city. For anyone traveling during the ski season, you'll find more than enough slopes and plenty of great powder.

 

Aside from the local skiing, you’re within easy reach of Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.  All three parks have wilderness hiking through sandstone points, high mesas, steep canyon walls and some of the most remarkable scenery in the country. The only trouble you’ll have is deciding which park to hit first!

 

For outdoor-enthusiasts who like a faster pace than hiking, head out to the town of Moab and you'll find miles of ATV and Jeep trails; it's an off-roading paradise. Also in Moab, are opportunities to try some white-water rafting or just see the scenery with an enjoyable horseback ride.

 

Quick Facts:

-- The 2002 Winter Olympics were held in Salt Lake City.

-- Salt Lake City has 9 sister cities around the world, including the city of Sarajevo.

Trips matching your search

Salt Lake City, Utah

5 trips match your search criteria.
Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

7 to 10 Nights  |  Starting from $3,125

Hit the highlights of both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, and the town of Moab in Utah. This spectacular area of scenic mesas, buttes, needles, and arches offers unlimited sightseeing as well as activities from hiking, rafting, four wheeling, horseback riding, world-class mountain biking to viewing some of the best Native American Rock Art in the country.
Canyonlands, Arches and Capitol Reef National Parks

Canyonlands, Arches and Capitol Reef National Parks

11 to 14 Nights  |  Starting from $4,650

With 11 or more days, you can see some of this area's coolest geology! Deep canyons, erosion carved arches on sandstone, ancient rock art, and the incredible Waterpocket Fold and San Rafael Swell are some of the highlights. Spend your days hiking, rafting, four wheeling, horseback riding, canyoneering, mountain biking, or simply soaking in the scenery.
Grand Teton and Yellowstone Country

Grand Teton and Yellowstone Country

11 to 14 Nights  |  Starting from $5,685

Start in Salt Lake City in the shadow of the Wasatch Mountain Range and head north into America's first national park. Visit the western town of Jackson, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. With swimming in high mountain lakes and hot springs, hiking, rafting, fishing, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, geyser gazing, sea kayaking and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Raft down the Green River

Raft down the Green River

7 to 10 Nights  |  Starting from $6,100

Carving its way through astounding sandstone walls, beautiful river beaches and a legacy of incomparable outlaw and Native American history, rafting the Green River provides a playful journey, a true wilderness adventure without extreme whitewater and a selection of oar boats and inflatable kayaks allows you to experience it any way you wish.  More than 60 fun-filled rapids and unbeatable scenery make Green River rafting a favorite trip for families, first-time rafters or seasoned river runners. Your trip begins at Red Cliffs Ranch on the banks of the Colorado River near Moab, Utah where you'll experience an off-road Hummer® Safari, an optional horseback ride, and perhaps some of the most unique and inspiring scenery in the world.
Utah's Amazing Canyons and Lake Powell

Utah's Amazing Canyons and Lake Powell

Over 14 Nights  |  Starting from $5,995

Spend your time exploring the many national parks in Utah. Salt Lake City is the starting point for this adventure. Jeep or raft in Canyonlands, learn the difference between arches and natural bridges on a guided hike, ride horses into the hoodoos at Bryce, or wade through a slot canyon in Zion. Stop for a swim in Lake Powell, surrounded by the sandstone walls. You'll have plenty of time to soak it all in, and see some of the hidden gems of the park system along the way. Trips between Memorial Day and Labor Day can also make a side trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Trips matching your search