The largest lake in between the Great Lakes and the Pacific Ocean, Utah’s Great Salt Lake is a popular tourist destination you may want to add to your Salt Lake City vacation itinerary. The Great Salt Lake is a haven for visitors and locals to not only enjoy some water activities, but also soak in (quite literally, perhaps) some local culture and folklore.
You see, many fables surround the Great Salt Lake. Some believe that the lake was once part of the greater Pacific Ocean, or at least connected by some waterway. Ancient Indians thought that a terrible monster lived in the lake’s depths. These stories, along with the Great Salt Lake’s unique properties, make it a local favorite place to visit, and we are sure you will enjoy it as well.
As you may have already heard or figured out from its name, the Great Salt Lake is actually a saltwater body of water. In fact, the lake averages saline levels of about 12 percent, which is even saltier than the ocean! These conditions are great for swimming because the salt in the water enhances swimmers’ buoyancy. (And for your convenience, you can find freshwater showers near some of the beaches to rinse off after your salty dip in the lake.)
One of the best places to enjoy the Great Salt Lake’s pristine beaches, its beautiful waters, a visitors center, and recreational opportunities in and around the lake is at Antelope Island State Park. If you look at a map, Antelope Island is actually located near the Salt Lake City International Airport; however, getting to the island from the airport in your car rental in Salt Lake City may take about 45 minutes to over an hour because you have to first travel north to find a road that takes you out to the island.
From Antelope Island, you can also enjoy sailing—one of the most popular lake activities. A full-service marina is located on the island. Sailors will want to note, however, that because the lake is fairly shallow (averaging a depth of only about 20 feet), the waters can get choppy and experienced sailors will want to take the necessary precautions. Boating and kayaking is also another lake activity, but boats not prepped for saltwater use may need special care before or after cruising around on the Great Salt Lake.
If you are looking for car rentals in Salt Lake City, UT, be sure to consider whether you want to bring a mountain bike to Antelope Island to bike along the Great Salt Lake. Antelope Island is an excellent place to enjoy mountain biking trails. However, if you don’t have room in your Utah car rental or don’t want to hassle with your bike, then you can also hike some of the trails located within the state park.
You simply cannot come to Utah without visiting the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park, easily some of the top tourist destinations in Utah and the greater Salt Lake City area. The Great Salt Lake offers fun, fascination, and family memories for years to come. Perhaps you need a little salt in your vacation diet!