What to do at the Great Salt Lake?

The Great Salt Lake, located in northern Utah, is one of the most unique natural attractions in North America. As the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and a remnant of the ancient Lake Bonneville, it offers a variety of fascinating activities for visitors interested in nature, science, recreation, and photography. Despite its shrinking size in recent years, the lake remains a remarkable destination filled with unusual experiences and scenic landscapes. Here's a detailed guide to what you can do at the Great Salt Lake.

1. Float in the Salty Water

One of the most iconic activities at the Great Salt Lake is floating in its buoyant waters. The high salinity—up to 10 times saltier than the ocean in some areas—makes it nearly impossible to sink. The best spot for swimming or floating is Antelope Island State Park, where beach access is easy and the views are stunning. It’s best to bring water shoes, as the lakebed can be muddy or crusty with salt, and remember to rinse off afterward at freshwater showers available at the park.

2. Visit Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island is the largest island in the lake and a must-visit for wildlife lovers. It is home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the U.S., as well as mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and numerous birds. Activities include:

• Wildlife viewing and photography
• Hiking on scenic trails such as Frary Peak and Buffalo Point
• Camping at Bridger Bay Campground
• Mountain biking and horseback riding
• Birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations

The park also offers a visitor center with exhibits about the lake's natural and cultural history.

3. Go Birdwatching

The Great Salt Lake is one of the most important bird habitats in the western United States. More than 10 million migratory birds from over 300 species use the lake as a rest stop or breeding ground, including:

• American avocets
• Eared grebes
• Wilson’s phalaropes
• California gulls (Utah’s state bird)
• White pelicans

Top birdwatching sites include Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to the north, Antelope Island Causeway, and Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area. Spring and fall are prime times to witness massive migrations.

4. Explore Great Salt Lake State Park

Located just west of Salt Lake City, Great Salt Lake State Park offers convenient access to the southern shore of the lake. It’s a great spot for:

• Sunset viewing – the lake is known for vivid, colorful sunsets reflected off the salty surface.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding – calm waters are ideal for paddling (but rinse your gear thoroughly afterward).
• Sailing – the marina is home to the Great Salt Lake Yacht Club.
• Learning local history – check out interpretive displays and ranger programs about the lake’s geology and biology.

5. Walk the Spiral Jetty

A famous earthwork sculpture by artist Robert Smithson, the Spiral Jetty extends into the north arm of the lake at Rozel Point. Created in 1970, the jetty becomes visible when lake levels are low. Its stark black basalt rocks and spiraling form make it a surreal experience, especially against the pink-hued waters of the hypersaline north arm. The site is remote, so bring plenty of water, fuel, and a camera.

6. Learn About the Lake’s History and Science

The Great Salt Lake has a fascinating geologic and human history. Originally part of the ancient glacial Lake Bonneville, it has no outlet, so all minerals and salts accumulate. The lake also played a role in the westward expansion, Indigenous cultures, and early Mormon settlement.

Places to learn more include:

• Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City
• Antelope Island Visitor Center
• Bear River Refuge Education Center
• Online resources from the Utah Geological Survey

7. Stargazing and Photography

Because of its open, dark skies and surreal landscapes, the Great Salt Lake is a great place for night photography and stargazing. Antelope Island and the Spiral Jetty area are especially good for astrophotography. During the day, photographers can capture mirages, salt flats, and the lake’s shimmering surface with dramatic cloudscapes and mountains in the background.

8. Enjoy Peace and Solitude

Unlike many other tourist destinations, the Great Salt Lake offers vast, quiet spaces with few crowds. Whether you’re meditating by the shore, watching birds glide overhead, or hiking to a lonely ridge, the lake provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature in silence and solitude.

Tips for Visiting the Great Salt Lake

1. Timing: Spring and fall offer the best temperatures and birdwatching opportunities. Summers can be hot and buggy; winters are cold and sometimes foggy.
2. Safety: Bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent. The brine flies and midges can be intense near the water’s edge in summer.
3. Leave no trace: The lake’s environment is fragile. Stay on marked trails, pack out your trash, and respect wildlife.
4. Check conditions: Water levels, road access (especially to Spiral Jetty), and insect activity can vary.

Conclusion

The Great Salt Lake is more than just a body of salty water—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem, a geologic marvel, and a cultural icon. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, scientific curiosity, or quiet contemplation, the lake offers something for everyone. As it faces unprecedented environmental threats, every visit is a chance not only to enjoy its beauty but also to appreciate its value and advocate for its protection.