Salt Lake City’s central location makes it the perfect base for weekend adventures across Utah’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re craving mountain serenity, desert exploration, small-town charm, or outdoor thrills, incredible getaways await within a few hours’ drive.
This comprehensive guide covers 12 exceptional weekend destinations that showcase Utah’s variety—from luxury resorts to rustic camping, from adrenaline-pumping activities to peaceful retreats. Each offers a complete escape from city life while remaining accessible for a perfect weekend getaway.
1. Park City: Mountain Town Luxury and Adventure
Distance from SLC: 35 miles (45 minutes)
Best For: Year-round recreation, dining, shopping
Ideal Season: All seasons (winter skiing, summer mountain activities)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Park City seamlessly blends world-class outdoor recreation with sophisticated dining, shopping, and entertainment. This former mining town turned premier resort destination offers something for everyone, making it Utah’s most versatile weekend getaway.
Must-Do Activities
Winter (December-March):
- Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley
- Historic Main Street shopping and gallery hopping
- Olympic Park activities (bobsled rides, ziplines, museum)
- Après-ski at numerous bars and restaurants
Summer (June-September):
- Mountain biking on 400+ miles of trails
- Hiking in pristine alpine settings
- Alpine slide and adventure activities at Park City Mountain
- Free concerts and festivals on Main Street
Year-Round:
- Utah Olympic Park tour and activities
- High West Distillery tasting room
- Luxury spa treatments at resort hotels
- Farm-to-table dining experiences
Where to Stay
Luxury: St. Regis Deer Valley, Montage Deer Valley, Stein Eriksen Lodge
Mid-Range: Park City Peaks Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton
Budget-Friendly: Old Town Guest House, Airbnb options in town
Insider Tips
- Main Street offers free parking in several lots (arrive early on winter weekends)
- Many restaurants require reservations, especially during ski season
- Summer offers better value with lower accommodation rates
- The free bus system connects all major areas
- Deer Valley is ski-only (no snowboarding) and limits daily tickets
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Arrive, check in, dinner on Main Street (Riverhorse on Main or Wahso)
Saturday: Full day on the mountain (skiing or hiking), afternoon spa, evening stroll Main Street
Sunday: Olympic Park morning, lunch at High West Distillery, drive home
2. Moab: Red Rock Adventure Capital
Distance from SLC: 230 miles (3.5 hours)
Best For: Outdoor adventure, national parks, desert landscapes
Ideal Season: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Moab serves as gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks while offering a vibrant town atmosphere with excellent restaurants, breweries, and outdoor outfitters. The dramatic red rock landscape provides unforgettable scenery for hiking, biking, and off-roading.
Must-Do Activities
National Park Exploration:
- Arches National Park: Delicate Arch hike, Devils Garden, scenic drive
- Canyonlands: Island in the Sky District, Mesa Arch sunrise
- Dead Horse Point State Park: Sunset views
Adventure Activities:
- Mountain biking the Slickrock Trail
- 4×4 off-roading on Hell’s Revenge
- Colorado River rafting or kayaking
- Rock climbing (climbing guides available)
Town Activities:
- Moab Brewery for craft beer and food
- Main Street shopping and galleries
- Sunset viewpoints just outside town
- Star gazing (dark sky community)
Where to Stay
Unique: Under Canvas Moab (glamping), Hoodoo Moab (boutique)
Mid-Range: Aarchway Inn, Red Cliffs Lodge
Budget-Friendly: Moab Valley Inn, camping at nearby campgrounds
Insider Tips
- Book accommodations months ahead for spring and fall weekends
- Start national park hikes early (parking fills up by 8-9 AM)
- Summer is brutally hot; avoid if possible
- Timed entry reservations required for Arches (April-October)
- Bring much more water than you think you need
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Moab (arrive late), check in, dinner at Desert Bistro
Saturday: Sunrise at Mesa Arch, full day exploring Arches or Canyonlands, sunset at Dead Horse Point
Sunday Morning: Slickrock Trail bike or Colorado River activity, lunch in town, afternoon drive home
What to Pack
Desert essentials: Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, 3+ liters water per person, sun-protective clothing, sturdy hiking boots, layers (desert temperature swings are dramatic).
3. Sundance Mountain Resort: Intimate Mountain Escape
Distance from SLC: 50 miles (1 hour)
Best For: Couples’ getaways, art lovers, nature enthusiasts
Ideal Season: All seasons (especially fall and winter)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Founded by Robert Redford, Sundance offers an intimate, art-focused mountain retreat emphasizing sustainability and connection with nature. Unlike larger resorts, Sundance maintains a peaceful, refined atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways or creative retreats.
Must-Do Activities
Year-Round:
- Art Shack workshops (pottery, jewelry, painting)
- Spa treatments at the Spa at Sundance
- Farm-to-table dining at Tree Room and Foundry Grill
- Nature trails through pristine wilderness
- Art galleries showcasing regional artists
Winter:
- Uncrowded skiing and snowboarding
- Snowshoeing through silent forests
- Cozy evenings by resort fireplaces
Summer/Fall:
- Guided nature walks
- Mountain biking
- Fall foliage viewing (spectacular aspens)
- Outdoor concerts and events
Where to Stay
All accommodations are on resort property:
- Mountain suites and studios
- Private mountain homes
- Rustic-elegant cottages
Insider Tips
- Significantly less crowded than Park City
- Book art workshops in advance
- Tree Room restaurant requires reservations (worth it)
- Ski area is perfect for intermediate skiers and families
- Scenic chairlift rides available in summer
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Arrive, check in, dinner at Tree Room
Saturday: Morning art workshop, afternoon spa and trails, evening by fireplace with wine
Sunday: Scenic chairlift ride, lunch at Foundry Grill, gift shop browsing, afternoon departure
4. Zion National Park Area (Springdale)
Distance from SLC: 310 miles (4.5 hours)
Best For: Epic hiking, stunning landscapes, photographers
Ideal Season: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Zion’s towering sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and iconic hikes make it one of America’s most spectacular national parks. The charming town of Springdale provides excellent lodging and dining just outside the park entrance.
Must-Do Activities
Iconic Hikes:
- Angels Landing (permit required, extreme difficulty)
- The Narrows (walking in Virgin River through slot canyon)
- Emerald Pools trails (easier, family-friendly)
- Canyon Overlook Trail (quick but spectacular views)
Other Activities:
- Scenic drive through Zion Canyon
- Bike or shuttle along Pa’rus Trail
- Stargazing (certified Dark Sky Park)
- Visit nearby Kolob Canyons section
Springdale Town:
- Excellent restaurants (King’s Landing, Bit & Spur)
- Art galleries and shops
- Outfitters for gear and guides
Where to Stay
Inside Park: Zion Lodge (book 6+ months ahead)
Springdale Luxury: Desert Pearl Inn, Cable Mountain Lodge
Mid-Range: Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express
Budget: Driftwood Lodge, camping at Watchman Campground
Insider Tips
- Angels Landing requires advance lottery permits (reserve at recreation.gov)
- Use the free park shuttle system (parking is extremely limited)
- Summer is packed and hot; spring/fall far better
- The Narrows requires proper gear (rent from Springdale outfitters)
- Make restaurant reservations for Saturday dinner
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Springdale (long drive, arrive late), check in, light dinner
Saturday: Full day in Zion (Angels Landing or The Narrows), dinner at Bit & Spur
Sunday Morning: Canyon Overlook or Emerald Pools, lunch in Springdale, afternoon/evening drive home
Important Considerations
The drive is long for a weekend—consider this a Friday-Sunday trip, not Saturday-Sunday. Alternatively, fly into Las Vegas (2 hours from Zion) and make it part of a longer vacation.
5. Bear Lake: The Caribbean of the Rockies
Distance from SLC: 120 miles (2 hours to Garden City)
Best For: Beach activities, water sports, family fun
Ideal Season: Summer (June-August)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Bear Lake’s stunning turquoise waters have earned it the nickname “Caribbean of the Rockies.” This massive natural lake straddling the Utah-Idaho border offers beach activities rare in the mountain west, combined with charming small-town atmosphere.
Must-Do Activities
Water Activities:
- Swimming at multiple beaches (Rendezvous, North, East side)
- Boat rentals (pontoons, jet skis, kayaks)
- Paddleboarding the calm morning waters
- Water skiing and wakeboarding
- Beach volleyball and picnicking
Food Traditions:
- Famous raspberry shakes (LaBeau’s, Zipz)
- Fresh raspberry products (peak season: late July-August)
- Local restaurants in Garden City
Nearby Attractions:
- Bear Lake State Park (both Utah and Idaho sides)
- Hiking in nearby Wasatch Mountains
- Minnetonka Cave tours (beautiful limestone caverns)
- Paris Ice Cave (unusual geological feature)
Where to Stay
Lakefront: Harbor Village Resort, Blue Water Beach Resort
Mid-Range: Best Western Plus Bear Lake, various vacation rentals
Budget: Camping at state parks, KOA campgrounds
Unique: Beach house rentals for groups
Insider Tips
- Book lakefront accommodations far in advance for summer weekends
- Morning waters are calmest for paddleboarding
- Raspberry season (late July-early August) is peak busy time
- Water temperature is refreshing, not cold, by mid-summer
- Garden City has limited dining; plan accordingly or bring food
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Bear Lake, check in, sunset walk on beach, raspberry shakes
Saturday: Full beach day (swimming, water sports, relaxation), barbecue dinner, evening boat ride
Sunday: Morning paddleboard or swim, Minnetonka Cave tour, lunch in Garden City, afternoon drive home
6. Bryce Canyon National Park Area
Distance from SLC: 270 miles (4 hours)
Best For: Unique geology, photography, hiking
Ideal Season: Spring through fall (winter snow adds beauty but limits access)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Bryce Canyon’s amphitheaters filled with thousands of orange-red hoodoos create one of Earth’s most unique landscapes. Smaller and more manageable than Zion, Bryce offers spectacular views with less strenuous hiking options.
Must-Do Activities
Park Highlights:
- Sunrise Point and Sunset Point viewpoints (yes, visit both)
- Queens Garden and Navajo Loop trails (moderate, drop into hoodoos)
- Bryce Amphitheater scenic drive
- Stargazing programs (exceptional dark skies)
- Full moon hikes (ranger-led, magical experience)
Beyond the Park:
- Red Canyon scenic drive (just before Bryce)
- Ponderosa Canyon horseback rides
- Mossy Cave trail (easy, family-friendly)
- Nearby towns: Tropic, Panguitch (quirky charm)
Where to Stay
Inside Park: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon (limited, book way ahead)
Just Outside: Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, Stone Canyon Inn
Mid-Range: Bryce View Lodge, Hampton Inn (nearby towns)
Camping: North Campground, Ruby’s Inn RV Park
Insider Tips
- Higher elevation means cooler temperatures (bring layers)
- Early morning and late afternoon offer best photography light
- Trails going down into hoodoos are easier going down than coming back up
- Ruby’s Inn complex has everything: food, gas, gear, but can feel touristy
- Free shuttle operates from Ruby’s Inn to main viewpoints
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Bryce area, check in, dinner at Ruby’s Inn
Saturday: Sunrise at Sunrise Point, Queens Garden/Navajo Loop hike, scenic drive, sunset at Sunset Point, stargazing program
Sunday: Mossy Cave or Fairyland Loop (depending on energy), lunch, scenic drive home through Red Canyon
7. Ogden: Urban Adventure and Mountain Access
Distance from SLC: 40 miles (40 minutes)
Best For: Family activities, history, easy mountain access
Ideal Season: All seasons
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Ogden combines authentic Western heritage with outdoor recreation and a revitalized downtown. It offers a different pace than Salt Lake City with unique attractions, excellent restaurants, and immediate access to Wasatch Mountain skiing and hiking.
Must-Do Activities
Historic 25th Street:
- Restaurants and breweries (Roosters, Talisman, Pig & A Jelly Jar)
- Galleries and antique shops
- Union Station museums (railroad, firearms, cars)
- Live music venues
Outdoor Recreation:
- Winter: Snowbasin or Powder Mountain skiing (both world-class)
- Summer: Pineview Reservoir water sports
- Waterfall Canyon hike (spectacular year-round)
- Ogden River Parkway biking/walking
Family Activities:
- Treehouse Children’s Museum
- George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park
- Hill Aerospace Museum (free)
- Ogden Nature Center
Where to Stay
Historic: The Ben Lomond Suites (elegant, downtown)
Modern: Hampton Inn, Marriott (various options)
Mountain: Snowbasin area lodges (winter)
Budget: Comfort Suites, Holiday Inn Express
Insider Tips
- Snowbasin offers uncrowded skiing compared to Park City/Alta
- Parking is easy and free downtown
- Farmers market Saturday mornings (seasonal)
- Several excellent ethnic restaurants (Vietnamese, Mexican, Middle Eastern)
- Breweries offer great food, not just drinks
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Arrive, check in, dinner and drinks on 25th Street
Saturday: Full day skiing/hiking depending on season, afternoon exploring downtown, dinner at Talisman
Sunday: Union Station museums, brunch at Pig & A Jelly Jar, afternoon departure
8. Escalante/Grand Staircase: Remote Desert Wilderness
Distance from SLC: 280 miles (4.5 hours to Escalante town)
Best For: Backcountry adventures, solitude, slot canyons
Ideal Season: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers nearly 2 million acres of remote desert wilderness with incredible slot canyons, waterfalls, and geological wonders. This is for adventurous travelers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.
Must-Do Activities
Top Hikes:
- Zebra and Tunnel Slots (stunning striped canyon)
- Calf Creek Falls (spectacular 126-foot waterfall)
- Spooky and Peek-a-Boo Gulches (narrow slot canyons)
- Devils Garden (unique hoodoos and formations)
Scenic Drives:
- Highway 12 Scenic Byway (one of America’s most beautiful)
- Hole-in-the-Rock Road (4WD recommended)
- Burr Trail (switchbacks and canyons)
Small Town Charm:
- Escalante: Outfitters, restaurants, accommodations
- Boulder: Hell’s Backbone Grill (exceptional farm-to-table)
- Tiny communities with authentic Western character
Where to Stay
Escalante Town: Escalante Yurts, Canyons B&B, Slot Canyons Inn
Boulder: Boulder Mountain Lodge, Hell’s Backbone Ranch
Camping: Numerous dispersed BLM sites (free), Calf Creek Campground
Unique: Under Canvas Bryce Canyon (glamping)
Insider Tips
- High clearance vehicle strongly recommended; 4WD for many areas
- Very limited cell service—download maps beforehand
- Bring all food and supplies; services are sparse
- Check weather carefully; flash floods are dangerous
- Know your limits; this is remote backcountry
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Escalante (long drive), check in, early dinner at Escalante Outfitters
Saturday: Full day exploring slot canyons (Zebra Slots or Spooky Gulch), evening sunset viewing
Sunday: Calf Creek Falls hike, lunch in Boulder at Hell’s Backbone Grill, scenic drive home on Highway 12
Adventure Level Note
This getaway requires more planning and preparation than resort destinations. Suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with navigation and remote settings.
9. Garden City and Logan Canyon
Distance from SLC: 120 miles (2 hours to Logan)
Best For: Fall colors, scenic drives, small-town Utah
Ideal Season: Fall (September-October) for foliage, summer for activities
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Logan Canyon provides one of Utah’s most spectacular scenic drives, especially during fall when millions of maples and aspens explode into color. The combination of canyon beauty, Bear Lake access, and charming Logan creates a relaxing getaway.
Must-Do Activities
Logan Canyon:
- Scenic drive on Highway 89 (designated Scenic Byway)
- Tony Grove Lake alpine hiking and wildflowers (summer)
- Wind Caves Trail (short hike to unique limestone formations)
- Riverside picnicking and photography stops
Logan Town:
- Historic downtown shopping and dining
- Utah State University campus and museums
- Bluebird Restaurant (classic retro diner, established 1914)
- American West Heritage Center
Bear Lake North Shore:
- Beach activities (covered in Bear Lake section)
- Raspberry products from local stands
- Paris Ice Cave exploration
Where to Stay
Logan: Anniversary Inn (themed rooms), Springhill Suites
Logan Canyon: Beaver Creek Lodge, River Rock Roasting Company cabins
Garden City: (See Bear Lake section)
Insider Tips
- Peak fall colors usually October 1-15 (check reports)
- Logan Canyon can be busy fall weekends; start early
- Bluebird Restaurant is an institution—don’t miss it
- Tony Grove Road closes in winter (seasonal)
- Combine with Bear Lake for extended weekend
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Logan, check in, dinner downtown
Saturday: Morning scenic drive up Logan Canyon, Tony Grove Lake hike, afternoon exploring Logan, dinner at Le Nonne
Sunday: Wind Caves Trail, lunch at Bluebird, afternoon departure or continue to Bear Lake
10. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Distance from SLC: 200 miles (3.5 hours to Manila)
Best For: Water sports, fishing, uncrowded beauty
Ideal Season: Late spring through early fall
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Flaming Gorge offers dramatic red canyon scenery surrounding a massive reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and water recreation. Significantly less crowded than southern Utah parks, it provides spectacular beauty with more solitude.
Must-Do Activities
Water Activities:
- Boating and houseboating on 91-mile reservoir
- World-class fishing (lake trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass)
- Paddleboarding and kayaking in quieter areas
- Swimming at various beaches and coves
Scenic Experiences:
- Red Canyon Visitor Center and overlook
- Flaming Gorge Dam tour
- Sheep Creek Canyon Geological Loop
- Wildlife viewing (bighorn sheep, eagles)
Adventure Options:
- Cliff diving spots (for experienced, careful jumpers)
- Hiking trails along canyon rims
- Mountain biking on surrounding trails
Where to Stay
Lakeside: Red Canyon Lodge, Flaming Gorge Resort
Manila/Dutch John: Vacation rentals, small motels
Camping: Multiple campgrounds along reservoir shores
Unique: Houseboat rentals (from Cedar Springs Marina)
Insider Tips
- Boat rentals available at multiple marinas
- Fishing license required (can fish on Wyoming or Utah side)
- Weather can change quickly on water—monitor conditions
- Red Canyon Visitor Center provides excellent orientation
- Less crowded alternative to Lake Powell
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Flaming Gorge, check in at Red Canyon Lodge, sunset at Red Canyon overlook
Saturday: Full day on the water (boat rental or guided fishing), evening campfire
Sunday: Morning Sheep Creek Loop drive, dam tour, lunch, afternoon departure
11. Cedar City: Festival Hub and Gateway to National Parks
Distance from SLC: 250 miles (3.5-4 hours)
Best For: Theater lovers, intermediate base to national parks
Ideal Season: Summer (Shakespeare Festival), fall (cooler weather)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Cedar City serves as home to the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival while providing access to Cedar Breaks National Monument and serving as a less-crowded alternative base for visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon.
Must-Do Activities
Cultural Attractions:
- Utah Shakespeare Festival (June-October, world-renowned)
- Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
- Southern Utah Museum of Art
- Live music and events at Main Street venues
Natural Attractions:
- Cedar Breaks National Monument (alpine amphitheater of colorful rock)
- Brian Head Resort (summer mountain biking, winter skiing)
- Kolob Canyons section of Zion (less crowded)
- Scenic Highway 14 drive through Cedar Canyon
Town Experience:
- Historic Main Street with shops and restaurants
- Microbreweries and local eateries
- Art galleries and studios
- Small-town festivals and events
Where to Stay
Downtown: Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn
Unique: Abbey Inn (theater packages), Airbnb cottages
Near Parks: Brian Head area lodges (higher elevation, cooler)
Insider Tips
- Book Shakespeare Festival tickets and accommodations together
- Cedar Breaks at 10,000+ feet offers cool summer escape
- Much more affordable than staying in Springdale (Zion)
- Many restaurants close Sundays; plan accordingly
- Combine with day trip to Zion (1 hour drive)
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Cedar City, check in, dinner downtown, evening Shakespeare performance
Saturday: Morning at Cedar Breaks, afternoon Main Street exploration, evening Shakespeare performance
Sunday: Kolob Canyons visit, lunch, afternoon departure
12. Mirror Lake Highway and Kamas Valley
Distance from SLC: 80 miles to Kamas (1.5 hours)
Best For: Alpine scenery, hiking, fly fishing
Ideal Season: Summer through early fall (road closed in winter)
Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend
Mirror Lake Highway (UT-150) ranks among America’s most scenic byways, climbing from Kamas through the Uinta Mountains to alpine meadows and pristine lakes. This is Utah’s premier summer mountain escape.
Must-Do Activities
Scenic Driving:
- Mirror Lake Highway (one of Utah’s highest paved roads)
- Multiple pullouts and viewpoints
- 30+ alpine lakes along the route
Hiking:
- Butterfly Lake/Bald Mountain trail
- Mirror Lake loop (easy, family-friendly)
- Provo River Falls trail
- High Uintas Wilderness backpacking
Other Activities:
- Fly fishing in mountain streams and lakes
- Wildlife viewing (moose, elk, mountain goats)
- Photography at every turn
- Picnicking at countless perfect spots
Where to Stay
Kamas: Holiday Inn Express, vacation rentals
Along Highway: Mirror Lake Lodge, numerous campgrounds
Park City: (See Park City section—excellent base)
Camping: Dozens of campgrounds (first-come, first-served)
Insider Tips
- Highway typically opens mid-June, closes mid-October (snow)
- Weekend campgrounds fill quickly; arrive Friday or reserve
- Afternoon thunderstorms common in summer—start hikes early
- Bring layers; temperatures drop significantly at elevation
- Gas up in Kamas; no services on the highway
Weekend Itinerary Suggestion
Friday Evening: Drive to Kamas area, check in, dinner at Kamas Steakhouse
Saturday: Full day exploring Mirror Lake Highway, multiple hikes and lake visits, evening campfire
Sunday: Early morning fly fishing or final hike, brunch in Kamas, afternoon departure
Planning the Perfect Weekend Getaway
Choosing Your Destination
For Relaxation: Sundance, Park City (spa focus), Bear Lake
For Adventure: Moab, Escalante, Flaming Gorge
For Culture: Cedar City (Shakespeare), Ogden (history)
For Families: Bear Lake, Park City (summer), Bryce Canyon
For Couples: Sundance, Zion, Mirror Lake Highway
For Budget Travel: Ogden, Logan Canyon, dispersed camping anywhere
Best Times to Travel
Spring (April-May):
- Desert destinations perfect (Moab, Escalante, Zion)
- Waterfalls at peak flow
- Wildflowers emerging
- Crowds building but manageable
Summer (June-August):
- Alpine destinations ideal (Mirror Lake, Tony Grove, Bear Lake)
- Desert locations very hot
- Peak busy season everywhere
- Book far in advance
Fall (September-October):
- Best overall weather across Utah
- Fall colors spectacular (Logan Canyon, Mirror Lake)
- Shoulder season = better rates, fewer crowds
- Some high-elevation roads close late October
Winter (November-March):
- Ski destinations peak (Park City, Ogden resorts)
- Many mountain roads closed
- Desert destinations quiet and accessible
- Hot springs especially appealing
Budgeting Your Getaway
Budget Weekend ($200-400 for 2 people):
- Camping or budget motels
- Self-catered meals
- Free activities (hiking, scenic drives)
- Examples: Logan Canyon camping, Escalante dispersed camping
Mid-Range Weekend ($400-800 for 2 people):
- Mid-range hotels
- Mix of restaurant meals and self-catering
- Some paid activities
- Examples: Ogden stay with skiing, Bear Lake resort
Luxury Weekend ($800-2000+ for 2 people):
- Resort accommodations
- Fine dining
- Guided activities, spa treatments
- Examples: Sundance Mountain Resort, Park City at Deer Valley
What to Pack: Universal List
Clothing:
- Layers (temperature swings are dramatic)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, long sleeves)
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Swimsuit (many destinations have hot springs or water)
Gear:
- Reusable water bottles (staying hydrated is crucial)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Day pack for hiking
- Camera and extra batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Navigation:
- Downloaded offline maps (cell service can be spotty)
- Physical maps as backup
- GPS device or smartphone with GPS
Emergency:
- First aid kit
- Extra food and water
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Basic car emergency kit
Road Trip Essentials
Vehicle Preparation:
- Full tank of gas before leaving major cities
- Check tire pressure and tread
- Emergency supplies in car
- Know your vehicle clearance (some roads require high-clearance)
Entertainment:
- Road trip playlists or podcasts
- Audiobooks for longer drives
- Car games for families
Snacks and Meals:
- Cooler with drinks and snacks
- Meals for remote destinations with limited restaurants
- Reusable utensils and plates
Making Reservations
Book Far in Advance:
- National park accommodations (6-12 months)
- Popular resort hotels (3-6 months for peak season)
- Shakespeare Festival tickets and packages (as soon as released)
- Permit-required activities (Angels Landing, etc.)
Book Moderately Ahead:
- Standard hotels (1-2 months for weekends)
- Popular restaurant reservations
- Campground reservations at recreation.gov
Last-Minute Options:
- Dispersed camping (BLM land)
- Chain hotels often have availability
- Weekday travel more flexible
Extending Your Weekend
Adding Days: Consider taking Friday and/or Monday off to:
- Reduce rushed feeling
- Drive at less busy times
- Explore more thoroughly
- Allow for weather flexibility
Combining Destinations: Several getaways pair well:
- Bryce Canyon + Cedar City
- Bear Lake + Logan Canyon
- Zion + St. George
- Moab + Escalante (long trip)
Seasonal Spotlight: The Best Weekend Each Season
Winter Weekend (December-February)
Winner: Park City
World-class skiing, vibrant après-ski scene, luxury accommodations, and only 45 minutes from home.
Spring Weekend (March-May)
Winner: Moab
Perfect weather for desert exploration, wildflowers blooming, not yet blazing hot, and national parks at their best.
Summer Weekend (June-August)
Winner: Mirror Lake Highway
Escape the heat with alpine scenery, wildflower meadows, pristine lakes, and cool mountain air.
Fall Weekend (September-October)
Winner: Logan Canyon
Spectacular fall colors, perfect temperatures, gorgeous scenic drives, and fewer crowds than summer.
Beyond the Weekend: Making the Most of Utah
These 12 weekend getaways represent just a fraction of what Utah offers. Once you’ve explored them:
Go Deeper:
- Spend longer at favorite destinations
- Explore the backroads and side trips
- Try different seasons at the same location
- Venture into more remote wilderness
Connect Locally:
- Talk to locals for hidden recommendations
- Support small businesses and local restaurants
- Learn about the history and culture
- Respect the land and practice Leave No Trace
Share Responsibly:
- Post thoughtfully on social media
- Respect capacity limits at popular spots
- Consider keeping your favorite secret spots somewhat secret
- Encourage others to travel respectfully
Conclusion: Your Utah Weekend Awaits
Salt Lake City’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Utah’s incredible diversity. Within just a few hours, you can go from city life to desert canyons, alpine lakes, world-class ski resorts, or peaceful small towns.
Whether you have a free weekend every month or just a few times per year, these 12 destinations offer experiences ranging from relaxing retreats to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Each provides an antidote to everyday routines and a reminder of why Utah is such a special place to live or visit.
The hardest part isn’t finding an amazing weekend getaway from Salt Lake City—it’s choosing which incredible option to try first. Start with destinations that match your current season and interests, then work through the list. Before you know it, you’ll have explored Utah like a true local.
Your next weekend adventure is calling. Where will you go?
Ready for more Utah adventure? Explore our other guides:
- “Utah National Parks Road Trip: The Ultimate 10-Day Itinerary”
- “Best Hot Springs in Utah: A Complete Soaking Guide”
- “Utah Camping Guide: From RV Parks to Wilderness Backpacking”
Last Updated: October 2025
What’s your favorite weekend getaway from Salt Lake City? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!