Quick Answer
The best way to get from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Great Salt Lake for most visitors is a combination of public transit and a short taxi/rideshare. Take the UTA TRAX Green Line from the airport to downtown (approx. 20 mins, $2.50), then a rideshare (e.g., Uber) to Great Salt Lake State Park (approx. 30 mins, $25-$35). Total one-way trip takes about 60-75 minutes and costs $30-$40. Renting a car is the most flexible option if visiting multiple sites.
Public Transit: The Most Economical Option
Utah Transit Authority (UTA) offers reliable and affordable service connecting SLC Airport to the city. While there is no direct transit to the lake shore, this method gets you closest before needing a short final leg.
Step-by-Step Guide (Recommended Route)
- Airport to Downtown: From the SLC Airport Terminal, follow signs to the TRAX Green Line station. Board a train heading toward “West Valley Central.” Ride to the “Courthouse Station” (approx. 20 min, $2.50 fare). Trains run every 15-20 minutes. Check UTA schedule here.
- Final Leg to Great Salt Lake: From Courthouse Station, use a rideshare app (Uber/Lyft) or hail a taxi for the remaining 15-mile drive to Great Salt Lake State Park or Antelope Island State Park. This ride takes 25-35 minutes and costs $25-$40.
Alternative: Bus Route
UTA Bus route 453 runs from the airport area but requires more transfers and does not get significantly closer to the lake than the TRAX method. It is less convenient for travelers with luggage.
| Method | Leg 1 (Airport → Downtown) | Leg 2 (Downtown → Lake Park) | Total Est. Time | Total Est. Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TRAX + Rideshare | TRAX Green Line: 20 min, $2.50 | Uber/Lyft: 30 min, $25-$35 | 60-75 min | $28-$38 | Budget travelers, solo/duo travelers |
| Bus + Rideshare | Bus 453: 45+ min, $2.50 | Uber/Lyft: 30 min, $25-$35 | 90+ min | $28-$38 | Extreme budget, no time constraint |
UTA Fares & Passes
Purchase tickets at station kiosks or via the UTA GoRide app. A one-way fare is $2.50. Consider a One-Day Pass ($6.50) if making multiple trips. Transfers between TRAX and buses are free within a 2.5-hour window.
Driving & Car Rental: Ultimate Flexibility
Renting a car at SLC Airport is highly recommended for visitors planning to explore Great Salt Lake, Bonneville Salt Flats, Antelope Island, or multiple Utah national parks in one trip.
Route from SLC Airport to Great Salt Lake State Park
- Distance: Approximately 18-22 miles (depending on lake destination).
- Drive Time: 25-40 minutes (traffic dependent).
- Route: Take I-80 WEST from the airport. Exit at Exit 104 for Great Salt Lake State Park / Saltair. Follow signs.
- To Antelope Island: Continue on I-80 WEST to Exit 335 for Syracuse, then follow signs north to the causeway (approx. 50 miles/1 hour from airport).
Car Rental at SLC Airport
All major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, etc.) have facilities on-site at the Rental Car Center, accessible via a free shuttle from the terminal. Estimated daily rates range from $35-$70/day for an economy car, plus taxes, fees, and fuel. Book in advance for better rates, especially during ski season (Dec-Mar) or summer.
Parking at Great Salt Lake
- Great Salt Lake State Park: Day-use fee is $5 per vehicle (as of 2024).
- Antelope Island State Park: Entry fee is $15 per vehicle.
Traveler Tips & Experience
These practical tips come from firsthand experience and local knowledge to enhance your visit.
Before You Go
- Check Lake Levels & Conditions: Water levels fluctuate. Visit the Utah State Parks website for current conditions. During low water years, the shoreline may recede significantly from marinas.
- Weather & Wind: It can be extremely windy at the lake. Bring layers, a hat, and sunglasses. The smell (brine) can be strong on certain days.
- Footwear: If you plan to wade, wear water shoes. The salt crust can be sharp, and the mud is very sticky.
At the Lake
- Bring Supplies: There are limited services. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray (brine flies are harmless but numerous in summer).
- Photography: Sunrise and sunset over the lake are stunning. For the famous “water mirror” reflections, go when there is no wind.
- Antelope Island vs. State Park: For wildlife viewing (bison, antelope, birds), choose Antelope Island. For quick access, marina views, and the Saltair historic site, choose Great Salt Lake State Park.
- Float in the Lake: The high salinity makes floating easy. Rinse off thoroughly with fresh water afterwards (showers available at State Park for a fee).
FAQs: Getting from SLC Airport to Great Salt Lake
Is there a direct bus from Salt Lake City Airport to Great Salt Lake?
No. There is no direct public transportation route from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to any point on the Great Salt Lake shoreline. The most efficient method using transit involves taking the TRAX light rail to downtown and then a taxi or rideshare for the final 15-20 miles.
What is the cheapest way to get from the airport to the lake?
The absolute cheapest way is to take the UTA bus/TRAX system as far as it goes (approx. $2.50) and then bicycle or walk the remaining distance—though this is impractical for nearly all visitors due to distance and safety. The most realistic cheap option is TRAX + a shared Uber/Lyft, totaling around $30-$40 one-way.
Is it worth renting a car just to visit Great Salt Lake?
If Great Salt Lake is your only destination, a rental car may not be cost-effective for solo travelers compared to a rideshare. However, if you plan to also visit Antelope Island, Bonneville Salt Flats, or nearby parks, or are traveling with a group, renting a car offers significant value, flexibility, and convenience.
Can I take an Uber from SLC Airport to Antelope Island?
Yes, but it is very expensive (often $100+ one-way) and you risk having difficulty finding a driver willing to take the job or for the return trip due to the remote location. It is not recommended. Renting a car or joining a guided tour are better options for visiting Antelope Island.
How long do I need to visit Great Salt Lake?
Plan for 2-4 hours minimum for a visit to Great Salt Lake State Park to walk the shore, take photos, and visit the visitor center. For Antelope Island, plan at least half a day to drive the scenic loop, hike, and view wildlife.
Is the Great Salt Lake safe to swim in?
Yes, it is safe to float and swim, but take precautions: avoid getting the salty water in your eyes or mouth, do not submerge your head, and cover any open cuts with waterproof bandages. Always shower thoroughly with fresh water afterwards to remove the salt, which can irritate skin.
What is the best time of year to visit Great Salt Lake?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures (60-80°F) and fewer bugs. Summer (July-August) can be very hot with large populations of brine flies. Winter is cold and windy but offers stark, beautiful landscapes.
Are there organized tours from the airport to the lake?
There are no standard shuttle tours directly from the airport. However, several local tour companies in Salt Lake City offer half-day or full-day tours to Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island. You would need to get from the airport to your downtown hotel first to join such a tour.