Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Westminster College is by taking the TRAX Green Line light rail to the ‘Historic Gardner Station’ and then transferring to a UTA bus route 213. This public transit option takes about 50-65 minutes and costs only $2.50. For a direct, door-to-door service, a shared-ride shuttle like Canyon Transportation takes about 25-40 minutes and costs approximately $25-$35 per person.
1. Public Transit: TRAX Light Rail & Bus (The Budget Choice)
Salt Lake City boasts an efficient and affordable public transit system (UTA) connecting the airport directly to the city. This is the most economical choice, ideal for solo travelers, students, and those without heavy luggage.
Core Route: SLC Airport Terminal → TRAX Green Line → Historic Gardner Station → Bus 213 → Westminster College.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details
- Find the TRAX Station: Upon baggage claim, follow clear signs to “Ground Transportation” and “TRAX.” The station is located on Level 2 of the parking garage, a 5-10 minute walk via covered walkways.
- Board the Green Line to ‘Historic Gardner’: Ensure you board the Green Line heading toward “West Valley Central.” The ride to Historic Gardner Station takes about 35 minutes. Trains run every 15-20 minutes from approximately 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
- Purchase a Fare: A one-way fare is $2.50. Buy a paper ticket at the vending machine on the platform (cash/credit). The ticket is valid for 2.5 hours, covering your transfer to the bus.
- Transfer to Bus 213: At Historic Gardner Station, cross the platform to the bus bays. Look for Route 213 (Sugar House). Board and take it to the stop at 1700 South & 1300 East (near the Bill & Vieve Gore School of Business). The bus ride is about 10 minutes.
- Walk to Campus: From the bus stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk across 1300 East to the main campus entrance.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Travel Time | 50 - 65 minutes (depending on wait times) |
| Total Cost | $2.50 one-way |
| Best For | Budget travelers, students, light packers, daytime arrivals |
| Luggage Consideration | Manageable with a suitcase & backpack; avoid during peak rush hour. |
2. Airport Shuttles & Shared Rides (Best Door-to-Door Value)
For a balance of convenience and cost, shared-ride shuttles are a top contender. Companies like Canyon Transportation and Express Shuttle offer pre-booked services directly to your address on campus.
How It Works & What to Expect
- Booking: Reservation is required, preferably 24-48 hours in advance. Book online or by phone.
- Pickup: After collecting luggage, call the shuttle company. They will direct you to a specific “Shared Ride” pickup location on the curb outside baggage claim (Door 14 typically).
- The Ride: You may share the van with other passengers heading to nearby destinations. Your drop-off will be the final leg of the route. The driver will assist with luggage.
- Cost Factors: Price is per person, not per vehicle. It’s fixed-rate, so traffic won’t increase your fare.
| Provider | Approx. Cost to Westminster | Travel Time | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canyon Transportation | $28 - $35 | 25 - 40 mins | Local Utah company, reliable service |
| Express Shuttle | $25 - $32 | 25 - 45 mins | Often slightly cheaper, serves all Utah ski resorts |
Deep Dive Analysis: While slightly slower than a direct taxi, shuttles offer significant savings for 1-2 people. They are highly recommended for late-night or early-morning arrivals when public transit isn’t running, as the pre-booked fare provides certainty. For groups of 3+, a private vehicle (taxi/rideshare) often becomes more economical.
4. Renting a Car at SLC Airport
If you plan to explore Utah’s national parks (Arches, Zion) or the ski resorts during your trip, renting a car at SLC is straightforward.
- Rental Campus: All rental car companies are located at the “Rental Car Center.” Take the free “Rental Car Shuttle” from outside baggage claim (clearly marked). The shuttle runs 24/7 and takes about 5-10 minutes.
- Drive to Westminster: The drive is simple: Take I-80 East to I-215 South, then exit at 1300 East. Drive time is 20-25 minutes without traffic.
- Parking at Westminster: This is a critical consideration. Visitor parking is limited and often requires a permit. Contact Westminster College’s Campus Safety department in advance to arrange a temporary parking pass for your rental car.
Bottom Line: Only rent a car if you need it for travels beyond Salt Lake City. For just getting to and from campus and exploring the city center, it’s an unnecessary expense and hassle due to parking.
5. Side-by-Side Comparison: Time, Cost & Convenience
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TRAX & Bus (Public Transit) | 50 - 65 min | $2.50 (Cheapest) | Solo travelers, students, budget focus | Check UTA schedule for late-night arrivals. |
| Shared-Ride Shuttle | 25 - 40 min | $25 - $35 | 1-2 people, door-to-door, good value | Requires advance reservation. |
| Uber / Lyft | 20 - 30 min | $35 - $55+ | Groups, convenience, lots of luggage | Price can surge dramatically. |
| Taxi | 20 - 30 min | $45 - $60+ | Immediate pickup, no app needed | Most expensive standard option. |
| Rental Car | 20 - 25 min (drive) | $40 - $80+/day + parking | Exploring beyond Salt Lake City | Parking on campus is challenging. |
Verdict: For most travelers, the TRAX/Bus combo is the smartest budget choice, while a pre-booked shuttle offers the best balance of ease and cost for door-to-door service.
6. Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip to Westminster
- Download Essential Apps: Before you land, download the “UTA Go” app for real-time transit maps and schedules, and have Uber/Lyft ready.
- Late-Night or Early-Morning Arrival? TRAX does not run 24/7. If your flight lands between 11:30 PM and 5:30 AM, your only realistic options are shuttle (if pre-booked for that time), taxi, or rideshare.
- Winter Travel Alert: Salt Lake City gets snow. While main roads are plowed quickly, transit can see minor delays. Allow extra time and wear appropriate footwear. Shuttles and rideshares are more reliable in fresh snow.
- Wi-Fi & Connectivity: SLC Airport offers free Wi-Fi. Connect to arrange your ride. TRAX trains and stations also have free public Wi-Fi (“#XFINITY”).
- Address for Drivers: Use this specific address for taxi/rideshare/shuttle: “Westminster College, 1840 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.” Specify a building if possible (e.g., the Bill & Vieve Gore School of Business).
FAQs: Getting from SLC Airport to Westminster College
Is there a direct train from SLC Airport to Westminster College?
No, there is no single direct train. The most efficient public transit route requires a transfer: Take the TRAX Green Line light rail from the airport to Historic Gardner Station, then transfer to UTA Bus Route 213 towards Sugar House.
What is the cheapest way to get from SLC to Westminster?
The absolute cheapest way is the UTA public transit combo (TRAX + Bus) for only $2.50 per one-way trip.
How do I get to Westminster College if my flight arrives at midnight?
Since TRAX stops running before midnight, your best options are:
- Pre-book a shared shuttle (like Canyon Transportation) for your specific arrival time.
- Take a taxi from the stand (~$50-60).
- Use Uber or Lyft (expect potential surge pricing late at night).
Is Uber or Lyft cheaper from SLC Airport?
It varies by demand, time of day, and available drivers. Always check both apps before booking. Generally, standard rates are comparable, but one may be significantly cheaper during surge events.
How long is the taxi ride from the airport to Westminster?
The ride typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare on the meter will usually be between $45 and $60, including tip.
Is the TRAX station easy to find at SLC Airport?
Yes, it is very well-signed. From baggage claim, follow the green “Ground Transportation” and “TRAX” signs. You will walk through a covered walkway to Level 2 of the parking garage, where the station is located.
I have a lot of luggage. What is the best option?
With multiple or heavy bags, public transit becomes difficult. Opt for a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare. Shuttles provide assistance and are cost-effective for 1-2 people, while a taxi/rideshare is more convenient for a group that can split the cost.
Should I rent a car just to get to campus?
Generally, no. Unless you plan extensive travel outside Salt Lake City, renting a car is an expensive and inconvenient choice due to daily rental fees, fuel, and the significant challenge of finding visitor parking on Westminster’s campus.