Things to do Skiing Restaurants Places to Stay Plan Events
Subscribe
Subscribe

3-Day Summer Outdoor Adventure in Salt Lake

This 3-day Salt Lake City summer itinerary is ideal for travelers who want mountain hikes, scenic viewpoints, and standout local dining in one long weekend. You’ll explore Little Cottonwood Canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and Antelope Island, with time for rooftop drinks, brunch, and sunset views in the city. Updated for 2026, this guide is designed to help you make the most of Salt Lake’s outdoor access without sacrificing great places to eat. 

Quick Facts

Best for: Active travelers, hikers, couples, and summer weekend visitors
Duration: 3 days / 2-3 nights
Best time of year: Late June through early September for hiking, alpine scenery, and Great Salt Lake access
Getting around: Car recommended for canyon access and Antelope Island; downtown is easy to explore between activities
Insider tip: Start canyon hikes early to avoid afternoon heat and summer parking pressure at popular trailheads.

 

Day 1: Alpine Hiking, Tram Views, and Downtown Dining

Combine mountain breakfast with a scenic hike in Little Cottonwood Canyon, lunch at elevation, and an aerial tram ride before dinner downtown.

Morning: Breakfast and a Hike in Little Cottonwood Canyon

Start with breakfast at Eggs in the City—a dependable breakfast stop in Millcreek—before heading into Little Cottonwood Canyon for a half-day hike in areas like Albion Basin or Cecret Lake. This morning pairs a convenient pre-trail meal with one of the easiest ways to access alpine scenery, wildflowers, and cooler summer temperatures close to Salt Lake City.

  • What it is: Breakfast at a reliable Salt Lake spot followed by hiking at one of the many Little Cottonwood Canyon trail options.
  • Why it’s worth it: a scenic and practical start to the trip, combining a satisfying breakfast with quick access to classic summer mountain landscapes.
  • Time needed: 3-5 hours, depending on breakfast pace and trail choice

Afternoon: Lunch and Tram Views at Snowbird

Stay in Little Cottonwood as you head to Snowbird for lunch at The Summit and a ride on the aerial tram to Hidden Peak. Together, these experiences turn the middle of the day into a high-alpine sightseeing block, letting you enjoy Little Cottonwood Canyon from above without adding another major hike.

  • What it is: Scenic aerial tram ride to the top of Hidden Peak at Snowbird combined with lunch at The Summit, the restaurant at the top.
  • Why it’s worth it: Enjoy iconic mountain views on your way up to lunch. You can add a hike down, or take the tram for a less strenuous option.
  • Time needed: 2–3 hours
  • Insiders tip: kick it up a notch by getting a Rooftop Balcony Add-on to your tram ticket

Dinner: Downtown Dinner at Franklin Ave

After a full day of adventure in Little Cottonwood Canyon return downtown to close out the day with a more polished city atmosphere with dinner at Franklin Ave. There you'll find classic elegance and modern flavor in the heart of downtown. This stylish spot serves up elevated comfort food like short rib stroganoff, buttermilk fried chicken, and miso-glazed salmon, all perfectly paired with craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. 

  • What it is: A downtown dinner stop with cocktails and a more refined meal setting
  • Why it’s worth it: balances the day by shifting from outdoor adventure to a comfortable, lively evening in the city.
  • Time needed: 2 hours

Day 1 Tips:

  • Pack water and snacks for the morning hike
  • Go early to avoid canyon traffic
  • Check the tram schedule ahead of time 
  • Make reservations at Franklin Ave to ensure a smooth close to the day

Day 2: Big Cottonwood Trails and Rooftop Views

Enjoy another iconic Salt Lake canyon adventure combined with city vibes.

Morning: Lake Blanche in Big Cottonwood Canyon 

Start the day with breakfast near downtown at Oasis Cafe before heading up Big Cottonwood Canyon for the Lake Blanche hike. This hike is the most ambitious stretch of the itinerary, built for travelers who want a more challenging trail and a bigger alpine payoff. If you're looking for something a little more accessible, opt for the Silver Lake Boardwalk combined with a scenic drive of the canyon.

  • What it is: the crown jewel of Big Cottonwood Canyon, tucked beneath towering peaks that could make the Swiss Alps jealous. Lake Blanche's 5.6 mile trail climbs 2,700 feet through the Twin Peaks Wilderness to deliver one of the Wasatch Range's most photographed views.
  • Why it’s worth it: The view and sense of accomplishment cannot be beat
  • Time needed: 5-7 hours depending on your hiking pace
  • Insider's tip: pack a lunch or heavy snacks to eat, you'll need it for this high-altitude trail

Afternoon: Add a waterfall stop at Donut Falls

Add a short stop at Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon as a lower-effort follow-up hike or as an optional scenic break before heading back downtown. This short hike leads to a unique spot where water cascades through a hole in the rock, creating a donut-like effect. It's a short, easy walk to reach the falls.

  • What it is: 1.4 mile hike to scenic waterfall 
  • Why it’s worth it: Adds an additional adventure to your afternoon, but can be skipped if the morning adventure was enough.
  • Time needed: 1-2 hours depending on your hiking pace

Evening: Rooftop Drinks and Views at Van Ryder

Finish your second day of exploration with a gorgeous view of the Wasatch Mountains from the rooftop patio at Van Ryder, perched atop the Le Méridien in downtown Salt Lake City. This stylish rooftop bar and lounge offers a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a big day. 

  • What it is: A rooftop evening stop for drinks, light bites, or dinner with skyline and mountain views.
  • Why it’s worth it: an easy city ending that feels elevated with iconic city views to match the mornings mountain scenery
  • Time needed: 1-2 hours

Day 2 Tips:

  • Pick up a picnic lunch to take with you on the hike
  • Bring water and sunscreen to match the high elevation sun exposure and our dry climate
  • Check sunset times to catch a rooftop picture perfect end to the day

Day 3: Great Salt Lake and Wildlife at a Relaxed Pace

Wrap up your trip with easy outdoor access and downtown experiences. If two big adventure days in a row is overwhelming, swap day 2 and 3 to give yourself a break in the middle.

Morning: Leisurely Brunch before travel to the Great Salt Lake

A slower brunch in the Marmalade neighborhood eases the pace after two very active days. Before heading for the Great Salt Lake take time to enjoy one of Salt Lake City’s historic residential areas.

  • What it is: Marmalade Brunch House, a chic spot in Salt Lake City's Marmalade district. Known for its trendy American classics and French-inspired delicacies.
  • Why it’s worth it: vibrant atmosphere perfect for any brunch enthusiast. Try the Crème Brûlée French Toast, Blueberry & Lemon Curd Pancakes, and the Brie Bacon Jam Burger.
  • Time needed: 1–1.5 hours

Afternoon: Wildlife and Views at Antelope Island 

Drive from downtown Salt Lake and suddenly you're watching 700-pound bison roam free against the shimmering backdrop of the Great Salt Lake, a stark contrast to the canyon adventures of the past couple days. Antelope Island isn't playing around – it delivers the kind of wilderness you'd normally drive hours to find. Hike the Frary Peak Trail for panoramic views, or stick to the smooth shoreline paths for up close adventures with the Great Salt Lake. 

  • What it is: an adventure on North America's largest salt lake to explore the wildlife and unique scenery.
  • Why it’s worth it: an experience you cannot have anywhere else
  • Time needed: 5-6 hours

Evening: Neighborhood Dinner and a Sugar House Sunset

Return to Salt Lake City for dinner in Central 9th or Granary, then finish with either a relaxed stop at Sugar House Park. This evening gives you a flexible close to the trip, whether you want a neighborhood dinner, sunset views, or one last casual city stop.

  • What it is: an open evening to explore the tastes of Salt Lake and then grab some mountain views at sunset in the park
  • Why it’s worth it: time to slow down and check out that restaurant you heard about
  • Time needed: 1-3 hours

Day 3 Tips:

  • If you want to float in the Great Salt Lake, there are showers to rinse off the salt
  • Find some great local restaurant favorites in Central City or Sugar House

Pro Tips for Your Salt Lake Summer Adventure

Best Season: Summer is ideal for this itinerary, especially from late June through early September when canyon trails are accessible and alpine wildflowers are common. Temperatures in the mountains are typically 10-20 degrees cooler than the valley.

Getting Around: A car is the easiest way to reach Little Cottonwood Canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and Antelope Island. Plus a car makes downtown dining stops simple to pair with canyon days.

Water is key: Stay hydrated! That means bring water bottles with you. It may not seem like it but the dry mountain air can dehydrate you quickly.

Book ahead​: Reserve popular dinner spots in advance, and check tram operations or trail conditions before heading into the canyons.

Accessibility: Downtown options and most of the city stops are accessible, however hiking portions will vary widely in difficulty and terrain.

More Trip Ideas

Questions for Planning Your Visit

Is 3 days enough for Salt Lake City in summer?

Yes, 3 days is enough time to experience Salt Lake City’s outdoor side if you focus on a few key areas. This itinerary covers two major canyon regions, a Great Salt Lake day, and several standout dining stops without trying to do everything at once. Add another day or two if you want to include other areas for adventure.

Do you need a car for this Salt Lake City summer itinerary?

Yes, a car is recommended for this itinerary because the main hiking areas and Antelope Island are outside the downtown core. You can explore parts of central Salt Lake without a car, but driving makes the full 3-day route much more practical.

What is the best time for hiking in Salt Lake in summer?

Starting a hike in early morning is usually the best time to hike near Salt Lake City in summer. This helps you avoid the hottest part of the day, improves parking availability at trailheads, and often gives you calmer weather conditions in the canyons.

Is Antelope Island worth visiting on a short Salt Lake trip?

Yes, Antelope Island is a distinctive outdoor destination in North America that gives you unparalleled views of the Great Salt Lake. It is worth the drive if you want open landscapes, wildlife, and lake views. It adds a very different experience from the mountain canyons, which helps round out a short summer visit.

What should I pack for a summer outdoor weekend in Salt Lake City?

Pack breathable hiking clothes, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and sturdy shoes with good traction. Even in summer, it is smart to bring an extra layer for higher elevations and a small daypack for trail snacks and essentials.

Dynamic Variation:
AB Variation:

Events

Explore the exciting events, concerts, festivals, and more happening here.

Newsletter Sign Up

Stay up to date by subscribing to one of our Newsletters.

Experience Marketplace

Discover deals and tours for Salt Lake's best attractions and things to do!
Go to Visit Salt Lake Home Page

90 South West Temple
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
801.534.4900 | 800.541.4955

© 2026 Visit Salt Lake

Made by Simpleview

Text logo for Utah. Words say Utah Life Elevated

Delta

USA logo with VisitTheUSA.com