Spring is the perfect time to break free from routine and explore Utah’s incredible landscapes. The snow is melting, wildflowers are blooming, and the moderate temperatures make outdoor adventures even more enjoyable.
Whether you're looking for scenic drives, wildlife encounters, or colorful flower fields, these six destinations—all within a two-hour drive of Salt Lake—offer the perfect excuse to play hooky for a day.
1. Antelope Island State Park
If you want to escape into nature without going too far, Antelope Island State Park is the spot. Located in the Great Salt Lake, this island is home to free-roaming bison, antelope, and other wildlife, making it a fantastic place for photography and wildlife spotting.
- Hike to Buffalo Point for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Take a scenic drive through the island and stop at various lookout points.
- Visit the historic Fielding Garr Ranch to learn about the island’s early settlers.
Spring is the ideal time to visit before the summer heat sets in, and the island's sunsets are some of the best in Utah.
2. Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point
For a burst of color and springtime cheer, head to the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. This annual event features hundreds of thousands of tulips imported from Holland, creating a breathtaking display of blooms.
- Stroll through themed gardens filled with vibrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
- Enjoy live music, food vendors, and special weekend events.
- Bring a camera—this festival is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Utah during spring.
The festival runs from April 9 to May 17, so plan your visit accordingly!
3. Timpanogos Cave National Monument
If you’re up for a little adventure, Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a must-visit. The hike to the cave is short but steep, leading to a series of stunning underground formations.
- Take a guided cave tour to see stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.
- Hike the 1.5-mile trail to the cave entrance, which offers stunning views of American Fork Canyon.
- Enjoy the cool temperatures inside the cave, making it a refreshing outing on a warm spring day.
Since the cave is only open seasonally, spring is the perfect time to visit before summer crowds arrive.
4. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
If a relaxing scenic drive is more your style, take a trip along Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. This stunning mountain road winds through forests, alpine meadows, and lakes, making it one of the best springtime drives in Utah.
- Stop at Mirror Lake, one of Utah’s most beautiful alpine lakes, for a picnic or a short hike.
- Enjoy fishing, camping, or simply soaking in the fresh mountain air.
- The road may still have snow at higher elevations, so check conditions before heading out.
Spring is when the road starts to open up after winter closures, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery near Salt Lake.
5. Silver Lake at Brighton
If you want an easy, peaceful nature walk, Silver Lake at Brighton is a fantastic choice. Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this lake is surrounded by forests and towering peaks, creating a picture-perfect spring destination.
Spring at Silver Lake offers a beautiful retreat from city life as the lake begins to thaw. Enjoy the quieter atmosphere before summer crowds by walking the flat, one-mile loop around the lake, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and spot wildflowers, moose, and other wildlife emerging after winter.
6. Mount Timpanogos Wilderness
For those looking for a more challenging spring adventure, head to the Mount Timpanogos Wilderness. This area offers incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows.
- Hike Stewart Falls, a moderate trail that leads to a beautiful two-tiered waterfall.
- If you’re feeling ambitious, try the Aspen Grove Trail for stunning valley views and alpine landscapes.
- Spring is when the wildflowers start blooming, creating vibrant scenery throughout the area.
While the full Mount Timpanogos summit hike is best saved for summer, spring is the perfect time to explore the lower-elevation trails.
Plan Your Next Springtime Escape
No matter what kind of adventure you’re craving, Salt Lake County’s backyard is packed with incredible places to explore. Whether you want wildlife, waterfalls, wildflowers, or just a scenic drive, spring is the perfect season to sneak away for a day and soak it all in. So grab your gear, hit the road, and make the most of Utah’s breathtaking spring landscapes!
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