Salt Lake City: Great Salt Lake Guided Tour

Discover the captivating wonders of the Great Salt Lake on this guided tour departing from the heart of Salt Lake City. Uncover the lake’s unique ecosystems, historic attractions, and diverse wildlife as you embark on a two-hour adventure led by knowledgeable guides. From the stunning observation deck, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the lake’s fascinating geology and its importance as a migratory bird haven. With personalized attention and a limited group size, this tour promises an immersive experience that will leave you intrigued and eager to explore further the remarkable natural wonder that is the Great Salt Lake.

Key Points

• Guided 2-hour tour of the Great Salt Lake State Park, known as the "Dead Sea" of America, with access to Saltair Beach Resort and migratory bird wetlands.
• Opportunity to observe unique wildlife, including brine shrimp and antelope, and learn about the lake’s high salinity and geological features.
• Tour departs from Radisson Downtown Hotel, with limited group size of 13 for personalized attention and optional swimming.
• Scenic observation deck offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Rocky Mountains, ideal for capturing breathtaking photographs.
• Educational experience covering the lake’s formation, ecosystem, and scientific insights, led by knowledgeable guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

Departing from the Radisson Downtown Hotel, the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour takes participants on a captivating 2-hour exploration of this unique natural wonder.

Priced at $69.99 per person, the tour accommodates a limited group of 13 visitors, ensuring personalized attention from the live English-speaking guide.

With an optional swimming opportunity, the tour also includes access to the Visitor Center’s educational exhibits and a gift shop.

Suitable for all ages and abilities, the tour offers breathtaking views from the scenic observation deck and the chance to witness the lake’s diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and antelope.

Flexible booking and a generous 24-hour cancellation policy add to the convenience of this immersive Salt Lake City experience.

Key Attractions

The Great Salt Lake State Park and Marina provide the perfect gateway to exploring this unique natural wonder.

Visitors can marvel at the saltiest lake in the western hemisphere, known as America’s Dead Sea. The historic Saltair Beach Resort, once dubbed the "Coney Island of the West," offers a glimpse into the lake’s past.

Millions of migratory birds of over 250 species visit the nearby wetlands annually, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of antelope roaming the open plains.

The observation deck offers a scenic overlook of the lake, islands, and Rocky Mountains, perfect for capturing breathtaking photographs.

Saltair Beach Resort

Situated along the shores of the Great Salt Lake, the historic Saltair Beach Resort once stood as a grand and ambitious project, known as the "Coney Island of the West."

Constructed by the Mormon Church in the late 19th century, the resort’s iconic pavilion and amusement park drew crowds of visitors seeking respite from the desert heat and a chance to experience the unique, therapeutic waters of the saline lake.

Although the original resort was destroyed by fire in the mid-20th century, a smaller-scale version was later rebuilt, continuing to offer visitors a chance to appreciate the stunning natural beauty and fascinating history of the Great Salt Lake.

Migratory Bird Wetlands

The Great Salt Lake’s migratory bird wetlands are a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting several million birds of over 250 species annually.

These wetlands provide a critical stopover for migratory birds, offering abundant food sources and sheltered habitats.

From dazzling American avocets to vibrant ruddy ducks, visitors can spot a diverse array of waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds.

The guided tour allows guests to observe these feathered visitors up close, learning about their unique adaptations and the lake’s role in sustaining their populations.

Whether you’re an avid birder or a nature enthusiast, the migratory bird wetlands promise an unforgettable experience amidst the awe-inspiring surroundings of the Great Salt Lake.

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Observation Deck

From the migratory bird wetlands, the tour’s observation deck offers a stunning vantage point to soak in the grandeur of the Great Salt Lake.

This scenic overlook provides panoramic views of the lake, its islands, and the majestic Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Visitors can:

1. Snap breathtaking photographs of the serene, crystal-like waters.
2. Observe the unique geological features that contribute to the lake’s exceptional salinity.
3. Identify the diverse array of migratory birds soaring above the wetlands.
4. Appreciate the sheer scale and natural beauty of this remarkable inland sea.

Situated atop a gentle rise, the observation deck allows guests to fully enjoy the awe-inspiring landscape of the Great Salt Lake.

Scientific Insights

Visitors on the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour gain unique scientific insights into the exceptional salinity of this inland sea. The lake’s salinity is up to ten times higher than the ocean, making it the saltiest lake in the western hemisphere.

This extreme salt concentration supports a unique ecosystem, with brine shrimp, also known as "sea monkeys," as the lake’s only inhabitants. Tour guides share fascinating details about the lake’s formation and evolution, explaining how the high salinity is a result of the lake’s endorheic basin and the evaporation of its waters.

Exploring this one-of-a-kind environment provides an engaging educational experience for all participants.

Unique Wildlife

One of the highlights of the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour is the opportunity to interact with the lake’s unique wildlife. Visitors can catch a live sea monkey, the only creature that can survive in the hypersaline waters. These tiny brine shrimp aren’t only fascinating to observe, but also offer a glimpse into the lake’s incredible adaptability.

The tour also provides chances to:

1. Spot antelope roaming the open plains surrounding the lake.
2. Observe several million migratory birds of over 250 species visiting the lake annually.
3. Learn about the lake’s extreme salinity, which is up to ten times saltier than the ocean.
4. Understand how this unique ecosystem supports a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Important Information

Accessing the Great Salt Lake Guided Tour begins at the curbside in front of the Radisson Downtown Hotel, where participants should arrive 10-15 minutes before the tour’s start.

Parking is available in the paid lot across the street at 40 John Stockton Drive.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, baby strollers, or large bags, it’s suitable for all ages and abilities, with minimal walking required.

Those interested in swimming can bring a towel and a change of clothes.

The tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, and participants are advised to leave large bags behind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour doesn’t include any meal or snacks, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Bringing a water bottle is recommended to stay hydrated during the 2-hour experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. However, if you plan to swim, you’ll need to bring a towel and a change of clothes. The tour is suitable for all ages and abilities, with minimal walking required.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as there is minimal walking required. However, it is suitable for all ages and abilities, provided attendees can navigate small distances on their own.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration is fixed at 2 hours and can’t be extended. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, but it’s suitable for most ages and abilities with minimal walking required.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals. However, the standard price of $69.99 per person represents good value for the 2-hour guided experience that includes insights into the fascinating Great Salt Lake ecosystem.

Recap

The Great Salt Lake Guided Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the natural wonders of Salt Lake City. Visitors can explore the historic Saltair Beach Resort, observe diverse migratory birds, and gain insights into the lake’s unique geology and wildlife. With stunning views from the observation deck, this two-hour adventure provides a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the breathtaking beauty of America’s Dead Sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: