Salt Lake City Mysteries of Great Salt Lake Tour by City Sights

Read the full experience

The Great Salt Lake, standing as the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, offers a surreal landscape just a short drive from downtown Salt Lake City. City Sights - Salt Lake City Tours takes visitors on a 50-mile journey into this otherworldly environment, revealing its unique geology, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. As the tour begins, guests find themselves floating effortlessly in the lake’s hypersaline waters, understanding firsthand why it's famous for the buoyancy that makes it unlike any other body of water. The tour weaves through migratory bird wetlands—an important stopover for species like avocets, pelicans, and herons—providing chances to spot these feathered visitors in their natural habitat. A highlight is the story of the historic Saltair resort, once the epitome of the Roaring Twenties, which now stands as a nostalgic relic along the shoreline. Guests may also catch a glimpse of the lake’s unusual residents—like live sea monkeys—adding an unexpected twist to the experience. The guide shares insights about the lake’s formation, its ecological significance, and ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this fragile ecosystem. City Sights’ tour is accessible and engaging, making it a perfect outing for travelers seeking a mix of education and adventure. It’s an immersive way to understand why the Great Salt Lake is a focal point for local natural history and outdoor recreation. The experience is as much about discovery as it is about appreciating a landscape that continues to surprise with its stark beauty and vibrant life. Ideal for visitors staying in Salt Lake City who want a one-of-a-kind adventure, this tour combines stunning views, wildlife encounters, and an insight into regional history—all in a single, unforgettable outing. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just looking to experience something truly different, City Sights’ Great Salt Lake tour offers a dynamic look at one of Utah’s most remarkable natural landmarks.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2–3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; good walking and standing ability recommended

Frequently asked questions

Can I swim in the Great Salt Lake?

While the lake is buoyant and passively safe for swimming, it’s often advised to rinse off afterwards due to the high salt content and mineral deposits.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be supervised at all times around water and outdoor areas.

What should I wear for the tour?

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and waterproof footwear are recommended.

Are there restrooms during the tour?

Facilities are available at the tour start and end points; plan accordingly for your comfort during the outing.

Will we see sea monkeys?

Yes, the tour includes a chance to observe live sea monkeys in specialized tanks, an unusual feature that adds a fun scientific element.

Is there any environmental impact I should be aware of?

City Sights emphasizes sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal impact on the wetlands and wildlife during the tour.

Local insights

Wildlife

American Avocets
Pied-billed Grebes

History

The lake has supported local indigenous communities for centuries and played a vital role during the early settlement period for salt extraction and transportation.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to protect the wetlands and shorebird habitats from pollution and overuse, preserving the lake’s natural beauty.

About City Sights - Salt Lake City Tours

City Sights - Salt Lake City Tours offers a range of guided sightseeing experiences in Salt Lake City and nearby attractions. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the company operates tours that showcase natural landmarks, historic sites, and industrial marvels across the region. Signature experiences include the Mysteries of Great Salt Lake Tour, a 50-mile adventure around the saltiest lake in the western hemisphere that highlights floating on the lake, migratory bird wetlands, and the history of the Saltair resort. The ULTIMATE Salt Lake City Tour is a 2.5-hour route covering Temple Square, Capitol Hill, Brigham Young’s estate, the largest genealogy library, and the Pony Express Monument. The Trolley Adventure delivers a 2-hour sightseeing ride aboard a replica trolley visiting Temple Square and the State Capitol with complimentary old-fashioned treats. The Tabernacle Choir + Salt Lake City Tour combines city highlights with opportunities to experience the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Pioneer Heritage State Park. The World’s Largest Copper Mine excursion travels 3.5 to 4 hours to the Kennecott Utah Copper Mine to view open-pit mining operations and mountain scenery. Each outing emphasizes clear itineraries and notable photo opportunities at landmarks such as Temple Square, Capitol Hill, Saltair, and Kennecott. Tour descriptions include practical details like durations and featured stops to help visitors choose the right experience. For travelers seeking organized sightseeing in Salt Lake City, City Sights - Salt Lake City Tours presents a focused set of options covering history, nature, and industry. Full itineraries and meeting details appear on tour pages.

Base locationSalt Lake CIty, Utah

Tours offered5+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Wear waterproof footwearThe hypersaline water can be sticky; waterproof shoes help keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Bring binocularsA pair of binoculars enhances bird-watching opportunities during the wetlands stopover.

Apply sun protectionThe open lakeside environment offers little shade, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended.

Carry a camera with zoomCapture distant birds or historic sights with a good zoom lens for memorable photos.

Recommended gear

Sunscreen: Protect your skin during daytime exposure on the lake and wetlands.
Hats and sunglasses: Shield yourself from direct sunlight while enjoying outdoor surroundings.
Water-resistant clothing: Stay comfortable during water-based activities and variable weather conditions.
Binoculars: Enhance birdwatching and wildlife viewing with a good pair of binoculars.