Salt Lake City is more than its stunning skyline and mountainous backdrop; it’s a city brimming with green spaces, serene gardens, and vibrant parks that cater to every type of outdoor enthusiast.
From sprawling picnic areas to challenging hiking trails, there’s something here for families, solo adventurers, and anyone looking to escape the urban hustle.
During my time in Salt Lake City, I explored numerous parks, gardens, and recreational areas, soaking in the crisp mountain air, interacting with locals, and discovering hidden gems that most tourists miss. Below, I’ll detail three parks I personally visited, along with three additional recommended spots, sharing my experiences, insider tips, and honest insights on facilities, accessibility, and activities.
- Liberty Park
Location: 600 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Distance from Airport: Approximately 13 miles from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), around a 25-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: TRAX Green Line to the 900 S & 600 E stop, then a 5-minute walk.
Liberty Park is arguably the crown jewel of Salt Lake City’s park system. Spanning over 80 acres, this park is a favorite among locals and offers a mix of open grassy areas, shaded picnic spots, a small pond, and even a few playgrounds.
My Personal Experience
I arrived on a sunny Saturday morning, drawn by the thought of a relaxing picnic. The park’s tree-lined paths immediately gave me a sense of tranquility. I found a spot near the pond, where ducks and geese were gliding across the water. For my picnic, I brought a small basket with local snacks, including fresh pastries from nearby Eva Bakery—a tip I always recommend for visitors seeking authentic Salt Lake flavors.
One of my favorite activities at Liberty Park was strolling along the Red Butte Creek Trail, which runs through part of the park. The soft murmur of the creek and the occasional chirping of birds made the walk feel almost meditative. I also stopped by the Liberty Park Community Center, where friendly staff offered maps and advice on hidden corners of the park.
Recommended Activities
• Picnicking: Plenty of shaded tables, or lay a blanket on the wide lawns. I highly recommend the areas near the pond for a scenic meal.
• Recreational Sports: Volleyball courts, tennis courts, and open fields for soccer or frisbee.
• Children’s Play Areas: A modern playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Large and diverse, well-maintained, easily accessible, free parking.
Cons: Can get crowded on weekends; some picnic areas require early arrival to secure a prime spot.
Recommendation: 5/5 for families, solo picnickers, and anyone seeking a peaceful morning or afternoon outdoors. - Sugarhouse Park
Location: 1330 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Distance from Airport: About 15 miles from SLC, roughly a 30-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: TRAX Blue Line to 2100 S & 1300 E, followed by a 10-minute walk.
Sugarhouse Park is slightly smaller than Liberty Park but offers a more hilly, dynamic terrain, ideal for light hiking, running, and panoramic city views.
My Personal Experience
I visited Sugarhouse Park mid-afternoon, aiming to catch some sun while exploring the trails. The rolling hills made for an invigorating walk, and I loved watching families flying kites and students studying under the shade of large oak trees. One of my highlights was visiting the dog-friendly areas, where happy pups romped freely—a perfect spot if you’re traveling with pets.
I also brought my camera to capture the view of downtown Salt Lake City from the top of the park. On clear days, the Wasatch Mountains rise dramatically behind the cityscape, creating one of the most stunning natural backdrops I’ve seen in an urban park.
Recommended Activities
• Hiking & Walking: Gentle trails with varying elevation for a light workout.
• Picnics: Plenty of grassy areas with benches; the upper hilltop areas are ideal for sunset viewing.
• Community Events: Outdoor yoga, seasonal concerts, and occasional farmer’s markets.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Panoramic views, moderate trails, less crowded than Liberty Park.
Cons: Fewer picnic tables; not ideal if you need immediate rest spots.
Recommendation: 4.5/5 for couples, photographers, and light hikers. - Red Butte Garden
Location: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Distance from Airport: 13 miles, around a 25-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: TRAX Green Line to Fort Douglas, then a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride.
Entry Fee: Adults $15, Seniors $12, Children 3–17 $8
Red Butte Garden is more than just a park; it’s a botanical oasis perched against the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains. With themed gardens, walking trails, and seasonal exhibitions, this destination is perfect for anyone seeking tranquility and floral beauty.
My Personal Experience
Stepping into Red Butte Garden felt like entering a different world. I was immediately captivated by the Rose Garden, bursting with vibrant reds, pinks, and yellows. My favorite moment was wandering through the Fragrance Garden, where the scent of lavender and jasmine was intoxicating. I also loved the rock gardens, which showcase native Utah plants and xeriscaping techniques—a beautiful combination of education and art.
For lunch, I enjoyed a light meal at the garden’s café, which offered fresh sandwiches and local beverages. I highly recommend checking the seasonal events calendar, as I attended a weekend jazz concert outdoors that elevated the visit from peaceful to magical.
Recommended Activities
• Botanical Exploration: Guided tours of themed gardens, including medicinal plants and desert flora.
• Hiking Trails: Paths connecting gardens to scenic overlooks of the valley.
• Family Activities: Hands-on gardening workshops and children’s discovery zones.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Immersive gardens, well-maintained, educational, peaceful.
Cons: Entry fee required, parking can be limited during special events.
Recommendation: 5/5 for nature lovers, photographers, and families with older kids.
Recommended Parks and Gardens for Additional Exploration
While the three parks above were personal favorites, Salt Lake City has many more options that offer diverse outdoor experiences:
- City and County Building Park (Civic Center Area)
Location: 451 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Distance from Airport: About 13 miles from SLC, roughly a 25-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: TRAX Blue Line to City Center station, then a 5-minute walk.
Entry Fee: Free
City and County Building Park, often overlooked by tourists, sits in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. This small urban oasis is perfect for a quick stroll, people-watching, or a lunch break picnic between sightseeing adventures.
My Personal Experience
I arrived here one early morning before heading to the Salt Lake City Public Library. The park’s classic fountains and statues immediately caught my attention, particularly the statue of Brigham Young, which stands proudly amidst manicured gardens. I laid out a small picnic with a takeaway croissant and coffee from a nearby café.
One of my favorite aspects of this park is the proximity to cultural landmarks. Within a short walk, I could explore historical buildings, local galleries, and even catch street performers on weekends. For photographers, the architectural backdrop combined with the greenery makes for stunning shots.
Recommended Activities
• Picnicking: Ideal for a brief rest during downtown exploration. Benches and lawns are plentiful.
• Photography: Historic statues, fountains, and seasonal flowers provide great photo opportunities.
• Cultural Walks: Pair your visit with a walk around the Civic Center, including the City & County Building and nearby art galleries.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Centrally located, free, excellent for short visits, peaceful despite downtown location.
Cons: Not suitable for long hikes or large family gatherings; limited play areas for kids.
Recommendation: 4/5 for urban explorers, photographers, and travelers wanting a convenient pit stop in downtown SLC. - Liberty Reservoir Trails (Near Mill Creek Canyon)
Location: 3750 S Mill Creek Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Distance from Airport: Around 20 miles, approximately a 35-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: Best accessed by car; parking available at trailheads.
Entry Fee: Free
For those craving serious outdoor adventure, Liberty Reservoir and the surrounding trails in Mill Creek Canyon are a true gem. I visited during early summer, and the lush green landscape, combined with the glimmering water of the reservoir, made it feel like stepping into a nature documentary.
My Personal Experience
I parked near the main trailhead and set off on a moderate hike around the reservoir. The Mill Creek Canyon Trail offers varying levels of difficulty, with some steep climbs rewarded by sweeping vistas of the valley below. Along the way, I spotted herons and ducks in the water, and even a family of deer grazing in a distant meadow—a magical encounter that made the hike unforgettable.
For families, I recommend the gentler walking paths along the reservoir, which are stroller-friendly and allow for picnics with a view. I packed sandwiches and drinks in a small backpack, finding a serene clearing near the water where I could relax and soak in the beauty.
Recommended Activities
• Hiking & Nature Walks: Trails range from easy loops to moderately challenging climbs.
• Fishing: Catch-and-release fishing is allowed; local licenses required.
• Wildlife Spotting: Excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing small mammals.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Stunning natural beauty, relatively uncrowded, great for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Cons: Limited facilities; best reached by car; trails can be muddy after rain.
Recommendation: 5/5 for hikers, families seeking scenic picnics, and anyone wanting a peaceful escape into nature. - Wheeler Historic Farm
Location: 6351 S 900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Distance from Airport: Approximately 15 miles, about a 30-minute drive.
Public Transport Access: Limited public transit; car recommended.
Entry Fee: Free for grounds, small fee for events or pony rides
Wheeler Historic Farm is a working farm and educational destination, offering a unique experience for families and children. I visited on a sunny Saturday, and the farm was bustling with visitors exploring the barns, gardens, and animals.
My Personal Experience
Walking through Wheeler Historic Farm felt like stepping back in time. I fed chickens and visited the barnyard, learning about traditional farming methods and the history of the Salt Lake Valley. The pony rides were a hit with children, and I even joined a small hands-on workshop about planting seasonal vegetables.
One of my favorite moments was tasting freshly baked bread from the farm’s small café, made with ingredients harvested right on-site. The staff were friendly and enthusiastic, happily answering questions about sustainable farming practices.
Recommended Activities
• Animal Encounters: Petting zoo and pony rides for children.
• Gardening Workshops: Hands-on experiences teaching planting and harvesting techniques.
• Seasonal Festivals: Pumpkin patches, harvest festivals, and holiday events.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Educational, family-friendly, interactive, free entry to grounds.
Cons: Requires car for easy access; some activities are seasonal or require small fees.
Recommendation: 5/5 for families, educators, and anyone curious about local agriculture and history.
Insider Tips for Visiting Salt Lake City Parks
- Timing Matters: Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying peaceful walks.
- Parking & Transport: While some parks are accessible by TRAX or bus, many natural areas like Liberty Reservoir and Wheeler Farm are best reached by car. Ride-sharing options are available if you don’t rent a vehicle.
- Picnic Essentials: Bring blankets, reusable utensils, and a small cooler for drinks. Many parks don’t have on-site cafés.
- Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and scenic views. Summer is perfect for water-adjacent parks, but be prepared for occasional heat.
- Family-Friendly Planning: Always check online for special events, workshops, or guided hikes—these are excellent ways to enhance a visit.
