National Car Hire
Utah

After collecting your luggage at Salt Lake City International Airport the process is very straightforward. Simply exit the terminal doors on the ground level and look for the clear signs directing you to “Rental Car Shuttles.” These dedicated shuttles run frequently, even late at night, and take you directly to the separate car hire facility a short ride away. Following the overhead and kerbside signage is the most reliable way to ensure you reach the correct collection point without any confusion.

During the busiest periods of ski season it's sensible to allow a generous amount of time for the whole arrival process. Factor in potential de-icing delays on the tarmac, waits at baggage reclaim, and the shuttle ride to the hire facility. The hire counters themselves can also be very busy. Allowing at least 90 minutes to two hours from touchdown to driving away gives a comfortable buffer and helps start your trip with less stress.

The most direct and least complicated route for a first-time visitor is to take I-80 East. As you leave the airport area, follow the overhead signs clearly marked for I-80 East towards Cheyenne. This route keeps you on a major interstate the whole way, bypassing the more complex downtown Salt Lake City interchanges. You'll remain on I-80 for around 30 miles through Parleys Canyon before taking the obvious exit for Park City, making it a simple and well-signed drive.

After leaving the airport hire facility, a good strategy is to find a large, low-traffic car park before heading into the downtown grid. Consider pulling into a major supermarket or shopping centre car park, such as those a few miles east of the airport off I-80. These spots provide ample space to park for a few minutes without pressure, allowing you to programme your hotel's address into your navigation, adjust mirrors and organise luggage for the final leg of your drive.

For drivers unfamiliar with mountain conditions, Little Cottonwood Canyon (SR-210), the route to Alta and Snowbird, is often seen as the most intimidating. The road is steeper, narrower in places and travels through numerous avalanche paths, which are clearly signposted. Big Cottonwood Canyon (SR-190) also requires careful driving but generally has less severe grades. Parleys Canyon (I-80) to Park City is a major interstate and feels much wider and more manageable by comparison, though it still demands caution in winter weather.

On a powder day or a weekend morning, traffic up Little Cottonwood Canyon can build very early, creating long backups known as the “red snake.” To avoid the worst delays, plan to be at the mouth of the canyon well before the ski lifts open, often by 7:00am or earlier. It's also important to check the Utah Department of Transportation's traffic app before you set off, as the road can be closed temporarily for avalanche control at short notice.

During winter storms Utah authorities enforce traction laws for both Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons to ensure safety. At designated checkpoints officials will verify that vehicles have appropriate tyres or traction devices. Specific requirements vary with conditions, so the key point is to anticipate these checks. Always check the official UDOT Cottonwood Canyons social media or traffic website for the current status before driving up the canyon.

From Midvale or Sandy, accessing Big Cottonwood Canyon is remarkably simple and avoids major freeway interchanges. The most direct route is to take Wasatch Boulevard northbound. This main surface road runs parallel to the mountains and leads you directly to the mouth of the canyon where SR-190 begins. This route lets you bypass the I-15 and I-215 freeways entirely, offering a more scenic and less stressful drive to the resorts.

During weekdays canyon traffic follows a predictable commuter pattern: heavy uphill rush between 7am and 9am and a significant downhill flow from 3pm to 5:30pm. On weekends and holidays the pattern shifts: uphill traffic starts earlier, often before 7am, and can remain heavy into the late morning. The afternoon downhill rush is more spread out too, beginning as early as 2pm and continuing into the evening as skiers leave at different times.

Before you commit to driving up either of the Cottonwood Canyons there are several excellent places to safely pull over and check conditions. Both canyons have large park-and-ride car parks at their base which are perfect for this purpose. Additionally, the commercial areas in Cottonwood Heights and Fort Union have many large shopping centre car parks. These spots allow you to check weather apps, traffic updates and avalanche reports before making the final decision to proceed uphill.

Driving I-80 east from Salt Lake City takes you through Parleys Canyon, a route that demands respect in winter. The drive involves a significant climb to Parleys Summit, and this is where weather conditions can change in an instant. It's common for the Salt Lake Valley to be clear while the summit is experiencing heavy snow and reduced visibility. The interstate is well maintained, but you should be prepared for steep grades, variable weather and potentially slower speeds, especially around the summit area.

The key to navigating the major motorway junctions near the airport is to know your ultimate direction well in advance. Use your GPS and pay close attention to the large overhead signs which provide ample warning for upcoming splits. For example, if you're heading to Park City, focus on signs for I-80 East. If you're heading south toward Provo, look for I-15 South. Getting into your target lane early is the best way to avoid last-minute stressful manoeuvres.

The drive to Antelope Island includes a seven-mile causeway across the Great Salt Lake, which can be very windy. Once on the island the main roads are paved and well maintained, though you should always drive slowly and watch for bison on or near the road. Be prepared for biting gnats, especially in spring and early summer, so bring insect repellent. Facilities are limited, so it's a good idea to have a full tank of fuel and bring water and snacks for the day.

The most convenient and popular parking option for visiting Temple Square is the large underground car park at the City Creek Center, located directly across the street. The entrances are well signposted and accessible from West Temple or South Temple. Navigating downtown Salt Lake City requires attention to one-way streets, which are common in the central business district. Using a GPS will help you approach the car park from the correct direction without trouble.

To avoid event congestion around the Delta Center first check its schedule before you plan to drive downtown. If an event coincides with your plans consider parking several blocks away and enjoying a short walk to your destination. Using alternative east-west routes like 200 South or 400 South can also help you bypass the heaviest traffic, which tends to concentrate on South Temple and 300 West immediately before and after an event.

The simplest strategy for parking at the University of Utah is to follow the prominent blue signs that direct you to “Visitor Parking.” The university has several designated visitor lots and garages, with the Central Garage being one of the most convenient for accessing the heart of campus. Parking in other lots is risky as most are reserved for students and staff with permits and are strictly enforced. Heading directly to a signed visitor area will save time and prevent a potential parking fine.

When a snowstorm hits Salt Lake City, major roads like interstates and state streets are the highest priority for ploughs. Residential side streets will take much longer to be cleared. During heavy snowfall lane markings can become completely obscured, so drive cautiously and follow the tracks of vehicles ahead. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and in shaded areas, as these spots tend to freeze first and stay icy the longest even after the storm has passed.

Sudden high winds are very common on the roads near the Great Salt Lake, particularly on the I-80 causeway west of the city. These winds can create hazardous driving conditions year-round, either by kicking up dust in summer or causing severe ground blizzards and whiteouts in winter. Before heading out toward the salt flats or Wendover it is crucial to check the weather forecast specifically for wind advisories. If high winds are predicted it may be wise to postpone that part of your trip.

For a road trip to Utah's southern national parks, breaking up the drive is a great idea to stay fresh. Towns like Fillmore or Beaver are excellent overnight stops as they are located directly on I-15, roughly halfway through the journey. Staying in one of these towns requires no significant detour, offers a variety of lodging and dining options, and positions you for an easy start the next morning. This allows you to arrive at Zion or Bryce with plenty of daylight to explore.

The most common and direct route to Moab is to take I-15 South to Spanish Fork, then follow US-6 East and I-70 East. While US-6 does travel through some canyon terrain and has two-lane sections, it is the primary and most well-travelled corridor for this journey. It is a major highway used by commercial vehicles and is maintained accordingly. For a first-time visitor, sticking to this standard, well-signed route is far simpler than attempting to navigate alternative backroads.

The primary bottleneck for Arches National Park is the entrance station itself, where lines of cars can back up onto US-191 during peak hours. To avoid the longest waits plan to arrive before 8am or later in the afternoon. If you arrive and see a significant backup, a good strategy is to regroup in Moab. You can visit the Moab Information Centre or find a coffee shop to wait an hour or two until the line subsides, checking the park's official website for updates.

Driving on US-6 from Spanish Fork toward Price involves a mix of road types and requires attentive driving. The route alternates between four-lane dual carriageway and two-lane sections, with frequent passing lanes on uphill grades. You will share the road with a significant amount of lorry traffic, so it's important to maintain a safe following distance. Be particularly mindful of speed limit changes, as they can drop quickly when you enter small towns along the route.

The most popular and safest access point for the Bonneville Salt Flats is the designated rest area off I-80 westbound, located about 10 miles east of Wendover. A paved road leads from the rest stop right to the edge of the salt. A surprising condition for many visitors is moisture; never drive onto the salt flats if the surface is wet or has standing water, as it's easy to get your vehicle stuck in the soft mud beneath the crust. Even when dry, the surface can be uneven, so proceed with caution.

The best way to avoid traffic congestion at the base of Park City's ski resorts is to use the excellent free public transport. Instead of driving directly to the resort, park your car at a large free park-and-ride lot, such as Richardson Flat on the outskirts of town. From there frequent buses will take you directly to the resort's main transit centre. This strategy completely bypasses the stress of navigating crowded drop-off zones and searching for a space in quickly filling resort car parks.

To enjoy both Park City and Salt Lake City in one day, timing your travel is key to avoiding traffic. A good approach is to drive up Parleys Canyon on I-80 to Park City in the mid-morning, after the morning commute has ended around 9:30am. Enjoy your time in the mountains, then plan to drive back down to Salt Lake City either in the early afternoon before 3pm or wait until after the evening rush hour, around 7pm. This schedule helps you miss the heaviest traffic in both directions.

The drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole is scenic but has several potential slowdowns. Expect delays passing through the centre of Logan, Utah, and when navigating smaller towns in Idaho and Wyoming's Star Valley. The final stretch through the Snake River Canyon before Jackson can also be slow, as it's a winding two-lane road. Many travellers take a longer break in Logan for food or in Afton, Wyoming, to see the well-known elk antler arch.

The drive to Sundance begins on US-189 through Provo Canyon, which is a wide, modern highway. The turn-off onto SR-92, the road leading to the resort itself, is where the character changes. This final stretch is a narrower, two-lane scenic byway that winds alongside the river, so it requires more focused driving, especially in winter. There are no major switchbacks, but the road is curvy. The car parks are tiered up the hillside, and the lower lots closest to the base lodge are the first to fill.

For a great day trip with less driving, consider Antelope Island State Park, which is under an hour away and offers the exciting chance to see bison and other wildlife from the car. Another excellent option is Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, about a 30-minute drive south, featuring a dinosaur museum, gardens and interactive exhibits. Both destinations provide a full day's worth of activities and feel like a real adventure without spending hours on the road.

The Sugar House neighbourhood can be quite busy on a weekend evening, with on-street parking very difficult to find. The driving itself is straightforward, but the area is popular and congested. Your best strategy is to avoid hunting for a street spot and head straight for one of the public car parks. There are several large, well-lit multi-storey car parks integrated into the main shopping and entertainment complexes that offer the most reliable and least stressful parking options.

When faced with a downtown hotel that lacks a dedicated loading zone, the most efficient method is a team approach. The driver pulls up as close to the entrance as is safely possible while the passenger quickly gets out with the luggage. The driver can then circle the block while the passenger begins the check-in process. Alternatively, locate the nearest public car park, park temporarily and walk to the hotel together to check in before dealing with long-term parking.

The drive to Ogden on I-15 is generally smooth and straightforward outside peak commuter hours. The main congestion occurs during the morning rush, from about 7:00 to 9:00am, with heavy southbound traffic heading into Salt Lake City. The evening rush, from 4:00 to 6:00pm, sees the reverse pattern with heavy northbound traffic. For the most pleasant drive plan your trip to Ogden during the middle of the day or on a weekend.

The Express Lane on I-15 is located on the far left and is marked with overhead signs and diamonds painted on the carriageway. The key rule is that you may only enter or exit this lane where the solid double white lines become a dashed white line. Crossing the solid lines is prohibited and can result in a fine. Pay close attention to the signage which indicates the access rules and if you are ever in doubt it is safest to remain in the general-purpose lanes.

Several convenient options for a grocery stop exist just a few miles from the airport, avoiding downtown congestion. The commercial areas near the I-215 and the 3500 South exit in West Valley City offer multiple large supermarkets with spacious car parks. Alternatively, heading east on I-80 toward the Foothill or Sugar House neighbourhoods provides access to stores with ample parking that are easy to get in and out of before you continue to your final destination.

A frequent mistake for visitors is getting into the wrong lane for the major I-80, I-15 and I-215 interchanges immediately after leaving the airport area. The splits happen quickly and the signage can be overwhelming. If you realise you've missed your intended exit or are in the wrong lane, the safest way to recover is to continue to the next exit. Do not make a sudden last-second lane change. Simply take the next exit, pull over safely and let your navigation app recalculate a new route.

When planning winter day trips it’s essential to be realistic about drive times and limited daylight. A drive that takes 60 minutes in ideal summer conditions could easily take 90 minutes or more with potential winter weather. Prioritise parks that are closer to the city, such as Antelope Island or Wasatch Mountain State Park. Always start your day as early as possible to maximise sunlight and plan to be heading back toward the city before dusk for the safest travel.

Parleys Canyon on I-80 features a long, steady climb to Parleys Summit, which can slow down lorry traffic and cause congestion in the right-hand lanes. The most significant factor is the potential for rapid weather changes; the summit can have snow and wind while the valley is calm. Slowdowns are common near the top of the summit and at the eastern base of the canyon where traffic merges from the Park City exit. Always be prepared for changing conditions when you enter the canyon.

The best place to wait for arriving passengers is the airport's Park and Wait Lot. This designated area allows you to park for free until your friends have collected their bags and are ready at the passenger pickup curb. Once they call you it’s only a two-minute drive from the lot to the terminal. This method is far less stressful and more efficient than endlessly circling the busy terminal roadways.

For an early-morning flight in winter it's wise to add a significant time buffer for your hire car return. Plan to leave for the airport at least 30 to 45 minutes earlier than you would in normal conditions. This extra time accounts for potentially slower driving speeds on icy roads, the car return process itself and the shuttle ride back to the terminal. Building in this cushion ensures you won't be rushing and can navigate check-in and security calmly.

Summer travel around Salt Lake City comes with its own set of challenges. It is peak season for road works so expect lane closures and potential delays on interstates and canyon roads. Afternoon thunderstorms, especially in southern Utah, can bring the risk of flash floods. Additionally, wildfire smoke from Utah or neighbouring states can drift into the valleys, sometimes significantly reducing long-range visibility and impacting air quality, which is worth checking before a scenic drive.

The drive to St. George on I-15 is long and can be monotonous, making driver fatigue a real concern. Plan to take at least one or two breaks in towns like Fillmore or Cedar City to stretch, get a snack and refresh yourself. Regarding speed, be vigilant as you pass through various counties and smaller towns, as speed limits can change. Maintaining a consistent speed and being aware of your surroundings is the best way to avoid any unwanted surprises on this lengthy but straightforward drive.