SUV Hire
Utah

With three days, a great option is the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway loop through the Uinta Mountains, which an SUV will handle comfortably and easily. The route offers stunning alpine scenery, numerous lakes and trailheads accessible from the road. Alternatively, head west to the Bonneville Salt Flats for a unique landscape, then loop back via Antelope Island State Park to see bison. Both trips use well-maintained roads but still feel adventurous, and the extra space and higher clearance of an SUV enhance the experience.

Navigating out of Salt Lake City International Airport late at night is generally straightforward. After collecting your SUV from the rental car facility, follow the prominent signs for I-80 Eastbound to head toward the city or Park City. To go west, follow the signs for I-80. Using a GPS app on your phone is strongly recommended; set your destination before you start driving for clear turn-by-turn directions. The airport parkway is well lit and designed to flow directly onto the interstate, minimising the chance of confusing turns.

The most direct and least intimidating route for nervous drivers is to take I-15 South from Salt Lake City to Spanish Fork, then transition to US-6 East. Continue on US-6 until you connect with I-70 East, and finally take US-191 South directly into Moab. While US-6 does pass through some canyons, it is a major, well-maintained highway with gentler grades compared with steeper mountain passes. An SUV offers a stable, commanding view of the road, which can help build confidence on this beautiful drive.

During a significant snowstorm, the drive from Salt Lake City to Park City via I-80 and Parleys Canyon can take two to three times longer than the typical 40 minutes. Safety becomes the top priority, and traffic often slows to a crawl or stops completely for accidents or avalanche control. Check the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) traffic app or website for real-time conditions and road closures before you depart. Having an all-wheel-drive SUV helps with traction, but you must always drive to the conditions, which may mean a very slow pace.

A good tactic is to use the airport’s designated passenger pickup area, but for a more relaxed transfer consider a nearby spot. The cell phone waiting lot is an excellent option, offering ample space to park and reorganise without rushing. Alternatively, meet at a large petrol station or a fast-food restaurant with a spacious car park a few minutes from the airport on North Temple. These spots provide plenty of room to consolidate luggage into your SUV without causing congestion.

For a convenient spot to sort your kit, consider visiting a large park such as Jordan Park or Liberty Park, both a short drive from the airport. These locations have large, open car parks where you can spread out without being in the way. Another excellent option is the car park of a large suburban supermarket or big-box store in the suburbs just west of the airport. This also gives you a chance to pick up any last-minute supplies or snacks for your road trip.

For passengers prone to motion sickness, the drive from Salt Lake City to Zion or Bryce Canyon National Parks is often the most comfortable. This route mainly uses I-15 South, a major interstate that is wide, straight and smooth for much of its length. Unlike the tight, winding canyon roads to the ski resorts, this drive is much more gradual. The spacious, smooth ride of an SUV can also help mitigate car sickness, providing a more pleasant journey for everyone.

To minimise traffic and parking stress on a trip to Zion, plan to arrive at the park very early in the morning, especially during peak season. The drive itself via I-15 is straightforward, but congestion begins near the park entrance in Springdale. Consider parking in town and using the free shuttle to enter the park, as parking inside is extremely limited. An SUV is great for the long drive, but its size doesn’t help in the park’s tight lots, making the shuttle the best strategy for a hassle-free visit.

Utah’s traction laws are enacted during winter storms to ensure safety on steep canyon roads. As an SUV driver, your vehicle may already comply if it has suitable tyres and all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Watch for large electronic signs at the mouth of canyons like Big and Little Cottonwood; they will clearly state when the traction law is in effect. It’s the driver’s responsibility to know their vehicle’s equipment and ensure it meets the current requirements before heading up to the resorts.

When parking a taller SUV downtown, favour surface lots or hotel parking garages that explicitly state their clearance height. Many of the city’s public and private garages, especially older ones, have low ceilings that won’t accommodate larger vehicles. The City Creek Center garage is modern and generally has good clearance, but always check the posted height limits at the entrance. Contacting your hotel ahead of time to enquire about parking for oversized vehicles is the most reliable approach.

Both canyons present a beautiful but challenging winter drive. Big Cottonwood Canyon (to Solitude and Brighton) is generally considered slightly less intense, with a wider road and more gradual turns. Little Cottonwood Canyon (to Snowbird and Alta) is steeper, narrower and known for higher avalanche danger, leading to more frequent road closures. In either canyon, an all-wheel-drive SUV provides confidence, but you must drive slowly, leave plenty of space and be prepared for chain requirements or closures announced by UDOT.

For a fantastic day trip, the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of Mount Timpanogos and is fully paved, making it perfect for any SUV (note: closed in winter). Another excellent choice is the drive out to Antelope Island State Park via the causeway, where you can enjoy expansive views of the Great Salt Lake and wildlife. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is also a wonderful paved option in summer and autumn, showcasing high-altitude forests and lakes.

To minimise stress during ski resort drop-offs, aim to arrive well before the lifts open, as this is when traffic is heaviest. Use the designated drop-off zones and make the process as quick as possible by having gear ready to go. If you are just dropping people off, head straight back down the canyon to avoid getting stuck in the parking rush. On peak days, consider using the UTA Ski Bus, which removes the need to drive up the canyon and search for parking altogether.

Spring driving in Utah’s canyons requires extra vigilance. Watch for water running across the road, especially in the afternoon as the snow melts, which can create slick spots or hide ice in shaded corners. The freeze–thaw cycle also creates significant potholes, so maintaining a safe speed gives you more time to react and avoid them. Be alert for rockfall, as saturated ground can become unstable. The higher driving position in an SUV can help you spot these hazards a little sooner.

A common mistake is underestimating the distance and the scarcity of services along I-80 West. Ensure your SUV has a full tank of fuel before leaving Salt Lake City, as petrol stations become very sparse. Another issue is missing the specific exit for the Salt Flats viewing area, which is well signed but easy to pass at highway speeds. Set your GPS for the 'Bonneville Salt Flats Rest Area' for the main access point, and be aware that driving on the salt flats themselves depends on current conditions.

For stress-free loading, look to the city’s spacious public parks or suburban shopping centres. Liberty Park or Sugar House Park offer large car parks with plenty of room to open doors wide and manage strollers and car seats. Similarly, the car parks of large stores in areas like Brickyard or Fort Union provide ample space away from tight parallel parking spots and busy downtown streets. These locations allow you to get organised at a relaxed pace before hitting the road.

A great strategy is to use a central town as your base for two or three nights. For example, drive from Salt Lake City to Torrey, near Capitol Reef National Park, and stay there. From Torrey, you can take a spectacular day trip down the famous Scenic Byway 12 to visit Bryce Canyon and return in the evening. This approach lets you explore two incredible parks while only unpacking once, making for a more relaxing and efficient trip.

To enjoy a relaxed trip to Capitol Reef, break the journey from Salt Lake City into two parts. Consider driving to a town like Price or Helper on the first day, which is about halfway and allows a leisurely start. The next day you can enjoy the scenic drive to Capitol Reef with plenty of time for stops at viewpoints or short walks. An SUV provides the comfort and space needed for passengers and kit, making frequent stops easy and enjoyable rather than a chore.

The drive to Antelope Island is unique and requires some awareness. The seven-mile causeway across the Great Salt Lake can be very windy, so be prepared for strong crosswinds affecting your SUV. The road is well maintained but low-lying, so drive at a steady pace. Once on the island, drive slowly and be extremely vigilant for wildlife, especially large bison, which frequently cross or stand on the roads. The elevated view from an SUV is a great advantage for spotting animals from a safe distance.

The drive between Moab (Arches/Canyonlands) and Bryce Canyon National Park is often the most demanding segment for the driver. This stretch involves several hours on scenic but sometimes winding two-lane highways like UT-24 and the stunning Scenic Byway 12. Breaking up this leg with an overnight stay in a town such as Torrey or Escalante is highly recommended. This allows you to fully appreciate the incredible scenery of Capitol Reef and the Grand Staircase–Escalante area without feeling fatigued.

A popular and reliable stop is the town of Price, located about two hours from Salt Lake City. It has several large petrol stations, fast-food restaurants and supermarkets with clean facilities and spacious car parks perfect for an SUV. Another good option is Green River, which is closer to Moab and serves as the final major stop before reaching the park. Both towns are directly on the main route (US-6 and I-70) and provide a great opportunity to stretch, refuel and rest.

To avoid the worst traffic, plan to arrive in Park City early, well before 9am, and consider parking at the Richardson Flat Park and Ride. This large lot is located just outside town and offers a free and efficient bus service to Main Street and the ski resorts. This strategy allows you to bypass the frustrating search for expensive and limited parking in the town centre. Using the transit system is far more relaxing than navigating the congested streets in your SUV on a busy day.

The crucial step is to download offline maps of your entire planned route using your preferred navigation app before you leave Salt Lake City. This ensures your GPS will continue to function even without a mobile signal. It’s also wise to have a paper road atlas in your SUV as a reliable backup. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected arrival times, especially when heading into remote areas like the stretch between Hanksville and Blanding, where services are nonexistent for over 100 miles.

A good way to visit Goblin Valley is to incorporate it into your drive day between Salt Lake City and Moab. Leave SLC in the morning and drive towards Green River. Just before reaching Green River, take the exit for UT-24 South towards Hanksville, which will lead you directly to the park’s turnoff. You can spend a few hours exploring the unique landscape, then continue on to Moab, which is about an hour’s drive from the park, arriving in the early evening.

The most straightforward route for a first-time driver is to take I-15 South from Salt Lake City for about four hours to US-89 South. This route is almost entirely on a major, well-maintained interstate, making it a very simple and comfortable drive. Follow US-89 through southern Utah and into Arizona, where it will lead you directly to Page and Lake Powell. This path avoids complex mountain passes and remote two-lane roads, offering a smooth journey in your SUV.

For a desert park day trip, your SUV should be stocked with more water than you think you’ll need — at least one gallon per person. Also pack salty snacks, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Keep layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, as desert weather can change rapidly from intense sun to a sudden, cold thunderstorm. It’s also wise to have a first-aid kit, a portable phone charger and wet wipes to deal with the inevitable dust and sand.

For a family-friendly trip with less driving, focus on the regions closer to Salt Lake City. You can create a great loop by visiting Park City, Heber Valley and the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway (in summer). Another excellent option is a trip to Antelope Island and the Bonneville Salt Flats. These destinations offer iconic Utah landscapes — mountains, the Great Salt Lake and salt desert — all within about a two-hour drive of the city, minimising car time and maximising fun for the kids.

The most complex area is the 'Spaghetti Bowl', where I-15, I-80 and UT-201 converge just south and west of downtown. When heading south on I-15 from the airport area, pay close attention to the overhead signs as you approach this interchange. The key is to know you need to stay on I-15 South and get into the correct lanes well over a mile in advance. Using a GPS app with lane guidance is extremely helpful here to avoid last-minute stressful lane changes.

The most comfortable and scenic route is to take I-80 East from Salt Lake City to the exit for US-40 East towards Heber City. This is a wide, divided road with gradual inclines. Once in Heber, you can take a pleasant drive on US-189 to Sundance. This route bypasses the much steeper and narrower Provo Canyon road (also US-189, but from Provo), providing a more relaxed experience, especially for drivers unfamiliar with mountain roads.

Summer is peak road construction season in Utah, which can lead to significant delays, especially on Fridays and Sundays. Major routes like I-15, US-6 and I-70 often have lane closures, reduced speed limits and occasional detours. It’s essential to check the UDOT Traffic website or app before you depart for real-time updates on construction projects. Plan for extra travel time and be patient, as these projects are unavoidable but crucial for maintaining the roads.

If you arrive during a strong winter inversion, the best strategy is to head for higher elevations as quickly as possible. The poor air quality and low visibility are typically confined to the Salt Lake Valley floor. Driving east up Parleys Canyon on I-80 towards Park City or south and climbing out of the valley on I-15 will usually get you into clear, sunny skies. Plan your first day’s destination to be in the mountains or southern Utah to escape the haze.

Driving at dawn and dusk requires heightened awareness, as this is when deer, elk and other wildlife are most active. Be especially cautious on two-lane highways that pass through forested or rural areas, such as Scenic Byway 12 or roads near national forests. Scan the sides of the road continuously and be prepared to brake suddenly. The higher seating position of an SUV can provide a better vantage point for spotting animals near the roadway, but reducing your speed is the most effective safety measure.

Many of Utah’s most stunning views are highly accessible. The viewpoints along the main scenic drive in Bryce Canyon National Park, such as Sunrise, Sunset and Inspiration Points, have car parks right next to the rim. In Capitol Reef, the Goosenecks Overlook and Panorama Point are just a few steps from the car. The drive through Zion Canyon itself offers incredible views directly from the vehicle, and the comfort of an SUV makes it a great way for everyone to enjoy the scenery.

To minimise parking issues, start your day as early as possible, as trailhead lots in popular areas like the Cottonwood Canyons fill quickly, especially at weekends. Another effective strategy is to choose a single area, like Millcreek Canyon or the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway (in summer), and hike multiple trails accessible from one parking spot or with only short drives. On high-traffic days, consider using the UTA Ski Bus or a ride-share service to avoid the parking challenge altogether.

To comfortably reach Monument Valley before sunset, you should plan to leave Salt Lake City in the morning, no later than 9:00am. The drive takes approximately six to seven hours without significant stops. A good plan is to drive to Moab for a quick lunch and fuel stop, then continue south on US-191. This schedule allows for a couple of short breaks and should get you to the Monument Valley area in the late afternoon, with plenty of daylight to check into your lodging and enjoy the iconic views.

To descend steep grades safely, avoid riding your brakes. Instead, downshift your SUV’s automatic transmission into a lower gear (often labelled 'L', '2' or '3'). This uses the engine to slow the vehicle — engine braking — which keeps your brakes cool and ready for when you really need them. Many modern SUVs also have a manual shift mode or a hill descent control feature. Practise engaging these systems on a gentle slope to become comfortable before tackling a major mountain pass.

A great place to get accustomed to a larger SUV is in the expansive car parks of a major venue during off-hours, such as the Utah State Fairpark or the Maverik Center. These areas provide plenty of open space to practise turning, parking and judging the vehicle’s size without traffic. For a feel of the road, the wide, straight and less-trafficked roads in the industrial areas west of the airport are also an excellent, low-stress environment for a practice drive.

The airport’s cell phone waiting lot is the perfect place to regroup. It’s a large, free car park located just a minute or two from the terminal where you can wait comfortably in your SUV. Once the final members of your party have collected their luggage and are waiting at the kerb, they can call you, and you can drive over to the passenger pickup area to meet them. This avoids the stress and congestion of repeatedly circling the terminal.

On your return drive, be aware that northbound I-15 traffic can become very heavy on Sunday afternoons, especially through Utah County. Plan to leave early or late to avoid the peak congestion. Also check the weather forecast, as conditions can change dramatically between St George and Salt Lake City. To combat fatigue, schedule a proper meal break in a town like Fillmore or Nephi, and consider switching drivers to ensure everyone stays alert for the final leg of the journey.