Dollar Car Hire
Utah

All hire car companies at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) operate out of a separate, consolidated rental car facility. After you collect your luggage, follow the overhead signs for "Ground Transportation" and "Rental Car Shuttles." The shuttle pick-up area is located just outside the terminal doors on the ground level. These clearly marked shuttles run continuously between the terminal and the rental facility, making the process smooth and straightforward for all arriving passengers.

Planning for a late-night arrival at SLC requires factoring in several steps. After deplaning, you'll need to walk to baggage claim, wait for your luggage, and then locate and board the shuttle to the hire car centre. The shuttle ride itself is brief, but you'll still need to complete the hire agreement process at the counter. A realistic timeline from the moment your plane parks at the gate to driving away in your hire car is typically between 60 and 90 minutes, though this can vary based on baggage delivery and counter queues.

When returning your hire car from Park City, especially during a busy morning, the most direct route is I-80 West. To avoid stress, it's wise to allow for significant extra travel time as ski traffic can cause delays. As you approach the airport, pay close attention to the overhead signs for "Rental Car Return," which will direct you to the dedicated entrance for the facility. Using a navigation app with live traffic updates can also help you anticipate any slowdowns along the way.

Navigating the junctions near SLC is generally straightforward, but the key is to be prepared. When approaching the airport on I-80, the exits for the airport terminals and rental car return come up quickly. The most important thing for first-time visitors is to move into the right-hand lanes well in advance as you see the first signs for the airport. Following the specific overhead signs for "Rental Car Return," rather than just "Airport," will guide you directly to the correct facility entrance without any last-minute confusion.

The best choice depends on your arrival time and energy level. Picking up your car immediately after landing is efficient, as it consolidates your airport tasks into one trip. However, if you're arriving late or feel fatigued, taking a rideshare or taxi to your downtown hotel can be a more relaxing option. You would then need to plan a trip back to the airport hire facility the next morning, so consider which approach best fits the pace of your travel plans.

To manage bulky gear efficiently, a good strategy is to have one person from your group wait with the luggage at the terminal's passenger pick-up area. The designated driver can then take the hire car shuttle to the facility alone to complete the paperwork and pick up the vehicle. Once they have the car, they can easily drive back to the terminal's passenger pick-up kerb to load the skis, snowboards, and other bags, avoiding the hassle of trying to fit everything onto the shuttle.

Coordinating a group arriving on separate flights is best done by establishing a clear meeting point inside the terminal. Good options include a specific baggage claim carousel or a landmark like a coffee shop or information desk in the main arrivals hall. Once your entire party has gathered, you can all proceed together to the ground transportation area to catch the shuttle to the hire car facility. This ensures no one is left behind and you can begin your trip as a group.

Leaving the SLC airport during weekday rush hour (typically 4–6 p.m.) can add significant time to your drive to the ski resorts. You should expect heavy, slow-moving traffic on major arteries like I-80 East and the I-215 belt route as you merge with local commuter traffic. It's wise to build at least an extra 30 to 45 minutes into your travel plan to account for this congestion. Being patient and anticipating a slower start is key to a less stressful journey into the mountains.

The drive from Salt Lake City to Park City is primarily on I-80, a major interstate that goes up Parleys Canyon. While there is a consistent, steady incline, it is not a steep or treacherous mountain pass with hairpin turns. The road is well-maintained and regularly ploughed during winter storms. However, conditions can change rapidly, so it's always essential for first-time winter drivers to check the road conditions report before heading out and drive at a speed appropriate for the weather.

For drivers new to the area, Big Cottonwood Canyon (SR-190) often feels a bit more approachable. The road has a more gradual incline and wider turns compared to Little Cottonwood Canyon. Little Cottonwood Canyon (SR-210) is steeper and known for its high avalanche danger, leading to more frequent road restrictions. Both are beautiful drives, but if you're looking for a slightly less intense introduction to canyon driving, heading up Big Cottonwood to Solitude or Brighton is a great choice.

On a powder day, traffic heading up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird and Alta can become extremely congested. To secure a parking spot and avoid the infamous "red snake" of taillights, you should plan to be at the mouth of the canyon by 7:00 a.m. at the latest. This often means leaving your lodging in the Salt Lake Valley well before sunrise. The early start is essential for maximising your time on the slopes on those highly sought-after snow days.

To reach Big Cottonwood Canyon, you'll typically use the I-215 belt route around Salt Lake City. The crucial exit to watch for is Exit 6 for 6200 South. After exiting, you will head east toward the mountains. This road will eventually curve and become Wasatch Boulevard. From there, the turnoff for Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (SR-190) is very clearly marked with large signs, making it a straightforward turn.

If the Cottonwood Canyons are closed, a fantastic backup plan is to drive to Park City via I-80, as interstates are less likely to close. You can explore the historic Main Street, visit the Utah Olympic Park, or ski at one of the resorts there. Another great option is to stay in the valley and explore downtown Salt Lake City's attractions like Temple Square or the Natural History Museum of Utah. Having a flexible mindset ensures that a change in mountain weather doesn't ruin your day.

The drive across the causeway to Antelope Island is a unique experience, but it's important to be prepared for the conditions. The area is very exposed, so strong crosswinds are common and can be surprising to drivers. Once on the island, be sure to drive slowly and watch for wildlife, as bison frequently roam near or on the roads. Also, be aware of the biting gnats during the warmer months and plan accordingly.

The best time to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats is during late summer or early autumn when the surface is most likely to be dry and hard. It's crucial to avoid driving on the salt after recent rain, as the crust can be thin with soft mud underneath. The most reliable and safest access point is the designated rest stop off I-80 westbound, about 10 miles east of Wendover. This provides a paved area to park and walk out onto the flats without risking your vehicle.

Driving from Salt Lake City to Moab is very manageable in a single day, taking about four hours without any major stops. This allows plenty of time to enjoy the journey. For a simple break, the towns of Price and Green River offer reliable spots for fuel, food, and restrooms. If you want a more scenic detour, consider a stop at Goblin Valley State Park, which is just a short drive off the main highway and offers an unforgettable landscape.

The most straightforward and least stressful route from Salt Lake City to Zion National Park is to take I-15 South for the entire journey. This is a major, well-maintained interstate with multiple lanes and frequent services like petrol stations and restaurants along the way. This direct route avoids winding two-lane roads and mountain passes, providing a simple and efficient drive right to the St. George area, where you'll take the exit for Zion.

A logical and efficient Mighty 5 loop from Salt Lake City begins by driving southeast to Moab to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. From there, head south and west towards Capitol Reef National Park. Continue your journey on the stunning Scenic Byway 12 to reach Bryce Canyon National Park. The final stop is Zion National Park, after which you can take the straightforward drive back north to Salt Lake City on I-15, completing the loop with minimal backtracking.

To have the best experience at Arches and Canyonlands, timing is everything. Arrive at the park entrance gates before 8 a.m. to avoid long lines, especially since Arches often requires a timed entry reservation. Parking at popular trailheads like Delicate Arch or Mesa Arch fills up very early in the morning. In the town of Moab, expect Main Street to be busiest in the evening as people return from the parks for dinner, so plan your town trips accordingly.

The key to a relaxed sunrise or sunset experience at Bryce Canyon is to stay as close as possible, either in Bryce Canyon City or Tropic. For sunrise, plan to leave your lodging at least 45 to 60 minutes before the scheduled time. This gives you ample time to drive to a viewpoint like Sunrise Point or Inspiration Point, find parking, and walk to the rim. The park's main road is easy to navigate even in the dark, so the main factor is simply giving yourself a generous time buffer.

When driving on Utah's major interstates, be aware that speed limits can change frequently. In rural stretches of I-15 and I-80, the speed limit is often 80 mph, which can be faster than what many visitors are used to. However, as you approach urban areas like Salt Lake City or St. George, the limit will drop significantly, sometimes to 65 or 70 mph. It's crucial to pay close attention to the posted signs to adjust your speed accordingly.

One driving norm in Utah that can surprise visitors is the prevalence of legal U-turns at many signalised intersections, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. Additionally, Salt Lake City's grid system, based on a coordinate plane with Temple Square at the centre, is logical but can be confusing at first. The blocks are very large, so missing a turn can result in a lengthy detour to get back on track. Always double-check your navigation before making a turn.

Parking in downtown Salt Lake City is generally quite accessible, especially near Temple Square. The easiest and most reliable option is the large underground parking garage at the City Creek Center, which is centrally located and offers ample space. For quicker stops, you can find metered street parking, but availability can be limited during peak business hours. Using a paid garage is often the most convenient and stress-free choice for visitors exploring the area.

For events at the Delta Centre, the smoothest approach is to arrive early and have a parking plan. Exiting I-15 at 600 South or 400 South will get you into the general area. It's highly recommended to identify a parking garage a few blocks away from the arena and reserve a spot online if possible. This allows you to avoid the worst of the immediate gridlock around the venue and have a slightly easier exit after the event concludes.

The easiest way to visit the Utah State Capitol is to approach it from the north or east, which helps you avoid some of the steeper hills and one-way streets of downtown. There is a significant amount of free public parking available in lots located on the east side of the Capitol building. Using these lots is far simpler than trying to find street parking on the surrounding residential roads, making for a very low-stress visit.

On days when there is a home football match at Rice-Eccles Stadium, the entire University of Utah campus area becomes extremely congested with vehicle and pedestrian traffic. It is best to avoid driving in the area altogether unless you are attending the event. If you are going to the match, plan to arrive several hours early and be prepared for event-rate parking. On non-event days, campus driving is much calmer, but be mindful of the many crosswalks and student activity.

The best strategy for visiting Park City's historic Main Street is to not drive on it at all. Instead, navigate directly to one of the town's large public parking structures, such as the China Bridge garage. From there, you can easily explore Main Street on foot or use the free, convenient trolley service that runs up and down the street. This approach allows you to enjoy the shops and restaurants without the stress of finding limited street parking on a steep hill.

During major events like the Sundance Film Festival, the primary traffic bottleneck occurs on State Route 224, the main road leading from I-80 into Park City. The stretch from Kimball Junction to the town centre can become incredibly slow, especially during peak arrival and departure times. Another significant chokepoint is the limited parking throughout the town itself. To mitigate this, leave Salt Lake City much earlier than you think you need to and consider using the event's park-and-ride shuttle systems.

The most convenient and efficient way to see the Great Salt Lake is by visiting the Great Salt Lake State Park. It is located directly off I-80, just a short drive west of the Salt Lake City airport. The exit is clearly marked, and the park entrance is just a moment off the highway, making it an easy stop that requires minimal detour time. This allows you to experience the vastness of the lake and its marina before quickly getting back on your way.

Mobile coverage in Utah is very reliable along the main I-15 and I-80 corridors and within most towns. However, once you venture into national parks, canyons, or remote desert highways, coverage can become spotty or completely unavailable. Areas like the drive between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon or deep within Canyonlands are known for dead zones. It is highly recommended to download maps of your entire route for offline use before you leave Salt Lake City.

When driving through Utah's vast desert landscapes, it's crucial to be proactive about fuel. A wise rule of thumb is to never let your petrol tank fall below the halfway mark. Services can be 100 miles or more apart on certain stretches of highway, such as US-6 or I-70 between Green River and Salina. Always fill up your tank in larger towns before heading into a remote area, and it's also a good idea to have extra water and snacks in the car.

To manage the inevitable trail dust and sand, it's helpful to bring a few simple items. Keep a towel or a small brush in the car to wipe off shoes and gear before getting inside. Bringing a dedicated rubbish bag helps keep wrappers and clutter contained. If the car gets particularly dirty, a quick stop at a self-service car wash to vacuum the interior before you return the vehicle is a simple and considerate step.

For a family-friendly scenic drive, the trip around Antelope Island State Park is an excellent choice, offering incredible views and a high chance of seeing bison right from the car. Another great option in the summer and autumn is the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway, which connects Park City to Brighton. It's a paved, winding mountain road with stunning alpine scenery that doesn't require any hiking to enjoy the beautiful vistas.

Flexibility is key when dealing with Utah's variable weather. Always check the detailed forecast and the UDOT Traffic website for road conditions before you start your drive each day. It's wise to have a backup plan, such as an alternative route or an indoor attraction, in case your primary destination becomes inaccessible. Packing layers of clothing, extra water, and snacks in your car ensures you're prepared for unexpected delays or changes in temperature.

The drive on I-80 east from Salt Lake City involves climbing Parleys Summit, which can be challenging in winter. This stretch is prone to heavy snow, icy patches, and high winds that can cause blowing snow and reduced visibility. These conditions often lead to slowdowns, and temporary closures are possible during major storms. It's essential to check road conditions before you depart and be prepared for a slower, more cautious drive.

The choice depends on your priorities and the season. If speed and reliability are most important, especially in winter, sticking to major interstates like I-15 and I-80 is the best bet. If you have more time and are travelling in good weather, scenic byways like US-89 or UT-12 offer breathtaking landscapes and a more memorable journey. Review your map ahead of time to weigh the longer drive time of a scenic route against the experience it offers.

The hire car return at SLC is designed to be very user-friendly. As you approach the airport, large overhead signs will clearly direct you to the "Rental Car Return" entrance, which is separate from the main terminal traffic. Once inside the garage, you'll see prominent signs for each hire car company, guiding you to the correct drop-off lanes. After a quick vehicle inspection, you can grab your luggage and walk a short distance to the shuttle stop for a ride back to the terminal.

For an early morning flight, the key is to budget extra time for every step. Plan to arrive at the hire car facility at least 30 minutes earlier than you normally would. After the quick drop-off process, you'll need to wait for and ride the shuttle back to the terminal. Factoring in this shuttle transit time, in addition to the standard time needed for airline check-in and security, will ensure you reach your gate without feeling rushed.

The most common mistake is relying exclusively on a sat-nav app, which may not have the most up-to-the-minute information on lane shifts or ramp closures. It is crucial to pay attention to and follow the official orange construction signs and electronic message boards, as they provide the most accurate, real-time directions. Another frequent error is not getting into the designated airport lanes early enough, forcing unsafe, last-second manoeuvres to make the exit.

When planning a one-way trip, make your first day's driving goal realistic, accounting for the time it takes to land, get your bags, and complete the hire car pick-up process. For your last day, confirm the exact address and opening hours of the hire return location at your destination airport. Be sure to build in time to refuel the car according to your hire agreement and clear out your personal belongings before heading to your departure terminal.