Van Rental
Utah

When picking up a van late at night at SLC, the most time-consuming steps are often waiting at the rental counter and completing the vehicle inspection. Late arrivals can sometimes coincide with other flights, creating a queue for the limited staff on duty. Additionally, thoroughly inspecting a larger vehicle like a passenger van for any pre-existing scratches or dings takes a few extra minutes but is a crucial step. It's also wise to take a moment to adjust mirrors and familiarize yourself with the van's controls before leaving the lot.

The most straightforward method for a large group is to use the airport's dedicated rental car shuttle buses. These are designed to accommodate travelers with luggage and run frequently between the terminal and the rental car facility. To make the process smoother, you can designate one or two people from your group to handle the paperwork at the counter while the others manage the luggage. This division of tasks helps minimize congestion and keeps your group organized and ready to load the van once it's ready.

A practical meeting point at SLC is the baggage claim area corresponding to the final arriving flight. This allows everyone to gather their luggage in one central location. Once your entire party is present and has their bags, you can proceed together to the rental car shuttle. Alternatively, the main lobby of the rental car facility itself is a good secondary option, providing a climate-controlled space to wait while the driver finalizes the rental agreement before you all head to the parking garage to find your van.

During peak ski season, especially on Friday evenings or Saturday mornings, it's wise to add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your van pickup schedule. The airport and rental car facilities see a significant increase in traffic from travelers heading to the resorts. This can lead to longer lines at the rental counter and potentially a greater wait for vehicle preparation. Planning for this buffer helps ensure your group's journey to the mountains starts on a relaxed and unhurried note.

For a Utah ski trip, it's almost always best to rent a van with more seats than people in your group. For example, a group of eight people will be far more comfortable in a 12- or 15-passenger van rather than a minivan. This extra space is essential for accommodating bulky ski bags, snowboards, boots, and winter gear without sacrificing passenger comfort. The ability to store equipment in the rear or on an unused bench seat makes loading and unloading at the resort much more manageable.

The most direct and generally easiest route for a first-time winter driver is taking I-80 East directly from the Salt Lake City area up to Park City. This interstate highway is a primary transportation corridor and is typically well-maintained and prioritized for snow removal during winter storms. The ascent through Parleys Canyon is gradual, with multiple lanes that allow you to travel at a comfortable pace. It's a much more straightforward drive than attempting smaller, winding canyon roads like Guardsman Pass, which is closed in winter anyway.

Driving a large passenger van up Parleys Canyon on I-80 during a snowstorm requires a cautious and steady approach. You should anticipate reduced visibility and potentially slick road surfaces, so maintaining a greater following distance from other vehicles is critical. Due to the van's size and weight, braking and accelerating will be slower than in a smaller car. It's important to drive smoothly, avoid sudden maneuvers, and stay in the right lanes where traffic is generally moving slower, allowing you to focus on safe handling.

Yes, Utah frequently implements traction laws and chain controls on canyon roads, particularly the routes to ski resorts like Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. During active snowstorms, authorities may require all vehicles to have proper snow tires or chains. It's essential to check the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) traffic website for current conditions and restrictions before heading up any canyon. Be aware that rental agreements often have specific policies regarding the use of chains, so it's a good topic to discuss when you pick up your vehicle.

The most common point of confusion for visitors leaving SLC is navigating the series of interchanges where I-80, I-215, and I-15 converge just east of the airport. With multiple lanes merging and splitting, it's easy to find yourself in the wrong lane if you're not paying close attention. Using a GPS and having a co-pilot read the signs aloud can be very helpful. The key is to know ahead of time whether you need to take the 600 South, 500 South, or 400 South exits for downtown access.

When parking a full-size van downtown, your primary concern should be height clearance. Many underground or multi-level parking garages have low ceilings that will not accommodate a 12- or 15-passenger van. It is crucial to check the posted clearance height before entering any garage. We recommend contacting your hotel in advance to confirm they have suitable parking for oversized vehicles, which may be in a surface lot. Otherwise, planning to use outdoor public lots is your safest bet.

For easy access to Temple Square and City Creek Center, using the designated passenger loading zones on South Temple or West Temple streets is your best option. These areas provide a safe space to pull over, unload passengers, and assist them onto the curb without blocking traffic. For City Creek, pulling into the short-term valet area can also serve as a convenient drop-off point. Avoid stopping directly on Main Street, as it is a high-traffic area with a light rail line.

Parking a large van for events at The Gateway or Vivint Arena can be challenging, so planning ahead is key. The garages directly associated with these venues often have height restrictions and fill up quickly. A better strategy is to look for nearby surface parking lots, which are more accommodating for oversized vehicles. Arriving early is essential to secure a spot, and you should be prepared for a short walk to the venue. For street festivals, parking several blocks away and walking is almost always the most practical approach.

For a comfortable day trip to the Bonneville Salt Flats, plan for a full day. The drive itself is about 90 minutes each way from Salt Lake City, primarily on I-80 West. To avoid feeling rushed, leave in the morning and plan to spend a couple of hours at the flats. Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as services are nonexistent at the site. A stop in the border town of Wendover for gas or a meal on your way back can break up the return drive nicely.

On the drive from Salt Lake City to Moab, the towns of Price and Green River are the most logical and well-equipped stops for a group in a van. Price, located about halfway, offers numerous fast-food and sit-down restaurant options, as well as large gas stations with clean restrooms. Green River is the last major service hub before you reach Moab and is a great place for a final break. Both towns have establishments with ample parking suitable for a larger vehicle.

Visiting Arches National Park in a van requires planning, especially concerning the timed entry reservation system needed during peak season. You must book your slot well in advance online. Even with a reservation, expect lines at the entrance gate during popular morning hours. Most major viewpoints and trailheads, like Delicate Arch and Devils Garden, have parking lots with designated spaces for larger vehicles, but these can fill up quickly. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is the best strategy to find parking.

The most practical approach for visiting Zion's main canyon with a van is to park in the town of Springdale and use the free town shuttle to reach the park's pedestrian entrance. From there, you will board the mandatory park shuttle to access the scenic drive. Parking a large van inside the park at the visitor center is extremely difficult and often impossible during busy times. By parking in Springdale, you avoid the stress of searching for a spot and can easily access restaurants and shops after your visit.

When tackling Utah's Mighty 5 national parks in a van, it's effective to alternate dedicated drive days with multi-night stays near the parks. For instance, you could have a long drive day from Salt Lake City to Moab, then spend two or three nights there to explore Arches and Canyonlands without having to repack the van daily. Similarly, you can base your group in a town like Torrey or Bryce Canyon City for a couple of nights. This approach minimizes daily logistical hassles and maximizes your time for hiking and sightseeing.

The drive to Bryce Canyon in winter is generally manageable, but conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations. The main route via I-15 and US-89 is typically well-maintained. The most significant change occurs on Highway 12 and Highway 63 as you climb onto the plateau toward the park entrance. These roads are at a much higher elevation and are more susceptible to snow and ice. Always check road conditions before your final ascent and be prepared for colder temperatures and potential winter weather.

Travelers often underestimate the lack of services on certain scenic routes in Utah. Highway 24 between Hanksville and I-70 is a particularly long and remote stretch with virtually no services. Similarly, the segment of Highway 12 between Boulder and Escalante is beautiful but very isolated. When driving a van, which may have lower fuel efficiency, it's a wise rule to top off your gas tank in any sizable town you pass through, such as Torrey, Escalante, or Green River, to avoid any issues.

After picking up your van at the rental facility, find a designated parking spot in an uncrowded section of the garage or an adjacent surface lot to install car seats. This allows you to take your time and ensure they are installed correctly without the pressure of holding up a line. Many rental facilities have a customer parking area or an overflow lot that is perfect for this task. It's much safer and less stressful than trying to do it in the immediate pickup lane.

To keep the van organized and accessible, families often designate the rear cargo area or an entire back bench seat for bulky items like strollers and pack-and-plays. Using packing cubes or duffel bags instead of rigid suitcases can also help maximize space. A soft cooler can be easily stowed under a seat or in a footwell. The key is to load the items you'll need least during the day first, keeping snacks, jackets, and daypacks within easy reach for quick stops.

Before leaving the rental lot, your group should discuss a seating plan that maximizes comfort for everyone. Consider rotating drivers and who sits in the front passenger seat to share navigation duties. It's also a good idea to check if any of the van's bench seats are removable, which could create more interior space for luggage if you don't need every seat. Make sure everyone knows how to adjust their own seat and that there's a clear path to the exit rows for easy stops.

For passengers prone to motion sickness, be mindful of Utah's scenic byways, which are often the most winding. Scenic Byway 12, especially the stretch over Boulder Mountain, is famously curvy with significant elevation changes. The roads within Zion National Park, like the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway with its switchbacks, can also be challenging. When planning your itinerary, sticking to major highways like I-15, I-70, and US-191 as much as possible will provide a smoother ride for sensitive travelers.

To avoid the worst of Salt Lake City's rush hour when heading north to Ogden or Logan, using the I-215 belt route is often your best strategy. Taking I-215 West from the airport area allows you to bypass the downtown I-15 corridor, which is the most congested section. This route reconnects with I-15 further north, after the main downtown bottleneck. Additionally, if possible, try to schedule your departure from the airport to be outside the peak hours of 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

A trip to Sundance in a van requires careful driving, as the road through Provo Canyon (US-189) is wide but can be busy, while the final stretch on SR-92 is narrower and winding. Parking at the resort is limited and can be tight for a large van, so arriving early is highly recommended. During winter, traction laws are often in effect for this route, meaning your vehicle may need to be equipped with appropriate tires. Always check road conditions before you go, as the canyon is prone to closures during heavy snowfall.

When navigating a ski resort drop-off zone in a large van, the key is to be efficient and predictable. Follow the signs for passenger drop-off and pull as far forward as possible to allow other vehicles space behind you. Have your group ready to exit the van with their gear quickly. The driver should remain with the vehicle, as these are typically no-parking zones. Once everyone is safely on the curb, pull away promptly and proceed to the designated parking areas.

Operating a passenger van requires constant awareness of its height. Most full-size vans will not fit in standard parking garages or fast-food drive-through lanes, so you should always plan to park and walk in. At national park entrance stations, there are usually oversized lanes available, but it's good to be watchful for any low-hanging roofs or signs. Before you leave the rental lot, it's a great idea to note the vehicle's official height, which is often listed on a sticker inside.

Before attempting a drive like the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, you must check for any vehicle length restrictions, as this road is narrow and has sharp turns. Full-size 15-passenger vans may exceed the recommended length for this route. Additionally, the Alpine Loop is a seasonal road and is closed for the winter, typically from late October until late May or June. Always verify the road's current status and any vehicle advisories on the UDOT traffic website before you plan your trip.

Cell service along Utah's main interstate corridors is generally reliable, but it becomes very spotty or nonexistent on scenic byways and within national parks. You should absolutely download offline maps for your entire route before leaving a major town. Areas notorious for poor service include large portions of Scenic Byway 12, the drive to Capitol Reef National Park on Highway 24, and the remote stretches between Canyonlands and Lake Powell. Having offline maps ensures your navigation is uninterrupted.

If a winter storm forces a road closure, flexibility is your best tool. Always have a backup plan, which might mean spending an extra night in a town like Beaver or Cedar City until a pass like I-70 over the Wasatch Plateau reopens. Keep the van's gas tank at least half full at all times during winter travel. It's also wise to pack extra water, snacks, and blankets in the vehicle in case you experience a long delay on the highway.

When your trip mixes city driving with access to trailheads, it's important to understand the van's limitations. Standard passenger vans have clearance similar to a car and are not suitable for rough, unmaintained dirt roads. When you pick up the vehicle, you can inquire about the tire type to ensure they are in good condition for highway travel. For any trailhead access, stick to roads that are graded and maintained for regular passenger vehicles to avoid getting stuck or damaging the van.

Many popular trailheads in Utah can be challenging for a van. For example, the parking for the Corona Arch trail near Moab is often crowded, and the access road to the Grand Wash in Capitol Reef can be sandy. In the Cottonwood Canyons near Salt Lake City, trailhead lots like the one for Lake Blanche fill up extremely early and have tight spaces. The best strategy is always to arrive at popular trailheads early in the morning to secure a spot before the lots become congested.

For large events in Salt Lake City, parking a van requires arriving significantly earlier than you would in a car. Identify large, open surface lots that are a short walk or TRAX light rail ride away from the venue, as campus and arena lots are often reserved or too congested. Using public transit for the final leg of the journey can be a great way to avoid the worst of the traffic gridlock immediately surrounding the event. This strategy saves time and reduces the stress of navigating crowded streets.

To secure your belongings, always try to park in well-lit, visible areas, especially at hotels overnight or at busy trailheads. Keep all luggage and valuables out of sight, stowing them in the rear of the van or under seats if possible. A simple but effective deterrent is to use a blanket to cover items in the back. Always lock the vehicle, even if you are just stepping away for a few minutes at a scenic overlook. This minimizes the risk of opportunistic theft.

For an early flight, the easiest method is to drop off your passengers and luggage at the terminal's departure curb first. This allows your group to proceed to check-in while one person returns the van to the rental car facility. After completing the return process, that person can take the quick and convenient rental car shuttle back to the terminal. This approach prevents the entire group from having to manage luggage on the shuttle and streamlines the entire departure process.

A great place for a final stop is one of the large gas stations or convenience stores located along I-80 just a few miles from the airport exit. These locations typically have ample parking space away from the pumps, large trash receptacles, and restrooms. This gives your group a chance to consolidate trash, reorganize luggage for the flight, and do a final check for any personal items left in the van. It makes the official return process at the rental facility much faster and smoother.

When your group plans to split up, establish clear and specific meeting points that have ample parking. Visitor centers at national parks or large, well-known grocery stores in towns are excellent choices. Set a firm meeting time and have a backup communication plan, as cell service can be unreliable. The van carrying the gear should plan to arrive a little early to secure a parking spot where it's easy to unload and distribute equipment to the rest of the group upon their arrival.

International visitors should be aware that in Utah, as in most of the U.S., you can turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it. On freeways, it is courteous to merge smoothly and at the speed of traffic. Given a van's larger size, it's important to use turn signals well in advance and be mindful of your larger blind spots when changing lanes. Also, drivers in the right lane are expected to yield to traffic merging from on-ramps.

For a winter trip to Jackson, the most reliable route from Salt Lake City is typically I-80 East into Wyoming, then north on US-189. Be prepared for winter conditions, especially on the Teton Pass, which can have restrictions or close entirely. When in Jackson, confirm with your lodging that they can accommodate an oversized van, as parking can be tight, especially with large snowbanks. Many hotels have specific areas for larger vehicles, but it's always best to call ahead and verify.