Getting Around Salt Lake City

Written: The Top Thing Staff | May 17, 2023

Welcome to the beautiful and bustling city of Salt Lake City, where the mountains are within reach, and the transportation options are aplenty! Whether you’re here to hit the slopes, explore the city’s vibrant downtown, or attend a conference at the Salt Palace Convention Center, getting around Salt Lake City is a breeze. Buckle up and prepare for a humorous journey as we explore the different modes of transportation and offer some insider tips along the way.

Modes of Transportation:

Light Rail (TRAX): Hop aboard TRAX—a light rail system that connects major areas of Salt Lake City. With its red, blue, and green lines, you can easily explore downtown, the University of Utah, and even venture as far as Salt Lake City International Airport. Just remember to keep your balance during those unpredictable turns!
Buses: If you prefer a more traditional mode of transportation, Salt Lake City’s bus system has got you covered. The buses run throughout the city, offering convenient routes to popular destinations. You might even find yourself in a comedy sketch as the bus driver navigates the busy streets with impressive skills.
Bike Sharing: Salt Lake City prides itself on being a bike-friendly city. Jump on a shared bike from GreenBike or VeoRide and cruise through the city’s numerous bike lanes. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh mountain air and catch a glimpse of the majestic Wasatch Mountains while navigating the urban landscape.

Getting around Salt Lake City is not just about transportation, it’s also about the colorful characters you may encounter along the way. Have you ever been on a bus with a stand-up comedian for a driver? Well, you might just get lucky in Salt Lake City. These drivers entertain passengers with jokes, puns, and stories, turning a mundane ride into a fun-filled journey. Who knew public transportation could be this entertaining?

Tips and Tricks:
Navigating a new city can be overwhelming, but fear not, here are some insider tips to make your Salt Lake City experience even better:

Take advantage of the free fare zone: Downtown Salt Lake City has a free fare zone for the light rail and buses. This means you can ride for free within the designated area, which covers multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Get a reloadable transit card: If you’re planning on using public transportation frequently, it’s recommended to get a reloadable transit card. It’s a convenient way to pay for your fare and can be used on TRAX, buses, and even the ski buses.

Rent a bike for a day: Biking is a great way to explore Salt Lake City and its numerous bike trails. Rent a bike for a day and enjoy the city at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is it easy to get to the ski resorts from Salt Lake City?
Absolutely! Salt Lake City is a gateway to some of the world’s best ski resorts, including Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and Snowbird. Various transportation options, such as rental cars, shuttle services, and public transportation, can take you from downtown to the slopes in no time.
Can I use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft in Salt Lake City?
Certainly! Both Uber and Lyft operate in Salt Lake City, offering convenient and reliable transportation at your fingertips. Just download the app, request a ride, and enjoy the convenience of being chauffeured around the city.
Are there any scenic drives near Salt Lake City?
Absolutely! Salt Lake City is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Take a scenic drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon or Little Cottonwood Canyon to experience breathtaking views and access world-class hiking trails. Just be sure to check road conditions during winter months as weather and road closures may occur.

Salt Lake City may have a reputation for being organized and efficient, but that doesn’t mean the transportation options lack excitement. From light rail acrobatics to bus-route comedy, getting around Salt Lake City is an adventure in itself. So, whether you’re a powder-loving skier or a downtown explorer, embrace the various transportation modes this vibrant city has to offer.

Sources: