If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip through the mountains, the drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole is the perfect route. This stunning drive will take you through breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unique landmarks. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, be sure to read this ultimate road trip guide to make the most of your journey.
Salt Lake City is located in the northern region of Utah, while Jackson Hole is situated in Wyoming’s northwest corner. This route covers 300 miles and can be completed in 4.5 hours if you drive non-stop. However, if you’re looking to explore the hidden gems and scenic routes along the way, plan to take at least a few days for this trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole Drive
Driving from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole will take you approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes. The fastest way to get to Jackson Hole is via US-89 N, which passes through cities like Alpine, Etna, and Thayne.
However, if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, you should take one of the following routes:
- Take US-189 N and US-191 N, which is a longer but more scenic route. This route will take you through Provo Canyon, Heber Valley, and the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The total distance is 330 miles and will take approximately 6.5 hours.
- Take I-80 E to Evanston, then head north on US-89. This route will take you through beautiful rolling hills, charming towns, and the historic Fossil Butte National Monument. The total distance is 366 miles and will take approximately 6 hours.
How far is Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole by plane?
The flight time from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole is approximately 1 hour. If you’re looking to save time on your road trip, consider taking a flight instead. There are several flights that depart from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and arrive at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). Be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole Drive – Rent A Car In Salt Lake City
Here are some rental car companies to rent a car from in Salt Lake City:
- Alamo: starts at $60 per day
- Avis: starts at $75 per day
- Budget: starts at $68 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $60 per day
- Hertz: starts at $60 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $55 per day
- Dollar: starts at $53 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $40 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $2.70 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas. Keep in mind that rental car prices will vary depending on the time of year, so be sure to book in advance to secure the best deal.
Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some must-visit stops to make along the way:
Provo Canyon
Provo Canyon is a scenic route that is a must-visit stop on your drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole. This breathtaking canyon features towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and colorful foliage. Be sure to stop at Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning 607-foot waterfall, and the Provo River for some fly fishing.
Heber Valley
Heber Valley is a charming town that’s worth a stop on your road trip. This scenic valley is surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains and features picturesque farms, historic buildings, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Be sure to check out the Heber Valley Railroad, a historic train ride that takes you through stunning scenery.
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a vast area of protected land that spans over 2.1 million acres. This forest is home to stunning alpine lakes, rugged mountains, and diverse wildlife. Be sure to take a scenic drive through the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, a stunning road that takes you past crystal-clear lakes and towering peaks.
Fossil Butte National Monument
Fossil Butte National Monument is a hidden gem that’s worth a stop on your road trip. This historic site is home to one of the world’s largest deposits of freshwater fish fossils, as well as diverse plant and animal fossils. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn about the site’s rich history and explore the visitor center’s exhibits.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning park that’s a must-visit on your road trip. This park is home to the towering peaks of the Teton Range, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife like grizzly bears and bison. Be sure to take a scenic drive through the park’s winding roads and stop at iconic landmarks like Jenny Lake and the Teton Glacier Turnout.
Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole – Where To Stay
There are plenty of accommodations to choose from along the Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole drive. Here are some options:
- Jackson Hole: Jackson Hole has a variety of hotels, lodges, and resorts to choose from. The Lodge at Jackson Hole and Rusty Parrot Lodge are popular options.
- Salt Lake City: If you’re looking for a place to stay in Salt Lake City, consider the Grand America Hotel or the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City.
- Heber City: Heber City has several bed and breakfasts and lodges, including the Daniels Summit Lodge and the Homestead Resort.
- Jackson: Jackson is a small town that’s worth a stop on your road trip. Consider staying at the Jackson Lake Lodge or the Spring Creek Ranch for stunning views and cozy accommodations.
Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole – When To Go
The best time to drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole is during the summer months, between June and August.
This is when the weather is mild, and the roads are clear. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodations in advance.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) or fall (September-October).
The winter months can be challenging due to snow and icy roads, but if you’re up for an adventure, this can be a stunning time to visit.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole is an unforgettable journey that will take you through breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unique landmarks. While the trip can be completed in 4.5 hours, taking one of the scenic routes and exploring the hidden gems along the way is highly recommended. Renting a car is the best option for this road trip, and there are several rental car companies to choose from in Salt Lake City. With must-visit stops like Provo Canyon, Grand Teton National Park, and Yellowstone National Park, this road trip is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the mountains.
