10 Easy Day Trips Near Lehi, Utah for Scenic Road Adventures

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10 Easy Road Trips From Lehi, Utah: Fun Day & Weekend Getaways Nearby

If you live in or near Lehi, Utah, you already know it’s a great place to call home. But sometimes, you just want to hop in the car, roll the windows down, and discover something new outside of Utah County. The good news? You’re surrounded by amazing places in nearby counties like Salt Lake, Tooele, Wasatch, Juab, Carbon, Duchesne, and Sanpete. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can find red rock canyons, ghost towns, mountain lakes, and small-town diners that feel like they’re straight out of a movie. Below are 10 short out-of-county road trips from Lehi to help you find fun things to do near home—without getting on a plane.

1. Big Cottonwood Canyon – Classic Mountain Escape (Salt Lake County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~45–60 minutes County: Salt Lake County, UT Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of those places that locals return to over and over. It’s close, it’s beautiful in every season, and it feels worlds away from the freeway. Why go:
  • Cooler temps in summer
  • Bright yellow fall leaves
  • Snowy wonderland in winter
Things to do:
  • Hike to Donut Falls – short, family-friendly, and a fun payoff at the end.
  • Walk around Silver Lake near Brighton – flat boardwalk loop, great if you’re not into steep trails.
  • Pack a cooler and enjoy a picnic by the river at one of the pull-outs.
If you time it right, you can leave Lehi after breakfast, hike before the day heats up, and be back home in time for dinner.

2. Antelope Island State Park – Wildlife & Sunset Views (Davis County via Salt Lake County access)

Driving time from Lehi: ~1 hour 15 minutes Accessed through: Salt Lake County area, then north into Davis County While Antelope Island isn’t in the counties on your list, it’s a popular out-of-county road trip that pairs perfectly with a drive through the Salt Lake area and along the Great Salt Lake. Why go:
  • See free-roaming bison and antelope
  • Epic sunsets over the Great Salt Lake
  • Wide-open views that feel almost otherworldly
Things to do:
  • Drive the island loop and stop at viewpoints.
  • Walk the shoreline and watch for birds.
  • Stay for sunset—it’s one of the best in northern Utah.
Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially in late spring and early summer.

3. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway – Alpine Lakes & High Mountain Passes (Wasatch County)

Driving time from Lehi to Kamas trailheads: ~1.5 hours County: Wasatch County, UT (Kamas area gateway) If you’re craving tall pines, clear lakes, and cooler air, head up through Heber and Kamas to the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. It’s one of Utah’s best mountain drives. Why go:
  • High-elevation lakes surrounded by forest
  • Plenty of pullouts for photos or quick walks
  • Perfect summer road trip when the valley is hot
Things to do:
  • Walk around Mirror Lake or rent a small kayak/float if you bring your own gear.
  • Have a picnic at one of the lakeside day-use areas.
  • Stop at overlooks along the highway for sweeping views of the Uintas.
Check road conditions before you go. The byway is usually open late spring through fall, but snow can close parts of it.

4. Heber City & Midway – Small-Town Charm and Mountain Air (Wasatch County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~45–60 minutes County: Wasatch County, UT Heber Valley is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Lehi. It’s close, but it feels like you’ve slipped into a mountain vacation town. Why go:
  • Charming main streets
  • Cooler temperatures than the valley
  • Good mix of outdoor fun and cozy cafes
Things to do:
  • Ride the Heber Valley Railroad for a scenic train experience.
  • Stop in Midway for Swiss-inspired architecture and local bakeries.
  • Spend time at Jordanelle Reservoir for paddling, swimming, or just relaxing by the water.
If you like easy weekend getaways, this is a great “test trip” to see how your family or friends travel together before planning something bigger.

5. Tooele & the Great Salt Lake Desert – Ghost Town Vibes (Tooele County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~1–1.5 hours County: Tooele County, UT Head west and you’ll trade mountains for wide-open desert and history-rich towns. Tooele County offers a very different kind of Utah beauty. Why go:
  • Quiet roads and big skies
  • Old mining history
  • Access to the edge of the Salt Flats region
Things to do:
  • Visit the Ophir ghost town area (seasonal) and explore old mining structures.
  • Check out downtown Tooele and grab a bite at a local diner.
  • Drive toward the Salt Flats area for long straight roads and desert views.
Bring plenty of water and gas up before you start exploring side roads; services can be spread out.

6. Yuba Lake State Park – Warm Water & Sandy Beaches (Juab County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~1.5 hours County: Juab County, UT Looking for a low-stress lake day outside Utah County? Yuba Lake State Park in Juab County is a fun option, especially in late spring through early fall. Why go:
  • Warmer water than many mountain lakes
  • Sandy spots and coves for swimming
  • Great place for boating, paddle boarding, or just relaxing
Things to do:
  • Set up a simple beach camp with chairs, snacks, and shade.
  • Go for a swim or float along the shoreline.
  • Stay to stargaze if you don’t mind driving home a bit later.
If you have kids, this can be an easy all-day play spot: sand, water, and plenty of room to run around.

7. Manti & the Sanpete Valley – Historic Architecture & Quiet Roads (Sanpete County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~2 hours County: Sanpete County, UT Sanpete County doesn’t always make the top of the tourist lists, and that’s part of its charm. You get laid-back small towns, historic buildings, and easy drives without much traffic. Why go:
  • Slower pace and less crowds
  • Beautiful farmland backed by mountains
  • Unique historic sites
Things to do:
  • Walk or drive around Manti for views of the iconic temple and historic homes.
  • Explore nearby towns like Ephraim or Mt. Pleasant for local cafes and shops.
  • Take a scenic drive through the valley for photos and peaceful views.
If you’re craving a “Sunday drive” kind of day—even if it’s not Sunday—Sanpete County delivers.

8. Price & Nine Mile Canyon – Rock Art & High Desert Views (Carbon County)

Driving time from Lehi to Price: ~2 hours County: Carbon County, UT If you’re up for a slightly longer day trip or a quick overnight, head to Price and the nearby Nine Mile Canyon. It’s known as an “outdoor museum” of rock art. Why go:
  • See ancient Native American petroglyphs and pictographs
  • Explore canyons with unique rock formations
  • Get a feel for Utah’s high desert country
Things to do:
  • Use a printed or online guide to find some of the main rock art panels in Nine Mile Canyon.
  • Stop in Price for lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Visit local museums in town if you have extra time.
The canyon road is mostly good, but drive slowly and watch for dust, wildlife, and changing conditions.

9. Starvation Reservoir (Strawberry River Area) – Rugged Lake Escape (Duchesne County)

Driving time from Lehi: ~2 hours County: Duchesne County, UT Don’t let the name fool you—Starvation Reservoir is anything but empty. It’s a big, blue lake surrounded by rugged hills, and it’s a great choice for people who want fewer crowds than the more famous Utah lakes. Why go:
  • Room to spread out on the shore
  • Boating, fishing, and paddling
  • Classic wide-open Utah views
Things to do:
  • Take a walk along the shoreline and pick a quiet spot to relax.
  • Bring a kayak or paddleboard if you have one.
  • Pack a hearty lunch; services can be limited.
Combine this with a scenic drive along Highway 40 for a full-day loop through eastern Utah.

10. Strawberry Reservoir – Cool Water & Great Fishing (Wasatch/Duchesne area)

Driving time from Lehi: ~1.5 hours Nearby Counties: Wasatch County & Duchesne County region Strawberry Reservoir sits in the higher country east of Heber and is known for its fishing, clear water, and cooler temperatures. Why go:
  • Popular spot for trout fishing
  • Mountain scenery and fresh air
  • Easy day trip from Lehi
Things to do:
  • Fish from the shore or a small boat if you have gear and a license.
  • Walk near the marinas and enjoy the views.
  • Pack layers—it can be noticeably cooler than Lehi, even in summer.
This is a great place if you want your road trip from Lehi to feel like a mini mountain vacation without booking a whole week away.

Tips for Planning Your Road Trips From Lehi

Before you hit the road for any of these Utah road trips near Lehi, a little planning goes a long way:
  • Check the weather – Mountain and desert conditions change fast.
  • Bring water and snacks – Some areas have limited services.
  • Fill your gas tank – Especially before heading into desert or canyon areas.
  • Look up park fees – State parks and some recreation areas may charge a day-use fee.
  • Save offline maps – Cell service can be spotty in canyons and remote zones.
Think of Lehi as your home base. Within about 1–2 hours, you can reach canyons, lakes, deserts, ghost towns, and quiet farming valleys—all in different counties, all with their own personality.

Share Your Favorite Lehi Road Trips

Have you tried any of these day trips from Lehi or weekend getaways in nearby counties like Carbon, Duchesne, Juab, Salt Lake, Sanpete, Tooele, or Wasatch?
  • Which drive is your go-to when you need a quick escape?
  • Do you have a favorite hidden overlook, hike, or small-town restaurant?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they might help someone else plan their next adventure. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family in Lehi who are looking for easy, out-of-county things to do nearby. Your share might be the nudge they need to plan their next little road trip.
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