10 Easy Road Trips From Layton, Utah: Fun Things To Do Just Beyond Davis County
If you live in
Layton, Utah or you’re staying nearby, you’re in a sweet spot for quick road trips. In just 20–90 minutes, you can reach mountains, salt flats, historic downtowns, and even a real-life movie set town.
The best part? All of these ideas are
outside Davis County, but still close enough for a relaxing day trip or easy weekend getaway.
Below are 10 short out-of-county road trips from Layton that take you into:
Pack some snacks, fill up the gas tank, and let’s go exploring.
1. Golden Spike National Historical Park – Box Elder County
About 1.5–2 hours northwest of Layton, out near
Promontory Summit, you’ll find
Golden Spike National Historical Park. This is where the first transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869.
Why it’s worth the drive:
- See full-size replica steam locomotives (they’re gorgeous up close).
- Stand on the exact spot where the “Golden Spike” ceremony took place.
- Learn how railroads changed the West in a small but informative visitor center.
I remember the first time I went, I was surprised how quiet and open the area felt. You stand there, surrounded by desert and hills, and imagine what it was like when two rail lines finally met. It’s oddly powerful.
Road trip tip: There’s not much in the way of food out there, so bring water, snacks, and maybe a picnic lunch. Also, check locomotive demonstration times before you go.
2. Antelope Island State Park (Box Elder Side Views) – Box Elder County
Most people reach
Antelope Island State Park from Davis County, but it’s worth a short detour up into
Box Elder County to catch different viewpoints along the
Great Salt Lake’s northern shoreline.
What to do nearby on the Box Elder side:
- Pull off at viewpoints along the causeway’s north access routes.
- Enjoy off-the-beaten-path photo spots of the lake, island, and distant mountains.
- Watch for birds and other wildlife along the shallow marsh areas.
If you’re into photography, this area can be amazing at sunrise or sunset. The colors over the water and salt flats can look almost unreal.
Road trip tip: The air can smell a little “lake funky” at times—totally normal for the Great Salt Lake. Don’t let it scare you off.
3. Historic 25th Street & Ogden River Parkway – Weber County
Only about 20–25 minutes north of Layton,
Ogden in Weber County makes for an easy half-day or full-day trip.
Highlights on Historic 25th Street:
- Local restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert spots.
- Colorful murals and unique little shops.
- A fun mix of old railroad history and modern city energy.
Then head over to the
Ogden River Parkway for a peaceful walk or bike ride along the river. It’s flatter and easier than a mountain hike but still gets you into nature.
I like to grab a coffee on 25th Street, walk the river trail for a bit, and then reward myself with ice cream on the way back. Simple, but it makes for a great afternoon.
Road trip tip: Parking along 25th Street is usually pretty manageable, especially earlier in the day.
4. Snowbasin Resort (Year-Round Fun) – Weber & Morgan Counties
About 35–45 minutes from Layton,
Snowbasin Resort is technically in both
Weber and
Morgan Counties, tucked into the mountains east of Ogden.
This place is famous for skiing and snowboarding, but it’s also great the rest of the year:
- Winter: World-class ski runs, cozy lodges, and beautiful views.
- Summer: Scenic gondola rides on select days, hiking trails, and wildflowers.
- Fall: Fantastic leaf-peeping with bright gold and red hillsides.
Even if you’re not a big skier or hiker, riding the gondola on a clear day just to soak in the view is worth it. You can see across the valleys and out toward the Great Salt Lake.
Road trip tip: Mountain weather changes fast. Bring layers—even in summer—because it can be 10–20 degrees cooler up there than in Layton.
5. East Canyon State Park – Morgan County
Around 45–60 minutes southeast of Layton,
East Canyon State Park in Morgan County offers a calm mountain reservoir with rolling hills all around.
Things to do:
- Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or small boat.
- Fish along the shoreline or from a boat.
- Spread out a blanket and enjoy a low-key lakeside picnic.
It’s a nice choice if you want that “in the mountains” feeling without super steep hikes. On a summer weekday, it can feel surprisingly peaceful.
Road trip tip: Summer weekends get busy, so go early in the day or on a weekday if you can. Don’t forget sunscreen—the sun reflects off the water.
6. Park City’s Historic Main Street – Summit County (via Morgan/Salt Lake Route)
While
Park City is in
Summit County, one of the scenic ways to reach it from Layton is by heading through Morgan County and then over to I‑80. It usually takes about 1–1.5 hours depending on your route and traffic.
Why go:
- Stroll Historic Main Street with its old mining-town architecture.
- Browse art galleries, outdoor gear shops, and boutiques.
- Grab a bite at one of the many cafés or restaurants.
In winter, the town feels like a snow globe. In summer, it’s all about outdoor patios and mountain air. Even if you don’t ski, Park City has that “vacation town” vibe that’s fun for wandering.
Road trip tip: Parking in Main Street’s central area can be tight, but public lots and garages nearby help. Check signs so you don’t accidentally park in a pay-only or time-restricted spot.
7. Salt Lake City: Temple Square & City Creek – Salt Lake County
Less than 40 minutes south of Layton,
Salt Lake City in Salt Lake County is an easy day trip with lots to do in a small area.
Temple Square area:
- Walk the grounds around the Salt Lake Temple (note: ongoing renovations may affect views and access).
- Enjoy landscaped gardens and historic architecture.
Right across the street, you’ll find
City Creek Center:
- Open-air shopping mall with a small stream running through it.
- Plenty of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.
You can easily spend a day just walking around, window shopping, and people-watching. It makes for a nice mix of culture, history, and modern city life.
Road trip tip: Many downtown parking garages validate if you shop or eat there. Trax light rail is also handy if you choose to park on the outskirts.
8. Great Salt Lake Marina & Saltair – Salt Lake County
About 40–50 minutes from Layton, head west of Salt Lake City on I‑80 and you’ll reach the
Great Salt Lake Marina and the historic
Saltair area.
What you can do:
- Walk along the marina and watch sailboats on the lake.
- Dip your hands (or feet) in the famously salty water.
- Catch a sunset—this is one of the better spots for it in the area.
The Great Salt Lake is one of those places you sort of have to see in person at least once. It’s strange, beautiful, and a little eerie all at the same time.
Road trip tip: The bugs can be thick in late spring and summer, especially near the shoreline. Bring bug spray and maybe a light long-sleeve shirt.
9. Bonneville Salt Flats – Tooele County
If you don’t mind driving about 1.5–2 hours, the
Bonneville Salt Flats in Tooele County are one of Utah’s most iconic sights. The flats sit just east of the Nevada border, right off I‑80.
Why people love it:
- Wide, open white salt that stretches as far as you can see.
- Epic photo backdrops—cars, portraits, and even simple landscape shots look amazing.
- Occasional racing events on the flats (check schedules ahead of time).
Standing out there feels like you’re on another planet. On a calm day after a rain, the thin layer of water creates a mirror effect that’s unforgettable.
Road trip tip: Don’t drive off the main access areas if it’s wet. The surface can be soft and muddy underneath, and people do get stuck. Also, sunglasses are a must—the glare off the salt is intense.
10. Historic Tooele & Benson Grist Mill – Tooele County
Around 1–1.25 hours from Layton, you can head southwest to explore a quieter side of Utah in
Tooele County.
Ideas for your visit:
- Walk around historic Tooele and check out its small-town main streets.
- Visit the Benson Grist Mill, a restored pioneer-era mill with historic buildings and displays.
- Drive the backroads for sweeping views of the Oquirrh Mountains and Tooele Valley.
It’s a slower-paced trip than heading into Salt Lake City, and that’s exactly the charm. If you like history and old buildings, this is a peaceful way to spend a day.
Road trip tip: Some historic sites have seasonal hours, so it’s smart to check ahead before you go.
Planning Your Layton Road Trips
Here are a few quick tips to make these short road trips from Layton smoother:
- Check drive times: Traffic through Salt Lake County can slow things down during rush hour.
- Pack a “car kit”: Water, snacks, sunscreen, simple first-aid items, and a light jacket.
- Watch the weather: Mountain and desert conditions can change quickly—especially in winter and spring.
- Start early: You’ll beat crowds and have more time to relax once you arrive.
From Box Elder’s railroad history to Tooele’s salt flats, there’s a whole lot to explore within just a short drive of Layton—without ever repeating the same kind of experience.
Share Your Favorite Day Trips From Layton
Have you taken any of these
road trips from Layton? Did I miss one of your favorite spots in Box Elder, Morgan, Salt Lake, Tooele, or Weber County?
- Drop a comment with your go-to getaway.
- Share this post with friends or family who are always saying, “There’s nothing to do around here.”
Sometimes the best adventures are only an hour down the road—you just need a little nudge to go find them.
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