10 Easy Road Trips From Midvale, Utah: Fun Things To Do Just Outside Salt Lake County
If you live in or near
Midvale, Utah, you’re in a perfect spot for quick, easy road trips. In under an hour or so, you can reach mountains, lakes, hot springs, and charming small towns—all
outside Salt Lake County.
This guide focuses on
short out-of-county drives from Midvale to nearby spots in:
- Davis County
- Morgan County
- Summit County
- Tooele County
- Utah County
- Wasatch County
Each of these 10 ideas makes a great half-day or full-day trip. Gas up the car, grab some snacks, and go explore what’s just beyond your own backyard.
1. Antelope Island State Park (Davis County)
Antelope Island is one of those places that feels almost unreal. It sits out in the Great Salt Lake, but you can drive right to it across a long causeway from Syracuse in Davis County.
Why go:
You’ll find wide-open views, wildlife, and some of the best sunsets in Utah.
What to do:
- Look for bison, pronghorn, and sometimes bighorn sheep
- Walk the easy trails near the visitor center
- Catch sunset over the Great Salt Lake—bring a camera
- Stargaze on clear nights (light pollution is low out here)
From Midvale, it’s usually about a 45–60 minute drive, depending on traffic. Bring water, sunscreen, and maybe bug spray in warmer months.
2. Historic 25th Street & Union Station in Ogden (Davis County area)
If you want a little history and a fun urban vibe, head north toward Ogden’s historic district, just beyond Davis County.
Why go:
It’s a relaxed mix of old buildings, local food, and rail history.
What to do:
- Walk Historic 25th Street and pop into shops and cafes
- Visit Union Station for train and car exhibits
- Grab brunch or lunch at a local diner or burger spot
- Check the calendar for markets or street events
It’s a simple freeway drive from Midvale. If you like small-city charm without big-city stress, this is an easy win.
3. East Canyon Reservoir & State Park (Morgan County)
Just over the mountains from Salt Lake County, you’ll find
East Canyon in Morgan County—a peaceful spot for water and mountain views.
Why go:
It’s close, calm, and feels like a mini-escape from everyday life.
What to do:
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard (in season)
- Have a picnic by the water
- Fish from the shore or a small boat
- Drive around for scenic overlooks and photos
From Midvale, the drive usually takes under an hour. The road is twisty in spots, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
4. Park City’s Main Street (Summit County)
Park City is one of the most popular
day trips from Midvale, and for good reason. This mountain town in Summit County has a cozy main street packed with shops and restaurants.
Why go:
You get mountain-town vibes without a long road trip.
What to do:
- Stroll Main Street and explore local boutiques and galleries
- Warm up with hot chocolate or coffee in winter
- Try a local restaurant or casual burger joint
- Ride the free trolley up and down the street
In summer, you’ll see bikes and hikers everywhere; in winter, skiers and snowboarders. I’ve done quick evening runs up there just for dinner and a lazy walk—it makes a regular weeknight feel like a mini vacation.
5. Guardsman Pass to Heber Valley (Summit & Wasatch Counties)
If you like scenic drives, the
Guardsman Pass route is a must when the road is open (usually late spring to fall). You can loop from Park City over the mountains into the Heber Valley in Wasatch County.
Why go:
For a short drive, the views are surprisingly dramatic—especially in fall.
What to do:
- Stop at pullouts for sweeping mountain views
- Look for wildflowers in early summer or bright leaves in fall
- Drop down into Heber or Midway for lunch or ice cream
From Midvale to Park City to Heber via Guardsman Pass makes a nice half-day loop. Just be sure to check road conditions before you go, since this route closes in winter.
6. Midway & Homestead Crater (Wasatch County)
Midway is a small town with a bit of Swiss flavor in its design and festivals. It’s a charming stop, and it’s also home to the famous
Homestead Crater.
Why go:
Quiet streets, mountain views, and a unique hot spring you can soak or snorkel in.
What to do:
- Walk around town and check out the Swiss-style buildings
- Visit the Homestead Crater (reserve ahead for soaking or paddleboard yoga)
- Explore nearby walking paths or short trails
- Combine with a visit to Heber City just down the road
From Midvale, you can usually get to Midway in about an hour, depending on traffic over the canyon. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly day trip.
7. Provo & Utah Lake Shoreline (Utah County)
Head south to
Utah County for a mix of college-town energy and lakeside views.
Provo is easy to reach and offers a little bit of everything.
Why go:
Food, river walks, and lake scenery—all within a short drive.
What to do:
- Wander downtown Provo and grab coffee or a bite to eat
- Walk or bike along the Provo River Parkway
- Visit Utah Lake State Park for sunset views over the water
- Catch a local event or street festival if one’s happening
Utah Lake can be windy, so bring a light jacket if you’ll be there in the evening. It’s an easy trip that works well for families, date nights, or solo exploring.
8. American Fork Canyon & Tibble Fork Reservoir (Utah County)
If you want classic Utah mountain scenery without a long drive,
American Fork Canyon is a strong choice.
Why go:
Tall peaks, cool water, and great picnic spots.
What to do:
- Drive up to Tibble Fork Reservoir for lakeside views
- Have a picnic with mountain scenery all around
- Try short hikes nearby (check local maps or apps)
- Bring a kayak or paddleboard when the water’s calm
From Midvale, the canyon entrance is usually under 40 minutes away. There are day-use fees, so keep some cash or a card handy.
9. Tooele & the Great Salt Lake Shorelines (Tooele County)
Head west into
Tooele County and you’ll find a different side of Utah—wide open spaces, desert hills, and quiet stretches of the Great Salt Lake.
Why go:
For a slower, less-touristy feel and big-sky views.
What to do:
- Explore the town of Tooele and grab lunch at a local spot
- Drive local backroads (where safe and legal) for lake overlooks
- Visit nearby small reservoirs or trailheads, if open
- Watch the sky change colors near sunset
If you’re used to the Wasatch Front mountains, this area feels very different—more open, more desert-like, and peaceful in its own way.
10. Jordanelle Reservoir & Hailstone Area (Wasatch County)
Just northeast of Park City in Wasatch County,
Jordanelle State Park offers a classic Utah reservoir experience with an easy drive from Midvale.
Why go:
It’s close, clean, and great for a day on or by the water.
What to do:
- Swim or wade near the beach areas (in season)
- Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or small boat
- Walk the short shoreline paths and enjoy the views
- Relax with a book and snacks by the water
On hot summer days, this is an especially nice escape. Leave early to avoid crowds on weekends and holidays.
Tips for Planning Your Midvale Day Trips
A few quick pointers to make these
road trips from Midvale smoother:
- Check conditions: Mountain passes and canyons can close in winter or early spring.
- Pack a small kit: Water, snacks, sunscreen, light jackets, and a phone charger go a long way.
- Give yourself extra time: Traffic through canyons or along I‑15 can slow things down.
- Know the fees: Many state parks and reservoirs charge day-use or parking fees.
When I’ve done these trips, I’ve found that leaving earlier in the day usually makes everything less crowded and more relaxed—especially for places like Park City, Tibble Fork, or Antelope Island.
Where Will You Go Next From Midvale?
Living near Midvale means you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve “gotten away.” In under an hour or two, you can:
- Watch bison roam on Antelope Island
- Wander historic streets in Ogden or Park City
- Soak in mountain views above American Fork Canyon
- Relax by lakes in Utah and Wasatch counties
Which of these
10 short day trips from Midvale would you try first?
Have you already visited any of these spots? I’d love to hear your tips, favorite food stops, and hidden corners you’ve found along the way.
Drop a comment below and share your own go-to road trips from Midvale—your ideas might help someone else plan their next weekend adventure.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are looking for fun, easy things to do near Midvale, Utah.
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