Salt Lake City: Best Canyons Private Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of escaping the city for a day of natural beauty, the Salt Lake City Canyons Tour offers a prime opportunity. Designed for travelers eager to see Utah’s iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning, this private tour covers American Fork Canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and Little Cottonwood Canyon in one seamless experience. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll get a taste of mountain grandeur that’s both accessible and awe-inspiring.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip: first, the intimate, private group setting that allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience. Second, the variety of options—whether you’re into scenic drives, easy hikes, or tram rides to panoramic viewpoints—there’s something for all. That said, it’s worth noting the tour’s duration (about 5 to 6.5 hours) means a full day of activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some outdoor walking and variable weather conditions.

A potential consideration is the weather, especially if you’re planning to ride the tram or hike. The tram ride is weather-dependent, and some travelers have noted that outdoor activities are better enjoyed on clear days. This tour is perfect for those who want a flexible, adventure-filled day in nature, especially if you appreciate expert guides who enrich the experience with local insights.

This tour appeals most to travelers who love scenic beauty, want a manageable day trip, and enjoy a mix of driving, light hiking, and mountain views. It’s especially suitable for those seeking a relaxed yet active outdoor experience with the comfort of a private guide.

Key Points

• All-in-One Canyon Experience: Visit three distinct Utah canyons—American Fork, Big Cottonwood, and Little Cottonwood—without the hassle of separate bookings.
• Scenic Drive & Optional Activities: Enjoy a comfortable scenic drive, with options to hike or take a tram to a mountain summit.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the natural features and history, enhancing the trip’s value.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is tailored for private groups, making it perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers seeking exclusivity.
• Weather Considerations: The tram ride depends on weather, so clear days will maximize your experience.
• Value for Price: At $210 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Utah’s canyons, combining transportation, guiding, and optional extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Canyons: A Deep Dive

The American Fork Canyon

Our journey begins here, where the landscape immediately impresses. Known for its towering cliffs and lush scenery, American Fork Canyon is a favorite for outdoor lovers. The views are spectacular, with dense forests and rugged mountains creating a dramatic backdrop. This part of the trip sets a tranquil tone and invites travelers to appreciate Utah’s rugged terrain.

While the tour primarily features a scenic drive through this canyon, the possibility to hike on well-maintained trails adds an extra layer of enjoyment. For those keen on stretching their legs, there are accessible paths that reveal hidden waterfalls or viewpoints. One traveler praised the guide’s knowledge, saying, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and did a great job,” which makes a big difference when you’re eager to learn about the area’s geology and wildlife.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Next, the tour takes you through Big Cottonwood Canyon, famous for its towering granite walls and dense conifer forests. The drive itself offers stunning vistas, especially if you’re traveling in fall when the foliage turns fiery. This canyon is also home to popular hiking routes, so if you want to add a short walk, it’s easily doable here.

What makes Big Cottonwood particularly special is its accessibility and the variety of outdoor activities. Our guides tend to highlight the best spots for photography and point out notable features like the large boulder formations and mountain streams. If you’ve opted for the tram ride, you’ll ascend to a mountain top for sweeping views that truly make the effort worthwhile. A reviewer mentioned, “The tram ride to the top was spectacular, and lunch at the summit was a highlight,” which underscores how this optional add-on elevates the experience.

Little Cottonwood Canyon

The last stop offers a grand finale of natural beauty. Known for its pristine alpine environment, Little Cottonwood Canyon is home to some of Utah’s most famous ski resorts, which are just as charming in summer. The lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and clear mountain streams create a picture-perfect setting.

Some travelers choose to hike here, taking advantage of well-maintained trails that lead to stunning vistas or peaceful spots by mountain lakes. If you’re lucky with the weather, the tram ride offers panoramic views that stretch for miles, making it a memorable photo opportunity. As one guest put it, “It was a fabulous outdoor experience,” confirming that the scenery here surpasses expectations.

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The Optional Tram Ride

The tram to the mountain summit is a major highlight, offering vistas that are simply breathtaking. While weather conditions can influence availability, when it’s active, it provides a chance to see Utah’s mountain ranges from an unbeatable perspective. Many guests recommend adding this feature, especially for the lunch at the top, which is described as “spectacular.” Keep in mind, the tram ride is weather-dependent, so it’s wise to check the forecast and communicate with your guide.

Practical Details & Comfort

The tour lasts between 5 and 6.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Pickup is available from anywhere in Salt Lake City, adding convenience for travelers staying in town. The group size is private, so the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention from your guide.

What you’ll need to bring? Comfortable shoes for walking and water. The trails are well-maintained, but good footwear makes exploring more enjoyable, especially if you plan to hike. Weather can be unpredictable—packing layers and checking the forecast helps ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day.

Value & Cost

At $210 per person, this tour combines transportation, guiding, and optional activities like hiking and the tram ride. For those eager to see Utah’s canyons without the stress of planning logistics, this is a good deal. The reviews point out that guides are notably knowledgeable, which enriches the trip, making it more than just a scenic drive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate natural beauty but prefer a guided, private experience. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want a flexible, well-rounded day in Utah’s mountains. If you’re interested in photography, wildlife, or just easy access to some of the state’s best landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

The Salt Lake City Canyons Tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenery, activity, and expert guidance. With options to hike and take a tram, it caters to different interests and energy levels. The private setting ensures a personalized experience, making it feel special rather than generic.

The views are undeniably stunning, and the knowledgeable guides help you understand what makes each canyon unique. While weather can influence certain elements like the tram ride, when conditions are right, this tour delivers a memorable mountain adventure. It’s a flexible, value-packed way to experience Utah’s iconic landscapes, perfect for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of self-planning.

If you love landscapes that take your breath away and enjoy a relaxed, tailored outdoor experience, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to step away from city life and into the wild, with the comfort of expert guidance and the option to customize your day.

Is this a full-day tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6.5 hours, making it a comfortable day trip from Salt Lake City.

Can I book this tour for a private group?
Yes, this experience is designed for private groups, which allows for personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a scenic drive through the canyons, a knowledgeable guide, and optional activities like hiking and a tram ride. Meals and beverages are not included.

Is the tram ride guaranteed?
The tram ride is subject to weather conditions and availability. It’s recommended to check the forecast and discuss options with your guide on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and water are recommended. Dressing in layers is smart to handle changing weather.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or wheelchair users due to walking and outdoor activities.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup from anywhere in Salt Lake City is available—just advise during booking.

What is the guide’s role?
Guides are knowledgeable and help you understand the natural features, wildlife, and history of the canyons, enriching your experience.

Can I hike during the tour?
Yes, there’s an option to hike on well-maintained trails during the trip, which can be tailored to your comfort level.

Would this tour suit all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, especially with the flexibility of optional activities and a private guide.

In all, this private Salt Lake City Canyons Tour balances scenic beauty with comfort, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking an authentic Utah outdoor experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: