There are trips that start as a simple weekend getaway and end up feeling like a full-blown adventure. This past weekend, Marc and I set out for Salt Lake City and somehow managed to check off three states, one national park, and a handful of unforgettable experiences—all in less than 48 hours and close to 1000 miles.
Early Flight, Big Plans
We flew out early Saturday morning and grabbed our rental—a rugged 4×4 Jeep perfect for winter roads. In true “accidental odyssey” style, mid-flight we realized we were just a few hours away from Grand Teton National Park. How often do you get a chance to see the Tetons in the winter?
Wyoming: Big Sky Country and Snowy Excursions
Our drive north took us briefly through Idaho and into Wyoming—two new states for me! The landscape changed dramatically along the way: Utah’s red rocks and vegetation gave way to vast plains surrounded by distant mountains. Ranches dotted the landscape, and we even spotted cowboys tending to their herds.
Once in the park, I finally experienced what I’ve been searching for: big sky country. We stopped at the ranger gate, and even though most of the park was closed for winter, I grabbed the all-important National Park stamp for my passport book. The Tetons peeked out from snow clouds as we parked and ran around in a blizzard—well, Marc called it “light snow.”
Grand Teton National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
After a bit of snow walking and photography, we headed back down the mountain for clearer views. On our return, we passed through Jackson, Wyoming, and stopped for coffee at Snake River Brewing. Seeing Jackson in person made me realize why it’s the model for other resort towns—charming, functional, and full of character.
Wildlife and the Great American West
The drive itself was full of surprises: we spotted a female moose, a gathering of bighorn sheep, and even a highland cow! Wyoming delivered everything we expect from the great American West—majestic, vast, and alive with wildlife.
That evening, we wrapped up the day in Park City, enjoying a hearty meal at the High West Saloon before exploring downtown Salt Lake City for the evening.
Visit the Saloon | High West Whiskey
Sunday: Across Utah to the Great Salt Flats
Sunday morning, we drove west toward the Nevada state line—another new state for me! Our destination: the Bonneville Salt Flats. Flying in, the Great Salt Lake looked interesting, but muddy. The salt flats, on the other hand, were breathtaking—immense, flat, snow-white fields stretching as far as the eye could see. We stopped at the Wendover rest area to walk out onto the flats and then popped over to West Wendover for breakfast.
On the way back, we drove through downtown Salt Lake City, passing Temple Square and taking in the Mormon infrastructure.
A quick stop at REI yielded some bargain ski clothes, followed by lunch at In-N-Out.
Big Cottonwood Creek and Waterfall Hikes
Later that afternoon, we headed to Big Cottonwood Creek Pass for a few waterfall hikes and scenic roadside stops. Snow, rushing water, and crisp mountain air made it a perfect way to close out the trip before returning to Salt Lake City for the night.
I flew back home the next morning, and Marc joined me a few days later—proving that even short trips can feel like a full western adventure.
Check out other weekend adventures!
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