Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats is famous as a destination for modern-day auto racers to hit top speeds, but its usage by humans began long before the first motorized vehicle was ever invented. In the 1800s, crossing the salt flats was suggested as a "shortcut" for pioneers traveling to California. Ironically, the Donner-Reed party traveled so slowly through the flats in 1846 that they got trapped by the snow in the Sierra Nevada. Forty-eight of the 87 party members ultimately perished due to lack of food and hypothermia. Famously, the remainder of the party ended up eating the dead in order to survive.

Today, the salt flats provide a unique canvas for exploration by foot, bicycle, ATV, or car. Avoid driving onto the flats when they are wet, as tires can easily get stuck in the mud. Don't suffer the same fate as the Donner Party! Bring plenty of water, too, as there is no shade and plenty of hot sunshine most days of the year.

Check the BLM website for Bonneville Salt Flats to see if there are any scheduled events (to either avoid or attend) before you plan your visit.