Utah is full of so many options to explore. After exploring all the National Parks and Southern Utah, we were wondering what to do in Northern Utah. So we recently made a day trip that was full of fun. Here’s a full itinerary to make a memorable day trip in Northern Utah. This is perfect for kids and parents, too.
This itinerary starts at the most remote location and works its way back to I15. You can start at any point, but there is some driving involved. We did our longest driving at the beginning of that daily (with an audiobook for the kids). Then we worked our way through the different stops with only short drives between each.
Walk the Spiral Jetty
Getting to the spiral Jetty isn’t easy. From Golden Spike it is 15 miles on a gravel road. You can’t drive faster than 30 mph so it will take at least 30 minutes from the turn off. There are no facilities at the Spiral Jetty so bring your food and change in the car. From this viewpoint, you can see the rock creation of the Spiral Jetty and have easy access to the Great Salt Lake. Climb up the hill behind the lake for a birds-eye view of the jetty
Swim in the Great Salt Lake
While swimming in the Great Salt Lake isn’t in every Utah bucket list, I think it is worth a dip or a walk to create a unique experience. Read this post to know Everything you need to know about Swimming in the Great Salt Lake.
Visit Golden Spike National Monument
See the transcontinental railroad completion at Golden Spike National Monument. The connection of the railways across all of America changed the economy for the better in so many ways. At Golden Spike you will find two shiny engines face to face with plenty of informational plaques to learn more. We loved the simple Junior Ranger programs which was basically a scavenger hunt for information.
The visitors center here offers movies every 30 minutes (if COVID ever goes away!) You can also see the engines in action if you are there at 1 or 4 for the demonstration.
Stand under the Chinese Arch
In honor of all the work on the Transcontinental Railroad, this natural rock arch is named after the Chinese workers. You can find this Arch on the East Auto Tour drive in the Golden Spike Monument area. It looks man-made with the flat area under the arch but is actually just formed by the layers of rock falling off.
From the small parking lot, the arch is only a few steps away. The kids will love climbing under and around the arch and in the coves in the area.
Wander through ATK Rocket Garden
When you exit the road to Golden Spike, you will most likely want to head south to get back to civilization. But turn north for a short 2 mile detour. These rockets on a free display outside of Northrop Grumman facility . We especially loved viewing the rockets that helped get shuttles to space.
If your kids like Geo Caching, there are a couple of boxes here so bring a trinket to leave behind!
Eat Dinner at Peach City
When you get back to I15, instead of getting on the freeway, continue into Brigham City for a throwback to a hometown feel with the treelined street.
Right on Main Street, stop to eat at the diner called Peach City. You’ll find the best specialty drinks, burgers, shakes, specialty fries, and unique and delicious ice cream flavors. The baby cones are only $1 for a hand-dipped ice cream flavor of your choice!
And if you haven’t heard of a Lime Rickey you need to give this drink a try! My favorite drink from my childhood!
Stroll around the Brigham City Temple and Tabernacle
The grounds around the Brigham City LDS temple and tabernacle are well maintained will grass and flowers. With these beautiful buildings dedicated to worshiping and meditation will point your mind to the heavens and your heart will find peace.
See the Planes at Hill Air Force Museum
If you are coming from the Salt Lake Valley, make a stop at Hill Air Force Aerospace museum to tour the coolest aviation machines in our military. Typical hours are open from 9-4:30.
What to do in Northern Utah with Kids
What would your family love from this itinerary? Anything else we missed? Comment on this post so we can share some hidden gems so everyone knows what to do in Northern Utah!
Between stops on this itinerary you will drive a total of 2 hours. The longest drive is 30 minutes which is just about how long my kids can handle. If your kids love audiobooks, this may be the perfect way to help them travel.
I hope you love this adventurous and memorable day trip exploring each new place.
If you are in Utah, you need to head to Moab! We loved our Hummer Tour, our stay at the Hyatt Place and Arches National Park!
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