For someone who loves exploring, there’s one iconic attraction surprisingly close to home that I still haven’t checked off my list: Spiral Jetty.
Spiral Jetty is a massive earthwork sculpture located on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake. It was created in 1970 by artist Robert Smithson, who used more than 6,000 tons of black basalt rock and earth to form a 1,500-foot spiral that curls out into the water. It’s one of the most famous examples of land art in the world, and yet somehow, despite living somewhat close, I’ve never made the trip.
Part of what makes Spiral Jetty so fascinating is how much it changes over time. Depending on the lake’s water levels, the spiral is sometimes fully submerged and sometimes completely exposed. When visible, the surrounding water often turns pink or red due to salt-loving microorganisms, creating a surreal, otherworldly scene that feels more like another planet than northern Utah.
Getting there from Salt Lake City takes about two hours by car. The route heads north toward Corinne, then onto gravel roads for the final stretch. It’s very much a “middle of nowhere” destination. I’ve been told there’s no visitor center, no amenities, and spotty cell service. So don’t expect to be able to grab dinner while you are visiting, and make sure to stop in Corinne for a bathroom break ahead of time!
So why go? Spiral Jetty isn’t about thrill rides or scenic overlooks. It’s about stillness, scale, and the relationship between humans and the landscape. It’s the kind of place you visit slowly, walk quietly, and let the vastness of the Great Salt Lake sink in.
The best time to see Spiral Jetty is late summer through early fall, when lake levels are typically lower and the spiral is more likely to be fully visible. Sunrise and sunset are especially popular for the lighting – and the solitude.
If you can make it work, I hear seeing Spiral Jetty from above offers a completely different perspective, and from that vantage point, water levels don’t matter as much. I have a friend who got engaged on a private flight over it, and it’s a great story.
It’s been on my Utah bucket list for years. I’ll let you know when I finally make it there. If you’ve already been, I’d love to hear what you thought about it!
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Packing for Adventure 
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