Salt Lake City’s elevation is 4,330 feet with average November temperatures ranging from a high of 50 degrees to a low of 35 degrees. The city is situated on land once covered by the prehistoric Lake Bonneville and lies in a mountain valley with the Wasatch Mountains visible to the east and north.
Dining, attractions and sightseeing
Salt Lake City has been rated the ‘best of the best’ in a number of categories including “best U.S. hiking city, affordable getaway, quality of life to accessibility, business growth and outdoor recreation” to name a few.
There is an array of things to do in Utah, so you might want to add a day or two to your trip. The state boasts a number of great golf courses; 13 ski resorts; 21 national parks and monuments; 18 brewpubs and microbreweries and five wineries. Salt Lake City’s TRAX rail system serves most of downtown with free transportation that includes a stop at City Creek Center where you will find shopping and dining establishments. Here is a selection to consider when visiting Utah before, during or after the conference.
Restaurants and shopping
The Sheraton Salt Lake City is located a few short blocks from the new City Creek Center (26 acres of fine retail shops and restaurants). Visit here for a list of available shops and restaurants available at the Center.
Downtown Salt Lake City
The Beehive House, a National Historic Landmark, was built between 1853 and 1855 and served as the official residence of Brigham Young when he was President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and governor of Utah Territory. There are free tours daily. 67 East South Temple; Phone: +1 801 240-2681.
Salt Lake Temple
The centerpiece of this beautifully landscaped 10-acre plot in the heart of downtown is the 6-spired Salt Lake Temple. Also on the Square is the domed Tabernacle, home of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir where free concerts are given most weekends. Free tours are given daily in 30 languages and start every few minutes at the flagpole. 50 West North Temple, Phone: +1 801 240-2534. See an interactive map and additional information.
Outside of Salt Lake City
Visit the Utah Olympic Oval, home of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games speed skating site. It is open daily Monday through Saturday. Public skating is often available. If skating isn’t your cup of tea, check out the museum.
Like to ski? Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort is the most accessible year-round resort offering the longest ski season in the state. Snowbird, along with its neighbor Alta, shares a dual-resort lift ticket providing over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain. Consider taking the Tram Ride to the top for a fabulous view. For more information call: +1 801 933-2222
Things to do within a day’s drive
Utah has 21 national parks and monuments within a few hours from Salt Lake City. Nearly 80 percent of Utah is managed for public use by federal and state agencies. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit some of the greatest views and outdoor areas the U.S. has to offer. For more information visit the Salt Lake City information web site.
Stay tuned to the wildland fire blog for more information and resources regarding Salt Lake City and the conference.