The Best Time of Year to Visit the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah

Seasons and What to Expect

A. Spring (March – May)

• Weather: Mild temperatures (50-70°F), occasional rain

• Conditions:

  • Salt flats may be partially submerged in water, creating the famous mirror effect

  • Fewer crowds, great for serene photography

• Best for:

  • Reflection photos

  • Cool, comfortable exploring weather

B. Summer (June – August)

• Weather: Hot and dry (80-100°F)

• Conditions:

  • Dry, cracked salt crust

  • Bonneville Speed Week (mid-August) – famous for land-speed racing

  • Limited shade, so prepare for intense sun exposure

• Best for:

  • Racing enthusiasts

  • Experiencing the iconic dry salt flats

  • Sunrise and sunset photography to avoid the heat

C. Fall (September – November)

• Weather: Cooling temperatures (60-80°F)

• Conditions:

  • Ideal balance of warm days and cool nights

  • Salt flats remain dry and accessible

• Best for:

  • Hiking and exploring

  • Stunning golden hour and sunset photos

  • Comfortable day trips without extreme heat

D. Winter (December – February)

• Weather: Cold (20-40°F), occasional snow or rain

• Conditions:

  • Water on the flats creates reflective surfaces

  • Potential for icy patches and slippery terrain

  • Fewer visitors, making it peaceful and quiet

• Best for:

  • Reflection photography (similar to spring)

  • Adventurous travelers seeking solitude

Tips for Visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats

Best Time for Photography

The Bonneville Salt Flats, a surreal remnant of ancient Lake Bonneville, offers year-round photo opportunities that shift dramatically with the seasons. Whether you're a casual content creator or a professional photographer, knowing when to visit can make all the difference in capturing the most breathtaking shots.

Spring and Winter: The Mirror Season

Late winter to early spring (around February to April) is the perfect time for photographing the iconic mirror effect. A thin layer of water settles over the salt crust, reflecting the sky with crystal clarity and creating an illusion of walking on clouds.

• Best for: Drone shots, dreamy portraits, TikToks that will make your followers double take, and wide-angle reflections.

• Lighting: The soft winter sun and dynamic spring clouds produce a cinematic atmosphere.

• Timing: Sunrise and sunset bring out the most vibrant colors and provide ideal lighting without harsh shadows

Summer and Fall: Texture & Astrophotography Heaven

From June through October, the salt dries and reveals its unique, polygonal patterns—one of the best things to capture at ground level. These months are also a great time for outdoor activities, including stargazing and vehicle photography.

• Best for: Texture-focused close-ups, fashion/editorial shoots, car content, and astrophotography under the wide-open skies of northern Utah.

• Lighting: Summer’s mid-day sun creates high contrast, but early morning or golden hour in fall brings softness and warmth.

• Bonus: Clear skies + zero light pollution = stunning long exposures of the Milky Way