When it comes to escaping city life for a day of natural beauty and mountain adventure near Salt Lake City, the Snowbird Summer Excursion offers a compelling choice.
This 6-hour guided tour showcases the dramatic landscapes of Little Cottonwood Canyon, culminating in a tram ride, a delicious lunch at Utah’s highest restaurant, and a scenic hike down the Cirque Trail. It’s a tidy package that blends comfort, adventure, and authentic mountain scenery.
Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who breathe life into the experience with their knowledge and friendliness, and the breathtaking views that make every moment memorable. However, it’s worth noting that the walk down the trail involves some altitude and physical activity, so a moderate level of fitness helps.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light hiking, and mountain air—especially those traveling from Salt Lake City who want a well-rounded mountain day without the hassle of planning every detail.
Key Points
- All-inclusive experience with transportation, lunch, bottled water, and a licensed guide.
- Stunning scenic views of the mountains from Snowbird’s tram and hiking trails.
- Expert guides enhance the trip with local knowledge and friendly service.
- Comfortable transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Good value at $145 per person, considering the included activities and amenities.
- Limited group size (max 14), ensuring a more personalized experience.
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An Overview of the Snowbird Summer Excursion
This tour is designed for those craving a taste of mountain adventure, without the need for extensive planning or a full-on hiking expedition. Starting at Visit Salt Lake in downtown Salt Lake City, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you away into the scenic beauty of Little Cottonwood Canyon. The drive itself sets the tone—serene, lush, and often punctuated with glimpses of wildflowers and rugged peaks.
Once at Snowbird, the highlight is the tram ride up to the mountain’s peak. Named for its breathtaking panorama, the tram offers views that leave many visitors speechless, with expansive vistas of alpine ridges, dense forests, and perhaps even distant peaks of the surrounding mountains. Several reviews emphasize just how stunning the scenery is—Elizabeth_H mentioned, “The mountains were stunning!” and the gondola ride up was “beautiful.”
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Salt Lake City.
What Makes Snowbird Special
Snowbird Resort isn’t just a ski destination in winter; it’s a year-round mountain playground. During the summer, the resort opens up in a different way—offering scenic rides, hiking trails, and gourmet dining. The tour’s focus on the highest restaurant in Utah is a big highlight. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch with breathtaking views that make the meal feel like part of the scenery.
The guided hike along the Cirque Trail is an appreciated feature. It’s designed for moderate fitness levels, giving you a chance to stretch your legs after the tram ride and enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty up close. According to Ashley_C, her guide “made the whole day perfect,” emphasizing how the guide’s friendliness and knowledge can elevate the experience.
The Transportation and Timing
The tour’s pickup at Visit Salt Lake starts at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day. The round-trip transportation in a modern, comfortable minibus is a thoughtful touch, especially in a setting where the scenery can be more appreciated from a relaxed seat. With just 14 travelers maximum, you’re unlikely to feel rushed or crowded, which enhances the overall enjoyment.
What the Reviews Say
Readers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Elizabeth_H was especially impressed with Blake, who she says was “fantastic” with his wildlife and area knowledge, making the trip more enriching. Stephen_S appreciated the tailored experience, noting his guide was “happy to tailor the trip to my requirements/ability.” Ashley_C pointed out how her guide’s extensive experience made her feel confident, even with a fear of heights.
A common theme is the personalized attention and the high quality of the guides, which significantly boosts the value of the experience. The price of $145 per person seems justified when you consider the included amenities—lunch, bottled water, transportation, and a guide—plus the chance to see some truly memorable mountain scenery.
Practicalities and Considerations
This tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. The hike involves walking at high altitude, and while it’s not overly strenuous, it’s important to be prepared for some elevation change. The tour is also weather-dependent—poor weather can lead to cancellations or alternative arrangements, which are handled with full refunds or rescheduling options.
The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before start means you can book with confidence, knowing you can cancel if your plans change or the weather looks uncertain.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a well-organized day that combines scenic views, light physical activity, and the comfort of a guided tour, this experience hits the mark. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts, first-time visitors to Salt Lake City wanting a mountain escape, and those who appreciate authentic mountain scenery without committing to a full-day hike. It’s also a good pick for travelers who prefer a small group setting for more personalized attention.
However, those with serious mobility issues or who aren’t comfortable with heights or moderate walking might want to consider other options, as the hike does involve some altitude change and walking.
The Snowbird Summer Excursion is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a mountain adventure to their Utah itinerary. The combination of stunning vistas, friendly expert guides, and convenient logistics makes it a memorable, hassle-free experience. For around $145, you get more than just a sightseeing trip—you get a taste of Utah’s spectacular natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and light exploration.
This tour offers real value—especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic landscapes. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to your Salt Lake City trip.
Snowbird Summer Excursion
FAQs
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle is included.
What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Visit Salt Lake, located at 90 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City.
What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:30 am.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about six hours, including travel, sightseeing, and the hike.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal at Utah’s highest restaurant with scenic views is included.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Blake and Sonsori for their expertise and friendliness.
Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What level of physical fitness is required?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as the hike involves walking at altitude.
Is this trip suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While not explicitly specified, the moderate physical activity and high-altitude conditions suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable with light hiking.
How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 14, ensuring a more personalized experience.
This tour offers a fine blend of natural beauty, expert guidance, and comfort—ideal for those wanting a memorable mountain day without the fuss. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned mountain lover, the Snowbird Summer Excursion is a worthwhile addition to your Utah adventures.
