Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve Layton Utah

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve – Layton Utah



The Trek Details

The Trek in a snapshot

Location: Layton Utah – Northern Utah
Managing Agency: Private and public ownership
Pets: No pets allowed
Fees: Free – donations accepted near main pavilion
Restrooms: North of visitor’s center (pavilion). Operated seasonally
Camping: not allowed
Trail Condition: Raised wooden boardwalk
Distance: 1 mile loop trail
Time Required: 30-60 minutes
Sights: Waterfowl, grasslands, vistas of Antelope Island
Best Season: Spring, summer, fall
Water Info: Bring a bottle of water if needed
Parking Elevation: 4223 ft
Summit Elevation: N/A
Elevation Difference: N/A
Trek Planner Maps

Trail Map

GPS Coordinates

Trailhead: 41° 2’32.90″N, 112° 1’35.26″W
Visitor Center: 41° 2.410’N, 112° 1.530’W
Tower: 41° 2’11.40″N, 112° 1’44.02″W

Experience. Discover. Explore.

The Trail

Follow along on our adventure then go out on your own!

Be a responsible explorer



You have the opportunity to see many types of birds in grasslands and swampy areas.  The entire trail is above ground on a 1 mile wooden boardwalk.  There is a 30 foot high tower at far end of the preserve that I recommend you visit.

Here is the entrance. If it is closed just use the small gate to the left
Here is the entrance. If it is closed just use the small gate to the left

This is a very fun activity for the entire family or for anyone looking to enjoy a quiet walk around the boardwalk.

From the parking lot head south on the gravel path until it ends up with a wooden boardwalk about 100 yards south.  You will curve around and wind up at the main pavilion (visitor center) which has interesting information regarding the shorelands preserve and the waterfowl that use the 4,400 acres.

Be prepared to see many different types of waterfowl – over 250 types use the general wetlands area and many can be seen as you stroll around.  I have personally seen owls, hawks, ravens and tons of other types of birds in the preserve.

A flock of Canadian Geese fly overhead
A flock of Canadian Geese fly overhead

Note: you may be surprised by the cattle roaming around in the area. The area surrounding the parking lot is a cattle pasture and for the most part the cattle stay out of the wetlands area.



Here is the visitor center area with information about the preserve.
Here is the visitor center main pavilion area with information about the preserve.

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Once you reach the main pavilion you can either take the left or ride boardwalks.  They both eventually meet up with each other as it is one giant 1 mile loop.

The pavilion features information pamphlets and other information about the preserve.

I think coming out here right when the sun is setting is the best time to visit.  The sunsets and the quiet setting make the Shorelands Preserve the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve



Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Along the way you will see over 30 information posts and facts on the boardwalk itself and on little displays along the way.

You will see a large 30 foot structure which you are allowed to climb to the top of.  The views from the tower are amazing and you will see other parts of the preserve such as ponds and water areas.

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve – Trek Planner Video

Personal Thoughts

Personal Thoughts

I really enjoy the Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve area especially at later times in the afternoon. It is quiet and generally never busy when I visit. It is definitely worth a trip. Don't be surprised if you find yourself coming back many times throughout the year.

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