The BLM Salt Lake Field Office administers all recreational events on the Bonneville Salt Flats to protect its unique natural resources. Each summer, professional and amateur teams from around the world compete for landspeed records in different vehicle classes at annual racing events such as Speedweek, held each August since 1949. Racetracks are surveyed and prepared with heavy drag sleds that smooth out the surface of the salt. In addition to landspeed racing, the Utah Rocket Club and the National Archery Association hold events each year. Most events are open to the public, and there is an admissions fee for spectators at landspeed racing events. Weather or other factors may cancel or delay an event.
For more information or if you wish to register as a competitor in Bonneville events, visit the web links below:
2009 Schedule of Events
Activities: The public can gain access to landspeed racing events by paying an entrance fee and following route markers onto the salt to designated viewing areas. Reservations for spectators are not required. Racing commentary and timing results are broadcast over FM/AM radio. There are no viewing stands or bleachers; portable shade shelters, umbrellas, lawn chairs, wide-brimmed hats, sunscreen, and lots of water are recommended. Bicycles, motorcycles, and ATVs are permitted on the salt. Toilets, food, beverages, and souvenirs are available at most recreation events. Food, fuel, lodging, and other services are available at the freeway exit truck stop or in the nearby town of Wendover. Hotel reservations for major racing events usually need to be made months in advance. If you are a competitor, you must register for the event.
Camping: To maintain public health & safety and protect natural resources, overnight camping is prohibited on the salt flats. There are no developed campground facilities. You may camp for free on adjacent public lands accessed via local roads. During landspeed racing events, many participants choose to camp on the mud flats off of the access road to Bonneville or along the nearby Silver Island Mountains backcountry byway. RV camping facilities are available in nearby Wendover.
Getting There: The Bonneville Salt Flats are located just off of Exit 4 on Interstate 80 in Utah, just before reaching the Nevada state line. They are approximately 100 miles and 1.5 hours driving time due west of Salt Lake City. After exiting the freeway, turn right and drive north past the truck stop. Stay on the paved road as it curves to the right away from the mountains and heads east out across the mud flats. In just over 4 miles, you will come to a cul-de-sac at the end of the pavement where a BLM sign is located. You may park here or continue onto the Salt Flats. Travel on the Salt Flats is at your own risk. BSF Travel Advisory
Weather: Daytime temperatures can range from below freezing in winter to triple digits in the summer. Average highs in July, August, and September are usually in the mid to upper 90s. Early spring and late fall can see highs in the 50s and 60s. Late spring and early fall temps are usually in the 70s and 80s. Strong winds and thunderstorms often occur in the afternoons during warm weather months. Ultraviolet solar radiation can be intense on hot, sunny days. Visitors need to come prepared with protective clothing such as broad-brimmed hats, UV sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, shelter from the sun, and lots of water. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are real dangers in the summer. Avoid drinking alcohol while on the salt flats.
Programs
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