Is I-80 the fastest route?

Yes, I-80 is the most direct interstate highway connecting Iowa to Utah.

Do I need a rental car in SLC?

A car is recommended if you plan to visit nearby ski resorts or national parks.

Are there tolls on this route?

There are no major toll roads on the I-80 route between Ankeny and Salt Lake City.

What is the best month to drive?

July and August offer the most predictable weather for mountain driving.

How long is the flight?

Total travel time including a layover is typically 5 to 7 hours.

Ankeny

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Ankeny to Salt Lake City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Ankeny to Salt Lake City spans approximately 1,600 kilometers across the American heartland. Most travelers utilize Interstate 80 West, which serves as the primary artery connecting the Midwest to the Mountain West. Driving typically requires 15 to 17 hours of active road time depending on weather conditions in Nebraska and Wyoming. Alternatively, flying from Des Moines International Airport provides a faster transit option with connections in Denver. This route traverses diverse landscapes, from Iowa cornfields to the high-altitude terrain of the Wasatch Range. Planning for mountain passes is essential during winter months due to heavy snowfall.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,610 km; straight-line air distance 1,450 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Des Moines International Airport takes approximately 5 hours including layover.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for groups of two or more people.

Compare Ankeny to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	$350-$600	$200-$300 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	DSM to SLC via DEN.	I-80 West through Omaha, Cheyenne, and Laramie.
Tip	Book early to secure seats on the regional jet segments.	Check wind speeds in Wyoming before departing as gusts can exceed 60 mph.

Travel Tips

Altitude Adjustment
Salt Lake City sits at 4,300 feet; drink extra water to prevent altitude sickness.
I-80 Wind
High-profile vehicles should exercise extreme caution on I-80 in Wyoming due to crosswinds.
Public Transit
Use the TRAX light rail system to navigate downtown Salt Lake City efficiently.
Time Zone
You will cross from Central Time to Mountain Time during your journey.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in larger towns in Nebraska to avoid higher prices in remote Wyoming stretches.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Carry tire chains if traveling between November and April through mountain passes.
Emergency Kit
Keep blankets, water, and non-perishable food in your vehicle for remote stretches.
Wildlife
Watch for deer and elk on highways, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cellular dead zones in rural Wyoming; download offline maps.