Yes, but be prepared for extreme weather in the mountains.

How long is the flight?

Direct flights are approximately 3.5 hours.

Do I need a car in SLC?

A car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding canyons.

What is the best route?

I-80 West is the standard and most direct route.

Very few tolls on this route, mostly in the Chicago area.

Cicero

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Cicero to Salt Lake City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Cicero to Salt Lake City is a major cross-country trek spanning over 2,000 kilometers. The most direct route is via I-80 West, which takes you through Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming before entering Utah. This drive typically requires two full days of travel for safety. You will experience diverse landscapes, from the flat plains of the Midwest to the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

Total Distance: 2,000 km driving, 1,850 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Chicago O'Hare takes 3.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective.

Compare Cicero to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 30 mins	19 hours
Avg Price	$250-$500	$300-$450 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines / Southwest	Personal Vehicle
Route	Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Salt Lake City (SLC).	I-80 W across the entire length of the route.
Tip	Book flights from O'Hare for the most direct options.	Check weather reports for Wyoming, as I-80 frequently closes due to high winds.

Travel Tips

Altitude
Salt Lake City is at a high elevation; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Wyoming Winds
If driving, be extremely careful of high winds on I-80 in Wyoming.
Flight Booking
Use the Chicago O'Hare airport for direct flights to SLC.
Time Zone
Remember you are crossing into the Mountain Time Zone.
Vehicle Prep
Get an oil change and check tire pressure before this long drive.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain passes to save your brakes.
Wildlife
Watch for deer and elk on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency Supplies
Carry extra water and food in case of vehicle breakdown in remote areas.
Communication
Cell service is non-existent in parts of Wyoming; carry a paper map.