Is there a train to SF?

The California Zephyr goes to Emeryville, then you take a bus to SF.

Yes, bridges in the Bay Area have tolls.

Yes, it saves nearly 10 hours of travel time.

What is the best route?

I-80 West is the only practical route.

Holladay

San Francisco

Flight Driving

Holladay to San Francisco

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Holladay to San Francisco is a 750-mile drive west on I-80. You will cross the Great Salt Lake Desert, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Sacramento Valley. The drive takes 12 to 13 hours. Alternatively, direct flights from Salt Lake City to SFO take about 2 hours.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance; 980 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from SLC to SFO takes 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for groups of three or more.

Compare Holladay to San Francisco Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	12 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price	$120-$350	$150-$200 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Salt Lake City International (SLC) to San Francisco International (SFO).	I-80 West all the way to the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tip	United and Delta both offer frequent daily flights.	The Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada can be closed during winter storms.

Travel Tips

Donner Pass
Check weather reports for the Sierra Nevada before driving in winter.
Traffic
Avoid the Bay Bridge during morning and evening commute hours.
Parking
Parking in SF is extremely expensive; use public transit if possible.
Layers
San Francisco weather is famously foggy and cool; bring a jacket.
Navigation
Use GPS to navigate the complex city streets.

Safety Tips

Car Break-ins
Never leave anything visible in your car in San Francisco.
Fatigue
This is a very long drive; plan for an overnight stop in Reno.
Vehicle Prep
Check your brakes and tires before crossing the mountains.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter survival kit in your car if traveling in the colder months.