Is there a train to Salt Lake City?

Yes, the Amtrak California Zephyr stops in Salt Lake City, but it requires travel to a hub like Chicago or Denver.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 18 to 20 hours depending on traffic and stops.

What is the best airport?

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the primary hub for the region.

Are there tolls on I-80?

No, I-80 is a federally funded interstate and does not have tolls.

Is it safe to drive alone?

Yes, the route is well-traveled, but ensure your vehicle is serviced before departure.

Owatonna

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Owatonna to Salt Lake City

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Owatonna to Salt Lake City spans approximately 1,850 kilometers across the American Midwest and the Rocky Mountains. Most travelers prefer driving via I-35 South to I-80 West, a route that takes roughly 18 hours of pure driving time. Alternatively, you can drive to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and take a direct flight to Salt Lake City International Airport. The drive offers scenic transitions from Minnesota farmlands to the high desert of Utah. Expect significant elevation changes as you cross the Continental Divide in Wyoming.

Total Distance: 1,850 km driving distance; 1,520 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from MSP to SLC takes approximately 5 hours including airport transit.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Owatonna to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	$300-$600	$250-$400 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to SLC	I-35 S to I-80 W through Des Moines, Omaha, and Cheyenne.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Check wind conditions in Wyoming before departing as gusts can be extreme.

Travel Tips

Hydration
Salt Lake City is at high altitude; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Time Zone
You will cross from Central Time to Mountain Time during your journey.
Tolls
The I-80 route is largely toll-free, making it budget-friendly for road trippers.
Parking
Downtown Salt Lake City has ample parking garages, but they can be pricey during events.
Public Transit
Use the TRAX light rail system to navigate the city without a car.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid I-80 in Wyoming during winter storms due to frequent road closures.
Wildlife
Be alert for deer and elk on highways, especially during dawn and dusk.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter survival kit in your vehicle if traveling between November and April.
Cell Service
Expect dead zones in rural Nebraska and Wyoming; download offline maps.