Is there a direct flight?

No, all flights from Syracuse to Salt Lake City require at least one connection.

How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 32 hours of driving time.

What is the best season?

Summer for hiking and winter for skiing.

A car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding mountains.

Salt Lake City is generally more affordable than coastal US cities.

Syracuse

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Syracuse to Salt Lake City

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from Syracuse to Salt Lake City covers over 2,100 miles. Air travel is the most practical method, with flights departing from Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). If you choose to drive, you will follow I-90 West to I-80 West, a journey spanning roughly 32 hours of driving time. This route takes you through the heart of the American Midwest and across the Rocky Mountains. It is a significant cross-country trek requiring careful planning.

Total Distance: 3,400 km driving distance; 3,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight with a single connection is the fastest way to reach Salt Lake City.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cost-effective for families, but flights are recommended for solo travelers.

Compare Syracuse to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	32 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $750	$450 - $600 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	SYR to SLC via hubs like Minneapolis (MSP) or Detroit (DTW).	I-90 W to I-80 W through Chicago, Omaha, and Cheyenne.
Tip	Delta offers the most frequent connections to SLC from Syracuse.	Prepare for high-altitude driving once you reach Wyoming.

Travel Tips

Altitude Adjustment
Salt Lake City is at a high elevation; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Rental Cars
Rent an AWD vehicle if visiting during winter months for safer mountain driving.
Public Transit
Use the TRAX light rail system to navigate Salt Lake City without a car.
Packing
Layer your clothing, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day.
Time Zone
Remember that you are moving from Eastern Time to Mountain Time.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain passes to prevent brake overheating.
Wildlife
Be cautious of deer and elk on roads, especially during dawn and dusk.
Weather Monitoring
Check mountain pass conditions before driving through the Rockies.
Emergency Supplies
Keep extra blankets and food in your vehicle during winter travel.