Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct Amtrak service from New Jersey to Salt Lake City.

How long is the flight?

A direct flight from Newark to Salt Lake City takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.

What is the best highway?

Interstate 80 is the primary and most direct highway route.

Do I need a car in SLC?

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

Yes, the stretch through Wyoming and the Wasatch Range is visually stunning.

Toms River

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Toms River to Salt Lake City

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Toms River to Salt Lake City spans approximately 2,200 miles across the American heartland. Most travelers drive to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to catch a direct flight to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Alternatively, a cross-country road trip follows I-80 West through Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Nebraska. The flight duration is roughly 5 hours, while driving requires about 35 hours of active time. You will cross the Continental Divide if driving, offering dramatic changes in topography.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,550 km; straight-line air distance 3,100 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from EWR to SLC is the fastest, taking just over 5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective method.

Compare Toms River to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours 15 mins	35 hours
Avg Price	$300-$600	$450-$700 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	EWR to SLC	I-80 West through PA, OH, IN, IL, IA, NE, WY
Tip	Book at least 3 weeks in advance for the lowest fares.	Check for construction delays in Nebraska during summer months.

Travel Tips

Airport Access
Take the NJ Transit train from Toms River to Newark Penn Station, then the AirTrain to EWR.
Hydration
Salt Lake City is at a high altitude; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Time Zone
Remember that Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone, two hours behind New Jersey.
Road Safety
If driving in winter, ensure your vehicle has snow tires or chains for the Wyoming mountain passes.
Local Transit
Use the TRAX light rail system in Salt Lake City to navigate the downtown area efficiently.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep grades on I-80 in Wyoming to prevent brake overheating.
Weather Awareness
Check the National Weather Service for mountain pass closures during winter storms.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter survival kit if driving between November and April.
Urban Safety
Stick to well-lit areas in downtown Salt Lake City when walking at night.