- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Free dirt parking area at the Rozel Point overlook
- Access
- Uneven, rocky dirt paths and rough terrain; not wheelchair accessible
Created by Robert Smithson in 1970, Spiral Jetty is a legendary earthwork sculpture consisting of a 1,500-foot coil of black basalt rocks stretching into the Great Salt Lake. Depending on water levels, it can be completely submerged or brilliantly encrusted with white salt crystals. It is a masterpiece of land art that beautifully interacts with its changing environment.
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Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, Spiral Jetty is one of the world's most famous pieces of Land Art. Located at Rozel Point on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake, this massive earthwork coil stretches 1,500 feet into the water. It was constructed using over 6,000 tons of local black basalt rocks and earth.
The experience of visiting the jetty is deeply tied to the natural fluctuations of the lake. Depending on water levels and drought conditions, the sculpture may be completely submerged or fully exposed and encrusted in glittering white salt crystals. The surrounding landscape, with its pink-hued water and vast desert silence, creates a surreal and contemplative atmosphere.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Check the Dia Art Foundation website for current lake levels and visibility reports before making the drive.
- ◆ Bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes, as there are no services or shade at the site.
- ◆ Allow at least two hours of driving time from Salt Lake City, with the final portion on rough, unpaved dirt roads.
- ◆ Visit during the golden hour just before sunset to witness spectacular light reflections on the salt flats and water.
Heads Up
- ◆ The final 15 miles of road are unpaved and can become severely rutted or muddy; high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.
- ◆ There is no reliable cellular reception at the site, so download directions and maps for offline use before departing.
- ◆ Do not disturb, damage, or remove any of the rocks from the sculpture, which is preserved as an active art piece.
Common questions
Is the Spiral Jetty currently underwater?
The visibility of the Spiral Jetty depends on the fluctuating water levels of the Great Salt Lake, but in recent years it has been completely dry and exposed. Visitors can check local Great Salt Lake level reports to see if the lake has risen enough to submerge it.
Can you drive a regular car to Spiral Jetty?
Yes, standard passenger cars can usually make the drive, but the last nine miles are on a rough, unpaved dirt road with sharp rocks. Drivers should travel slowly to avoid popped tires and avoid the road entirely during or immediately after heavy rain.
Can you walk on the Spiral Jetty?
Yes, visitors are allowed to walk directly on the basalt rocks that form the spiral. To protect the artwork, visitors must not move or remove any of the rocks.