Salt Lake City is the capital and most populous city of Utah. It is known for its historic ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), its scenic mountain setting, and its emerging role as a hub for outdoor sports and technology.
Overview
- Population: ~200,000 (over 1.2 million in the metro area)
- Founded: 1847 by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young
- Nicknames: SLC, The Crossroads of the West
- Geography: Located in the Salt Lake Valley, surrounded by the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains
Landmarks and Attractions
- Temple Square – spiritual center of the LDS Church
- Utah State Capitol
- Natural History Museum of Utah
- Hogle Zoo and Red Butte Garden
- Great Salt Lake – largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere
- Liberty Park and City Creek Center
Economy
SLC’s economy is diverse and growing:
- Technology and software (part of the “Silicon Slopes” region)
- Healthcare and education
- Tourism and hospitality
- Finance, real estate, and logistics
Religion and Identity
- Headquarters of the LDS Church (Mormon Church)
- Temple Square attracts millions of visitors annually
- Blend of religious heritage and growing secular, diverse population
Outdoor and Winter Sports
- Hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics
- Proximity to world-class ski resorts (Park City, Snowbird, Alta)
- Hiking, climbing, and mountain biking widely available
- Strong local sports scene: Utah Jazz (NBA), Real Salt Lake (MLS)
Transportation
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – major hub
- TRAX light rail and UTA bus system
- Extensive highway network and access to national parks
Fun Facts
- One of the flattest downtown areas with mountain peaks rising quickly on all sides
- Home to the nation’s first department store
- The Salt Lake Temple took 40 years to complete