This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Antelope Island
There is something sublime about watching the sun set over the Great Salt Lake. The combination of largely empty space west of the bustling Wasatch Front, clouds, a bit of haze and the basin and range geography makes the view amazing. Taking a picnic dinner and driving the causeway out to Antelope Island and sitting on a beach or at the top of Buffalo Point is a unique Utah experience no matter what time of year. If the summer bugs are bad, simply enjoy the view from the comfort of your vehicle, perhaps sharing the scene with a bison or two. Make sure to check when the gates close for the night so you don't get stranded. Hours vary depending on the season.
This Is the Place Monument
The historic monument on the east side of Salt Lake City near the mouth of Emigration Canyon stays open until dusk and provides a panoramic view of the Salt Lake Valley.
Sunset Point
This Bryce Canyon National Park viewpoint is aptly named. It's a good place to enjoy watching the sun set over one of the nation's iconic national parks.
Saltair
The Great Salt Lake Marina, Saltair concert area or frontage road along the east side of the lake are all good, close-to-home places to watch a Great Salt Lake sunset.
Muley Point
It takes some effort to get to this spot at the end of a dirt road off Utah 261 north of Mexican Hat. But it's worth the effort with views of a wild redrock setting and Monument Valley in the distance.
Crystal Hot Springs
There are few obstructions to the west of this venerable Honeyville hot-springs resort. So, take your bathing suit, soak in the tubs and enjoy the sunset.
Sandy Amphitheater
Some sunset viewpoints can be close to home. Take the parking lot next to this amphitheater at 1245 E. 9400 South. The view is great and, if there is a summer concert in the facility, the enjoyment is even better.
Cisco Beach
Cisco Beach, or for that matter the entire east side of Bear Lake, is a wonderful place to watch the day end with the turquoise-blue lake providing an added bonus of color.
Salt Lake Overlook
Like a hike with your sunset? This 3 ½-mile hike begins just east of the Mill Creek Inn in Mill Creek Canyon and is a wonderful place for a hike and picnic at dusk.
Bear River Bird Refuge
The auto tour of the Bear River Bird Refuge west of Brigham City offers birds and colors at dusk. That's a good combination.