Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of Utah. Situated on the Jordan River at the southeastern end of the Great Salt Lake, it lies in the Salt Lake Valley between the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges. The city was founded in 1847 by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young. Salt Lake City serves as the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and significantly influences the social, economic, and cultural aspects of Utah and bordering regions.
Known as "The Crossroads of the West", Salt Lake City is a destination for outdoor recreation, with nearby mountains offering hiking trails and ski resorts. Key attractions include Temple Square, Utah Olympic Park, Great Salt Lake, Natural History Museum of Utah, and Red Butte Garden. Recent developments include ongoing construction at Salt Lake City International Airport, expected to be completed by the end of 2026, and various mixed-use developments aimed at balancing growth with sustainability and affordable housing. A major transportation bill is proposed that could further restrict Salt Lake City's autonomy over street planning.
