Twist and Shout: Why Spiral Jetty Is Utah’s Most Mind-Blowing Hidden Gem

Alright, art lovers, road trip junkies, and anyone craving a dash of weird beauty—you’ve got to check out Spiral Jetty, that wild, winding coil of basalt rocks swirling out into the pinkish waters of the Great Salt Lake. Located at Rozel Point, Box Elder County, Utah 84302, this massive earthwork sculpture created by artist Robert Smithson back in 1970 is straight-up magic. We’re talkin’ about a 1,500-foot-long counterclockwise coil made of black basalt rock that juts out into the northwestern edge of the Great Salt Lake like something out of a dream. And the best part? You don’t just see it—you feel it. It’s like stepping into a work of art that’s alive with the wind, the salt, and the shifting light of the Utah desert sky.

Now let’s get real—getting to Spiral Jetty is half the fun. It’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Salt Lake City, and yep, the last stretch is on a rugged, unpaved road, so be sure to pack snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. As you wind through the backcountry past golden hills, ranch land, and nothingness for miles, the anticipation builds until BOOM—you finally crest the last rise and there it is: that swirling form curling out into a lake that shifts between hues of lavender, pink, and salty white depending on the weather and water level. Sometimes the jetty is submerged, other times it’s bone dry, crusted with salt crystals that sparkle like diamonds in the sun. Either way, it’s a total stunner.

Spiral Jetty isn’t just art—it’s a full-blown spiritual moment. It’s also one of the best-kept secrets in the U.S. art world, managed by the Dia Art Foundation, which has helped preserve its legacy and keep it accessible to curious travelers like us. And when you’re there, it’s not crowded, there’s no ticket booth, no fences—just you, the land, and the sky. Wanna climb on it? Do it. Wanna walk out to the middle and spin in slow-motion like you’re in a music video? Heck yeah, go wild. The silence and scale make it perfect for some deep reflection—or the world’s most epic Instagram post.

Once you’ve soaked up the surreal vibes, don’t rush off. The area around Spiral Jetty is loaded with cool geological features like salt flats, fossil beds, and distant views of the Promontory Mountains. If you’re feeling like a real explorer, drive over to the Golden Spike National Historical Park, just about 45 minutes away, where the first transcontinental railroad was completed. History + art + epic landscapes = road trip goals achieved.

So if you're chasing that “wow” moment—something off the beaten path that’ll make your soul do a little happy dance—Spiral Jetty is your go-to. Just remember, there's no gas station, no vending machine, and definitely no Starbucks out here. It's just raw, wild, beautiful Utah.

And let’s be honest, if you’re gonna make this kind of trip, you better have a ride that’s up to the task. That’s where Funes Rentals LLC comes in clutch. Whether you need a car to conquer those backroads or a boat to cruise the lake nearby, we’ve got you covered. Book your adventure vehicle today by visiting Funes Rentals LLC or give us a call at +1 385-330-5842 and let’s get you on the road to something unforgettable.