Spiral Jetty

Located on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake, the Spiral Jetty is a monumental earthwork that stands as a testament to the power of nature and human creativity. Created in 1970 by artist Robert Smithson, this landmark consists of 6,650 tons of black basalt rocks and earth, arranged in a counterclockwise spiral that extends 1,500 feet into the lake. The structure is not static; it is a living entity that changes with the lake’s water levels, weather conditions, and the passage of time, offering a unique visual experience with every visit.

In 2024, the work was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its cultural significance and the need for its preservation. The site is stewarded by the Dia Art Foundation in partnership with the Holt/Smithson Foundation, the Great Salt Lake Institute, and the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. These organizations work to ensure the artwork’s long-term survival while maintaining the integrity of the surrounding natural environment.

Visitors can access the site via a remote gravel road, a journey that requires about two hours of driving from Salt Lake City. Cell service is limited, so it is advisable to plan ahead. Upon arrival, visitors are encouraged to adhere to strict "leave no trace" principles, refraining from removing rocks or trampling vegetation. The site offers a profound opportunity to connect with the landscape, observing the interplay between the man-made structure and the ever-changing Great Salt Lake.