Which ‘Mountain Town’ Is Better? Salt Lake City or Denver?

Denver vs. Salt Lake City: A Mountain City Showdown

When it comes to mountain cities in the Western United States, two names always come up: Denver, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah. Both of these places have totally exploded in popularity, both attract people choosing the outdoor lifestyle, and both sit among some of the most stunning landscapes in the entire country! On paper, both Denver and Salt Lake City feel pretty similar. They've both got great job markets, easy access to hiking and skiing, and a perfect mix of city and nature all in one spot. But when you actually spend time in both places, the differences stand out in a huge way!

The Mountain Illusion: A Closer Look at Geography

Here's the hot take that people don't realize until you've been inside both cities. Salt Lake City is what people THINK Denver is. Denver gets all the credit for being this "mountain city" but it actually sits out on the plains, with the Rocky Mountains a solid drive to the west. In Salt Lake City, the mountains aren't something you drive to... they're something you're already in! The mountains in SLC surround you 360 degrees. Everywhere you look there's a mountain. You can go from downtown to being deep into the mountains in literal minutes instead of hours. However, that doesn't mean Denver doesn't also have its strengths. Denver is bigger, more established, and has it's own vibe.

DIVING DEEP: Which Mountain City Is Better?