Most People Have No Idea This Unique Art Installation Exists In The Utah Desert
By Catherine Armstrong|Published April 06, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
One of our favorite things to do in Utah is to hop in the car and explore out-of-the-way spots around the state. We especially love outdoor art installations, and there are several in the Beehive State worth visiting. Most Utahns know about Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty, and if you’ve ever driven to Wendover, you’ve certainly seen Metaphor: The Tree of Utah, created by Karl Momen.
There’s one art installation that most Utahns don’t know about because it’s hidden far out in the desert. It’s well worth a road trip, though. Check out Sun Tunnels:
Fill your car with gas, and head out for a unique Utah adventure. The Sun Tunnels is located in the middle of nowhere, about 206 miles west of Salt Lake City, in the Great Basin Desert.
To get there, you'll take I-80 westbound for 151 miles before crossing over into Nevada. You'll drive about 30 miles into Nevada, and eventually make your way back across the state line near the little town of Lucin. The Sun Tunnels are about four miles from Lucin. For complete driving directions from Salt Lake City, Click here.
Nancy Holt completed Sun Tunnels in 1976. Holt was a pioneer in her field, and considered one of the most innovative land artists of her time. She was married to Robert Smithson, another talented artist whose Spiral Jetty installation in Utah is well-renowned.
It's beautiful year-round, though if you plan on visiting during the winter, check the road conditions before you head out. The installation is located off a dirt road that can get treacherous after a big snowstorm.
Though Sun Tunnels requires some navigation skills and patience to reach, it's well worth the journey. You won't find any signs directly you to this special place - both Nancy Holt and her husband, Robert Smithson, felt strongly that the journey to their art was part of the experience.
