Considering a drive/route through scenic parks (maybe Denver to Salt lake city and back) via rental car. As the day winds down, be sure to spend the evening popping into the galleries, gift shops and outfitters that line Main Street for a sense of Moabs charm. Todays drive through Utahs high desert is around two hours and 45 minutes. Welcome to CS Ginger! I later learned on Atlas Obscura that the amphitheater, which is sometimes called the Provo Castle, was built as part of the New Deal programs in 1936 as an event space. If youre looking for a more scenic drive, consider taking Highway 89. From Bryce Canyon, its about two hours to Capitol Reef National Park, the site of a geologic wrinkle in the earths crust. If youre traveling with young children or those who might be unable to explore the parks on foot, never fear! Between eating, hiking, and exploring Utah, there are plenty of places I'm daydreaming about returning to, but there were a few pit stops that I don't think were worth my time. Once you reach Moab, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including hiking, biking, and river rafting. It isn't a long trip but there are so many amazing places to see along the way. Traveling with a dog or cat? Hike Canyon Overlook Trail (1 hour, 1 mi/1.6 km round trip) However, most visitors flock to the beautiful and unique red rock landscapes of Southern Utah. The town was built in 1933 by Marie Ogden. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. Can You Rent A Car With An OpenSky Credit Card? Or, if youre looking to cool down, a jet boat tour on the Colorado River promises everything from wildlife views to a ground level vantage point of the Goose Neck. If youre interested in hiking in Moab and exploring on foot or riding through the parks on a mountain bike, your options are endless. to get a sense of the park. Dead Horse Point State Park is located just outside of Moab and offers stunning views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. And while I had a blast exploring the geological wonderland, I'll skip it on my next visit. For more road trip ideas, explore these articles: Whether she is leaving on a jet plane or exploring the open road, Sandi loves to visit destinations that offer cool and interesting activities, fabulous culinary creations, and fun libations. With four to five national park stops, a visit to Bears Ears National Monument, and endless opportunities for adventure, this Utah road trip from Salt Lake City to Moab is a definite bucket list experience. One Salt Lake City restaurant standout is Caffe Molise. So I gave up and viewed the mine from a distance. 2:51 pm Moab. The park also has two primitive campgrounds, which are free. This scenic drive really is a sight to behold. Road conditions from Salt Lake City to Moab Utah. 1 hour Malad City. Monster quesadillas that will fuel you up with energy for your outdoor exploits are served up at this food truck stop. Within two hours of departing the city, you'll enter the Colorado Plateau, which is home to the mountains, rock arches, canyons, and rivers that make the Southwest a stunning natural playground. These sites work like Airbnb and VRBO. But those views coupled with fewer crowds mean I'll come back to this national park over and over again. In the 1880s, 46 Hawaiians left their homes to travel to Utah for religious reasons. ($$): Lunch depends on your hiking preferences, but. You will find the Prehistoric Museum presented by Utah State University Eastern in Price. 33 minutes Manti. A visit to Moab wouldnt be complete without exploring the red rocks up close and personal. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); The OARS catalog has turned into a coffeetable dream book for adventure junkies. T. Edward Nickens. Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. If you dont have time for a hike, a simple drive-through to enjoy the panoramic vistas is a minimum must-do when visiting the area. Many of the exhibits are outside, and with the dry desert air, you will want lots of water. No matter where you are, a breakdown could happen. Prices for shuttle services start at around $60 for a one-way trip. Finally, turn right on UT-261 south (four miles) and keep an eye out for the Kane Gulch Ranger Station, where youll start your journey. Copper Ridge Dinosaur Tracks Trail, Bone Trail, Willow Springs Dinosaur Track Site, and the Bull Canyon Overlook Dinosaur Track Site are other Moab locations for more Jurassic fun! Take detours through national forests like Mt. A canyoneering tour is a fun activity for those looking to see Moabs arches through a different lens. ($$): Finish your trip with a fancy dinner from Moab Bistro in downtown Moabcheck out its extensive wine list. for cool landscapes and Instagram-ready scenesand, most importantly, a little bit of shade! Just jump on the bus in downtown Salt Lake City, and 5 hours later, youre in Moab! Salt Lake City to Moab Road Trip The scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Moab is something you won't soon forget. My sweetheart and I are going to SLC 3/14-3/21. The many mesas at Moabs Dead Horse Point State Park, Penne di caprino at Caffe Molise in Salt Lake City, Utah, Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. You can visit the Western Mining and Railroad Museum to learn more about the areas past. As I explored Iosepa I was amazed by the settler's resilience. Nothing quite compares to the adventurous spirit of a road trip. Here are some of the top attractions and scenic stops: Helper is a small town that is famous for its mining history. Theres a lot of hiking coming up! The Delicate Arch Trail is the most famous hike in the area, but there are many more that the whole family will love. I opted to go scuba diving one morning on my trip. Established It also comes with some exclusive benefits, including car advice, key replacement, and Uber creditsand it only costs. Follow those signs. Take a day in between the two and make the drive for a quintessential Utah road trip. The more scenic route is via Highway 89 and Highway 24, which takes you through Mount Pleasant, Fairview, and Capitol Reef National Park before reaching Moab. Both my husband and I will be driving. By the time I sat down, the sun had fully set and the food wasn't as tasty as I'd hoped. Initially, I wasn't sure the extra mileage would be worth it. Written by Tom Hindle Reviewed by Carrie Adkins Updated on Jun 27, 2022 Table of Contents Though Utah may appear arid and sparse, there's plenty to do in the Beehive State. With obstacles to attack with names like the Tip-Over Challenge and Rubble Trouble, you know you are in for an exciting ride. The John Wesley Powell River History Museum and Black Canyon Dragon Viewpoint are both in Green River. If you're planning a road trip to Salt Lake City, you can research locations to stop along the way. You can take to the landscape or have fun checking out local shops and museums. Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so theyre bound to have one close by. 37 minutes Ogden. The short hike to House on Fire from Mule Canyon is well worth the effort, and if you have more time, a longer hike in Road Canyon passes numerous archaeological sites. This includes my husband, our daughter (10 by the time we'll start our Adventure) and me. From towing and lockout services to fuel delivery and tire changes, Jerry can get you back on the road quickly. The next time I'm in Midway, I'll still visit, but I'd likely opt to just swim instead of dive, which costs only $18, or I'd splurge for a $75 paddleboard yoga session in the crater. Remain on US-6 E for nearly 130 miles, then merge ontoI-70 E/US-191 S. This route will carry you the final 24 miles into Moab. Sure, I wouldn't recommend all of my stops to other travelers, but for the most part, I thought Utah is full of interesting pit stops that are well worth the time and fuel. 1. The hotel is in the perfect spot after a day of exploring Salt Lake City. Archaeologists estimate that the Bears Ears area contains more than 100,000 Indigenous cultural sites, and the concentration of human history here is truly awe-inspiring. ). In 2019, Canyonlands welcomed 733,996 visitors, according to the National Park Service. Time your journey to land here for lunch. Last but not least, Sego Canyon Rock Art in Thompson Springs is one of the last highlights to see on your road trip before arriving in Moab. Campsites are typically much less expensive, and theres lots of free camping in Moab. : If you feel like stretching your legs, there are several trails. If you're coming from Denver take the scenic Highway 128 instead of Highway 191. It was clearly a popular event, and about a half-hour into the rehearsal, I noticed that nearly half the church was filled. Moab is a city full of adventures just waiting to be discovered. You can travel by train from Salt Lake City to Moab via Amtrak, for most of the way. No long forms. Operated by Salt Lake Express, the Salt Lake City to Moab bus service departs from Downtown Salt Lake and arrives in Moab, UT. Day 1: Salt Lake City A full day in Salt Lake City is an ideal way to start your trip. Then, once youve packed up your car and youre headed back home, add the scenic La Sal Mountain Loop to your route for a few last unforgettable photo ops. Check if you are overpaying for car insurance. Do Car Rental Companies Check Your Driving License? Pick up a map at the entrance station, then head to Sunrise Mesa for views of the Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship formations. 33 minutes Jackson. This is a family favorite place to stop along the route to Moab. In pioneer days, wranglers would drive wild horses into the flat and barricade the entrance, corralling them on the inescapable point. Some of Utahs prettiest vistas are on display as you traverse mountains and valleys on this road trip from Salt Lake City to Moab, Utah. For eager hikers, the. Whether you choose to drive, fly, or take a bus or shuttle, the journey from Salt Lake City to Moab is sure to be an adventure that youll never forget. Its a little less than two hours of easy driving from Kane Gulch Ranger Station to Moab. This is a short drive from the airport, and if you have the extra time, it is totally worth it. As the rehearsal began, I observed a slow but steady stream of people who walked into the building to watch. For suggestions on where to stay in Moab, click here. eat at Red Iguana. : Once youre finished with dinner, see if you can catch a film at the Redwood Drive-In movie theater over in West Valley City. As I passed through Spanish Fork, I decided to grab lunch at the temple's vegetarian buffet. This quintessential slot canyon hike is one of the parks most iconic. Road conditions from Salt Lake City to Moab. If I'm passing through Spanish Fork again, I plan to make another pit stop for either a yoga class or lunch buffet. During the drive, you will go through a mountain pass, but it is not overly difficult. Legend claims at one time the horses were forgotten high on the point and died thus the parks name. This may not be the best way, but it is another option if you dont want to drive the 4-hour drive. After spending an hour immersed in the music, I understood why so many people flockto these rehearsals every week, and if I ever happen to be in Salt Lake on a Thursday, I'd make an effort to visit again. Flying Into Salt Lake City Once you land in Salt Lake City, plan to pick up your car or RV rental and head south toward Moab, Utah. Your kids will also be amazed by the dinosaur trackway at Mill Canyon. Once you get to Zion, have a look around before checking into your hotel for the evening. Nearly 70% of people living in Utah identify as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to the World Population Review. The community didn't last long. I found the experience of driving up to a soda drive-thru anytime during the day since many open as early as 7 a.m. to be simple, cheap, and fun. Heighten your adrenaline and explore the stark landscape on the Fins and Things 44 trail. So when I read about the Dream Mine in Spanish Fork on Atlas Obscura, I knew I wanted to visit. Bed-down at. Follow the Google link below: GIMME MY UTAH MIGHTY 5 ROAD TRIP MAP! If not, you may spring for a quick hike on BLM land alongside State Route 128 or Kane Creek. Greyhound and Salt Lake Express offer daily bus services between Salt Lake City and Moab, with prices starting at around $35 for a one-way trip. The drive from Salt Lake City to Moab is not scary. All Rights Reserved. How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car Dolly, How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car for a Week, Portland to Olympic National Park Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, Portland to San Francisco Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, Rapid City to Badlands National Park Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, Rent a Car in Siesta Key: $35+ Per Day To Enjoy Your Vacation. Regardless of where youre driving, you need the, . Where is the OBD port on a 1992 Toyota 4Runner? The 360-member chorus of men and women had powerful voices, I thought, and the design of the Tabernacle only amplified their sound. In 1947,Atlas Obscura reported thatKoyle said he was forced to sign a statement that admitted his prophecies were false, and eventually, the mine was re-abandoned. On the surface, the water was a crystal-blue color and I thought it had the relaxing temperature of a warm bath. Salt Lake City makes a great gateway for travelers making a trip to Utah's ski resorts or southward to Utah's renowned red rock country. I want to try it out on my car, but I cant seem to find the plug. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars from economy to luxury so you can find the perfect ride for your trip. It's an outstanding drive, especially around sunset. After years of renting cars and sharing my findings with friends, I decided to start a blog so that I could help others save money and find the best possible car rental deals. A mix of souvenir shops, jewelry stores, and Western outfitters line the downtown area, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs and absorb the Moab outdoorsy vibe. Expert hikers can embark on the 10-plus-mile Alcove Spring Trail that brings you to the base of the Moses and Zeus Towers. Seattle to Leavenworth Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, Fargo to Theodore Roosevelt National Park Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, Providence to Cape Cod Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route. Clear Sky. Bears Ears National Monument has become a rallying cry in the fight for public lands, and though its gained plenty of press, this stretch of your Utah road trip is almost certain to be the quietest on your journey. This is a great book that has helped us when we are exploring the off-road trails in Moab like Poison Spider Mesa. Theres no better way to experience Moab than exploring the off-road trails. For more road trip inspiration, check out our library of itineraries from some of the Wests biggest travel hubs. A trip into the Utah desert requires an extensive packing list. Drive back via Ashley National Forest. You can still experience the stunning vistas of the park from the comfort of your own vehicle on a scenic loop drive. Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Moab. Rental Car Age Requirements & Restrictions, Denver to Durango, Colorado Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route, How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Arizona, How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In Canada, How old do you have to be to rent a car in Colorado, How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In Florida, How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Hawaii, How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Illinois, How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In Italy, How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Oregon, How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Texas, How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In Washington. What to eat from Springdale to Bryce Canyon. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. City: round-trip one-way. And, like in Switzerland, the town is located near some of Utah's best skiing. Located on a tree-lined street downtown, the hotel exterior blends beautifully into the neighborhood in a charming and unassuming way. Day 1: Arrive in Moab. After scarfing down the meal, Jailhouse Cafe earned its place on my must-visit list for Moab. Be sure to check out the Bean Life Science Museum and the BYU Museum of Paleontology. The easy-rated White Rim Overlook is just under 2 miles round trip with a rewarding view. Then switch gears with a heart racing 4x4 tour of Hells Revenge, or a mountain bike ride on the beloved slickrock trail. How can I make sure my friend is covered to drive my car during a road trip? Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told. The beauty of the parks wild landscape viewed from your perch high up on the point is stunning. Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. Youll pass by the Provo River, which is a popular spot for fly-fishing, and through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, which is home to some of Utahs most stunning scenery. Provo comes up pretty quickly after Lehi. Youll then turn onto Highway 24, which will take you through Capitol Reef National Park and into the town of Hanksville. Experiencing the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir should be on every music lovers bucket list. Cross over and check out Dinosaur National Monument. Salt Lake City to Jackson. In the morning, check out the. You can also visit Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, which are both located nearby. As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. We originally wanted to visit the Mighty 5. Road conditions from Moab to Salt Lake City. Answer 1 of 8: In May 016 we are renting a car to drive from Santa Monica to Grand Canyon South rim then on to Bryce and Zion for two nights, then to Salt Lake City. 54 minutes Hoback. Take in the staggering views of the Salt Lake Valley and the abrupt shift as the southern route morphs the landscape into barren, red rock and desert. Top 14 road trips from Salt Lake City. We loved seeing the different sizes and different kinds of dinosaurs. Day three of your weekend retreat is all about seeing some of Moabs more remote destinations. Start with the bruschetta misto or the pomodori e mozzarella to get your taste buds warmed up. Bryce Canyons otherworldly hoodoos are truly unlike anything else on the planet. Salt Lake City . I think my time would've been better spent reading, researching, and imagining the life Ogden aimed to create for her followers. On my last night in Moab, I drove up to the restaurant about a half hour before sunset. Salt Lake City is filled with tons of outdoor options as well! stay overnight and leave the next day around 10:00 am. I grabbed a seat, watched the rehearsal for a few minutes, and then headed back to my car to finish my drive. Copyright All Rights Reserved. That question followed me for the rest of my afternoon in the national park that's located outside Moab. This leg is a two-for-one national park special, and while the parks are relatively close together, youll want to be up with the sun to pack in as much exploring as possible if you plan to do both in the same day. 1969 - 2021 OARS Companies Inc. All rights reserved. I thought it was an iconic Utah experience, and one I think everyone should try. That means purchasing the best, most affordable insuranceand signing up for, Find insurance savings it's 100% free, Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year! The park becomes very busy by mid-morning, and parking can be difficult. I arrived and was told there was a 60-minute wait for a table. According to Atlas Obscura, the petroglyphs and pictographs were created by three Indigenous tribes, the Utes, Fremont, and Archaic groups, thousands of years ago. You would fly out of Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), which is located 18 miles north of Moab. Bryce Canyon isnt lacking in outdoor activities to experience. Moab and Salt Lake City are about a 4-hour drive apart if you navigate straight through from one to the other. Easily one of Utah's best and most well-known areas, Moab is the perfect spot for the weekend warrior. If you fancy a few days in Zion, check out an Airbnb or VRBO in Springdale! Check the road conditions from Salt Lake City to Moab Utah and plan a trip based on the weather along the way. Exploring Hells Revenge is at the top of everyones list when visiting Moab. From Salt Lake City, hop on I-15 south for a straight shot to the state's southern reaches. Aside from that, just remember your sunglasses and a comfy hat. Outside of the Alps-inspired chateaus and chalets, The Homestead Crater is one of Midway's most popular attractions, according to travel blogs like Travel Lens, VacationIdea, and Wanderlust with Lisa. Since the church's members are urged not to consume alcohol, tobacco, and hot caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee in the church, according to The Washington Post, some people turned to soda. The town is located just an hour southeast of Salt Lake City. And, according to the spring's website, it's the only place for warm water diving in the continental US. Guided mountain biking tours along the Moab Courthouse Loop (introductory route, 7-10 miles) are a great option for families riding together who want to experience mountain biking at an introductory level. OARS is proud to be an authorized concessioner of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. I've never seen petroglyphs before, so when I learned Sego Canyon was within driving distance from Moab, I added it to my list of pit stops. If there is snow on the road, make sure you drive carefully, and you will make it safely. , a rustic hotel right on the banks of the Colorado River. Both offer killer views of the towering rock formations. Start your day off by playing nine holes, or spend some time floating down the Colorado on a kayak or a paddleboard (either of which can be rented in town.) O.A.R.S. A drive on Main Street solidifies Moab's reputation as a major hub for outdoor recreation. The rooms are spacious and comfy. To get there, take US-63 north onto Johns Valley Road for 34 miles. That same year, Arches National Park had 1.65 million visitors in a park that's about 180,000 acres smaller in size, according to the same source. After providing you with a comprehensive cross-analysis of the best policies across providers, Jerry will handle the phone calls, paperwork, and renewals for your top pick so that you dont have to. When you think of Moab you may think of hiking the Delicate Arch Trail, gazing over Canyonlands National Park or four wheeling down a slickrock trail. You could do it in a week, but with all that red rock country has to offer, its worth treating yourself to some extra time. Get up early to start your National Park tour. The point is accessible by a precariously narrow road dont look down. From Moab to Salt Lake City, I made more than a dozen pit stops on my road trip. J.D. In one corner of downtown is a large food truck park where you can dine on everything from gelato to paninis. There are several rental car companies in the Salt Lake area, with many great options available at the Salt Lake Airport. If you have ever wanted to move to or visit either Salt Lake City or Denver to help contribute to their traffic problems, this video from Mr. Prices vary by individual listings. Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and water, as it gets hot out there! Next time, I'd probably pack a picnic or grab takeout and plan to spend longer at the amphitheater. From horseback riding to backcountry hiking, the options are endless. Even short hikes through the park can be a challenging exertion and sturdy shoes are a necessity. It features 10 revolving exhibits, each delving into the culture, history, and geography of Utah and The Great Salt Lake. day 1 driving 4 hours. Welcome to an idyllic weekend road trip to Moab. If you do decide to visit, don't make the mistakes park rangers often see in the national parks, like expecting solitude or forgetting to pack enough water. If you are short on time or if you are leaving Salt Lake City late in the day, you should continue to Moab without stopping here.