Then, cap your day off with an adrenaline pumping tour of Hells Revenge with a local guide. Hiking in Canyonlands National Park requires some pre-planning water, sunscreen, and a trail map are at the top of the list. in Outdoor and Environmental Education from Alaska Pacific University and has worked as a raft guide, avalanche educator, and backpacking instructor around the American West. Check the road conditions from Salt Lake City to Moab and plan a trip based on the weather along the way. While its a bit longer, the stunning scenery along the way makes it worth the extra time. : Try to get up early to avoid the mid-afternoon heat while youre still out and about. Both offer killer views of the towering rock formations. These ancient beasts left copious footprints and fossil evidence that will amaze you and peak your imagination. Follow US-89 for 43 miles, hang a right onto UT-12 (13 miles), and take another right onto US-63 south, which brings you into the park. Spring and fall are the best times to visit Moab. An RV is an excellent way to travel if you are planning to be on the road for several days or even weeks. in Springdale. For $10, I loaded up on palak panir, Matar paneer, curried cauliflower, and salad. Im getting into car repair as a hobby and just bought my first OBD scanner. Crescent Junction 24F. 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. I want to try it out on my car, but I cant seem to find the plug. 5 minutes off the main route, 17% of way to Moab Best stops along Salt Lake City to Moab drive The top stops along the way from Salt Lake City to Moab (with short detours) are Temple Square, Canyonlands National Park, and Deer Valley Resort. 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. Being able to stop wherever and whenever is my idealway to explore. 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. It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. Whether you arrive in Moab by car, plane, or the Rocky Mountaineer, you will love the Western vibe in this dusty adventure town. Next time, I'd probably pack a picnic or grab takeout and plan to spend longer at the amphitheater. Don't get me wrong, Arches National Park is a must for any first-time trip to Moab. The Fruita Campground is the only developed campground in the park, and you can make reservations between March and October. 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. The ghost town is located 40 minutes from Moab and near the south entrance to Canyonlands National Park. The park becomes very busy by mid-morning, and parking can be difficult. Before you leave, swing by Bryce Point for some of the parks best-loved vistas. Insider paid for the meal, per our reporting standards. For a more scenic drive, head up US191-N before driving east towards the Colorado state line. How can I make sure my friend is covered to drive my car during a road trip? Around this time, you will see signs for US-6 E toward Price. 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. Provo is the home of Brigham Young University. One of the most common and quick stops in the Great Salt Lake City is Temple Square. Quotes from 50+ insurance companies. I experienced crowdsand had to contend with the hassle of needing a timed reservation to enter the park. It's a Hare Krishna temple that celebrates Hindu devotion. Aside from that, just remember your sunglasses and a comfy hat. Then switch gears with a heart racing 4x4 tour of Hells Revenge, or a mountain bike ride on the beloved slickrock trail. The beauty of the parks wild landscape viewed from your perch high up on the point is stunning. 1969 - 2021 OARS Companies Inc. All rights reserved. to get a sense of the park. After being pushed out of Salt Lake City, they relocated to the desert where they managed to grow to a population of 228. Wandering around campus grounds brings back the halcyon days of college life. The parking lot was on the edge of a grassy park with the limestone amphitheater towering over it. In the video, Mr. Salt Lake City to Fifth Water Hot Springs Fifth Water Hot Springs in Utah The first stop on your Salt Lake City to Moab road trip itinerary is Fifth Water Hot Springs. 47 minutes Salina. As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. There are three campgrounds in Zion, two of which (South and Watchman) can be reserved in advance. Pick up a map at the entrance station, then head to Sunrise Mesa for views of the Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship formations. Its a beautiful campus and also offers museum options (much less expensive than those at Thanksgiving Point) for kids. Offering fine Italian cuisine in an old brownstone, you will be charmed by the hip interior. We have some great articles on the best hikes in Moab as well as many of the off-road trails. If there is snow on the road, make sure you drive carefully, and you will make it safely. The Salt Lake Express is a shuttle service that runs a route to Moab twice daily. Of all the tours available in the Moab area, Hells Revenge is the one you cant miss! On this road trip, you'll trace the river and its tributaries across Utah and Colorado, seeing all the ways in which water has shaped the land. The Best Road Trip from Salt Lake City To Moab Drive through the Utah desert, visiting four national parks before arriving in Moab. I love exploring new places and love cars, so renting a car for my travels is most of the time the perfect way to find new adventures. Located on a tree-lined street downtown, the hotel exterior blends beautifully into the neighborhood in a charming and unassuming way. An intelligent AI-based tool like Jerry is the easiest and most effective way to find a car insurance policy that is customized for you. The John Wesley Powell River History Museum and Black Canyon Dragon Viewpoint are both in Green River. J.D. In May, I disembarked the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train and arrived in Moab, Utah. If youre looking to get from Salt Lake to Moab quickly, take the skies and arrive in a little over an hour. disembarked the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train, Utah Department of Health and Human Services' website, crowdsand had to contend with the hassle of needing a timed reservation to enter the park, mistakes park rangers often see in the national parks. Drop off your camping gear, then head into the park to hike to the Emerald Pools or, if youve left most of the day, the classic (and seriously exposed) Angels Landing, which is not for the faint of heart. All Rights Reserved. Westwaters splashy Class III-IV whitewater and the chance to hike to cool sites like one of outlaw Butch Cassidys legendary hideouts will have you planning your next river trip before you even reach the takeout. The park also has two primitive campgrounds, which are free. However, you definitely want to stop and explore Utahs gorgeous scenery. Kids of all ages will enjoy walking the large trail and meeting many dinosaurs along the way. However, when you step into the lobby, you quickly realize you have found something special a little hidden gem of a stay. After the announcement that a temple was going to be built back in Hawaii, the majority of the settlers abandoned Iosepa and returned home. Check the road conditions from Moab to Salt Lake City and plan a trip based on the weather along the way. All Rights Reseved. At the top of Dead Horse Point State Park, there is a large flat area the point surrounded by deep, rocky canyons with precipitous drops. Prices vary by individual listings. OARS is an equal opportunity provider. The 360-member chorus of men and women had powerful voices, I thought, and the design of the Tabernacle only amplified their sound. Moab, Ut Backroads & 4 Wheel Drive Trails, Hells Revenge 44 Off-Roading Tour from Moab, Introductory Moab Courthouse Loop Mountain Biking Tour, Guide to the Best Hotels in Downtown Moab, Everything to Know About Jeep Tours in Moab. In 1892, it became Moab's county courthouse,and today's kitchen wasoncethe courthouse's jail cell. Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Moab. Salt Lake City to Jackson. Why Everyone Should Raft the Rogue River at Least Once, 10 of the Worlds Most Notorious Whitewater Rapids. Just 15 minutes from Temple Square, and featuring two restaurants, it features everything you could need for a one-night downtown stay. eat at Red Iguana. Legend claims at one time the horses were forgotten high on the point and died thus the parks name. 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. As I dropped off my car and boarded a plane home to Denver, Colorado, I felt like a road trip across Utah was the best way to see the state for the first time. I thought it was an iconic Utah experience, and one I think everyone should try. Throughout the West, you will come upon dinosaur museums in the most unlikely little towns. : Get up early and start exploring the park. Drive back via Ashley National Forest. This was one of our kids favorite things we did in Moab, and they are still talking about it. Take detours through national forests like Mt. : This national park is a must-see once you make your way to Moab. Where is the OBD port on a 1992 Toyota 4Runner? To that end, this is not your typical weekend road trip itinerary. When I arrived, I sawfaint petroglyphs that I could only view from a distance. 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. The flight time from Salt Lake City to Moab is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. This includes my husband, our daughter (10 by the time we'll start our Adventure) and me. You can also take a short detour to Goblin Valley State Park. From Moab, its a little less than four hours back to Salt Lake Citythat is, if you can pry yourself away. The Cheapest Way to Get from Salt Lake City to Moab, Salt Lake City to Moab Drive Rent A Car In Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City to Moab Driving Stops Along The Way, Salt Lake City to Moab Best Driving Route. If youre looking to make some stops along the way, there are plenty of great places to visit on the drive from Salt Lake City to Moab. But we love the national parks. Many people will start their Moab vacation from the Salt Lake City area or the SLC airport. In 2012, after the church clarified that cold caffeinated drinks like soda are allowed, soda shops started popping up selling what's been nicknamed "Dirty Sodas," Vice reported. The. And while I had a blast exploring the geological wonderland, I'll skip it on my next visit. Today, the ghost town is privately owned, so people can only view the remaining buildings from a distance. Moab and Salt Lake City are about a 4-hour drive apart if you navigate straight through from one to the other. The bus journey time between Salt Lake City and Moab is around 4h 55m and covers a distance of around 251 miles. Today, they are worn down, sun-bleached, and illegible. The menu offers many tempting options. Here are some of the top attractions and scenic stops: Helper is a small town that is famous for its mining history. First of all, dont panic! 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. Camping along the way? 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. So why do all that extra work when Jerry can do it better? Prices for shuttle services start at around $60 for a one-way trip. As many road trippers will start in Salt Lake City, the state's main transportation hub, we'll start there for the purposes of this itinerary. A little way down the road from Moab is Green River, home to Rays Tavern. Welcome to an idyllic weekend road trip to Moab. Even equipped with a Salt Lake City to Moab itinerary, so much lies ahead. It was a stark contrast from Arches National Park, where I previously spent two daysconstantlyhunting for parking spots and avoiding people on crowded trails. This is a great book that has helped us when we are exploring the off-road trails in Moab like Poison Spider Mesa. The drive from Salt Lake City to Moab is not scary. *An earlier version of this Utah road trip post first appeared on the blog in 2013 and was last updated February 2021. Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. 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. Bed-down at. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars from economy to luxury so you can find the perfect ride for your trip. With mountain biking, hiking, climbing, OHV opportunities, climbing, and rafting, there's no shortage of things to do. One of the best things to do when traveling to Moab is to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Keep it simple and keep it delicious. Hike the famous. . drive for about 1 hour. Home of Brigham Young University, Provo is a good spot to stop and stretch your legs. Clear Sky. Greyhound runs a bus from Salt Lake City to Moab if youre interested in traveling that way. In conclusion, the drive from Salt Lake City to Moab is a scenic and unforgettable experience that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Utah. customize this trip 10:00 am start in Salt Lake City drive for about 44 minutes 10:44 am Provo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:44 am drive for about 1.5 hours 1:10 pm Price (Utah) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:10 pm drive for about 1 hour 3:15 pm Green River (Utah) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:15 pm drive for about 1 hour Everyone is welcome to stop and visit the temple, which was built in the late 1900s by Charu Das and Vaibhavi Devi Dasi, a couple that wanted Utah's Hindu population to have a place to worship, according to the temple's website. Murray . Just jump on the bus in downtown Salt Lake City, and 5 hours later, youre in Moab! My sister loaned me her spare car while Im between vehicles, and Im kind of tempted to just take this one off her hands. With obstacles to attack with names like the Tip-Over Challenge and Rubble Trouble, you know you are in for an exciting ride. According to Atlas Obscura, this set of petroglyphs is one of the world's largest collections and looks much more vividthan the ones I saw in Thompson Springs, based on pictures I've viewed online. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services' website, state agencies, the general public, and USH employees can reserve the amphitheater. Choose a half (easy route) or full (moderately difficult route, 2 hours drive from Moab) day adventure and learn the basics of canyoneering skills. This is the most convenient and easy way to get a rental car in Salt Lake City. Nearby, there were signs with what I imagine once housed information on the rocks. As I drove through Provo, which is located 45 minutes south of Salt Lake, I was itching to stretch my legs. stay at Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City - a Kimpton Hotel. According to Only in Your State, the building was originally a home. From: 1 traveler 2 travelers 3 travelers 4 travelers 5 travelers 6 travelers. Road conditions from Moab to Salt Lake City. From Bryce Canyon, head northeast to Moab. 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.) Afterwards, with tired legs and an unshakeable smile its time to head back into town for a bite to eat before gazing upwards into some of the darkest night skies anywhere in the world. Ready to start your Salt Lake City to Moab road trip? The currentowners purchased the buildingin 1992 and turned it into the Jailhouse Cafe. From there, its up to you. The influence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can be spotted across the entire state, but tucked in Spanish Fork Valley, about an hour south of Salt Lake City, is the Hindu Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple. There are companies you can rent from, as well as platforms like Airbnb but for RVs. The quickest way to get from Salt Lake City to Moab is via I-15 S and US-6 E/US-191 S. The route takes you through some breathtaking scenery, including the Wasatch Mountains, which are part of the Rocky Mountains. Its a little less than two hours of easy driving from Kane Gulch Ranger Station to Moab. There are lots of fun things to do in Salt Lake City, along with lots of great kids activities. Its not exactly a low-calorie option, but the buttery biscuits and juicy limeade are an SLC must! A drive through the park is like visiting the moon or another unearthly planet. 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. The town was built in 1933 by Marie Ogden. Lincoln Town Car Signature Insurance Cost. Easily one of Utah's best and most well-known areas, Moab is the perfect spot for the weekend warrior. Typically 14 buses run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can . Salt Lake City, Utah Search for cheap flight deals now! Hike Canyon Overlook Trail (1 hour, 1 mi/1.6 km round trip) Gas prices in Utah are relatively low compared to other states, and you can expect to pay around $35 for a full tank of gas. If you dont have the proper vehicle to handle these types of trails, you can rent a jeep through Moab Adventure Center on the main street in Moab. Salt Lake City is filled with tons of outdoor options as well! Emma Walker is the author of the book Dead Reckoning: Learning from Accidents in the Outdoors. She earned her M.S. By the time I sat down, the sun had fully set and the food wasn't as tasty as I'd hoped. Next time I'm near Moab, I'd skip the Sego Canyon Rock Art and stop at Newspaper Rock instead, which is about 50 minutes south of Moab. From there, youll follow UT-17 for six miles to its junction with UT-9, which will deliver you to Zion National Park. Explore fun things to do in beautiful Salt Lake City or explore exciting outdoor adventures in Moab by visiting our destination guides. This is a short drive from the airport, and if you have the extra time, it is totally worth it. It was some of the best food I had during my trip. Take in the sunset over Waterpocket Fold Cliffs on the 3.6-mile Chimney Rock Loop trail, before turning in for the night. There are several car rental companies at Salt Lake City International Airport, including: Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car and the rental period. The 1,080-mile road trip between Seattle and Moab will take about 17 hours to drive. I think my time would've been better spent reading, researching, and imagining the life Ogden aimed to create for her followers. If youre looking to explore Salt Lake and the surrounding areas along the way to Moab over an extended period of time, you might want to consider renting an RV. Dinosaur hunters will want to stop at the Utah State University Prehistoric Museum. Fullyexploring the Canyonlands regioncalls for a trip all its own, but Gooseberry is an excellent day hike to see the parks dramatic geology. If you have the time, a 4- or 6-day Cataract Canyon rafting trip will give you the ultimate taste of red rock country. Frequently referred to as the "Crossroads of the West," its location is also ideal for longer roadtrips northward to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. How Old To Rent A Car? view full itinerary. Capitol Reef National Park is a stunning park with towering cliffs, canyons, and rock formations. Here are the places I'd go to again in a heartbeat, and where I'll skip on future travels. Another option is to follow our longer route. , a New York City-style deli. Camping in Arches and Canyonlands can be competitive, but there are plenty of campgrounds along the Colorado River on UT-128, as well as along Kane Creek Road. 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. ($$): Lunch depends on your hiking preferences, but. As I explored Iosepa I was amazed by the settler's resilience. I rented a Jeep for five days with a plan to explore Moab and its surrounding desert towns,before heading up to Midway, andending in Salt Lake City. This route takes you through the small towns of Mount Pleasant and Fairview, and past the beautiful Sanpete Valley. Even short hikes through the park can be a challenging exertion and sturdy shoes are a necessity. Make sure you visit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. You can take a full days tour or something shorter that only takes a few hours. Try the Sloppy Joe! The easy-rated White Rim Overlook is just under 2 miles round trip with a rewarding view. In one corner of downtown is a large food truck park where you can dine on everything from gelato to paninis. It's an outstanding drive, especially around sunset. Salt Lake City is the ideal starting point to set out to the Yellowstone National Park and to discover the natural resources in northern Utah as well. At 234 miles, this route takes about 4 hours. Enjoy the scenery on the four-hour drive before exploring the fringes of. In the 1880s, 46 Hawaiians left their homes to travel to Utah for religious reasons. They also have a picnic table or two, so it is a good location to bring lunch if you dont want to purchase food there. Then its right on Browns Lane (2.7 miles) and, finally, a right on UT-24 east for a little over 17 miles into Capitol Reef. Once you get to Zion, have a look around before checking into your hotel for the evening. Exploring a national park can seem daunting. The rooms are spacious and comfy. This is the perfect base to spend a couple of nights while you explore nearby Stop #2: Arches National Park, a mere 15 minutes away by car. This train ride is approximately 4.5 hours. Each year, the temple holds one of the largest color festivals outside India, its website states. You can read more about our experience in our Hells Revenge Trail Guide. On average, you can expect to pay around $60 per day for a standard car. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. The order of the day: burgers and fries. O.A.R.S. Youll then turn onto Highway 24, which will take you through Capitol Reef National Park and into the town of Hanksville. WATCH: The Differences Between Salt Lake City & Denver. Semi-retired from a long career in marketing, Sandi is making the most of her boomer traveling, go-go years, with a goal to visit as many places as possible. The Aggies are proud of their university and take great care in maintaining the museum for their guests to enjoy. 1 hour Malad City. : For a proper western experience, stay at the. During my short time in Moab, the Sunset Grill was mentioned multiple times by residents and due to its location, I was told it's supposed to be the best place to view a sunset (besides inside the nearby national parks). Canyonlands/ Tupungato/ Shutterstock. It's hard to miss as it sits on a hill overlooking the desert town. The best part is it only takes four days. Depending on when you arrive you may have enough time for a full afternoon in Arches National Park (Read: "The Best Time to Visit Moab"). We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. If youre interested in hiking in Moab and exploring on foot or riding through the parks on a mountain bike, your options are endless. It earned its comparison to Switzerland thanks to the nearby Wasatch mountain range, which Swiss settlers in the 1850s compared to the Alps, according to The Herber Valley Utah. 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. Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the authors opinions and recommendations alone. From towing and lockout services to fuel delivery and tire changes, Jerry can get you back on the road quickly. : Want to learn about the natural environment around you?