Salt Lake City to Arches National Park in 2024: The Best Route & What to Do When You Get There
PLANNING A TRIP FROM SALT LAKE CITY TO ARCHES NATIONAL PARK?
We can help! We have made the drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park many times and have insight into all the different ways to enjoy this trip. We will fill you in on everything you need to know about the different options to get there, as well as recommend some of our favorite stops along the way.
We’ll also throw in some of our favorite things to do in Arches National Park for you to enjoy once you get there!
Arches National Park is one of our favorite places to visit in Utah. It has breathtaking view after view around every corner. Many people will start their Arches vacation from the Salt Lake City area or the SLC airport. The total travel time from the Salt Lake City airport is not bad, with some beautiful scenery along the way. This guide will help you get from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park with some tips on great activities as well.
How to Get from Salt Lake City to Moab
Renting a Car
If you are flying into Salt Lake City from another location or if you are concerned about your vehicle’s capability to make the journey from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park, you will want to rent a car. There are several rental car companies in the Salt Lake area, with many great options available at the Salt Lake Airport.
Keep in mind that if you are flying into Salt Lake, you will be able to take a shuttle directly to the rental car desk from the airport terminal. This is the most convenient and easy way to get a rental car in Salt Lake City.
Having a rental car will also give you lots of flexibility once you get to Moab. You can explore Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the surrounding Moab area at your own pace.
Renting an RV
If you’re looking to explore Salt Lake and the surrounding areas along the way to Arches National Park over an extended period of time, you might want to consider renting an RV. An RV is an excellent way to travel if you are planning to be on the road for several days or even weeks.
It enables you to save money on hotels and other living costs. Campsites are typically much less expensive, and there’s lots of free camping in Moab. Plus, it offers your family a consistent place to live while making your way down the road. We have made the drive from Salt Lake City to Arches and love camping in the Arches area.
There are a lot of different places to rent an RV. There are companies you can rent from, as well as platforms like Airbnb but for RVs.
Outdoorsy is a peer-to-peer RV rental company with 40,000 vehicles listed. RVShare is another peer-to-peer rental site for RVs. These sites work like Airbnb and VRBO. Prices vary by individual listings.
Salt Lake City to Moab Flights
If you’re looking to get from Salt Lake to Arches National Park quickly, take the skies and arrive in a little over an hour. Flights from Salt Lake City to Moab are available most days. You would fly out of Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), which is located 18 miles north of Moab.
The drive from the airport to Moab, the city just outside Arches, is about 20 minutes.
▶ Check Salt Lake City to Moab Flights
Salt Lake City to Arches National Park Train
You can travel by train from Salt Lake City to Moab via Amtrak, for most of the way. Amtrak’s California Zephyr will carry you from Salt Lake to Green River, UT, which is the closest stop to Arches National Park. This train ride is approximately 4.5 hours. The last leg of your journey would be a 50-minute drive southeast, from Green River to Moab.
This may not be the best way, but it is another option if you don’t want to drive the 4-hour drive. You would need to figure out transportation from Green River to Moab and Arches.
Salt Lake City to Moab Bus
Greyhound runs a bus from Salt Lake City to Moab if you’re interested in traveling that way. Keep in mind, because there are a handful of stops along the way, traveling by bus will make for the longest time spent on the road. Greyhound estimates travel time of 6 hours and 5 minutes.
This is a good option if you want to save some money, but you will very possibly still need or want a car once you get to Arches National Park.
Salt Lake City to Moab Shuttle
The Salt Lake Express is a shuttle service that runs a route to Moab twice daily. Just jump on the bus in downtown Salt Lake City, and 5 hours later, you’re in Moab!
Salt Lake City to Arches Road Trip
The scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Arches is something you won’t soon forget. At 234 miles, this route takes about 4 hours. Some of Utah’s prettiest vistas are on display as you traverse mountains and valleys on this road trip from Salt Lake City to Moab, Utah.
Best Route to drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National park
To get from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park, you will first take I-15 S for about 50 miles. Around this time, you will see signs for US-6 E toward Price. Follow those signs. Remain on US-6 E for nearly 130 miles, then merge onto I-70 E/US-191 S. This route will carry you the final 24 miles into Moab.
Best Stops Between Salt Lake City and Arches National Park
As your road trip progresses further south through Utah, you will come upon a number of towns, including Provo, Spanish Fork, Heber, Price, Green River, and Thompson Springs. If you’re looking to take your time making your way down the road, or if you just need to give the kids a chance to stretch and blow off some steam, there are a variety of attractions to see in these cities.
One of the most common and quick stops in the Great Salt Lake City is Temple Square. This is a short drive from the airport, and if you have the extra time, it is totally worth it. There are lots of fun things to do in Salt Lake City, along with lots of great kids’ activities.
About 40 minutes south of Salt Lake, you will run into Lehi, which is home to Thanksgiving Point. Thanksgiving Point is a community attraction featuring kid-friendly museums and an expansive, stunning garden. This is a family favorite place to stop along the route to Moab.
Provo comes up pretty quickly after Lehi. Provo is the home of Brigham Young University. It’s a beautiful campus and also offers museum options (much less expensive than those at Thanksgiving Point) for kids. Be sure to check out the Bean Life Science Museum and the BYU Museum of Paleontology. If you’re looking for a short hike, Bridal Veil Falls is also in this area.
You will find the Prehistoric Museum presented by Utah State University Eastern in Price. The John Wesley Powell River History Museum and Black Canyon Dragon Viewpoint are both in Green River. 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.
Where to Stay Near Arches National Park
There are many great hotels near Arches as well as great hotels near Canyonlands National Park. The closest city to stay at for both of these national parks is Moab. Here are some of our favorite hotels in Moab.
ENTRADA AT MOAB TOWNHOMES (LUXURY)
If you’re looking for luxury hotels near Arches National Park, where the whole family can stay, Entrada at Moab Townhomes is the place. These townhomes are a great option for large groups. They can accommodate anywhere from 12 to 50 people.
These townhomes are conveniently located in Moab, minutes from the entrance to Arches. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and a fully stocked kitchen and coffee bar in each townhome. The kids also have entertainment, as each townhome includes kids’ toys, books, and games.
You won’t find something more comfortable – a home away from home.
➡️ Check Rates & Book: Entrada at Moab Townhomes
⭐ENTRADA AT MOAB TOWNHOMES REVIEWS (4.7/5 STARS)
We loved being right by the pool. We loved that it was fully stocked! Everything was organized and clean. Check out was simple. None of us wanted to go home after 4 nights!!! Some lights by the pool weren’t working so it was a little difficult to see when swimming at night. We will definitely return!!!! – Keri (Expedia Review)
➡️ Check Rates & Book: Entrada at Moab Townhomes
HOW TO GET TO ENTRADA AT MOAB
📍Entrada at Moab Address: 650 W 400 N, Moab, UT 84532| Google Maps | Book Entrada At Moab Now
AARCHWAY INN (BUDGET)
Located on the Riverwalk, the Aarchway Inn is an amazing option. The Riverwalk is a wide, nicely shaded path along the North Fork of the Virgin River in Moab.
If you love nature walks and seeing wildlife, this may be the place for you. It is a 10-minute drive to the Arches National Park Visitor Center.
In addition to the Riverwalk, Aarchway Inn has an outdoor swimming pool and children’s pool, with sun loungers and pool umbrellas. They also offer a fitness center, heated pool, playground, and hot tub.
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⭐AARCHWAY INN REVIEWS (4.5/5 STARS)
Great property, staff was friendly, complementary breakfast was extensive and of good quality. They even supplied complementary hiking poles for guests to use. – Thomas (Expedia Review)
Exceptional value for money but make sure you have a car, otherwise, you will be trapped. I will definitely stay at the Aarchway next time I am in Moab again. – Iryna (Expedia Review)
➡️ Check Rates & Book: Aarchway Inn
HOW TO GET TO AARCHWAY INN
📍Aarchway Inn Address: 1551 N Riverview Dr, Moab, UT 84532 | Google Maps | Book Aarchway Inn Now
Hyatt Place Moab (Mid-range)
The Hyatt Place Moab, is located just north of downtown Moab in a picturesque setting of red rocks. This hotel is fairly new, and is very nice and accommodating. It is also one of the closest hotels to the entrance of Arches National Park.
The pool area is awesome, with a large heated pool, hot tub, splash pad, and a small playground the kids enjoy climbing on. It offers many modern amenities, including air conditioning, premium bedding, laptop-friendly workspaces, free wi-fi facilities, and hair dryers.
The recreational opportunities include a fitness center and a playground. The hotel also offers a free buffet breakfast with many traditional and modern food options.
This pet-friendly hotel is one we recommend for not being too expensive and offering good value while only being a mile or so away from the downtown area. We love the added touches this hotel has to add to your stay – such as the outdoor fireplace by the pool and the snack bar. Hyatt Place Moab isn’t your cheapest option, but it’s an excellent family-friendly hotel in Moab.
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⭐Hyatt Place Moab Reviews (9.2/10 Stars)
My experience at Hyatt Place was excellent! The staff was so friendly and they were so accepting of not just myself and family but also my dog. Puppy treats were provided and in full view at the counter. Each morning, the staff provided an excellent hot breakfast. And the breakfast was different each morning. Was absolutely worth the money and I would stay again with no hesitation at all! – Travis (Expedia Reivews)
Pros: very clean and comfortable room. Close to Arches and restaurants. Complimentary breakfast. Cons: None. – Shuyi (Expedia Reviews)
➡️ Check Rates & Book Hyatt Place Moab
How to Get to Hyatt Place Moab
📍Hyatt Place Moab Address: 890 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532 | Google Maps | Book Hyatt Place Moab Now
Things to Do in Arches National Park
Arches National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Moab, Utah. There are so many hiking trails, like the Windows trail, and beautiful arches to explore at a variety of skill levels and intensities. Make the most of your time here and check out our quick rundown of how you can spend your day in Arches National Park.
If you’re going to be visiting Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, we highly recommend purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass before your visit. We have held this pass for the last four years and love it. It is great to use on a road trip to the national parks in Utah as well as your travels throughout the year.
▶ SHOP America the Beautiful Pass
TAKE A 4×4 TOUR OF ARCHES
There’s no better way to experience Arches than by exploring its off-road trails. If you don’t own a Jeep and aren’t interested in renting one, an Arches National Park 4×4 Adventure tour is the way to go. This tour will cover the highlights of off-roading in Arches.
Not to mention, it’s a great way to skip the long lines at the park’s entrance. The tour company will even pick you up from your hotel if you are staying close to town.
VISIT DELICATE ARCH
A trip to Arches wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the iconic Delicate Arch. Widely recognized as a symbol of Utah (it’s the arch depicted on the license plate), it’s one of the most famous geological features in the world and best hikes in Moab. This spot is definitely worth visiting while exploring the park.
Even though the hike is considered somewhat difficult, it is still a hike you can do with your kids. We did the hike with our 7-year-old twins and our 3-year-old and made it without too much trouble. We did carry the 3-year-old in a pack for a good chunk of the way because of the elevation gain.
If you take your time, the hike is great and definitely worth it. The view of the arch is amazing!
PLAY AT SAND DUNE ARCH
Sand Dune Arch is another fun attraction in Arches National Park. It’s a small arch found in between some impressive canyon walls. It is tucked away in such a cool part of the park and is well worth the quick stop.
It was a short hike, perfect for our younger kids. We brought some sand toys and enjoyed spending an hour in this little section of the park. We had a great time and would highly recommend visiting.
Arches National Park Resources
- Sand Dune Arch: One of our kids’ favorite things to do in Moab – how to get there and what to bring
- Hotels Near Arches National Park: A complete list of the best hotels near Arches, many with awesome swimming pools
- Exploring the Windows Trail in Arches: A short and easy hike in Arches with lots of great arches to see
- Arches vs. Canyonlands: Understand the difference between the two national parks and how to split your time
Reservations for Arches National Park
You will need to make a reservation to get into the park if you plan to visit between April and October. Tickets will be required from 7 am to 4 pm daily.
Tickets are available three months in advance in monthly blocks. You can make your reservation here. If you aren’t able to get tickets ahead of time, a few tickets are available one-day before at 6 pm MDT through Recreation.gov.
If you aren’t able to get tickets, you can enter the park after 4 pm. We went to the park one evening after 4 pm and had a great time. You can also book a guided tour to get into the park or enter the park through the 4×4 entrance.
Things to Do in Moab
Moab is a city full of adventures just waiting to be discovered. You can take to the landscape or have fun checking out local shops and museums. One thing is for certain; you can always find something to do in Moab. We have some great articles on the best hikes in Moab as well as many of the off-road trails.
Go Off-Roading
There’s no better way to experience Moab than exploring the off-road trails. Heighten your adrenaline and explore the stark landscape on the Fins and Things 4×4 trail. If you don’t 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.
If you do plan on going on many of the off-road trails without a travel guide, make sure you purchase the off-road guidebook called Moab, Ut Backroads & 4 Wheel Drive Trails. This is a great book that has helped us when we are exploring the off-road trails in Moab, like Poison Spider Mesa.
▶ SHOP Moab Off-Road Guidebook
Visit Canyonlands National Park
One of the best things to do when traveling to Moab is to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. If you’re interested in hiking in Moab and exploring on foot or riding through the parks on a mountain bike, your options are endless. You can easily get lost in the beauty of these parks.
If you’re traveling with young children or those who might be unable to explore the parks on foot, never fear! You can still experience the stunning vistas of the park from the comfort of your own vehicle on a scenic loop drive. Some travelers drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park just to reconnect with nature and truly experience the sheer beauty of Moab and the surrounding areas.
Canyonlands National Park Resources
- Exploring the White Rim Road: The White Rim Road is a 4×4 road that is really fun to explore in Canyonlands. You can rent a Jeep if you don’t have your own 4×4 vehicle.
- Exploring the Shafer Trail: The connecting trail in Canyonlands that meets up with the White Rim Road
- Hotels Near Canyonlands: A complete list of the best hotels near Canyonlands National Park
- Hiking to Mesa Arch in Canyonlands: One of our personal favorite hikes in Canyonlands is perfect for families with amazing views
- How to Spend a Day in Canyonlands: The highlights of the park and how to spend a day in Canyonlands
- Guide to Exploring Island in the Sky: This is the closest section of Canyonlands to downtown Moab and is the most accessible to visitors
Moab Giants
If you’re traveling with to Moab with kids, you more than likely have someone in the group crazy about dinosaurs. Moab was once home to some of these prehistoric creatures, so be sure to visit the spots that showcase the dinosaur fossils, like the Moab Giants.
Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is the best place to see dinosaurs in their life-size proportions. Kids of all ages will enjoy walking the large trail and meeting many dinosaurs along the way. We loved seeing the different sizes and different kinds of dinosaurs. This was one of our kids’ favorite things we did in Moab, and they are still talking about it.
If you do visit, it is a good idea to make sure you bring a water bottle. Many of the exhibits are outside, and with the dry desert air, you will want lots of water. They also have a picnic table or two, so it is a good location to bring lunch if you don’t want to purchase food there.
Mill Canyon Tracksites
Your kids will also be amazed by the dinosaur trackway at Mill Canyon. Real tracks from nearly a dozen different dinosaurs are on display, and your family can walk the same path they did. 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!
Canyoneering, Rock Climbing, and Mountain Biking
A visit to Moab wouldn’t be complete without exploring the red rocks up close and personal. Consider canyoneering, rock climbing, or mountain biking at some point during your visit to Moab. Tours and equipment for these sports are available throughout the area and are a good time, especially if you are doing activities for the first time.
The tour guides have everything you need and are very knowledgeable. You can take a full days tour or something shorter that only takes a few hours.
Best Tours in Moab
Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Tour
Of all the tours available in the Moab area, Hell’s Revenge is the one you can’t miss! Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Off-Roading Tour from Moab is a fun-filled adventure that takes you down all of the challenging parts along the Hell’s Revenge Trail. This tour is perfect for adventure-seeking families.
We have been on this trail and had a great time. You can read more about our experience in our Hell’s Revenge Trail Guide.
▶ BOOK 4×4 Tour of Hell’s Revenge
National Park Guided Tours
Exploring a national park can seem daunting. Take the stress out of the equation and explore the park with the help of an expert. Some of these tours are 4×4-based or otherwise in-person. While others are audio based and allow you to explore the beauty of these parks at your own pace.
▶ BOOK Arches National Park Tour
Moab Canyoneering Adventure
A canyoneering tour is a fun activity for those looking to see Moab’s arches through a different lens. Choose a half (easy route) or full (moderately difficult route, 2 hours drive from Moab) day adventure and learn the basics of canyoneering skills. All needed equipment is provided as you learn rappelling, rope-assisted down climbs, and chimneying through slot canyons.
We went canyoneering while we were in Moab and had a great time.
Introductory Moab Courthouse Loop Mountain Biking Tour
Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Moab. 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.
Helpful Resources in Planning Your Trip to Moab
- Things to Do in Moab: A complete guide to the best things to do in Moab, including off-roading, hiking, and more
- Hiking to Corona Arch: An amazing and family and dog-friendly hike in Moab ending at a large arch
- Guide to the Best Hotels in Downtown Moab: With close access to both Arches and Canyonlands, there are such great options for where to stay in Moab
- A Trail Guide to Hiking to Jeep Arch: Jeep Arch is one of the most uniquely shaped arches in Moab, with a beautiful hiking trail to get there
- Everything to Know About Jeep Tours in Moab: A list of the best tours in Moab and where you can explore during your tour
FAQs: Salt Lake City to Arches National Park
How far is Salt Lake City to Arches?
The driving distance from Salt Lake to Moab is 230 miles. This route takes about 4 hours.
Is there anything to see between Salt Lake City and Arches?
On your road trip from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park, you will run into Utah towns, including Provo, Heber, Price, Green River, and Thompson Springs. Each of these places offers museums and scenic points if you have time to explore. You can also take a short detour to Goblin Valley State Park.
Is the drive from Salt Lake City to Arches scary?
There are a handful of factors that can make the Salt Lake City to Arches drive somewhat exciting. The altitude changes along the route, the terrain is mountainous, and the highway is sometimes undivided. And if you’re traveling from Salt Lake during winter, the roads may be snowy. As long as you are practicing attentive driving and taking your time, the drive is totally doable and not scary.
Is the drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park pretty?
The route from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park is a very scenic route. This is the best route to Moab, and it displays the greatest of what Utah has to offer as you navigate through mountains and valleys.
Is Moab worth the trip?
Yes! With staggering sights and easy access to national parks, Moab is a great place to visit. Make sure you visit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. The Delicate Arch Trail is the most famous hike in the area, but there are many more that the whole family will love.
What is the best month to visit Arches National Park?
Spring or Fall is the best time to visit Moab. A trip time between March and May will offer you the most comfortable temperatures while also avoiding some of the summer crowds. If you plan on visiting Arches National park between April and October, you will need to use the online bookings to get your reservation time. This helps minimize overcrowding in the park.
Conclusion: Salt Lake City to Arches National Park
Nothing quite compares to the adventurous spirit of a road trip. Even equipped with a Salt Lake City to Arches National Park itinerary, so much lies ahead. 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.
This scenic drive really is a sight to behold. The road from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park is open and awaiting you. Arches is a great place everyone will love to visit.
