A Denver to Moab Road Trip in 2024: The Best Route & What to Do When You Get There
PLANNING A TRIP FROM DENVER TO MOAB?
We can help! We grew up traveling to Utah and know the routes from Denver to Moab well. We will fill you in on everything you need to know, from which route we recommend if you want to avoid car sickness to our favorite towns and attractions along the way. We’ll also share some of our favorite places to visit in Moab to enjoy once you arrive.
Colorado offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the US. A road trip from Denver to Moab will feature some of the best views the state has to offer. Experiencing the gorgeous cliffs of the Rocky Mountains transform over a several hours-long journey to stark red rock is a road trip experience your family won’t soon forget.
When planning your travel from Denver to Moab, there are two main routes you can take. I-70 W offers travelers the most direct route. You will make efficient time with this plan (estimated 5 hours and 40 minutes travel time) but be prepared for some steep ground and winding mountain roads. Consider your vehicle’s status and the likelihood of car sickness in the family when determining whether or not to take this route.
The scenic route via US Hwy 285 S and US-50 W winds around most mountains, so it is not nearly as steep. But adds over 2 hours to your travel time in exchange.
No matter the route you decide, the scenery will be majestic. Both routes offer amazing stops and opportunities to get out of the car and explore many unknown gems along the way. From Denver to Moab, your journey will be jam-packed with adventure and family fun.
Denver to Moab Drive
Denver to Moab Direct Route
The Denver to Moab Drive Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
Where to Stop Between Denver and Moab
Georgetown, CO
About 50 minutes to the west of Denver (via I-70 W) is Georgetown, CO. This town is home to the picturesque Georgetown Lake and Clear Lake. Though it’s just a bit down the road from your starting place, this is a picture-perfect spot to canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
If you’re looking to explore the history of Georgetown, consider stopping by the Hotel de Paris Museum or the Hamill House Museum. If you want to show the kids a good time, take a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. It’s like being transported back to the old west as you explore the Rockies by rail.
The train carries travelers from Georgetown to Silver Plume. From there, you have the option to visit Lebanon Silver Mine before circling back around to Georgetown. It’s a train adventure your family wouldn’t soon forget.
Minturn, CO
An hour down the road from Georgetown, you will run into Minturn, CO. Minturn is known for its hiking and biking trails against the striking backdrop of the White River National Forest and Holy Cross Wilderness. Some of the highlights here include Minturn Bike Park, Notch Mountain, and Game Creek Trail.
Glenwood Springs, CO
Another hour on your journey toward Moab will lead you to Glenwood Springs, CO. Glenwood Springs is a resort town that definitely warrants a stop on your road trip. Most well known for its hot springs, a visit to Glenwood Hot Springs Pool will solve any travel woes.
The world’s largest hot springs pool comes in at a comfortable 90-93 degrees, a family-friendly temperature for all to enjoy. The resort where the pool is located also features a therapy pool that sits around 104 degrees. The kids will love Sopris Splash Zone, an aquatic playground that features a river ride, waterfalls, and fountains. Reservations are not required.
If you’re looking for a bit of a thrill after relaxing in the hot springs, Glenwood’s own amusement park can provide it. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is America’s only mountaintop amusement park. Upon arrival, a gondola ride will carry you up to where all the action happens.
This western-themed park offers exciting rides and cave tours. Keep in mind that the rides are seasonal, so you will want to check the park’s schedule and purchase tickets beforehand to avoid any complications.
Relaxation and fun aside, Glenwood Springs is truly an adventurer’s paradise. Hanging Lake is a National Natural Landmark located in Glenwood Canyon, which is part of the White River National Forest. Take in the gorgeous sights (including waterfalls) around this lake on a 1.2-mile trail.
Fruita, CO
An hour and a half southwest of Glenwood Springs is Fruita, CO. Fruita has become known as a mecca of sorts for mountain biking enthusiasts. Trails of a variety of terrains and skill levels attract visitors from all over the world to this spot. Kokopelli Trail is a favorite in this area.
If you’re hoping to get some biking done along your Denver to Moab Utah road trip, make sure you stop in Fruita.
If you’re in the mood to explore more rocky terrain, McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area is another exceptional Fruita attraction. The massive 123,400-acre space, which runs for 24 miles alongside the Colorado River, is known for its remarkable and rugged landscape. Explore sandstone canyons, natural arches, spires, and alcoves as you hike the Colorado Plateau.
The Dinosaur Journey Museum is a kid-approved spot in Fruita. Let the kids stretch and get a break from the car as they check out the history of life (including dinosaurs) in Western Colorado. This museum is complete with fossils, cast skeletons, and dinosaur reconstructions. A sure bet for any dinosaur lovers!
Denver to Moab Scenic Route
Denver to Moab Drive Time: 7 hours 50 minutes
Where to Stop Between Denver and Moab
Breckenridge, CO
If you’ve got time for a slight detour, a little over 2 hours outside of Denver via US Hwy 285 S, you’ll find Breckenridge. A gem of a Colorado resort town, you’ll definitely want to add this place to your Denver to Moab itinerary. An outdoor adventurer’s paradise, Breckenridge is home to Dillon Reservoir, Ten Mile Mountain Range, and the Blue River.
This is the perfect spot to take your kids fly fishing in the river or maybe try windsurfing with older kids at the reservoir.
Dillon Reservoir, also known as Lake Dillon, features beautiful blue water and rocky shores. It’s blanketed by lush green forests on one side and gorgeous mountain backdrops on another. Due to cold temperatures, it’s not popular for water sports, but windsurfing (with bodysuits) is a fun activity here.
If you’re the daring type, Ten Mile Mountain Range offers a variety of challenging activities. Climbing, hiking, and mountaineering in this area offer stunning views and memorable experiences only possible in this awe-inspiring Colorado landscape.
Blue River stretches 65 miles through Colorado and is a renowned spot for fishing and serene scenery. You can also kayak and canoe on the river. Even rafting is popular during late spring and summer, featuring mainly class II, III, and IV rapids. If you’re ready to be off the road for the day, Blue River also features a campground. It could be a great spot to spend the evening in nature with your family.
Salida, CO
Known as a watersports town, Salida offers so many fun recreational opportunities. A thrilling yet family-friendly option would be to experience the Arkansas River. Salida’s Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a great place to raft, kayak, or paddleboard. There’s nothing more invigorating than having some fun in the water after a long stretch of time in the car.
Browns Canyon National Monument is another place to explore watersports, but this time in a protected Colorado wilderness area. Browns Canyon National Monument is a protected space in the state dedicated to preserving wildlife and varied ecosystems for generations to come.
It’s a very beautiful and serene place to get back in touch with nature – whether you do that rafting on the water, hiking or backpacking the trails, or even fishing.
Captain Zipline Aerial Adventure Park in Salida
For the daredevils in your group, Captain Zipline Aerial Adventure Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Buckle up for a fear-defying zipline tour as you fly over the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains. Spend 2 hours speeding through the sky on six different ziplines through this guided tour.
In between ziplines, you will be treated to gorgeous views and geological insights from your guide as you make your way to the next zipline post. This is an extremely fun way to explore the beauty of what Colorado has to offer, even if it’s on the way back from Moab to Denver.
If you still have bravery to spare after the zipline tour, move on to the Canyon Challenge Course, Colorado’s largest aerial course. The Canyon Challenge Course is tucked into the Lost Canyon, surrounded by rugged and colorful limestone cliffs. This thrilling course includes swinging bridges, cargo nets, balance beams, tunnels, and more. Captain Zipline Aerial Adventure Park is one of the best ways to experience Salida.
One of the best and most fun parts of Salida is the downtown beach area and riverwalk path. This is the perfect place to stop if you’re short on time to spare. Grab some lunch at a nearby restaurant and picnic on the small beach. The kids will love climbing the rocky shore just off the riverwalk path. And, of course, a pre-lunch swim and splash never hurt anybody!
Montrose, CO
Two hours and forty minutes, due west from Salida, is Montrose, CO. Montrose is a beautiful place to stop to take in the wonder and majesty of the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area. This 210,000-acre park is home to countless trails and breathtaking vistas of gorgeous Colorado. Take some time to enjoy the canyon views here. Explore the different desert plants with your kids, or maybe even consider camping here.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison is another must-see while passing through Montrose. One of four Colorado National Parks, the cliffs and staggering views of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison are overwhelming. A testament to the weathering work of the Gunnison river over 2 million years time, when you stand in this park, you bear witness to some of the steepest cliffs and most ancient rocks and spires in North America.
Grand Junction, CO
A little over an hour northwest of Montrose on US-50W, you’ll find Grand Junction, CO. Grand Junction is one of the larger cities you will run into on this road trip. As is the norm in Colorado, Grand Junction is yet again a supreme place to visit for outdoor sports. But did you know they are almost as famously known for amazing peaches? Grab one of those juicy fruits and check out a few spots to visit while passing through Grand Junction.
A huge highlight and one of the best ways to spend your time in Grand Junction is to visit Colorado National Monument. One of the best places in the area to really take in the gorgeous canyon panorama; the views here are stunning. The gigantic monoliths are breathtaking to experience in person.
If you’ve got time to explore, jump on the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive and wind through the red rock canyons. Be on the lookout for bighorn sheep, lizards, and even eagles! Colorado National Monument also offers over 40 miles of hiking trails. The trails vary in skill level, so if the kids are antsy and ready to explore, you’ll be sure to find a good fit for your family.
Things to Do in Grand Junction, Colorado
Rock climbing and biking are also popular activities here.
Grand Junction is also home to some world-class biking sites. If you’ve got a need for speed, The Palisade Plunge should be on your Grand Junction bucket list. At 32 miles, it’s one of the longest downhill-only trails in the country. To offer a little perspective, the route starts at the top of the Grand Mesa, which is the world’s largest flat-top mountain.
From then on out, it’s a 6,000-foot descent, eventually leading riders to the Colorado River. Not a great choice for families, but Palisade Plunge offers an amazing experience for any seasoned mountain bikers.
Stretching into two states, the Book Cliffs is the longest unbroken cliff face on earth. You can explore this geological rarity in Grand Junction with a visit to Mount Garfield. This hike is strenuous, so not overly suited for children. The trail gains 2,000 feet in elevation over about 2 miles. The views from the top are dazzling, especially at sunrise.
If your family is in need of a cooldown, floating the Colorado River is one of the best ways to explore Grand Junction. This section of the river is mellow and scenic, so there’s no worry over rapids. You can just float along in the sunshine or even paddleboard while enjoying your break from the car.
Fruita, CO
Fruita, CO is also along this route. So, if you bypassed it on your first round, consider stopping by as you travel back from Moab, Utah to Denver, Colorado. It’s a fun place to stop and break up a long day in the car. The Kokopelli Trail, McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, Dinosaur Journey Museum, and so much more are waiting to be explored in Fruita.
Sego, Utah
As you get within an hour or so of your final destination in Moab, there’s one last stop you won’t want to miss. Just north of Thompson Springs, which is on your route, is a small ghost town called Sego, Utah. Part of the Book Cliffs, hidden in the narrow, winding Sego Canyon, this eerie old-fashioned town only attracts the bravest of visitors.
Sego, named after the sego lilies that grow in the nearby canyon, was a former coal-mining town. It is said to have only been populated from 1910-1955. Poor water quality, financial woes, and a flash flood put the small town to rest in the mid-50s. Dare the kids to step back in time with a quick stop by this unique road trip attraction. They can explore foundations and structures that are still standing from the town’s heyday.
If that’s not enough of a history lesson, travel even further back in time with a visit to the nearby Sego Canyon Rock Art. Thousands of years before Sego boomed with coal production, Indigenous people (thought to be from the Utes, Fremont, and Archaic tribes) etched and painted images throughout the walls of the canyon. Those images still haunt the area today.
This is a great spot to visit with children of all ages. It’s so fun to look through the curious characters and imagine the story being told. Petroglyphs and pictographs can be viewed on the western and northern walls of the canyon by the parking area.
Getting from Denver to Moab
Renting a Car
If you are flying into Denver from another location or if you are concerned about your vehicle’s capability to make the journey from Denver to Moab, you may want to rent a car. There are several rental car companies in the Denver area. Keep in mind that if you are flying into Denver, you will be able to take a shuttle directly to the rental car desk from the airport terminal.
Renting an RV
If you’re looking to explore Denver and the surrounding areas along the way to Moab 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 (campsites are typically much less expensive) and other living costs. There is lots of free camping in Moab. Plus, it offers your family a consistent place to live while making your way down the road.
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.
How to get to Moab from Denver without a car
Denver to Moab Flights
If you’re looking to get from Denver quickly, take the skies and arrive in 1 hour and 20 minutes. Flights from Denver to Moab are available most days. You would fly out of Denver International Airport (DEN) to Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), which is located 18 miles north of Moab. The drive from the airport to Moab is about 20 minutes.
▶ BOOK a Denver to Moab Flight
Train from Denver to Moab
Rocky Mountaineer Train from Denver to Moab
Who hasn’t dreamed of taking a long luxurious trip on a fancy train, riding the rails through stunning landscapes? Believe it or not, you can travel via luxury train from Denver to Moab. The Rocky Mountaineer Train route, aptly named “Rockies to the Red Rocks,” is your ticket to an experience of a lifetime.
Any lover of trains would enjoy this unique and truly special two-day journey. The luxury train departs Denver in the afternoon and stops in Glenwood Springs that evening, where hotel accommodations are included.
Day two carries you from Glenwood Springs to Moab. Striking sights along the way include Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and crossing the Continental Divide. This is a one-way trip; it does not include a returning train from Moab to Denver.
Estimated Denver to Moab Train Cost: $1,456 – $1,976 per person, depending on specific travel dates.
Amtrak Denver to Moab
You can also travel by train from Denver to Moab via Amtrak for most of the way. Though not as glamorous as the Rocky Mountaineer Train, Amtrak’s California Zephyr will carry you from Denver to Green River, UT, which is the closest stop to Moab. This train ride is nearly 10 hours long. The last leg of your journey would be a 50-minute drive due southeast from Green River to Moab.
Estimated Cost: $81 per person (coach/one way), $418 (roomette accommodations for 2 adults/one way), $912 (bedroom accommodations for 2 adults/one way)
Denver to Moab by Bus
Greyhound runs a bus from Denver to Green River, UT. Once in Green River, you could connect to another bus heading to Moab. Keep in mind, because there are a handful of stops along the way, traveling by bus will make for an extended period of time spent on the road.
Greyhound estimates travel time from Denver to Green River at 7 hours and 15 minutes. The second leg of the trip from Green River to Moab is estimated at 1 hour, for a total of 8 hours and 15 minutes of travel time.
Estimated Cost: $86.25 per person (one way)
Best time to go on a road trip from Denver to Moab
Due to the unpredictability of Colorado weather and the impact that it has on the roads, summer weather (starting in early June) offers the best conditions for a road trip from Denver to Moab. That said, early Fall is another great choice, as the gorgeous landscape of this drive would be phenomenally colorful.
Fall is a much more comfortable season to experience Moab over summer.
Where to Stay between Denver and Moab
If you are traveling by RV, River Dance RV Resort in Gypsum, CO, would be a great place to stay on your drive from Denver to Moab, Utah. 2 hours and 15 minutes outside of Denver, this area is nearly halfway to Moab.
Glenwood Springs is another town around the middle portion of the road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Moab, UT. This is a great spot to break your driving time in half. Not to mention, Glenwood Springs is likely the most entertaining place to stay on this road trip.
With the White River National Forest, the hot springs pool, and the adventure park all within reach, the whole family will be happy with a stop here. Here are a couple of places to consider when staying over in Glenwood Springs.
Best Western Antlers – Budget
Best Western Antlers is a great property enhanced by a beautiful mountainous backdrop. The hotel features standard rooms with a variety of bed options, including a king-size bed, queen-size, or double queen options. This hotel is pet-friendly and has a pool to relax in at the end of the day.
⭐Best Western Antlers Reviews (8.6/10 Stars)
Better than expected, nice property. Room has been updated. Breakfast was excellent, staff was super friendly. Not a luxury hotel, but good value. – Donald (Expedia Review)
The front desk agent (Jenn?) was fantastic and cheerful. The canyon was closed because of a snow storm related accident. She took care of all the guests quickly and efficiently. – Ame (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Antlers
Hampton Inn Glenwood Springs – Mid-Range
Hampton Inn Glenwood Springs is a great hotel choice if you’re looking to stay close to the action in town. The rooms are spacious and clean, offering the typical hotel features, including premium bedding and air conditioning. Enjoy the indoor pool and a hot breakfast in the morning!
⭐Hampton Inn Glenwood Springs Reviews (8.4/10 Stars)
Good for a one night stay. – Patricia (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hampton Inn Glenwood Springs
Hotel Colorado – Luxury
A night spent in this historic hotel would definitely make for an evening to remember. Built-in the 1800s with recently renovated rooms, the old-fashioned fixtures and features of this hotel add to its charm. Just a short walk to Glenwood Hot Springs, relax there or in the hotel spa to unwind after a long day on the road.
⭐Hotel Colorado Reviews (8/10 Stars)
Lovely, grand old hotel, conveniently situated to Glenwood Hot Springs, and a lively and very walkable historic downtown. We had occasion to dine in the restaurant, and the food was delicious! Will definitely return to this charming property. – Dawn (Expedia Review)
This elegant hotel holds a charm that the new resorts don’t. Employees were nice. Rooms were recently updated. Overall a good experience, especially for the price! – Jennifer (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hotel Colorado
Where to Stay in Moab
Once you finally reach your destination in Moab, you’ll be eager to find a place to unpack and relax. From chic boutiques and budget-friendly accommodations to luxury hotels, Moab has great places to stay for all types of travelers. Here are a few of the best hotels in Moab for your stay.
Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn
The Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn is a beautiful hotel in the heart of Moab, right off of the main street as you pull into town. This beautiful hotel is situated just a short drive away from breathtaking attractions like Arches National Park, the Sand Flats Recreation Area, and popular off-roading trails like Fins and Things.
This hotel offers a complimentary, full hot breakfast. All rooms are modern and air-conditioned, with comfortable bedding and laptop-friendly workspaces. Their rooftop terrace is another welcome addition for a perfect stay.
⭐Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn Reviews (9.4/10 Stars)
An amazing hotel! Either new or recently renovated, everything feels fresh and clean. Breakfast was exceptionally good, and hot tub is the winter is just awesome. It might be the best Best Western I’ve stayed in, and I usually pick BW for my stays. Highly recommend to all! – Roman (Expedia Reviews)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn
Sleep Inn and Suites
The Sleep Inn and Suites hotel is the perfect place to enjoy stylish and modern accommodations in a fantastic downtown Moab location. Located close to Arches National Park and your other Moab area attractions, this hotel provides a comfortable stay with great value.
Sleep Inn and Suites provides excellent amenities for all of their guests. This includes an outdoor pool, a 24-hour business center, a computer station, a convenience store, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Rooms are spacious and include complimentary wi-fi.
The hotel’s common areas offer coffee and tea for guests to enjoy, and family-friendly and helpful guest services are available 24 hours. For a comfortable and pleasant budget hotel in Moab, book the Sleep Inn and Suites.
⭐Sleep Inn and Suites Reviews (9.4/10 Stars)
Hotel was super clean, large room, actual food for breakfast and all around perfect. Would stay again. – Laurie (Expedia Reviews)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Sleep Inn and Suites
Radcliff Moab
The Radcliff Moab is a luxurious, modern, and stylish hotel that provides exceptional rooms at the perfect downtown Moab location.
You’ll enjoy all the modern and convenient amenities this comfortable hotel has to offer, such as a 24-hour front desk, a seasonal outdoor pool, free self-parking, an electric car charging station, gear storage, pet-friendly rooms, and a deliciously on-site restaurant.
As you step into your room, you’ll find that it is equipped with free wi-fi, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and clean bathrooms with rain showers. There’s also a restaurant, bar, and coffee shop onsite.
⭐Radcliffe Moab Reviews (9.4/10 Stars)
Modern and well-thought out design. Very comfortable and good location – easy walking distance to Main Street. Great pool area with mountain views – Jessica (Expedia Reviews)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Radcliff Moab
Things to Do in Moab
There are so many fun things to do in Moab. The national parks in the area are always a great place to spend a day. Moab is also famous for its off-road trails. If you haven’t brought your own rzr or jeep, you can rent a jeep to explore the area or go on a guided jeep tour. There are also lots of guided tours for canyoneering, rock climbing, and mountain biking.
One of our favorite things to do in Moab is going hiking. If you can’t get into Arches or you’re hiking with a pet, there are lots of great hiking trails in the Moab area. Two of our favorite hikes are Corona Arch and Jeep Arch. Both are really cool Moab arches and well worth a visit.
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 comparing Arches vs. Canyonlands and only have time to visit one, we would recommend visiting Arches. However, Canyonlands is still beautiful and well worth a visit if you have time.
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.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is filled with incredible vantage points that offer breathtaking views of its canyons and rivers. If you want to connect with nature and explore as much as possible on foot, a day in Canyonlands will be amazing. For others who would rather take a more distanced, scenic approach, Canyonlands can be just as fulfilling from the comfort of the car.
We recommend spending at least one day in Canyonlands National Park during your visit to Moab.
Take a Jeep tour
One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a backcountry Canyonlands 4×4 adventure from Moab. This tour will take you down two of the most popular off-road trails in the Canyonlands National Park.
You will get to explore the Island in the Sky district and its beautiful scenery, which includes the beautiful Shafer Trail and the White Rim Road. Both are great areas to explore. We loved exploring these roads in our jeep on our last visit to Moab. The scenery is amazing!
Many people think the best way to explore the park is by traveling the 4×4 roads. We love traveling through Canyonlands’ off-road trails.
If you enjoy the 4×4 trails in Canyonlands, there are lots of other great off-road trails to check out in the area. Some of our favorites in Moab are Hell’s Revenge, Poison Spider Mesa, and Fins and Things.
Hike Mesa Arch
If you are planning to visit Mesa Arch in Canyonlands in Utah, you are in for an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a hiker, sightseer, or photographer, you will be rewarded with a captivating landscape and stunning views that will remain with you long after your trip.
The Mesa Arch hike is perfect for all skill levels, offering both a physically and visually stimulating experience. This hike is a fantastic choice for families with kids who want to experience the beauty of Canyonlands National Park. This easy, half-mile loop trail takes about 20-30 minutes roundtrip. It is suitable for kids who can walk, although you may need to carry younger kids for a portion of the trail.
Once you reach the arch, be aware that there are sharp drops into the canyon, so it’s important to hold on to your kids for their safety. The area is not fenced, so be sure to keep a close eye on your little ones. Well worth the hike, the sweeping views of the surrounding canyon and its vivid reds, oranges, and purples can literally take your breath away.
Join the Junior Ranger Program
If you’re looking for things to do in Moab with kids, make your journey through Canyonlands National Park that much more fun by participating in the Canyonlands Junior Ranger Program. Make your way to the Sky Visitor Center and let your kids pick up the Junior Ranger booklet there. You can also download it from the park’s website.
With their guidebooks in hand, your kids will explore the park on a whole new level. Activities will get them considering safety on their journeys throughout the park, leading them to explore plant life and even consider how the weather affects their experience in Canyonlands NP. Our kids just love collecting badges from all of the national parks we visit.
Visit Whale Rock
Whale Rock Trail is another fun option to consider if exploring Canyonlands with kids. Let their imaginations run wild as they take in the shape of the long sandstone dome that just happens to look like a whale! Walk the trail that runs along its side, and then climb from the tail up to the blowhole.
This trail leads up the side of a sandstone dome, ending with broad views of the Island in the Sky. A great spot for kids who like to climb and explore on the rocks. But be sure everyone wears proper shoes with traction and stays mindful of steep drop-offs.
Take the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive
The scenic drive through Canyonlands Island in the Sky is 34 miles roundtrip. This route features stops at a variety of vantage points, including Grand View Point, Buck Canyon, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome.
Move at your own pace through this drive. You could drive straight through, only taking in views from your vehicle within a couple of hours. But if you’re interested in exploring Canyonlands through the overlooks and hikes, it could take the better part of a day.
Denver to Moab Packing List
Unless you are visiting in the dead of winter, you should be prepared with cool hiking clothes and lots of water. We hiked to Delicate Arch towards the end of October, and we were still sweating by the end and drank a ton of water.
Here are some of our top recommendations for things to bring with you when visiting Moab.
CAMELBAK
We have been hiking with Camelbak backpacks lately, and they are awesome. My kids each carry their own, so they can get a drink when they want. This style of backpack makes it really easy to carry your water, and there is still room for some sunscreen and small snacks.
PUFFY JACKET
Although it is warm during the day, the desert gets cold at night. If you’re visiting outside of July and August, we recommend bringing a light jacket. If you’re hiking at night, you will want a light jacket. Plus, it is perfect to have if you walk around downtown Moab at night or do some stargazing in the park.
HIKING SHOES
Having hiking shoes with strong ankle support is a great item to bring to Arches National Park. These boots will help protect your ankles, and also helps provide very valuable traction while hiking. This traction is important when climbing up and down parts of the trails and climbing over rocks.
SUNSCREEN
The sun is hot in Moab, even in the Spring months, like April, and Fall. It is always important to be prepared with adequate sun protection, including sunscreen and hats.
INSULATED WATERBOTTLES
We have switched almost all of our water bottles over to this insulated style of water bottle. We got tired of having warm water on our hikes. The insulated waterbottles are a bit heavier, so if that’s a concern for you, we have found it great to leave one in the car, so you have some cold water for after your hike.
We will usually take two or three with us and then leave one in the car for the end of our hike.
▶ SHOP Insulated Water Bottles
FAQs: Denver to Moab
How far is Moab from Denver?
There are two routes to consider when planning a trip to Moab from Denver. The length of your road trip will depend on which plan you choose. The most direct distance from Denver to Moab is 355 miles via I-70 W. The Denver to Moab distance is 436 miles when taking the scenic route via US Hwy 285 S and US-50 W.
How long does it take to drive from Denver to Moab?
The Denver to Moab drive time depends on which route you take. If you take the most direct route via I-70, the drive time is around 5 hours and 40 minutes. If you take the more scenic, southern route, the drive time is approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes.
Is the drive from Denver to Moab hard?
The drive from Denver to Moab is pretty straightforward. If you choose the I-70 W route, be prepared for some steep stretches, as this path is very mountainous. But overall, it’s the shortest and most direct route to Moab. The scenic route via US Hwy 285 S and US-50 W winds around most mountains, so it is not nearly as steep but takes longer.
What is there to see between Moab and Denver?
There are several towns and beautiful places to visit as you travel between Moab and Denver.
What airlines fly from Denver to Moab?
United Airlines offers a direct flight from Denver International Airport to Canyonlands Field Airport most days.
How many days do you need in Moab?
Any itinerary could work! If you’re fast-paced travelers, a busy, long weekend could offer you a taste of the town. But with so many things to do and explore in Moab, 5-7 days would offer a more full and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion: Denver to Moab Road Trip
With some of the nation’s most striking scenery before you, prepare for a trip of a lifetime on your journey from Denver to Moab. Enjoy the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. Take in the fresh air of countless national parks and nature reserves. Let go of all the cares of the world as you splash in hot springs and rivers.
Glenwood Springs, Fruita, Breckenridge, Salida, and so many more towns peppered along the way hold fun adventures waiting to be had as you make your way from Denver to Moab. Wherever the road leads you, as each mile passes and towns are left in the dust, enjoy the freedom of the open road and soak up the spirit of adventure.
We absolutely love spending time in the Moab area and hope you have a great time there as well.
