Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by foxintheforest
An epic road trip from Denver to Moab encompasses some of the very best that both Colorado and Utah have to offer.
From the mountain peaks and alpine lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park to the soaring rock walls of the Black Canyon to the mountain towns of Vail and Aspen, the start of the Denver to Moab drive is simply incredible.
As you head west on your Colorado road trip and get closer to Utah, the landscape transforms from the greens, blues, and grays of the mountains to the red, orange, and yellow of the desert.
The scenery doesn’t stop taking your breath away as you continue through Colorado wine country to Colorado National Monument to the quirky town of Moab to the sandstone formations of Arches National Park and the massive canyons of Canyonlands.
As a long-time Colorado local of over 13 years, I’ve road-tripped from Denver to Moab (and from Moab to Denver!) countless times.
Seriously, I make this journey at least 6 times a year (#climberlife). Believe me, you won’t find better local tips for this road trip adventure anywhere else. If you’re looking to travel from Denver to Moab like a local, not a tourist, I’ve totally got you covered.
About this Guide to a Denver to Moab Road Trip
Inside this local guide to road-tripping from Denver to Moab, you’ll discover:
- How to get to Moab from Denver
- What to pack for the Denver to Moab drive
- An extensive list of awesome stops along the way from Denver to Moab
- A one-week Denver to Moab itinerary
- More amazing local Colorado & Utah travel resources
How Do You Get from Denver to Moab?
Moab is pretty much a straight shot west from Denver on I-70. Once you cross the Utah border, you’ll dip south along US-191 for about 30 miles to actually get to Moab.
How Long is the Drive from Denver to Moab?
The distance from Moab to Denver is around 350 miles and takes approximately five and a half hours (unless you hit the dreaded I-70 traffic).
Local Tip: Traffic can be brutal along the I-70 corridor on weekends. Typically, mid-April through May and late September through November are “off-season” for I-70 and traffic is rare.
Denver to Moab Itinerary
While you can drive straight through from Denver to Moab in about half a day, it’s a much more epic adventure to take a longer journey – maybe a week! – and hit up all the amazing destinations along the way.
Denver
You’ll obviously start your Denver to Moab drive in Denver, and believe me, there are plenty of things to do in Denver before you hit the road.
Wander around the RiNo Arts District, walk through Washington Park (Wash Park to locals), and grab a pint at Denver Beer Co, Crooked Stave, or one of the many local breweries.
If you have more time, catch a show at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison or hit the trail on one of the easy hikes near Denver in Clear Creek Canyon or North Table Mountain which is one of the best hikes near Golden.
- Where to stay: Ember Hostel, Hostel Fish, The Ramble
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Rocky Mountain National Park
While it is not exactly on the way from Denver to Moab, visiting Rocky Mountain National Park is a very worthwhile detour if you’re visiting Colorado.
If you have one day in RMNP, don’t miss the Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake hike. This is an iconic yet easy hike which features three gorgeous alpine lakes in just a 3-mile hike!
If you have more time, you can hit up some more of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, including The Loch, Sky Pond, and Chasm Lake. And try to take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road to see more of the park (but be aware it is closed during the winter season).
Local Tip: You’ll need to reserve a timed entry permit to access the park spring through summer. Trail Ridge Road closes from late fall til late spring every year (check for updated conditions, as it varies every year) and this stop isn’t worth it if the road is closed.
- Distance from Denver: 65 miles/1.5 hours
- Where to stay: Moraine Park Campground, A-Lodge, The Stanley Hotel
- How long to stay: 1-3 days
Idaho Springs (Optional)
After you leave Rocky Mountain National Park, Idaho Springs is a great spot to stop for a bit before continuing your Denver to Moab road trip.
Soaking in Indian Hot Springs is one of the Idaho Springs activities that would be perfect for a road trip pit stop. And grab some tasty Colorado-style pizza at Beau Jo’s to fuel up before hitting the road again.
Local Tip: If you’re stopping in Rocky, this town is about 10 minutes in the opposite direction.
For a more direct route, opt to stop in Dillion or Frisco which are right outside of Breckenridge. But if you’re leisurely with your time, Idaho Springs has better options for food.
- Distance from Rocky Mountain National Park: 60 miles/1.5 hours
- Where to stay: Argo Inn & Suites, Indian Hot Springs, Uplift Inn
- How long to stay: Half day to 1 day
Breckenridge
Sure, Breckenridge is known for skiing, but it has so much more than that, and it’s totally worth a stop on your Denver to Moab drive.
Things to do in Breckenridge include riding the gondola and taking in the view, visiting the famous Breckenridge Troll sculpture, and panning for gold.
You can also check out some of the best Breckenridge hikes, like the Sallie Barber Mine Trail which features interesting historical artifacts from the mining era. Quandary Peak is also nearby if you’re ready to tackle an easier Colorado 14er.
- Distance from Idaho Springs: 50 miles/1 hour
- Where to stay: The Bivvi Hostel, Fireside Inn, Gravity Haus Breck
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Vail (Optional)
Vail is certainly a ski town and so, many people spend winter in Vail. But, you can also find plenty of fun things to do in Vail all year long. Head out on one of the awesome Vail hikes (anything in the Gore Range is incredible) or take the gondola up the mountain and mountain bike down.
And when in Vail, treat yourself to a fancy meal at the swanky Sweet Basil or the sleek Slope Room at Gravity Haus.
- Distance from Breckenridge: 35 miles/45 mins
- Where to stay: Minturn Inn, Tivoli Lodge, Gravity Haus Vail
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Glenwood Springs
As you might guess, Glenwood Springs has some of the best hot springs in Colorado (I recommend Iron Mountain), and you can’t pass up an opportunity to soak here along your road trip.
There’s plenty of other things to do in Glenwood Springs as well, from exploring Glenwood Caverns to biking along the Roaring Fork River. And check out the Glenwood Springs hikes like the Boy Scout Trail and Grizzly Creek Trail.
- Distance from Vail: 60 miles/1 hour
- Where to stay: La Quinta Inn, Hotel Glenwood Springs, Hot Springs Lodge
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Hanging Lake
The Hanging Lake hike is truly one of the best Colorado hikes and an absolute must-do on your way from Denver to Moab.
This spectacular teal-blue lake is formed by the water cascading down Glenwood Canyon, and it is a special place that has to be seen to be believed.
Of course, since it’s one of the most incredible Colorado lakes, it is also incredibly popular, and permits are required.
- Distance from Glenwood Springs: 10 miles/15 mins
- How long to stay: Half day
Aspen
Aspen is a slight detour off of I-70 on your Denver to Moab drive, but it’s absolutely worth it. There are so many Aspen hikes that it’s hard to choose.
The Aspen to Crested Butte hike is an incredible bucket list experience, but if you want a shorter hike for a quick stop, check out Crater Lake Trail.
Aspen Brewery is an awesome aprés hike spot for delicious pizza and local beer.
- Distance from Glenwood Springs: 40 miles/1 hour
- Where to stay: St. Moritz Lodge, Pokolodi Lodge, The Inn at Aspen
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Maroon Bells
Perhaps the “most photographed place in Colorado,” the Maroon Bells are an absolute must-stop near Aspen on your Denver to Moab road trip.
You truly have to see these stunning peaks and their surroundings in person – and Aspen’s top hikes get you to the views!
You can take one of the shorter easy trails for a day hike to see the prominent peaks of the Maroon Bells, or you can set aside a few days on your road trip to backpack the simply incredible Four Pass Loop.
This 27-mile loop takes you over four 12,500-foot mountain passes in the gorgeous backcountry of the Maroon Bells Wilderness.
- Distance from Aspen: 6 miles/15 mins
- How long to stay: 1 day (or 3-4 days to backpack the 4 Pass Loop)
Colorado Wine Country
While Colorado might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine country, the area around Palisade (also known for its peaches) is ripe with wineries.
Visit Talon Wines for traditional wines as well as fruity and floral wines (try the lavender) and delicious honey mead.
Spend some time at Colterris at the Overlook for wine tasting in a stunning setting with views of the Colorado River.
If you plan your road trip in mid-September, you can time it with the Colorado Mountain Winefest and Colorado Wine Week.
- Distance from Aspen: 115 miles/2 hours
- Where to stay: Spoke and Vine, Wine Country Inn, Vistas & Vineyards BnB
- How long to stay: 1 day
Black Canyon of the Gunnison (Optional)
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is another worthwhile short detour on your Denver to Moab drive.
You can peer down the sheer, 2,000-foot cliffs of the Black Canyon from many trails along the rim, or even hike into the canyon to the Gunnison River – as long as you’re prepared for the super steep hike out.
Either way, you’ll love all the best Black Canyon of the Gunnison hikes.
- Distance from Palisade: 75 miles/1.5 hours
- Where to stay: South Rim Campground, The Hitching Post, Stone House Inn
- How long to stay: 1 day
Local Tip: Please note that permits are required for all inner canyon wilderness use.
Colorado National Monument
Located near Grand Junction, Colorado National Monument showcases the red rock canyons and monoliths as the landscape changes to desert in western Colorado.
Explore it along the 23 miles of Rim Rock Drive – one of the most scenic drives in Colorado – where you can stop for a hike along the way. You can also enjoy some of the best things to do in Grand Junction too.
- Distance from the Black Canyon: 85 miles/1.5-2 hours
- Where to stay: Saddlehorn Campground, Balanced Rock Inn, Hotel Maverick
- How long to stay: 1 day
Moab
When you finally make it to Moab, spend some time in town gearing up (and filling up water) at Gearheads and enjoying a pint at Moab Brewery.
Then check out some of the best hikes in Moab, including the Corona Arch hike and the rim trails at Dead Horse Point State Park. You can also do some Moab jeep tours or some Moab rafting tours too.
- Distance from Colorado National Monument: 115 miles/2 hours
- Where to stay: Dispersed Camping, BLM Camping in Moab, Under Canvas Moab
- How long to stay: 2-3 days
Arches National Park
After you’ve seen the town of Moab, spend a day or two exploring the best hikes in Arches National Park.
The Delicate Arch hike is by far the most famous, but don’t miss out on the more remote Tower Arch and the Fiery Furnace hike.
Please note that in 2024, between April 1st and October 31st, visitors planning to visit the park between 7:00 am to 4:00 pm will need a timed entry pass in addition to paying the daily admission fee.
For more info, check the park website here.
- Distance from Moab: 5 miles/10 min
- Where to stay: Devils Garden Campground, BLM Camping, Moab KOA
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
Canyonlands National Park
Finally, end your Denver to Moab road trip with a finale of the top hikes in Canyonlands National Park.
Check out the Grand View Point hike in the Island in the Sky District to get a panoramic overview of Canyonlands.
Hit up The Needles District for more challenging hikes including Chesler Park, and if you want to go 4×4 driving and backpacking, make your way to The Maze District.
If you’re into overlanding, definitely don’t miss the incredible adventure of driving the 100-mile loop of White Rim Road.
- Distance from Moab: 30 miles/45 min
- Where to stay: Island in the Sky Campground, The Needles Campground, Backcountry Camping
- How long to stay: 1-2 days
One Week Itinerary Denver to Moab
Here’s how to make the most of your journey from Denver to Moab if you just have one week.
Denver Day 1
Explore the RiNo area of downtown Denver and hit up a local brewery, then head up north toward Rocky Mountain National Park and spend the night at A-Lodge in Lyons.
Rocky Mountain National Park Day 2
Take a quick hike to Emerald Lake, then enjoy a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road before spending the night in Grand Lake.
Glenwood Springs Day 3
Then head to Glenwood Springs, and take a dip at Iron Mountain Hot Springs before heading to Aspen to spend the night.
Aspen/Maroon Bells Day 4
Hike the Maroon Bells Scenic Trail in the morning, then make the 4-hour drive all the way to Moab. Enjoy dinner and a beer at Moab Brewery then BLM camp for the night.
Local Tip: You’ll need to reserve your parking spot or bus seat well in advance for this hike.
Canyonlands National Park Day 5
Head into Canyonlands National Park and spend one day exploring The Needles and one hiking around Island in the Sky. Camp in the park and get up to see Mesa Arch at sunrise.
Local Tip: If you’re short on time, be sure to check out Dead Horse Point State Park for sunset – otherwise, swing in on your way back to Denver.
Arches National Park Day 6
Spend one day in Arches by hiking to Delicate Arch and then driving through the park to check out more of the spectacular rock formations.
Back to Denver Day 7
You’ve got the option of waking up early and making a quick stop at Dead Horse Point State Park before returning to Denver.
What is the Best Time of Year to Road Trip from Denver to Moab?
Moab is the desert and gets quite hot, so avoid the scorching temps by taking your Denver to Moab trip in the spring or fall.
Moab in winter is also a good time if you’re into stopping at ski resorts along the way, though winter storms can wreak havoc on the drive, especially in the mountains. However, you will see just a tiny fraction of the crowds in Moab.
And if you’re not into skiing but hate crowds then try to visit Moab in November for the ultimate trip.
Is the Drive from Denver to Moab Scenic?
Absolutely! On the way to Moab from Denver, you’ll head over mountain passes and through vast stretches of desert.
Watching the landscape change as you approach the Colorado/Utah border is an amazing experience.
What is There to See Between Denver and Moab?
The landscape from Moab, UT to Denver, CO is full of things to see. From the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Aspen and Vail to the sandstone of the Colorado National Monument to the cavernous Canyonlands, you will definitely want your camera on the Denver to Moab drive.
Is Moab Worth the Trip?
Absolutely! Moab is a fun little desert town with easy access to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. What’s not to love?
Along with your outdoor adventures, make sure to stop at Moab Brewery for a beer and Love Muffin cafe for a tasty breakfast.
How Many Days Do You Need in Moab?
A long weekend (around 3 days) would be an ideal amount of time to explore the things to do in Moab.
From exploring downtown Moab (be sure to go to Gearheads Outdoor Store) to hiking in Arches and Canyonlands and mountain biking or climbing nearby, you will find plenty to fill 3 days – and might even want to extend your trip!
How Far Apart are Moab and Zion?
Moab is on the east side of Utah, while Zion is on the west side of the state, so they are not particularly close. The distance between Moab and Zion is about 315 miles, and it’s approximately a 5-hour drive to get from Moab to Zion.
What to Pack for a Road Trip from Denver to Moab
When you’re on a Denver to Moab road trip you’ll be passing through sky-high mountains, sweltering canyons, and everything in between. Be prepared with this comprehensive packing list.
- National Parks Pass. If you’re spending multiple days in the national parks, this will be a worthwhile purchase!
- Wind/rain layer
- Fleece layer
- Non-cotton shorts and pants
- Sturdy footwear
- Sandals for post-hike chilling
- Non-cotton t-shirts (I don’t recommend tank tops because the sun is super brutal).
- Sun shirt (recommended for both the mountain and desert sun)
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- A suitable hiking bag (I love the REI Flash 22)
- Snacks
- Water – for the desert plan on using 1 gal per day per person in the summer, a little bit less in the winter. Many places don’t have drinking water, so bringing your own and refilling your water bottle or bladder as you go is better
- Beanie (even in the warmer months, the desert can get cold!)
- Puffy layer
- Warm socks (especially if you’re camping)
- Tweezers and a first aid kit
- Download offline maps with Google (many of these places don’t have service)
- Camera gear, tripod, and lenses (optional). I shoot the desert with a wide angle quite often!
- Outfits for exploring town or down days (optional)
- A headbuff
- Lotion, salene spray, and eye drops (helpful for the dry desert air and dust)
Tips for a Road Trip from Denver to Moab
Looking for expert, local tips for your Denver to Moab road trip? I’ve got you covered.
- Plan ahead. Moab, and the Rockies can get CROWDED. Be sure to plan well ahead of your trip. A lot of stops along this road trip require advanced reservations. In order to make the most of your trip, book your permits early.
- Wake up before the sun. Some of the best activities on this itinerary demand an early start if you want to beat the crowds. Plus, I’ve never seen a sunrise in nature I didn’t enjoy. Arches National Park will close to visitors if it’s too crowded, so starting before or at sunrise means you’ll beat the crowds and not have to worry about the gates closing until people leave.
- Drink plenty of water. The desert and mountains are dry places. Be sure to drink lots of water and bring extras along!
- Leave Fido at home. Most of this itinerary isn’t that dog-friendly. National parks in general aren’t too keen on 4-legged friends. Not to mention, leaving them in the car is dangerous in the heat. So if you plan on stopping at most of these parks, you’ll want to leave your dog at home.
- Acclimatize safely. The thin air of the Rockies will leave you breathless while the dry air of the desert will leave you scorched. If you’re new to the area, take a day to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Plan easier hikes for your first day at altitude. And for the desert, travel when the weather is cooler.
Local Tip: Temperatures can feel 10 to 20 degrees hotter in the desert if the sun is shining. That’s because the rocks and ground absorb the heat. Don’t be unprepared! Pack salty snacks and plenty of water.
Additional Local Colorado & Utah Travel Resources
Looking to explore Colorado and Utah like a local? I’ve got you covered with these awesome resources:
