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MOAB, UTAH

Scenic Drives in Moab, Utah


Explore Moab’s Most Scenic Drives

Not every adventure in Moab requires hiking boots or handlebars. Some of the most unforgettable moments here happen behind the wheel—windows down, red cliffs rising around you, and the Colorado River gleaming in the sun. Whether you’re looking to fill a rest day between adventures or simply want to soak in the Southwest’s beauty at your own pace, these scenic drives reveal the heart of canyon country one curve at a time.

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Sheer cliffs of Wall Street with Potash Road winding below.

Potash Road: Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway 279

Wind along the Colorado River beneath thousand-foot sandstone cliffs on this easy drive just minutes from downtown Moab. Ancient petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and sheer canyon walls make it one of the most scenic short routes in the Southwest. About 34 miles round-trip — allow 1½ to 2 hours with stops.

Scenic Byway 128 winding along the river with massive sandstone cliffs.

River Road: Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway 128

This iconic stretch, known locally as River Road, follows the Colorado River through towering red-rock walls and the spires of Castle Valley. Every bend reveals new colors and reflections dancing on the water. About 44 miles each way — allow 2 to 3 hours for the round-trip with photo stops.

Aerial image of Kane Creek Road and the Colorado River winding through deep cliffs.

Kane Creek Road Moab

Follow the river through narrow canyons on this local-favorite route that quickly trades pavement for well-graded dirt. Towering cliffs, hidden arches, and quiet pull-offs make it perfect for a relaxed afternoon escape close to town. Roughly 42 miles round-trip — plan 2 to 3 hours with time for photos or a picnic.

View of a lake in the La Sal Mountains as seen a short distance from the La Sal Loop Road.

La Sal Mountain Loop Road Scenic Drive

Rise from desert heat to alpine cool on this winding mountain loop that overlooks Arches, Canyonlands, and miles of open red-rock country. The changing light and elevation make it a favorite for photographers and anyone chasing variety in a single drive. Approximately 60 miles — set aside 3 to 4 hours to complete the loop with viewpoints or a picnic in the La Sal Mountains.

Dead Horse Point State Park overlook with the Colorado River and dramatic canyons in the distance.

Dead Horse Point Scenic Drive: Scenic Byway U-313

A short, paved road leads to one of the most breathtaking overlooks in Utah. At Dead Horse Point State Park, the view drops 2,000 feet to the Colorado River, revealing layers of canyons glowing in desert light. 20 miles round-trip — allow 1 hour plus time to explore the overlooks.

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Best Scenic Drives in National Parks

North Window Arch in Arches National Park looking through at Turret Arch.

Arches Scenic Drive

Discover the world's largest collection of natural arches and towering fins along this paved 19-mile route through Arches National Park. Balanced Rock, The Windows, and Delicate Arch viewpoints highlight a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. 38 miles round-trip — allow 2 to 3 hours with short walks and photo stops.

Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park with the rising sun shining through the opening.

Canyonlands Scenic Drive

High above the desert floor, the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands offers rim-top views that stretch for more than a hundred miles. Pullouts reveal sweeping vistas of the Colorado and Green Rivers winding through labyrinth canyons. 34 miles round-trip — plan 2 hours with stops at major overlooks.

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Beyond the Paved Road: Moab Up Close

Yellow Jeep drives down a dirt road in a desert landscape with red rock formations and blue sky.

Moab Jeep Trails

Create your own adventure behind the wheel of a 4-door Jeep Rubicon Full Day Adventure Rental — the ultimate way to explore Moab’s backcountry. Venture beyond the main roads to reach arches, overlooks, and hidden trails few travelers ever find. Daily rentals available year-round with GPS maps, route suggestions, and insider tips included.

Red Hummer off-roading in a desert landscape with snowy mountains in the background.

Off-Road Hummer Tours

Let expert guides take the wheel for a thrilling ride over Moab’s world-famous slickrock. Our custom Hummers climb and descend impossible terrain, revealing jaw-dropping views along the way. It’s the perfect mix of excitement and comfort — an unforgettable way to see Moab’s red rock country.

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Most Popular Scenic Drive Tours

See Moab’s red rock wonderland from the best seat in the house — your tour vehicle. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll uncover hidden arches, fascinating geology, and stories that bring this landscape to life. From thrilling off-road climbs to golden-hour views in Arches National Park, these guided tours turn an ordinary drive into an unforgettable experience. Sit back, relax, and let our local experts show you the very best of Moab’s scenic beauty.

A man and a woman are standing on top of a rock next to a jeep.

Moab’s wildest sunset: Steep climbs, unreal views, and golden-hour thrills on our most popular off-road adventure at the perfect time of day.

  • Duration: ~3 hours
  • Departures: Evening
  • Season: Feb – Nov
Red rock arch with two people silhouetted in the opening; sunset colors.

Witness Arches at its most magical: Golden hour light, fewer crowds, and fascinating stories shared by guides who bring the landscape to life.

  • Duration: ~4 hrs
  • Departures: Evening
  • Season: Year Round
Two figures stand under a large rock arch, sunburst in background, blue sky.

VIP access to Arches National Park: Expert guides, iconic sights, & mantle-worthy family photos without the hassle of parking or missing key sights.

  • Duration: ~4 hrs
  • Departures: Morning
  • Season: Year Round
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