Epic Salt Lake City to Arches National Park Road Trip to Take in 2025

Looking for how to get from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park?

From fascinating natural attractions to prehistoric sites and interesting museums, there is a lot to see and do on a Salt Lake City to Arches National Park road trip.

You’ll have beautiful canyon views as you pass through national forests and over scenic mountains on Route 6. Elsewhere, the drive cruises through flat desert terrain, with fascinating rock formations interrupting the horizon. 

The SLC to Arches drive is perhaps most famous for its prehistoric history; you’ll follow in dinosaurs’ footsteps and spot their ancient footprints and fossils along the way.

You’ll also get a glimpse into Native American history. Don’t miss the intriguing canyon artwork carved and painted onto canyon walls thousands of years ago. 

Finally, the scenery at Canyonlands and Arches national parks is simply out of this world, making this drive well worth the trip.

The Best Routes From Salt Lake City To Arches National Park

Route Option 1:

Route option 1 is the best way to drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park. It’s the fastest route but hits all the fantastic stops below. 

• First, drive South from Salt Lake City towards Provo before getting on route US-6 E.
• From US-6, merge onto l-70/US-6 E after 128 miles. After exiting 182 towards Moab, merge back onto US-191 S.
• Finally, you’ll take a left onto Arches Entrance Road before arriving at your destination.

If you’re wondering how far is Arches from Salt Lake City, this route is 230 miles and takes just under four hours. But remember that there is a lot to see on the way, so be sure to add extra time to make the most of this fascinating region. 

Route Option 2: 

Alternatively, this alternative route is less direct:

• Drive South towards Provo.
• From Provo, take 89 until you hit I-70.
• Then, head East on I-70 until 191. 
• Go South on 191 until arriving at Arches National Park on your left.

What To Expect Driving From Salt Lake City To Arches National Park

Route Option 1: 

It’s super common to fly into Salt Lake City when visiting Arches NP as it’s one of the closest airports to Arches. If you choose route option one, there are two scenic byways that you’ll take during your journey.  

First is the Energy Loop: Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byway.

This scenic drive crosses the Wasatch Plateau, with panoramic views over Mount Nebo and the San Rafael Swell. You’ll discover some of Utah’s lesser-known beauty alongside an active dinosaur quarry and Utah’s Castle Country. 

Secondly, the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway National Scenic Byway is, as the name suggests, one of the world’s best drives if you’re interested in dinosaurs.

The complete 500-mile loop detour passes many paleontology sites with a vast fossil record of dinosaur species. You’ll also discover the world’s most extensive collection of dinosaur skeletons at Dinosaur Diamond House.

The Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway also passes outstanding Utah red rock scenery, the Green and Colorado rivers, and soars 13,000 feet high over the La Sal Mountains. 

If you don’t want to make any detours, you’ll still pass many of their most famous attractions on the direct route from Arches to Salt Lake City.

Route Option 2: 

Choosing route two will take you through Fremont Indian State Park and Museum, built to preserve the archeological discoveries and rock art of the Fremont Native Americans who once inhabited the area. 

The views are exceptional at Fishlake National Forest, abundant with alpine mountain scenery and endless wildlife. Off I-70, you can also see the unique San Rafael Swell Area.

Spend the night in Spring City, a small town best known for its National Historic District, where visitors can find some of the best-preserved pioneer architecture. Alternatively, stay in Manti, which is the region’s main hub. 

Salt Lake City To Arches National Park Best Stops On Route 1:

Since most of us taking a road trip from Salt Lake City to Arches will take Route 1, we’ve outlined all the best stops to see along the way.

Every stop is listed in order of where you’ll see them between SLC and Arches, so you can easily add them to your route!

1. Salt Lake City Tabernacle

Completed in 1867, the famous Salt Lake Tabernacle was constructed for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to gather and hold events.

Aside from its grand exterior, visitors can also watch a live performance from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. They have rehearsals every Thursday evening, free for the public to visit, alongside other weekly events.

You can also watch one of their daily organ recitals, which have been a tradition for over a century! The stunning pipe organ is one of the largest in the world. Initially constructed in the 1860s and renovated in the 1980s, the imposing organ contains 11623 pipes and is a spectacle in itself.

2. Temple Square

Aside from the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, spend some time exploring the greater Temple Square area. The Salt Lake Temple was the city’s original center, constructed by early church pioneers, but today the entire complex stretches 35 acres.

Visitors can explore at their own pace or via one of the free tours led by LDS missionaries, available for those wanting to learn more about Salt Lake City’s Mormon heritage.

Other attractions in the complex include the Discovery Center, which has interactive displays designed to help us step into the shoes of our ancestors. You could also visit the Museum of Church History and Art, alongside the square gardens and other historic residences.

3. Natural History Museum Of Utah

Utah is home to some fascinating scientific discoveries. The National History Museum of Utah endeavors to display the state’s amazing ancient landscapes and the fascinating life forms that have lived within this unique environment. 

From the Past Worlds exhibition – where you can be a paleontologist for the day – to the Life exhibit displaying Utah’s biological diversity, there is much to learn from the fun and interactive displays. 

Adults can enjoy fantastic views of the Salt Lake Valley from the observatory deck, whereas younger children will love ‘Our Backyard,’ a hands-on environment encouraging curiosity in our smallest scientists.

4. Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

From walking through a 40-foot tunnel with sharks and turtles swimming overhead to experiencing the stingray touch pool, Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is the perfect introduction to our underwater world.

More than 4,000 animals make their home here, including a wide variety of fish and reptiles, plus the aquarium’s beloved penguins, otters, and sloths.

The Aquarium Educators run regular free presentations and animal meet-and-greets to give visitors a well-rounded view of the unique animals that inhabit the aquarium and beyond. 

5. Thanksgiving Point

Just 20 minutes South of Salt Lake City, you’ll find the impressive Thanksgiving Point, a non-profit organization designed to promote the enjoyment of nature. The complex is a local staple and a haven for families seeking fun entertainment. 

Begin your visit with the Museum of Natural Curiosity, home to 400 nature-themed and interactive displays. Next, the Museum of Ancient Life includes a gigantic dinosaur museum with 60 complete dinosaur skeletons.

The 55-acre location also contains a series of themed gardens, a popular Butterfly Biosphere, and an educational farm experience with real animals.

6. Provo

Where you’re feeling cultural or outdoorsy, there is plenty to do in Provo to make it a worthwhile stop on your SLC to Arches drive.

Stretch your legs and stroll around Evermore Park and its Gothic gardens, try some local goods at the Provo Farmers Market, or go all out and take on the 15-mile hike up Mount Timpanogas. 

Alternatively, experience 1850’s life at the Provo Pioneer Village or visit the BYU Museum of Paleontology, a functional research space for paleontology professionals. Six prehistoric species have been named by their scientists!

7. Bridal Veil Falls

We think the stunning Bridal Veil Falls is worth the short detour. Once you arrive, it’s a 1.4-mile return trail to see the picturesque waterfall tumbling down Provo Canyon. 

There is also a nearby pond where you can have a refreshing swim after the walk.

The 607-foot waterfall is considered an easy route, but be careful during the Fall and Winter seasons, when rocks become slippery and dangerous avalanches occasionally occur. Check the forecasts in advance and adhere to local recommendations to ensure a safe trip. 

8. Springville Museum Of Art

With over 15 exhibits, the Springville Museum of Art displays almost 3,000 works, 2,000 of which are by Utah artists. 

Dating back to 1903, the founders’ original mission was to display local art and encourage others to enjoy arts or even inspire aspiring artists. The museum remains involved with the broader community and has even displayed artwork from local high school children, allowing them to share space with some of the state’s greatest artists.

The beautiful museum also holds various events throughout the year, including dances, community parties, and art events. 

9. Energy Loop: Huntington & Eccles Canyon National Scenic Byway 

The 83-mile Energy Loop winds through stunning natural landscapes and rises 10,000 feet above sea level in the Wasatch Mountains. You’ll have fantastic views of the Sanpete Valley from here.

Undoubtedly a highlight of any SLC to Arches drive, the scenic byway passes historic mining towns and working coal mines. Nature lovers will enjoy the high-elevation lakes, rock climbing in Joes Valley, and beautiful trails through the Manti-La Sal National Forest – the perfect spot for a picnic. 

If you don’t fancy a detour to make the whole loop, a section of the byway is already on your route to Arches National Park. So regardless, you’ll get to see some of the drive’s best views and attractions, including the fascinating Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry. 

10. Prehistoric Museum, Utah State University Eastern

The items on display at the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum were discovered just moments from its location, providing visitors with a rich understanding of Utah’s unique geological heritage.

Aside from their hall of dinosaurs, you’ll also see archeological discoveries dating back to the ice ages, including Utah Rock Art, an ancient cliff dwellings exhibit, and even a 10,500-year-old mammal. 

The staff here are deeply passionate about making these fascinating discoveries accessible and compelling to children and adults alike. 

11. Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry

If you’re not convinced that the SLC to Arches National Park drive is the world’s best route for dinosaur lovers, then you’re about to be convinced!

Over 12,000 dinosaur bones have been excavated at Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry. In fact, the quarry possesses the densest concentration of Jurassic dinosaur bones ever found!

This exciting destination poses as many dinosaur mysteries as it does discoveries. It is the perfect spot for curious visitors to learn how scientists work to uncover our questions about the past.

The quarry is open to visitors from April to October, and it’s assuredly a must-see spot to add to your Moab Salt Lake City drive itinerary. 

12. Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway

This ultimate dinosaur drive is a 512-mile loop that transports visitors back in time through prehistoric Utah and Colorado.

The byway passes through the Uinta Mountains and Ashley National Forest (a great spot for outdoorsy getaways) and is notably where you’ll find Utah’s best paleontological attractions.

If you’re short on time, there’s no need for a detour. Many of the highway’s iconic attractions are already directly on the way to Arches, such as the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry and Prehistoric Museum. 

Further afield, other popular dinosaur spots include the Copper Ridge Dinosaur trackways, the Dinosaur Tracks trail, and the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail, where you can spot ancient dinosaur tracks in the red rock alongside fossils. 

13. Black Dragon Canyon View Point

The Black Dragon Canyon is best known for primitive rock art, once incorrectly suspected to depict a dragon or dinosaur – hence its unique name!

The main pictographs and petroglyphs are easily accessible after an easy 3.5-mile return hike, which you can view from the mouth of the canyon.

However, the site has several hundred feet of rock art scattered throughout the canyon walls for those who prefer a longer hike. 

14. Crystal Geyser

One of only six cold-water geysers worldwide, this unique attraction is driven by carbon dioxide (rather than geothermal activity, as with hot-water geysers).

Intriguingly, Crystal Geyser was accidentally man-made! When drilling for oil in 1936, they found no oil but hit a pocket of carbon dioxide. Oops!

Due to the large quantities of carbon dioxide and other subsurface gases, there was enough pressure to cause underground water to erupt up to a height of 40 meters. 

The height and timing of eruption vary hugely, so visitors are not guaranteed to see the geyser. Fortunately, the area itself is beautiful.

The eruptions have also brought up the mineral Travertine from underground, which has coated the surrounding area in beautiful red and orange hues.

15. San Rafael Swell

This incredibly unique geologic attraction is well worth the 40-minute detour from Green River.

The San Rafael Swell Recreation Area was formed through centuries of water, wind, and geologic disturbance. Over time, the multicolored rock was eroded into striking formations, including towering pinnacles and epic canyons. 

The 21,700-acre park is a popular spot for outdoor adventure, with hiking, biking, horse-riding, rafting, and canyoneering all a great way to get closer to epic features such as Goblin Valley, San Rafael Reef, and ‘The Wedge’.

To view the Swell itself, head to Cedar Mountain Day Use Overlook. This picnic area sits at 7,600 feet above sea level and thus provides fantastic views over San Rafael Swell and the mountains beyond. 

16. Sego Canyon Rock Art

The Sego Canyon Rock Art was created by Indigenous peoples, who once painted and carved images onto the canyon walls.

Walking along the canyon walls is a haunting experience, akin to watching centuries of history pass before your eyes. Five different Native American families created the paintings from 6,000-2,000 BC onwards, and contextual clues show us they continued for another 8,000 years. 

You’ll find some of Utah’s best rock art here, with images of animals, geometric designs, and even life-size human figures miraculously preserved. 

During your visit, don’t miss the Sego ghost town – a small settlement abandoned almost a century ago.  

17. Canyonlands National Park

The mighty Colorado and Green Rivers once carved through Utah’s colorful landscape to give us Canyonlands, a National Park home to vast canyons and magnificent rock formations.

Spanning 340,000 acres, the area is famous for rugged rock sculptures and endless desert scenery. Visitors explore the remote trails via hikes, bike trails, and 4-wheel drives,

The most accessible district of Canyons National Park is ‘Islands in the Sky’ followed by ‘The Needles,’ where you can enjoy panoramic views from a scenic drive or hike.

Canyonlands and Arches are very close to each other, which is great because you can find one awesome place to stay in Moab while you visit both.

18. Arches National Park

Finally, you’ve reached your destination and made it to the fantastic Arches National Park!

With 2,000 natural stone arches in various vibrant colors scattered across the site, your journey has just begun. You’ll also spot pinnacles and precariously balanced rocks jutting from the desert terrain on most of the hikes in Arches. 

Visiting Arches National Park is a great idea all year long, but one of the best times to visit Arches is when you can catch a magnificent sunrise over Delicate Arch which is the best in the summer months.

Explore the majestic rock formations by bike, canyoneering, hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing. From visiting Delicate, Landscape, and Double Arch to watching a glorious Arches National Park sunset, you’ll find endless ways to spend your days here. 

Salt Lake City To Moab

If you’re visiting Arches National Park, the chances are that you’ll be staying in Moab. Conveniently located next to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab is the perfect jumping-off point to explore the area. 

The scenic city is known for its local hospitality, diverse cuisine, and Southwestern charm, so you’ll feel right at home before heading out and exploring the rugged red rock terrain beyond. 

From here you can also go on and explore some other great Southwest road trip routes.

Where To Stay In Moab

✅ Recommended Luxury Accommodation: The Hoodoo Moab

One of Moab’s most beautiful luxury resorts is just 2 miles from Arches National Park! The Hoodoo Moab has everything you need to unwind, from a scenic pool and hot tubs to a fitness center and outdoor fireplaces.

They also have free parking, including space for large vehicles – making it the perfect spot to rejuvenate after a road trip. 

✅ Check Prices & Make Your Reservation at Hoodoo Moab

✅ Recommended Unique Accommodation: Under Canvas Moab

If you want to wake up to spectacular views over Arches National Park, you can’t get better than Under Canvas Moab. Their luxury tents have all the comforts of a hotel, including private en suite bathrooms with a private patio and spa products. 

There is also a picnic area with firepits, a BBQ area, free parking, and bicycles available to explore the 40-acre site and bike trails beyond. Food and coffee are also available onsite – don’t forget to ask about the s’mores kits!

✅ Browse All Moab Accommodation Here – Moab is popular, so book fast!

Salt Lake City To Arches National Park Tours

If you’re overwhelmed by which stops to pick on a drive from Salt Lake City to Moab or would simply rather relax and enjoy the scenery, why not consider a tour? 

We’ve found two top-rated tours which make a great alternative to a Salt Lake City to Moab road trip. Alongside planning all the best stops for your trip, they have fantastic local guides who can provide unique cultural and geological insights. 

✅ Recommended Tour: 2-Day Private Trip to Moab from Salt Lake City

Explore the best sites in Canyonlands and Arches with this 2-day trip from Salt Lake City.

Day one will take you to Canyonlands National Park, where you’ll see canyon overlooks, the 27-foot-long Mesa Arch, Corona Arch, and other iconic landmarks.

After a comfortable stay in a Moab hotel, the following day will take you to Arches National Park, where you’ll see the world-famous arches, the balancing rock, and scenic viewpoints.

✅ Check Prices & Book Your SLC to Moab Tour Here

✅ Recommended Tour: 8-Day Utah’s National Parks

This ultimate 8-day guided tour passes from Salt Lake City to Canyonlands National Park, Arches, Capital Reef, Zion, and Bryce Canyon. 

From hiking in five of the United States’ top protected wilderness areas to marvel at the geological phenomena and endless fantastic scenery, this outdoorsy trip is the best way to experience Utah’s most remarkable natural attractions.

The tour includes comfortable transportation, seven nights of hotel lodging, all breakfasts, six lunches, and two dinners.

✅ Check Prices & Book Your 8-Day National Park Tour Here

Salt Lake City To Arches National Park FAQ

Wrap-Up: Salt Lake City To Arches National Park

Driving from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park is a great way to experience some of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in Utah that many don’t get to experience.

From seeing amazing scenic views to dinosaur bones and petroglyphs, you are sure to enjoy this road trip and your time exploring the American Southwest!