From a happening mountain city to the windswept majesty of sandstone monuments, this Denver to Moab road trip will take you on a journey from one breathtaking scene to another.
The interstate highway between eastern Colorado, and southern Utah is filled with amazing vistas and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. On this Denver to Moab road trip we’ve laid out a journey for you to discover all that’s waiting to be experienced, from hip resort towns to alpine gardens, and, of course, more photo opportunities along the way than you can imagine! While it may seem like a short journey, this road trip is guaranteed to offer memories to last a lifetime.
Stops
1. Denver, Colorado
2. Breckenridge, Colorado
3. Vail, Colorado
4. Glenwood Springs, Colorado
5. Palisade, Colorado
6. Moab, Utah
Info at a glance
- 2 Days
- Type of route: Nature
- 6 stops along the route
- Distance: 377 miles of driving
Highlights
- Shop, dine and take in the culture in Downtown Denver
- Take a selfie with the mysterious Breckenridge Troll.
- Explore the highest botanical gardens in the United States.
- Relax in the world’s largest natural hot springs pool.
- Marvel at the 600-ton Balancing Rock formation.
Getting to the start
Your road trip begins in Denver, Colorado. If you’re coming from out of town, it’s easy to fly into Denver International Airport and collect a rental car. With SIXT, it is easy to rent an SUV meant for your comfort. If you’re driving into town, Denver is easily reached by taking I-70 from the east or by taking I-25 from the north or south. Amtrak also provides railway service to Denver from throughout the country.
When to Visit
Taking a road trip from Denver to Moab is a great idea year-round. If you want to experience amazing skiing, we recommend packing your gear for the wintertime. For excellent hiking and other outdoor activities, the summertime is best. Just remember to pack your hiking boots and some sunscreen, as well as layers any time of year. And don’t forget to bring your camera for the incredible photos you’ll be taking along the way. To make your trip memorable, opt for exotic cars with SIXT exotic rental car.
Driving tips
In Colorado, the speed limit on the interstate is 65 miles per hour, although the limit is only 55 mph on other highways. Once in Utah, the interstate speed limit increases to 80 mph. There are no toll roads in either state, so you won’t need to worry about that while driving. Your route includes mountain roads, so it’s important to remain alert while traveling. There are no special driving laws to be aware of on this trip, so buckle up, sit back and enjoy the journey.
What to know about the route
Your exciting road trip from Denver to Moab will begin in the Mile High City itself where you can explore historic and artsy neighborhoods while taking in all the shopping and dining opportunities this vibrant city has to offer. From there, you’ll head west on I-70 for the 354-mile journey to Moab, Utah. Along the way you can enjoy exciting side trips to places like Rocky Mountain National Park. Or take the direct route and stop in the quintessential mountain town of Vail or at one of the many wineries near Palisade. Your journey will be comfortable with a sturdy 4-wheel drive SUV for the mountain roads. From hot springs to mountain gondola rides, your odyssey will be a destination all on its own before finally arriving in Moab, Utah. To enjoy your trip with your dream car for a long time, check out weekly rental cars from SIXT.
Denver, Colorado
Denver is the capital of Colorado and is well-known for its high elevation, thus the nickname “Mile-High City.” Here you can enjoy an array of outdoor activities, live events, and a downtown scene flowing with craft beer and local cuisine. Whatever the season, Denver has something for everyone and makes the perfect starting point for your road trip.
Points of interest
Denver’s downtown is a hive of activity, from the famous 16th Street Mall to the River North Art District. If you’re coming in on Amtrak, you’ll certainly appreciate the historic Union Station, and of course, everyone will want to take a free tour of the State Capitol Building before leaving town.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Not only a launching point, Denver is also a foodie’s paradise! Local favorites include Bob’s Atomic Burger and The Matador, known for the city’s famous “Den-Mex” style of cooking. Craft beer flows freely at the Great Divide Brewing Co., and if you’re staying the night, why not book a room at the classic Crawford Hotel or the historic Hotel Teatro?
Sixt Insider Tip
Discover Denver’s amazing history by taking a self-guided tour of the Molly Brown House Museum (home to the “unsinkable” Titanic survivor) or perhaps explore Denver’s place in Wild West history by touring the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave on Lookout Mountain. In Denver, the past is as exciting as the present.
From Denver to Breckenridge (80 miles)
From Denver you will head west on I-70 to the city of Breckenridge. Along the way you can pull over and explore the historic ghost town of Silver Plume or perhaps stop in Idaho Springs for a quick Colorado-style pizza at Beau Jo’s before continuing on to your next stop on your alpine road trip.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is the quintessential mountain town situated high among the Rocky Mountains. This city draws visitors year-round for its incredible skiing and world-class hiking trails. You’ll definitely want to explore the historic Main Street. For thrilling mountain views, don’t forget to take a ride on the free BreckConnect Gondola up to the Peak 8 Base Area.
Points of interest
Along with being home to one of the country’s most popular ski resorts, Breckenridge also offers other exciting points of interest, like walking trails to Hoosier Pass and the Continental Divide, or the Barney Ford Victorian House. Kids will love exploring the Mountain Top Children’s Museum, while the O2 Lounge is popular among visitors adjusting to the local altitude.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Breckenridge’s Main Street is the heart of this former mining town and features an array of dining spots worth visiting, such as Aurum Food and Wine and the Cabin Coffee Company.
Sixt Insider Tip
No visit to Breckenridge would be complete without taking the short footpath from Main Street into the woods to find the massive wooden troll carving known locally as Isak Heartstone. This sculpture is made from recycled materials and serves as the perfect spot for a woodland selfie.
From Breckenridge to Vail (36 miles)
The journey from Breckenridge to Vail is a short drive. Along the way you will catch views of the Dillon Reservoir, the historic town of Frisco and the majestic Copper Mountain. You’ll be traveling along I-70 the entire way, so traffic should flow smoothly.
Vail, Colorado
Another world-famous skiing town located along your road trip to Moab, this town offers outstanding winter fun in addition to great summertime experiences, like the many shopping opportunities to be found in the charming Vail Village. Need a thrill? Then why not visit Vail’s ski resort and take a ride down the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster?
Points of interest
Another world-famous skiing town located along your road trip to Moab, this town offers outstanding winter fun in addition to great summertime experiences, like the many shopping opportunities to be found in the charming Vail Village. Need a thrill? Then why not visit Vail’s ski resort and take a ride down the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster?
Where to eat, drink and sleep
No one should ever leave Vail hungry, not when there are so many places to eat and enjoy a drink with friends. Why not check out the Slope Room for a taste of local Rocky Mountain meats, or perhaps the Root and Flowers for a draft beer or local wine?
Sixt Insider Tip
Be sure to visit the lovely Betty Ford Alpine Gardens while you’re in town. This beautiful botanical park is a must-see in Vail and carries the distinction of being the highest-altitude public garden location in the world.
From Vail to Glenwood Springs (60 miles)
Continuing west along I-70 from Vail to Glenwood Springs, you will pass views of Mount Powell and Wilmore Lake as you approach the White River National Forest. Plenty of scenic overviews and mountain vistas await as you sail along to your next stop on this amazing road trip.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Glenwood Springs is a smaller town located at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers. This charming mountain village is home to Colorado Mountain College in addition to many outdoor attractions, such as the mighty Storm King Mountain, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, and the White River National Forest.
Points of interest
In Glenwood Springs, every road tripper will want to visit the Frontier Museum and enjoy some outdoor fun at the Glenwood Springs Zipline, or perhaps kayak at the Glenwood Springs Hatchery. History buffs will surely want to visit the grave of Doc Holiday (of Wild West fame), and no visit would be complete without stopping by the famous Hanging Lake.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
The Glenwood Canyon Brewpub is an excellent place to satisfy your alpine hunger while also enjoying a local Rockies brew. Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? Then you’ll surely want to take in a show at the historic Glenwood Vaudeville Revue. If you’re staying the night, the Viceroy Snowmass is a luxurious hotel with unbeatable views.
Sixt Insider Tip
The Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is a spectacular lodge located very near to the city center, which boasts the world’s largest natural hot springs pool. This attraction defines rest and relaxation high in the Rockies and is not to be missed on your alpine road trip.
From Glenwood Springs to Palisade (75 miles)
As you continue on your journey west to Moab, you will pass by the famous twin mountain peaks known as the Maroon Bells. As you pass the Bells, there will be several hiking opportunities to stop and explore, such as paths around Moon Lake and Crater Lake.
Palisade, Colorado
Colorado’s wine country can be explored in the region east of Grand Junction and all around the city of Palisade where visitors can find more than 25 wineries in operation. Many offer tours and tastings with advance reservations.
Points of interest
Some of the most popular wineries in and around Palisade include the Book Cliff Vineyards and the Carlson Vineyards Winery. These and other vineyards in the area offer wine tastings, special events and tours of some of the most beautiful landscapes in western Colorado’s high desert.
Sixt Insider Tip
Visitors to the area around Palisade can enjoy more than just a glass of local wine. Some wineries, such as Varaison, offer event venues for everything from graduation parties to wedding receptions. The gorgeous Grand Mesa provides the perfect backdrop at these locations.
From Palisade to Moab (133 miles)
Continuing on the final leg of your road trip into Utah, you’ll pass by the Colorado National Monument with more than 20,000 acres of canyons and stone monoliths. Here you can stop and marvel at the breathtaking vistas from Grand View or perhaps take a selfie with Balance Rock, a 600-ton boulder perched atop a natural stone formation.
Moab, Utah
Moab is a smaller town with a big reputation for attracting nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Moab is best known for its proximity to two of America’s most famous national parks: Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. While this may be the conclusion of your road trip, it’s only the beginning of your adventure.
Points of interest
Visitors to Moab are drawn to the Dead Horse Point State Park, a camper’s dream of star-filled night skies and high desert woodlands. The Slickrock Bike Trail is legendary among adventure bikers, and the Moab Museum is great for those seeking calmer activities in town. Families will enjoy a day in the Rotary Park or the Adventure Park. And don’t forget to visit the Copper Ridge Dinosaur Trackways.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
The Desert Bistro is a favorite local restaurant featuring a diverse menu of food and drink options. Staying the night? Then the Moab Springs Ranch is sure to have the perfect room.
Sixt Insider Tip
The arches and landscapes around Moab are simply indescribable—you have to see them for yourself. Whether you choose to marvel at the Double O Arch, or perhaps catch the sunset through the Delicate Arch, after you visit Moab, these and other sights will never leave your heart.
