The Grand Junction to Salt Lake City road trip is a breathtaking journey across two states and some of the most stunning landscapes in the western United States. Along this route, you’ll encounter majestic red rock formations, serene flat-top mountains, lush green valleys, and otherworldly salt flats—all in a single trip.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including:
- Top Attractions: From Colorado National Monument to the Bonneville Salt Flats, we highlight the must-see stops along the way.
- Where to Stay: Discover the best campgrounds and hotels for every budget.
- Dining Options: Learn where to grab a great meal, from small-town favorites to Salt Lake City gems.
- Pro Tips for the Drive: Make your journey smooth and stress-free with these expert suggestions.
With this guide, you’ll be ready to explore the 300 miles of adventure that await between Grand Junction and Salt Lake City!
Driving Route Overview
This scenic drive from Grand Junction to Salt Lake City covers approximately 300 miles and takes about 5 hours without stops. However, with so many incredible attractions along the way, you’ll want to plan for a full day or even a weekend to fully experience everything this route has to offer.
- Distance: 300 miles
- Driving Time: ~5 hours nonstop
- Suggested Time for the Trip: 2-3 days for sightseeing
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal, offering mild weather and stunning scenery.
What to Pack for the Trip
Essentials:
- Reusable water bottles
- Sunscreen and hats for desert areas
- Snacks and non-perishable food
Gear:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Emergency Items:
- First-aid kit
- Portable phone charger
- Maps or offline navigation apps
Top Attractions Along the Route
The Grand Junction to Salt Lake City road trip is packed with incredible stops that cater to every type of traveler. Here are the highlights:
| Stop | Why Visit | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado National Monument | Awe-inspiring red rock canyons, unique wildlife, and panoramic views. A photographer’s dream! | 1-2 hours |
| Grand Mesa | The world’s largest flat-top mountain, perfect for hiking, fishing, and enjoying tranquil lakes. | 2-3 hours |
| Dinosaur Journey Museum | Explore interactive exhibits and real dinosaur fossils in Fruita, Colorado. Fun for all ages. | 1-1.5 hours |
| Utah State Route 128 | Drive through the Colorado River’s stunning red rock canyon corridor. Ideal for photo ops! | 1-2 hours |
| Arches National Park | Iconic sandstone arches, scenic trails, and world-famous landmarks like Delicate Arch. | 4-6 hours |
| Canyonlands National Park | Dramatic canyons, breathtaking overlooks, and endless hiking trails. | 3-4 hours |
| Dead Horse Point State Park | A quieter alternative with jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River. | 1-2 hours |
| Goblin Valley State Park | Explore whimsical rock formations that look like goblins—great for families! | 1-2 hours |
| Capitol Reef National Park | A hidden gem with fruit orchards, dramatic cliffs, and scenic byways. | 2-3 hours |
| Bonneville Salt Flats | Walk across vast, otherworldly salt flats famous for their unique landscape and land-speed events. | 0.5-1 hour |
| Great Salt Lake | Wildlife spotting, hiking, and swimming at Antelope Island State Park. | 2-3 hours |
Why Go: Known as “the Grand Canyon of Colorado,” this monument features towering red rock formations, deep canyons, and panoramic views. Drive the Rim Rock Drive for breathtaking scenery, or hike the short Devils Kitchen Trail to get up close with unique rock formations.
Why Go: This tranquil escape is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. The lakes here are ideal for fishing or kayaking, while the lush trails offer opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and elk.
Why Go: A great stop for families, this museum in Fruita offers interactive exhibits and life-sized dinosaur replicas. Don’t miss the fossil lab, where you can see paleontologists at work!
Why Go: Often referred to as “the most scenic drive in Utah,” this route hugs the Colorado River and winds through towering canyon walls. Stop at Fisher Towers for a short hike and stunning views.
Why Go: One of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., Arches is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. The Delicate Arch Trail is a must for any hiker, offering views of the most photographed arch in the world.
Again, located near Moab, Canyonlands offers dramatic canyons carved by the Colorado River. The park is divided into four districts, and Island in the Sky and the Needles are popular areas to explore.
Next, this state park, near Canyonlands, provides panoramic views of the Colorado River and its canyons. The overlooks here are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Also, known for its otherworldly landscape of bizarre rock formations, Goblin Valley is a unique and fascinating place to explore. It’s particularly fun for kids who can let their imaginations run wild among the goblin-like figures.
So, as you continue west, visit Capitol Reef, a lesser-visited but equally impressive national park. The Waterpocket Fold and fruit orchards in Fruita are noteworthy attractions.
Along the route, you’ll have opportunities for scenic detours through national forests, such as Fishlake National Forest, where you can enjoy lush forests and mountain scenery.
Why Go: These vast white salt plains feel like stepping onto another planet. Bring a camera and take your time exploring the unique textures and endless horizon.
Finally, when you reach Salt Lake City, consider visiting the Great Salt Lake. Antelope Island State Park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and swimming.
Where to Stay Along the Route
We stayed one night at the Kampgrounds of America (KOA) in Salt Lake City. This campground was clean and quiet with a large amount of amenities available. They took precautions to COVID-19 safety regulations for residents.
We stayed in site #1108 which was a level pull-in site, full hook-up, near the playgrounds, hot tub/pool, Mexican restaurant, propane, dumpster and the exit. After taxes and the Value Kard Rewards Discount (10%), we paid $66/night. Checkout is at 12 noon, quiet hours are 10pm to 8am.
Dining Along the Way
- Hot Tomato Pizza (Fruita, Colorado): Known for its handcrafted pizzas and fresh salads.
- The Spoke on Center (Moab, Utah): Great for burgers and milkshakes after hiking.
- Red Iguana (Salt Lake City): Famous for authentic Mexican mole dishes.
Pro Tips for the Drive
- Start Early: Beat the crowds at popular parks like Arches.
- Fuel Up: Gas stations are sparse in remote areas, so fill up whenever you can.
- Bring Snacks: Some stretches of the route are isolated with few food options.
Conclusion
The Grand Junction to Salt Lake City road trip is an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural landmarks. With this guide, you’re set to explore the highlights, enjoy hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to hit the road? Share your favorite stops or tips in the comments below!
