Imagine cruising down a road that cuts through some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes. The stretch of highway in question spans approximately 232 miles, offering an adventure like no other. As you embark on this journey, you’ll be treated to dramatic red rock formations and geological wonders that make the trip a destination in itself.
For those who crave the open road and the thrill of the unknown, this route is a must-experience. With numerous pullouts and viewpoints, you can safely stop to take in the stunning scenery, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
The Ultimate Road Trip Adventure Through Utah
Utah’s Interstate 70 offers a unique road trip experience that combines stunning natural beauty with rich history. Unlike most interstate highways, I-70 was designed with sightseeing in mind, cutting through remote landscapes rather than connecting major population centers.
What Makes I-70 in Utah Special
The highway passes through the heart of the San Rafael Swell, a massive geological uplift that exposes millions of years of Earth’s history in its colorful rock layers. This unique feature, combined with the highway’s design, makes for an adventure like no other. You’ll be treated to views that are both breathtaking and Instagram-worthy.
Planning Your Journey: Best Times to Travel
To make the most of your drive, consider the time of year you plan to travel. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the attractions along the route. While summer brings longer daylight hours, it also means higher temperatures. The entire Utah section can be driven in about 3 hours without stops, but you’ll want to allow at least a full day to appreciate the numerous viewpoints and short hikes, giving you ample time to soak in the beauty.
Checking weather forecasts before your trip is essential for a safe and enjoyable adventure, as conditions can change rapidly in this desert environment. With a little planning, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable journey that can be enjoyed in just a few minutes of preparation.
San Rafael Swell: Utah’s Hidden Geological Wonder
Venture off I-70 and discover the San Rafael Swell, a landscape unlike anywhere else in the American West. This vast, 75-mile long geological feature is characterized by its tilted and eroded sedimentary rock layers, creating a surreal landscape that resembles Mars more than Earth.
Ghost Rock Viewpoint
One of the most accessible panoramic views of the Swell’s dramatic landscape can be found at Ghost Rock Viewpoint, located at mile marker 147. Here, interpretive signs explain the geology, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this natural wonder.
Black Dragon Canyon
For a glimpse into the area’s human history, visit Black Dragon Canyon, which houses remarkable ancient Native American pictographs. A short hike from the highway leads you to these fascinating artifacts, offering a unique cultural experience.
Hiking Opportunities in the Swell
The San Rafael Swell is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of the most popular slot canyon hikes, providing an exhilarating experience amidst the Swell’s breathtaking landscape.
Green River: A Welcome Oasis
After traversing the vast expanses of Utah’s landscape on I-70, you’ll find Green River to be a refreshing halt. This charming town is named after the Green River that flows through it, a significant waterway that was once a major route for early explorers and settlers.
Green River serves as the primary service stop along this stretch of highway, offering fuel, food, and accommodations. It’s a place where you can rest and rejuvenate before continuing your journey.
John Wesley Powell River History Museum
The John Wesley Powell River History Museum is a must-visit attraction in Green River. It commemorates the famous 1869 expedition led by John Wesley Powell, which first navigated the Green and Colorado Rivers. The museum features original boats and equipment used during the expedition, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Dining and Accommodation Options
Green River offers a variety of dining and accommodation options to suit different tastes and preferences. You can enjoy authentic Western cuisine at local establishments like Ray’s Tavern, which is popular among travelers and river rafters alike. The town also hosts several outfitters that offer river rafting adventures, ranging from half-day floats to multi-day expeditions.
The town is also famous for its melons, celebrated during the annual Melon Days festival in September. This event makes it a particularly sweet time to visit the area.
Interstate70 (I-70), Utah: Driving – Attractions, Landmarks, Fun Along the Route
As you embark on the scenic drive along I-70 in Utah, you’ll discover a plethora of attractions and landmarks that make the journey an adventure in itself. The route is dotted with exciting stops and stunning views that will make your road trip memorable.
Scenic Viewpoints Not to Miss
I-70 in Utah offers numerous scenic viewpoints that are a must-visit. The Eagle Canyon Overlook at mile marker 171 provides stunning views of the massive canyon system carved by the San Rafael River. You’ll have access to safe viewing platforms perfect for photography. Another highlight is the San Rafael Reef Viewpoint, which showcases the dramatic eastern edge of the Swell where rock layers have been tilted nearly vertical.
The Devils Canyon Viewpoint is another stop that offers a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs with a short interpretive trail that explains the unique desert ecosystem along the highway. These viewpoints make the drive along I-70 a truly scenic drive experience.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
As you drive along I-70, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the region. Wildlife enthusiasts should look out for desert bighorn sheep, particularly near rocky outcroppings in the early morning or late afternoon hours. You might also spot pronghorn antelope in the open desert areas, especially between Green River and the Colorado border.
The numerous well-maintained rest areas along I-70 feature educational displays about the geology, wildlife, and history of the region, enhancing your overall experience and providing insights into the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Capitol Reef National Park: A Worthy Detour
If you’re traveling on I-70, consider a scenic detour to Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden gem that offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique blend of natural and cultural history. Accessible via Highway 24, this detour adds approximately 2 hours to your journey, making it a worthwhile stop.
Scenic Byway 24 Connection
The park is connected to I-70 through Scenic Byway 24, a route that winds through stunning landscapes and offers numerous viewpoints. This byway is not just a means to reach the park; it’s an experience in itself, with the drive showcasing the dramatic changes in Utah’s terrain.
Fruita Historic District
The Fruita Historic District within Capitol Reef National Park preserves a Mormon pioneer settlement, complete with historic buildings and orchards where you can pick seasonal fruit. The Gifford Homestead is a highlight, known for its fresh-baked pies and warm hospitality.
Best Hiking Trails Accessible from I-70
Several trails in Capitol Reef National Park are accessible from Highway 24, making them perfect for a quick visit. The Hickman Bridge Trail offers a moderate 2-mile round trip hike to a natural 133-foot stone arch, while the Capitol Gorge Trail follows an historic pioneer route through narrow canyon walls, featuring pioneer inscriptions from the late 1800s.
Fremont Indian State Park: Ancient History Preserved
As you drive along Interstate 70 in Utah, a fascinating detour awaits you at Fremont Indian State Park. This park is a treasure trove of ancient history, preserving over 1,000 rock art panels created by the Fremont people who inhabited the area between 700 and 1300 CE.
Petroglyphs and Rock Art
The Parade of Rock Art trail offers visitors an accessible 0.25-mile walk past numerous petroglyphs depicting human figures, animals, and abstract symbols. This trail is a great way to experience the rich history of the Fremont people.
Museum and Interpretive Center
The museum at Fremont Indian State Park houses artifacts discovered during highway construction, including pottery, tools, jewelry, and clothing that provide insight into Fremont daily life. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to try their hand at ancient skills like corn grinding, fire starting, and atlatl throwing, making history come alive for all ages.
The park’s location directly off I-70 makes it an ideal 30-60 minutes stop to stretch your legs while learning about Utah’s ancient inhabitants. Established in 1985 after the discovery of one of the largest Fremont Indian sites during the construction of Interstate 70, Fremont Indian State Park is a significant state park that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Fishlake National Forest: Natural Beauty Off the Highway
Fishlake National Forest is a hidden gem accessible from I-70, offering a forested escape from the desert landscapes. Covering over 1.5 million acres, this forest is a cooler alternative to the desert heat, often 10-15 degrees cooler than the I-70 corridor.
Pando Aspen Grove: The World’s Largest Living Organism
The forest is home to Pando, a single aspen grove that is actually one massive organism connected by a single root system. Estimated to weigh 6,600 tons and be over 80,000 years old, Pando is a natural wonder that fascinates visitors from around the world.
Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
You can enjoy various outdoor activities in Fishlake National Forest, including fishing at Fish Lake, Utah’s largest natural mountain lake, which offers excellent opportunities for catching trophy-sized trout. The Gooseberry/Fremont Trail provides over 17 miles of single-track riding through aspen groves and meadows, perfect for an adventure. During fall, the aspen groves turn brilliant gold, creating one of Utah’s most spectacular autumn color displays, typically peaking in late September. You can explore these wonders within minutes of leaving I-70.
Visiting Fishlake National Forest is like stepping into a different state park within Utah, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drive through the aspen groves or an action-packed adventure, Fishlake National Forest has something for everyone.
Richfield and Salina: Small-Town Charm
As you travel along I-70 in Utah, consider stopping in Richfield and Salina to experience the authentic charm of small-town America. These towns offer a refreshing contrast to the national parks and larger cities, providing a glimpse into authentic rural Utah life.
Local Dining Experiences
Richfield serves as the largest town in central Utah, offering travelers a full range of services including lodging, dining, and shopping opportunities. Mom-and-pop diners like Mom’s Cafe in Salina have been serving homestyle meals to travelers and locals for generations, with specialties like scones with honey butter.
Historical Sites and Museums
The Richfield Tabernacle, built in 1898, showcases pioneer-era architecture and stands as a testament to the Mormon settlers who established these communities. The Snow College Richfield Campus houses the Sevier Valley Center, which often features cultural events, concerts, and local art exhibitions, enriching the local history and culture.
Both towns celebrate their agricultural heritage with seasonal farmers markets where visitors can purchase locally grown produce and handcrafted items. These communities provide a unique glimpse into the past, away from the tourist crowds, making them a must-visit on your road trip itinerary.
Clear Creek Canyon: Dramatic Landscapes
As you drive along I-70 in Utah, you’ll encounter one of the most breathtaking sections of the highway: Clear Creek Canyon. This dramatic canyon is a highlight of the journey, featuring steep walls that rise hundreds of feet on either side of the interstate. The colorful rock layers visible in the canyon walls tell the geological story of the region, making it a fascinating spot for geology enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Scenic Pullouts and Photo Opportunities
Clear Creek Canyon offers numerous scenic pullouts where you can stop and take in the views. The morning light is particularly good for photography, illuminating the canyon’s dramatic features. You’ll find that the rest stops along this stretch have walking paths and lookouts that provide even better views of the surrounding landscape. Capturing the vastness of the scenery can be challenging, but including people in your photos can help provide perspective.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
The Clear Creek Canyon Trail follows portions of the historic Old Spanish Trail, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. During the spring, the canyon floor comes alive with wildflowers, creating a striking contrast against the red rock walls. This section of the highway has required some of the most challenging engineering in the entire interstate system, with bridges and road cuts that showcase human ingenuity against nature’s grandeur. You can enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities in the area, taking in the natural beauty of the canyon.
Cove Fort Historic Site: Step Back in Time
Step back in time and experience life as it was in the 19th century at Cove Fort Historic Site, a unique piece of Utah’s heritage. Built in 1867 under the direction of Brigham Young, this fort served as a crucial way station for travelers on the Mormon Corridor.
Pioneer History
Cove Fort was constructed using volcanic rock and limestone, allowing it to remain intact to this day. Unlike most frontier forts made of wood, its durable construction has preserved its historic significance. The fort’s 12 original rooms have been restored and furnished with authentic period pieces, giving visitors a glimpse into pioneer life.
Guided Tours and Visitor Information
Free guided tours, led by volunteer missionaries, last approximately 40 minutes and offer insights into pioneer life, including demonstrations of period skills and crafts. The site includes several outbuildings, such as a blacksmith shop and barn, showcasing the self-sufficient nature of this remote outpost. Located at the junction of I-70 and I-15, Cove Fort is an ideal stop when traveling between Utah’s national monuments and northern Utah.
Connecting to Utah’s National Parks from I-70
Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’ national parks are just a drive away from I-70, offering unforgettable experiences. I-70 serves as a central artery for accessing these world-famous destinations, with connecting highways that lead to breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders.
Route to Arches National Park
To visit Arches National Park, take I-70 to US-191 south at Crescent Junction. The drive is approximately 30 miles to the park entrance near Moab. Arches National Park is renowned for its over 2,000 natural arches, making it a must-visit destination.
Access to Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park can be reached by taking I-70 to US-89 south, then UT-12, one of America’s most scenic byways. The total drive is about 115 miles. Bryce Canyon is famous for its distinctive hoodoos and scenic vistas.
Reaching Zion National Park
To get to Zion National Park from I-70, take I-15 south at Cove Fort to the park’s east or south entrances. The journey is approximately 144 miles. Zion is known for its narrow canyons and towering sandstone cliffs, offering numerous hiking trails and breathtaking views.
These connecting routes offer their own scenic wonders, making the journey to Utah’s national parks an extension of the adventure rather than just a means to an end. Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, or simply taking in the views, I-70 provides the perfect starting point for your national park adventure.
Practical Tips for Driving I-70 Through Utah
To make the most of your drive along I-70 in Utah, consider these practical tips to enhance your travel experience. As you travel through this stunning region, being prepared is key to a safe and enjoyable journey.
Gas Stations and Service Areas
Gas stations along I-70 in Utah are limited, with a significant gap between Green River and Salina. It’s crucial to fill up when your tank reaches half-empty, as the longest stretch between services is approximately 110 miles. Plan your fuel stops in advance to avoid running low.
Safety Considerations for Desert Driving
Utah’s desert climate can be harsh, especially during the summer when temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C). Always carry extra water in your vehicle—at least one gallon per person per day is recommended. Additionally, be aware of the risk of flash floods, particularly when hiking in slot canyons, and avoid areas with precipitation in the region.
Cell Phone Coverage and Navigation
Cell phone coverage is spotty or non-existent for much of the I-70 route, particularly in the San Rafael Swell area. Download offline maps before your trip and consider carrying a paper map as a backup to ensure you stay on track. Furthermore, be mindful of the highway’s steep grades and curves, especially in the Clear Creek Canyon section, and adjust your speed accordingly.
By being aware of these factors and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable drive along I-70 in Utah. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just passing through, these tips will help you make the most of your time on the road.
Conclusion: Why I-70 in Utah Deserves Your Road Trip Bucket List
Driving through Utah on I-70 offers an unparalleled road trip experience, blending stunning scenery with unique attractions. Unlike other sections of I-70, Utah’s portion was designed to showcase the state’s spectacular landscapes, making it a scenic route like no other.
The relatively light traffic allows you to enjoy the views at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints without the crowds. You’ll discover hidden gems like the San Rafael Swell and Fremont Indian State Park, which are often missed by visitors rushing to Utah’s national parks.
The diversity of landscapes along I-70, from red rock canyons to alpine forests, provides a comprehensive introduction to Utah’s varied ecosystems in a single drive. Whether you’re using I-70 as a route between destinations or making it the focus of your Utah adventure, this remarkable highway deserves a place on every traveler’s road trip bucket list.
By taking your time to explore the attractions along the way, you’ll experience a side of Utah that most tourists miss, making your journey truly unforgettable.
