Aspen to Moab Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the snow-capped peaks of Aspen to the red rock wonderland of Moab. This epic Aspen to Moab road trip spans approximately 350 miles, offering a diverse tapestry of landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking a quick weekend getaway or an extended exploration, the route from Aspen to Moab promises breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities, and memories to last a lifetime.

Before getting into details, here are some other recommendations near this city:

• John Denver Sanctuary
• Silver Queen Gondola
• Glory Hole Park
• Aspen Recreation Center
• Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
• Corona Arch
• Moab Cowboy Off-Road Adventures
• Arches National Park
• Double O Arch
• Rotary Park

Planning Your Aspen to Moab Road Trip

Best Time to Go

The ideal time for your Aspen to Moab road trip depends on your preferences and desired activities:

• Summer (June-August): Perfect for hiking, biking, and rafting, but expect crowds and higher prices.
• Fall (September-October): Enjoy stunning foliage, pleasant temperatures, and fewer tourists.
• Spring (April-May): A good balance of mild weather and smaller crowds, with blooming wildflowers.
• Winter (November-March): Challenging driving conditions but magical snowy landscapes in Aspen and milder temperatures in Moab.

Choosing Your Route

Consider these options for your Aspen to Moab drive:

• Fastest Route: I-70 W to UT-128 S (Direct, less scenic, approximately 6 hours)
• Scenic Route: CO-133 S to UT-128 S (Longer, stunning views, includes Maroon Bells)
• Alternative Route: CO-92 W to US-50 W to UT-24 E (Passes Black Canyon of the Gunnison)

Trip Duration

Plan for 3-7 days, depending on your desired pace and activities. Here's a sample 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Explore Aspen and drive to Carbondale
• Day 2: Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison, overnight in Grand Junction
• Day 3: Drive the scenic Utah Byway 128, arrive in Moab
• Day 4-5: Explore Moab and surrounding national parks

Must-See Stops Along the Way

Aspen Area

• Maroon Bells: Iconic twin peaks reflected in Maroon Lake, offering stunning photography opportunities.
• Independence Pass: A scenic mountain pass with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide.
• Aspen Highlands: World-class skiing in winter, hiking trails in summer.

Crystal and Gunnison National Forest

• Crystal Mill: A picturesque wooden powerhouse perched on a rocky outcrop above the Crystal River.
• Kebler Pass: One of Colorado's most scenic drives, especially during fall foliage season.
• Crested Butte: Charming mountain town known for wildflowers and outdoor recreation.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

• Painted Wall View: Gaze upon the park's highest cliff, a stunning 2,250 feet of striated rock.
• South Rim Road: Scenic drive with numerous overlooks and hiking trails.

Utah Scenic Byway 128

• Red rock cliffs and Colorado River views
• Fisher Towers: Dramatic rock formations popular with hikers and climbers.

Where to Eat and Drink

Aspen

• Element 47: Upscale dining featuring locally-sourced ingredients
• Aspen Brewing Company: Craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere

Carbondale

• Allegria: Farm-to-table Italian cuisine
• Roosters: Local favorite for breakfast and lunch

Moab

• Desert Bistro: Southwestern-inspired fine dining
• Moab Brewery: Lively brewpub with house-made beers and pub fare

Where to Stay

Aspen

• The Little Nell: Luxury ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain
• Limelight Hotel: Modern, pet-friendly accommodations in downtown Aspen

Basalt/Carbondale

• Element Basalt-Aspen: Extended-stay hotel with kitchenettes and mountain views
• Comfort Inn & Suites: Affordable option with easy access to outdoor activities

Moab

• Under Canvas Moab: Luxury glamping near Arches National Park
• Red Cliffs Lodge: Scenic ranch-style resort on the Colorado River

Things to Do in Moab

Arches National Park

• Hike to Delicate Arch for an iconic photo opportunity.
• Explore the Windows Section for easy access to multiple arches.
• Join a ranger-led stargazing program for unparalleled night sky views.

Canyonlands National Park

• Visit Island in the Sky district for panoramic vistas.
• Hike the Needles district for a more remote wilderness experience.

Colorado River Adventures

• Book a whitewater rafting trip through Westwater Canyon.
• Try stand-up paddleboarding on calmer sections of the river.

Mountain Biking

• Tackle the famous Slickrock Trail for a challenging ride.
• Explore the Moab Brand Trails for options suitable for all skill levels.

Tips for Your Aspen to Moab Road Trip

• Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Pack layers for varying temperatures and weather conditions.
• Fill up your gas tank whenever possible, as stations can be scarce in remote areas.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks, particularly when hiking or exploring national parks.
• Download offline maps and navigation apps for areas with limited cell service.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile desert ecosystem.

An Aspen to Moab road trip offers an incredible journey through some of America's most stunning landscapes. From the alpine beauty of Colorado to the red rock wonders of Utah, this adventure promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas at every turn. Start planning your epic road trip today and discover the magic that awaits on the road from Aspen to Moab.

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