Rocky Mountain Red Rocks
Denver to Moab
Denver, COMoab, UT
Trip overview
Embark on an epic journey from the Mile High City to the heart of red rock country. This trip winds through the majestic Rocky Mountains, explores the dramatic canyons of Colorado National Monument, and culminates in the otherworldly landscapes of Moab's iconic national parks.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Morrison
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Start your trip at this world-famous music venue nestled among stunning red sandstone monoliths. Hike the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail that winds through the unique geological formations for a perfect introduction to Colorado's natural beauty.
18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
Loveland Pass Scenic Drive
Divert from I-70 onto US-6 for a breathtaking drive over the Continental Divide. At an elevation of 11,990 feet, the summit offers panoramic, above-the-treeline views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
US-6, Dillon, CO 80435
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Relax after your scenic drive by soaking in one of 16 natural geothermal pools situated alongside the Colorado River. Each pool has a different temperature, allowing you to find the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying mountain views.
281 Centennial St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Hotel Colorado
Stay at the historic 'Grande Dame' of Glenwood Springs, a landmark hotel dating back to 1893. This elegant hotel has hosted presidents and celebrities and offers a unique glimpse into the town's storied past.
526 Pine St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Day 2 — Glenwood Springs
Hanging Lake Trail
Embark on one of Colorado's most iconic hikes. This short but steep and rocky trail leads to a breathtaking travertine lake with crystal-clear turquoise water and cascading waterfalls. A permit is required and must be booked in advance.
Hanging Lake Visitor Center, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Sweet Coloradough
Refuel after your hike at this beloved local favorite known for its creative and delicious donuts, from classic glazed to elaborate cereal-topped creations. They also serve savory items like burgers and burritos.
2430 S Glen Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Doc Holliday's Grave Trail
Take a short, half-mile hike up to Linwood Cemetery to visit the memorial for the legendary Wild West gunslinger, Doc Holliday. The trail offers excellent views of Glenwood Springs and the surrounding mountains.
12th St & Bennett Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Day 3 — Fruita
Colorado National Monument
Drive the historic 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, offering spectacular views of sheer-walled red rock canyons and monolithic rock formations. Stop at overlooks like Grand View and hike a portion of the Canyon Rim Trail for an unforgettable experience.
Rim Rock Drive, Fruita, CO 81521
Taco Party
Enjoy inventive, chef-driven tacos and creative cocktails in a vibrant downtown setting. Famous for unique combinations like the Korean Fried Chicken taco, it's a perfect spot to relax after exploring the monument.
126 S 5th St, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Hotel Maverick
Stay at this modern boutique hotel on the Colorado Mesa University campus. It features a rooftop bar and restaurant, Devil's Kitchen, offering panoramic views of the Grand Valley, Colorado National Monument, and the Book Cliffs.
840 Kennedy Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Day 4 — Moab
Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (U-128)
Take the most scenic route into Moab. This byway follows the Colorado River through a dramatic red rock canyon, passing landmarks like the Fisher Towers and Castle Valley. It's a stunning preview of the landscapes that await.
UT-128, Moab, UT 84532
Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail
Get your first taste of Arches National Park. Instead of the strenuous hike to the arch itself, take this easier trail to a viewpoint for classic, distant views of Utah's most famous geological feature. It's perfect for an arrival afternoon.
Delicate Arch Rd, Arches National Park, UT 84532
Moab Food Truck Park
Experience Moab's casual dining scene at this central gathering spot. Choose from a diverse array of local food trucks offering everything from tacos and pizza to barbecue and crepes in a laid-back, outdoor setting.
39 W 100 N, Moab, UT 84532
Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton
Check into this upscale hotel offering a comfortable and stylish base for your Moab adventures. Enjoy the pool, full-service restaurant, and prime location within walking distance of downtown shops and galleries.
111 N 100 W, Moab, UT 84532
Day 5 — Moab
Devils Garden Trail
Explore the park's premier hiking trail, which leads to eight stunning arches, including the famous Landscape Arch. You can do an easy out-and-back or tackle the more challenging primitive loop for a true backcountry feel. Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
Arches National Park, Moab, UT 84532
The Windows Section
Visit one of the most concentrated areas of arches in the world. Easy, short trails lead to North Window, South Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch, offering some of the park's most iconic and photogenic landscapes.
The Windows Road, Arches National Park, UT 84532
Moab Brewery
Celebrate the end of your trip at Moab's original microbrewery. Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers brewed on-site and a hearty pub menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and Southwestern specialties.
686 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532
Experiences & guides
Bookable tours and stops worth a detour along this route.
Experiences
Guide content may not reflect current conditions. Always verify information before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
The Rocky Red Rocks road trip covers about 517 mi and roughly 11h 4m of driving, comfortably spread across about 5 days.
This itinerary maps out 17 stops from Denver, CO to Moab, UT. Highlights include Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Loveland Pass Scenic Drive, and Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
It begins in Denver, CO and ends in Moab, UT, following a mapped, road-following route the whole way.
The estimated cost is around $1,341, covering fuel, lodging, food, and activities. Your actual total varies with the season, your pace, and the choices you make along the way.
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