4/17/25

How to Enjoy Scenic Travels on the I-70 From Denver to Moab

Introduction

Traveling along the I-70 Scenic Corridor from Denver to Moab is more than just a drive; it’s an unforgettable adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. This iconic route is a perfect blend of stunning mountain views, unique geological formations, and the rich cultural tapestry of the American Southwest. Along the way, you’ll encounter spectacular natural wonders, cozy small towns, and vibrant outdoor activities. Expect to be enthralled!
Planning your journey enhances the overall experience, ensuring you don’t miss out on notable landscapes, attractions, and scrumptious culinary stops. Proper preparation allows you to fully immerse yourself in this picturesque journey.
Consider this your inspiration for adventure. Let the open road beckon you, tempting you to explore at your own pace, soaking in the sights and sounds of the majestic surroundings. There’s no rush out here; it’s about the journey and the memories you create along the way!

Section 1: Preparing for Your Journey

1.1. Route Overview

Your adventure kicks off in Denver, Colorado, and concludes in the breathtaking town of Moab, Utah. This scenic drive spans approximately 350 miles and usually takes about 6-7 hours if you resist the temptation to stop and explore (although we know you won't!).

1.2. Necessary Preparations

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape. Here’s your pre-travel checklist:
  • Vehicle Check-Up
    • Ensure proper oil, tire, & brake conditions to avoid any roadside mishaps.
  • Packing Essential Gear
    • Bring along snacks, water, hiking gear, and any other essentials that will keep you comfortable on the road.
  • Smartphone Apps
    • Download handy travel & navigation apps like iOverlander for finding camping spots and AllTrails to discover hiking trails.

1.3. Timing Your Trip

Best Times to Travel: Aim for fall or spring, when the weather is clear, and roads are less crowded. Avoid weekends if you can, as traffic tends to peak!
  • Seasonal Considerations: Summer brings lush greenery and beautiful wildflowers, while fall dazzles with vibrant colors. Winter, with its snowy landscapes, offers a different kind of beauty, though expect more traffic and the need for winter gear.

Section 2: The Journey Begins - Leaving Denver

2.1. Denver to Golden

Just 15 miles away from Denver lies the charming town of Golden.
  • Key Attractions in Golden
    • Don’t miss the Buffalo Herd Overlook, a unique spot offering a glimpse of bison right off the highway. It’s a must-visit for anyone excited about wildlife and scenic views!
    • If time allows, take a Coors Brewery Tour for a taste of local history and delicious brews.
  • Recommended Dining Options: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Golden Diner, known for their classic diner fare and fresh ingredients.

2.2. Scenic Stops Before Hitting the Highway

Before you fully enter the I-70, think about pulling off to Red Rocks Park. This iconic venue offers more than just music; explore stunning hiking trails and catch beautiful views of the red rock formations.
At the Lookout Mountain parking area, take a short hike for panoramic views of Denver, the perfect spot to take some Instagram-worthy pictures before continuing your journey.

Section 3: The Open Road - Heading Towards Eisenhower Tunnel

3.1. Eisenhower Tunnel - An Engineering Marvel

One of the landmarks of this journey is the Eisenhower Tunnel, a stunning feat of engineering!
  • Interesting Facts about the Tunnel: It’s the highest auto tunnel in North America and one of the longest. It spans a remarkable 1.6 miles beneath the Continental Divide.
  • Quick Tips for the Tunnel Drive: Make sure to check your vehicle’s headlights and brakes before entry for safety. Expect cool temperatures inside, so dress accordingly.
  • Photo Opportunities Nearby: There are several overlooks where you can pause for a picture, capturing the dramatic mountain scenery around the tunnel.

3.2. Scenic Landscapes & Attractions Before Glenwood Springs

As you cruise along, keep an eye out for breathtaking viewpoints along the way.
  • Viewpoints Along the Way: Experience the beauty of the AMERICAN ROCKIES as roadside overlooks provide stunning vistas.
  • Points of Interest:
    • Stop by Berthoud Falls for a quick stretch and stunning waterfall views.
    • If you’re up for an extra adventure, consider a slightly longer detour to Loveland Pass, which reveals AWE-INSPIRING panoramas.
  • Side Activities: Spin the wheel of adventure! In the winter, enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the designated areas. Summer offers lovely hiking trails, with wildflowers adorning the routes.

Section 4: Glenwood Springs - A Natural Hotspot

4.1. Overview of Glenwood Springs

Upon arriving in Glenwood Springs, you’ll discover a fantastic resting point known for its invigorating hot springs and charming mountain vibe.
  • Importance as a Rest Stop: A historic town, Glenwood Springs has been a popular leisure destination for over a century and offers a comforting respite along your journey.

4.2. Must-See Attractions

  • Glenwood Hot Springs Pool: Dive into relaxation! Known as the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world, this is the perfect spot to unwind and rejuvenate after a long drive.
  • Hanging Lake: This striking natural wonder is a short hike from the main road. The stunning turquoise waters set amid hanging gardens make for an incredible photo op. Don’t forget your camera!

4.3. Culinary Delights in Glenwood Springs

  • Recommended Restaurants: When hunger strikes, stop by Pullman, where local flavors shine through in every dish. Or indulge in Polanka for some savory Polish cuisine.

Section 5: The Scenic Drive Continues Towards Moab

5.1. Rifle Falls State Park

As you get back on the road, consider a quick detour to the Rifle Falls State Park.
  • Quick Detour to Experience Nature: Offering picturesque waterfalls, Rifle Falls is perfect for those who love to fish, hike, or photography.
  • Activities Available: Enjoy a relaxing walk through the park and soak in the scenery.
  • Trail Facts: The main trail to the falls is about 0.7 miles long and is suitable for all skill levels, making it an easy stop for everyone.

5.2. Palisade - Colorado's Wine Country

Prepare your taste buds as you enter Palisade, Colorado’s wine-producing region.
  • Overview of Palisade Wineries: Known for its sweet peaches and delightful wines, this charming town hosts numerous wineries, each with tastings and tours.
  • Recommendations: Be sure to check out the Peach Shack for fruit picking in the summer months, or taste the local flavors at Colterris Winery.
  • Unique Dining Experiences: Grab some culinary treats to enjoy during your final stretch to Moab.

Section 6: Embracing Moab - The Arrival

6.1. First Impressions of Moab

As you roll into Moab, you'll be welcomed by an array of stunning red rock formations and picturesque landscapes that set the tone for your adventures ahead.

6.2. Must-Visit Attractions in Moab

Dive into Moab’s enchanting charm:
  • Arches National Park: Home to natural sandstone arches and breathtaking views, this park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Canyonlands National Park: Known for its dramatic canyons and buttes, Canyonlands is perfect for adventurous explorers.
  • Unique Scenic Vistas: Don’t miss legendary spots like Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch to capture amazing pictures.

6.3. Culinary Highlights in Moab

After a day of adventure, indulge in delicious meals at local dining spots. Don’t miss the Moab Brewery for hearty dishes paired with locally brewed beers.

Section 7: Bonus Stops & Hidden Gems

7.1. Recommended Hidden Gems Along the Route

Keep your eyes peeled for local secret spots that make the journey more colorful.
  • Offbeat Sites Worth Visiting: Small towns, quirky shops, and roadside attractions await you. Slow down, explore, and discover hidden treasures along the way!

7.2. Local Wildlife Watching Opportunities

Your journey isn’t just about what you can see; it's also about embracing the wildlife viewing areas along the route.
  • Importance of Respecting Local Wildlife Habitats: Always admire wildlife from a distance and consider the impact of your presence on their ecosystem.

Conclusion

To recap, the journey from Denver to Moab is filled with stunning scenery and incredible attractions at every turn. The memories you make along the way will undoubtedly shape your travel experience, so savor every moment.
We invite you to share your experiences! Did this guide inspire you? If you have any favorite stops or hidden gems along the route, let us know in the comments or on social media.

Fun Element Ideas

Don't forget to pack your road trip playlist to keep the energy up. Singing along to your favorite tunes makes the hours fly by as you trek along this breathtaking route. Happy travels!
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Your Ultimate Guide to Scenic Stops & Experiences on I-70 from Denver to Moab

The I-70 route from Denver to Moab is packed with SCENIC STUNNERS! Must-stops include: Denver - the vibrant starting point; Breckenridge - a charming mountain town known for its skiing & hiking; Vail - check out its famous skiing & beautiful village; Glenwood Springs - famous for its hot springs; and finally, Moab - your ultimate destination, bursting with red rock formations. For a deep dive into these enchanting stops, check out this handy guide from SIXT.

Planning an itinerary on I-70? EASY PEASY! Consider breaking your trip into two days & loading up on SEVERAL stops to make the journey memorable. From Denver to Moab, map out your stops, allowing enough time for exploration & grabbing photos. Suggest planning for at least 6 stops and leaving room for spontaneous detours as you travel through the gorgeous Rocky Mountain scenery. More tips can be found in this insightful Reddit thread here.

Absolutely! On the I-70 route, you'll find the incredible Rocky Mountain National Park not too far off your path. This stunning park is known for its breathtaking views, wildlife, & TRAILS galore. Additionally, Canyonlands National Park & Arches National Park await you in Moab, showcasing the charming and bizarre desert landscapes! For more info on parks, check out this resource from Discover Moab.

Outdoor enthusiasts will have a BLAST! Enjoy HIKING in the numerous nature trails around Rocky Mountain National Park. In Glenwood Springs, you can float the river or relax in the hot springs! Then, in Moab, the outdoor offerings explode – think MOUNTAIN BIKING, ROCK CLIMBING, or even rafting through the scenic Colorado River. For more adventures, explore all the options available on the official SIXT site.

Keep your CAMERA ready because the I-70 corridor is BRIMMING with viewpoints! Notable spots include Vail Pass, Buffalo Overlook in Golden, and the Glenwood Canyon viewpoint. For MAXIMUM photography potential, refer to the picturesque spots highlighted by SIXT.

Foodies rejoice! Local dining gems span the entire route. Must-try places include Smokin Yard's BBQ in Idaho Springs for finger-licking barbecue or local eateries in Breckenridge, where you can get a bite and soak in the town's charm. Plus, don't forget to indulge in local brews at microbreweries you’ll find scattered along the way! Check out this blog for recommendations on dining here.

Weather can play a SIGNIFICANT role during your I-70 adventure. In WINTER months, you might face SNOW & ICE, leading to treacherous driving conditions. Check conditions via COtrip for real-time updates while on the road. Plan accordingly to avoid bad weather and ensure a SAFE DRIVE & BEAUTIFUL VIEWS!

Oh, for sure! Along I-70, you can find landmarks like the historic Buffalo Bill Museum near Golden & the remnants of mining towns, which are rich in Old Western history. Plus, the Dinosaur National Monument near the route showcases fascinating geological formations and fossils! Explore more spots with this info link here.

The I-70 corridor promises some ADVENTUROUS wildlife viewing! Keep an eye out for deer, elk, & even bighorn sheep as you pass through the various parks. Wildlife crossing areas, like the Genesee Wildlife Underpass, help keep both you and the critters safe on your travels! Learn more about this in-depth with CDOT.

To keep your scenic trip both FUN & EFFICIENT, start by leaving EARLY in the day & avoiding peak traffic times (especially weekends!). Use resources like COtrip for road condition updates, so you can make timely detours for THAT perfect photo op without losing precious daylight!

Packing smart is KEY! Bring your CAMERA for those AMAZING views, SUNSCREEN for those sunny trails, comfy hiking boots for your explorations, layers for changing weather (it can get chilly in the mountains!) & snacks to keep your energy up. Don't forget your trusty road maps & apps for GPS navigation too! For more packing tips, check out this post on SIXT.

Staying SAFE is paramount during winter travel! Remember to check the ROAD CONDITIONS before embarking; use COtrip as your go-to tool. Keep an eye out for weather warnings & always drive cautiously in snow & icy conditions. It's also wise to equip your car with winter tires & carry an emergency kit. More detailed safety tips for winter travel can be found here.

In Glenwood Springs, don’t miss out on the famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park with its thrilling rides, or the breathtaking views from Hanging Lake! This town is a delight for relaxation & adventure alike! Detailed info on attractions can be found on TripAdvisor.

Oh, indeed! There are GUIDED TOURS available that explore this epic route — from organized road trip tours showcasing the beauty of the Rocky Mountains to the splendors of Arches National Park down in Moab. Many local travel companies offer unique packages, so you can be sure you're not missing any hidden gems along the way! For more tour options, check out local providers or TripAdvisor's Moab page!

Finding the best spots for SHUTTERBUGS is all about timing & research! Utilize resources like SIXT’s Travel Guides for recommended spots and make stops at scenic viewpoints like Vail Pass, where Mother Nature shows off her BEST WORK! Additionally, check local photography forums for insider info on THE BEST angles!

Resources like the COtrip app are GOLDEN for discovering real-time ROAD CONDITIONS, detours, & scenic routes along I-70. Additionally, the SIXT magazine has great articles detailing scenic stops, and you could also employ GPS apps like Waze for updated route suggestions. Keep those apps handy, & enjoy your adventure!

As you cruise along I-70, don't miss geological wonders such as the MASSIVE rock formations in Glenwood Canyon & the stunning RED ROCKS around Moab. Also, keep an eye out for various sedimentary layers that tell the story of millions of years of Earth's history. Detailed geological info can be explored further on Visit Utah.

Yes, you can definitely bring your furry FRIENDS on your I-70 road trip! Just ensure you check the PET POLICIES of your chosen accommodations & allow plenty of breaks for your four-legged companions to stretch their legs. Sites like Discover Moab offer resources on pet-friendly lodging options along the way!

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES abound on your journey! In Denver, check out local ART DISTRICTS & historic sites such as the Molly Brown House Museum. Up in Moab, dive into Native American culture through rock art sites & check out local festivals that celebrate the vibrant arts. For more cultural insights, visit Discover Moab’s Art section.

The best time to hit the I-70 route for SCENIC VIEWS is during SPRING (April to June) & FALL (September to October) when the weather is delightful & the scenery is bursting with seasonal color. This ideal combination offers a visually STUNNING experience & is discussed in detail on travel blogs like SIXT.

To find cozy CAMPING SPOTS or lodging, you can use platforms like Campendium, AllTrails, or even Airbnb to locate nearby options. Websites like TripAdvisor provide user reviews & insights about accommodations along the I-70 route. Be sure to book ahead, especially during PEAK TRAVEL SEASON!