If you’re planning a road trip from Utah to California, you’re in for a treat. This epic journey will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, from towering mountains to sandy beaches. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or discover the vibrant culture of California, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your perfect road trip.
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Utah to California Drive
Driving from Utah to California is a long journey, covering a distance of approximately 700 miles. The fastest way to get from Utah to California is to take I-15 S, which will drive past cities like St. George, Las Vegas, and Barstow – which, according to Google Maps, will get you to California in about 10 hours and 44 minutes.
Although the I-15 S is the most direct route, it’s worth considering taking one of the scenic routes listed below if you’re looking to take in some of the sights along the way. Be sure to plan ahead and schedule breaks as it is a long drive.
How far is Utah from California by plane?
If you’re looking to save time, you can consider flying from Utah to California. The flight time from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
There are several flights that depart from Salt Lake City International Airport and arrive at Los Angeles International Airport, so be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
What is the time difference between Utah and California?
Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone, while California is in the Pacific Time Zone. This means that there is a one-hour time difference between the two states.
When it is 12:00 pm in Utah, it is 11:00 am in California. Be sure to take this into account when planning your trip and scheduling your activities.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Utah to California
Driving is typically the cheapest way to get from Utah to California. However, if you’re looking to save money, consider carpooling or taking a bus.
Greyhound, for example, offers daily bus service from Salt Lake City to Los Angeles, with prices starting at $74 per person.
Another affordable option is to take the Amtrak California Zephyr train, which runs from Salt Lake City to Emeryville, California. From there, you can take a bus or a train to your final destination in California.
Utah to California Drive – Rent A Car In Utah
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Utah:
- Alamo: starts at $67 per day
- Avis: starts at $85 per day
- Budget: starts at $76 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $82 per day
- Hertz: starts at $91 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $67 per day
- Dollar: starts at $69 per day
Gas prices will vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $60 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.20 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
You can expect to pay anywhere between $165 to $200 for a one-way trip (including car rental and gas). If you’re accounting for a full family of 4 with luggage, it’s cheaper to rent a car and drive than it is to fly.
H2: Utah to California – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some stops you can make along the way:
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning red rock formations, deep canyons, and winding rivers, this park offers a range of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking. The park is located about 2.5 hours from Salt Lake City and is a great place to stop for a day or two.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and iconic landmarks like the Strip and the Bellagio fountains. If you’re looking for a break from the road, spend a night in Vegas and enjoy the many attractions and shows the city has to offer. Las Vegas is about 4 hours from Zion National Park.
Mojave National Preserve, California
The Mojave National Preserve is a stunning desert landscape with sweeping views, sand dunes, and unique rock formations. This is a great place to stop and explore if you’re interested in hiking or photography. The preserve is located about 3.5 hours from Las Vegas.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is another must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to unique rock formations and the famous Joshua Tree, a type of yucca plant that is native to the Mojave Desert. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. Joshua Tree National Park is about 2 hours from the Mojave National Preserve.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a vibrant city that offers a range of activities, from exploring the beaches of Santa Monica to visiting the iconic Hollywood sign. Spend a few days in LA to experience the city’s diverse culture and attractions. Los Angeles is about 2 hours from Joshua Tree National Park.
Utah to California – Best Driving Route
Here are some of the best driving routes from Utah to California:
The Scenic Route – Utah State Route 9 to California State Route 127
This scenic route will take you through Zion National Park and the Mojave National Preserve. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 S to Utah State Route 9, which will take you through Zion National Park. From there, take Utah State Route 59 to Arizona State Route 389, which will take you to Utah State Route 389. Finally, take California State Route 127 to Los Angeles.
The Fast Route – I-15 S
This is the most direct route from Utah to California, taking you through St. George, Las Vegas, and Barstow. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 S all the way to Los Angeles.
The Coast Route – I-80 W and US-101 S
If you’re interested in a longer drive that takes you along the coast, consider taking I-80 W to San Francisco and then US-101 S to Los Angeles. This route will take you through some of the most scenic areas of California, including San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Big Sur coastline.
Wrapping Up:
In conclusion, a road trip from Utah to California offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning scenery and vibrant culture of the western United States. While the fastest route is via the I-15 S, there are several scenic routes worth considering, and the journey is definitely doable by car, bus, or train. Whether you choose to fly or drive, be sure to plan ahead, schedule breaks, and make the most of the journey by exploring the many interesting stops along the way. Happy travels!
