If you’re planning a road trip from Utah to Colorado, you’re in for a treat. The stunning drive through the mountains and canyons will leave you in awe. The route is also dotted with several amazing stops that will allow you to experience the natural beauty of the region. In this article, we will take a look at the distance, drive hours, stops, and the best driving route from Utah to Colorado.
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Utah to Colorado Drive
The drive from Utah to Colorado is a long one, and it will take you around 8 hours and 25 minutes depending on your route and any stops you make along the way. The most direct route from Salt Lake City, Utah to Denver, Colorado is via I-70 E, which is around 428 miles (688.7 km). This route is the fastest way to get to Colorado, and it will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
The drive through the mountains and canyons is a breathtaking experience, but you should be aware that the road can be challenging in some areas. Be sure to check the weather conditions before you leave, and make sure that your vehicle is in good condition. It’s also a good idea to pack some snacks, water, and warm clothing in case of an emergency.
How far is Utah from Colorado?
The distance between Salt Lake City, Utah, and Denver, Colorado, is approximately 428 miles (688.7 km). If you’re driving from other parts of Utah, such as Park City or Provo, the distance will be shorter. However, it’s always a good idea to use a map or GPS to get the most accurate distance and directions.
How far is Utah to Colorado by plane?
The flight distance from Salt Lake City, Utah to Denver, Colorado is around 391 miles (629.2 km). The flight time from Salt Lake City to Denver is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
However, keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in travel time to and from the airport, security checks, and any other delays that might occur.
What is the time difference between Utah and Colorado?
Utah and Colorado are in the same time zone, Mountain Time Zone.
However, some parts of Utah, such as the Navajo Nation, do observe Daylight Saving Time, which is not observed in Colorado. This means that during Daylight Saving Time, there is a one-hour time difference between the two states.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Utah
If you’re on a budget, driving is the cheapest way to get from Utah to Colorado. However, there are also other options, such as taking a bus or train. Greyhound and Amtrak both offer routes from Utah to Colorado, but keep in mind that these options will take longer and may be less convenient than driving.
Utah to Colorado Drive – Rent A Car In Salt Lake City
If you’re planning on driving from Utah to Colorado, you’ll need to rent a car. Here are some car rental companies that you can rent a car from in Salt Lake City:
- Alamo: starts at $45 per day
- Avis: starts at $50 per day
- Budget: starts at $45 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $50 per day
- Hertz: starts at $55 per day
- National: starts at $55 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $55 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.695 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Utah to Colorado – Driving Stops Along The Way
If you’re driving from Utah to Colorado, there are plenty of stops along the way that you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the best driving stops:
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is located in eastern Utah and is known for its unique geological formations. The park contains over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the stunning red rock formations and desert landscapes of this iconic park.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is located in southeastern Utah and is known for its spectacular canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and scenic drives through the park, and there are also opportunities for rafting and kayaking on the Colorado and Green Rivers. The park is known for its stunning vistas and unique geological formations, making it a must-see destination for any nature lover.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a picturesque mountain town in Colorado known for its hot springs and outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is located along the Colorado River. Visitors can soak in the world’s largest hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, explore the nearby Glenwood Canyon, and hike or bike on numerous trails. Other popular attractions in the area include the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and the historic Glenwood Springs train depot.
Vail
Vail is a small town in Colorado known for its ski resorts and picturesque surroundings. The town is located at the base of Vail Mountain and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, Vail also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The town is known for its luxurious resorts, upscale restaurants, and charming atmosphere.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a vast protected area in northern Colorado, encompassing over 400 square miles of pristine wilderness. The park is known for its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, including elk, moose, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can hike on over 350 miles of trails, drive the famous Trail Ridge Road, or enjoy scenic drives and picnic spots. The park also offers camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Overall, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Denver
Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is the capital and largest city in Colorado. It’s located at the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Denver is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The city is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. Denver’s food and drink scene is also worth exploring, with a variety of local breweries, distilleries, and restaurants serving up delicious cuisine.
Best Driving Route from Utah to Colorado
The best driving route from Utah to Colorado depends on your preferences and time constraints. The most direct route is via I-70 E, which will take you through the mountains and canyons and offers stunning views along the way. However, if you have more time and want to explore more of the region, you could also take a more scenic route, such as US-191 or UT-128.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, a road trip from Utah to Colorado is a breathtaking experience that allows you to witness the stunning natural beauty of the region. The distance between Salt Lake City, Utah, and Denver, Colorado, is approximately 428 miles (688.7 km), and it can take around 8 hours and 25 minutes depending on your route and any stops you make along the way.
Whether you choose to drive, fly, or take a bus or train, there are various ways to get from Utah to Colorado. Renting a car in Salt Lake City is a convenient option for those who want to take their time and make stops along the way. With stunning scenery, plenty of natural attractions, and an abundance of outdoor activities, a road trip from Utah to Colorado is sure to be a memorable experience.