Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway - a river running through a lush green hillside
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Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway

4.6
·491k reviews·Moab, United States

A breathtaking drive along the Colorado River, flanked by towering red rock canyons and ancient petroglyphs. Utah's Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour light paints the rocks

CrowdMedium
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Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway - a river running through a lush green hillside

Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour light paints the rocks

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking drive along the Colorado River, flanked by towering red rock canyons and ancient petroglyphs. Utah's Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Considered one of the most spectacular drives in the USA, this byway snakes along the Colorado River with stunning red rock canyon views."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Stop for Photos Often

Pull over at designated spots to capture the stunning scenery. The light changes throughout the day!

🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely

This is a scenic drive, not a race. Enjoy the views and be mindful of other drivers and cyclists.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colorado River Views

Colorado River Views

Along the entire length of UT-128

Wind alongside the mighty Colorado River, with towering red rock cliffs on either side. A truly immersive desert landscape.

Fisher Towers

Fisher Towers

Near the eastern end of UT-128

Impressive sandstone spires that rise dramatically from the desert floor. A popular spot for photography and short hikes.

Petroglyph Sites

Petroglyph Sites

Various pull-offs along UT-128

Discover ancient rock art left by early inhabitants, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Drive

Utah 128, also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway or River Road, offers a breathtaking journey through towering red rock canyons alongside the Colorado River. Plan for frequent stops to soak in the views and capture stunning photos. This route is a must-do for any visitor to Moab.

Timing is Key for Views

While beautiful year-round, the light dramatically changes the landscape. Sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow on the red rocks, making them ideal times for photography. Be aware that popular viewpoints can get crowded during these peak times.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour light paints the rocks
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring & Fall
Why
Pleasant temperatures for driving
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Follow for more tips on how to earn Employee of the Month 🤷‍♀️ #skiing #backcountry #backcountryskiing #lateforwork #moab #utah #lasalmountains #skitouring
@shelbjeanne
1.6M likes • 11.7M views

📸 Stop for Photos Often

Pull over at designated spots to capture the stunning scenery. The light changes throughout the day! Instagram

🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely

This is a scenic drive, not a race. Enjoy the views and be mindful of other drivers and cyclists. Instagram

We literally sprinted the entire rest of the canyon and climbed out the side #canyon #canyoneering #moab #fypシ゚viral #viral #foryou #foryoupage
@2mili2mili
1M likes • 12.2M views
Referred to by Moab locals as the River Road, Scenic Byway 128 is one of the most interesting and breathtaking drives imaginable. Following through canyons carved and inhabited by the Colorado River, you’ll take in towering mesas, breathtaking rock formations, world famous movie locations, beautiful picnic and bouldering areas, a Film Heritage Museum, a large variety of hiking trails including one...
zion__entertainment
820 likes • 11.4K views

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

Services are limited along the byway. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. Reddit

☀️ Be Prepared for Sun

The desert sun can be intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. TikTok

Considered one of the most spectacular drives in the USA, “River Road” aka the Upper Colorado Scenic Byway (U-128), snakes along the Colorado River’s whitewater rapids with stunning red rock canyon views around every hairpin turn. #reels #travel #explore #adventure #scenicdrive #riverroad #roadtrip #moab #utah #utahtravels #nature #explorepage #explore #explorer #exploring #adventure #photogr...
coffeeandcurrency
40 likes • 898 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Stop for Photos Often

Pull over at designated spots to capture the stunning scenery. The light changes throughout the day! Instagram

🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely

This is a scenic drive, not a race. Enjoy the views and be mindful of other drivers and cyclists. Instagram

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

Services are limited along the byway. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. Reddit

☀️ Be Prepared for Sun

The desert sun can be intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. TikTok

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Utah 128 for its breathtaking scenery, describing it as one of the most spectacular drives in the USA. The towering red rock canyons and the winding Colorado River create a truly unforgettable experience. Some note the limited services and recommend planning ahead for food and water.

What People Like

Spectacular red rock canyons
Scenic Colorado River views
Abundant photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Limited services
Can be crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Utah 128, also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway or River Road, is easily accessible from Moab. Head north out of Moab on US-191 and turn right onto UT-128 East. The road winds along the Colorado River, offering spectacular views right from the start. Instagram+1

Yes, Utah 128 is a paved state highway for its entire length. It's suitable for all vehicles, including sedans and RVs. Instagram

The Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (UT-128) is approximately 44.6 miles long, connecting Moab to I-70. The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the scenery. Instagram

Absolutely! Utah 128 is a well-maintained paved road, making it suitable for RVs and larger vehicles. Just be mindful of the winding sections and pull over safely if needed. Instagram

The most popular way to experience Utah 128 is by car, allowing you to stop at various viewpoints and trailheads. Many visitors also enjoy cycling or even kayaking on the Colorado River alongside the road. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Utah 128 is a public state highway and does not require an entrance fee or ticket to drive. It's a free scenic byway open to everyone. Instagram

While the drive itself is free, some areas along the byway, like trailheads or picnic spots, might have associated day-use fees if they are part of a state park or managed area. Always check local signage. Reddit

Utah 128 is a public road and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, driving at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting and potential wildlife. Instagram

Utah 128 provides access to areas near Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, but it is not a direct entrance. You'll need to take connecting roads to reach the park entrances. Instagram

Yes, there are several campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities along Utah 128, particularly near the Colorado River. Some popular spots include Hal Moore Campground and Big Bend Campground. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the dramatic Fisher Towers, numerous petroglyph sites, and the stunning river and canyon vistas. Pull-offs offer incredible photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, several trailheads are accessible from UT-128, including those leading to Fisher Towers and various viewpoints along the river. TikTok

Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, deer, various bird species, and other desert wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance. Reddit

The paved road is popular with cyclists, but be aware of traffic. Mountain bikers will find numerous trails branching off from the main road, like the Portal Trail. TikTok

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rock formations. The golden hour light truly makes the landscape glow. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options are very limited directly on Utah 128. It's best to pack a picnic or plan to eat in Moab before or after your drive. Reddit

Moab, located at the western end of the byway, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores. TikTok

Yes, there are several designated picnic areas along the byway, offering beautiful spots to enjoy a meal with a view. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire byway is a photographer's dream! Key spots include the Colorado River bends, the towering Fisher Towers, and any pull-off with a panoramic view of the red rock canyons. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details like the Fisher Towers or wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for sunrise/sunset shots. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the dramatic landscapes along Utah 128 have been featured in numerous films. Keep an eye out for iconic formations that might look familiar from the big screen. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful light, casting a warm glow on the red rocks. Midday can be harsh, but still offers unique perspectives. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone, as restrictions may apply in certain areas, especially near national parks or sensitive cultural sites. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Utah 128 is a fantastic scenic drive for families, offering stunning views without strenuous hikes. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are minimal. The pull-offs provide safe places to stretch legs and marvel at the red rocks. Consider a picnic lunch by the Colorado River for a memorable family meal. InstagramReddit

Look for the petroglyph sites as a way to spark curiosity about history and ancient cultures. The sheer scale of the canyons and rock formations is often captivating for children. Remember to bring sun protection and stay hydrated, as the desert climate can be intense even for short stops. TikTok

🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers

For those on a road trip through Utah, Scenic Byway 128 is an absolute must. The continuous, jaw-dropping scenery makes it a photographer's paradise. Plan to stop frequently at the numerous viewpoints to capture the changing light on the red rock formations and the Colorado River. Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, offering soft, warm light that enhances the colors of the landscape. Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for grand vistas to telephoto for isolating details. Don't forget a tripod for those low-light shots. Downloading offline maps is essential, as cell service can be unreliable. TikTokInstagram

🚴 Cyclists & Outdoor Enthusiasts

Utah 128 is a popular route for road cyclists, offering a challenging yet rewarding ride alongside the Colorado River. Be prepared for some climbs and descents, and always ride defensively, as motorized traffic shares the road. TikTok

For mountain bikers, numerous trails, including the renowned Portal Trail, branch off from UT-128, offering thrilling singletrack adventures through the desert terrain. Hikers can also find trails leading to viewpoints and the base of formations like Fisher Towers. Remember to carry ample water and be aware of the desert heat. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of the Colorado River

Utah 128, affectionately known as 'River Road' by locals, traces the path of the mighty Colorado River through a spectacular canyon landscape. The river itself is a powerful force, having carved these immense formations over millennia. You'll see its turquoise waters contrasting with the vibrant red and orange hues of the surrounding sandstone cliffs. The road offers numerous pull-offs where you can safely stop to admire the river's flow, listen to its gentle roar, and appreciate the sheer scale of the canyon. Instagram+1

For those seeking more active engagement with the river, consider a rafting or kayaking trip. While UT-128 itself doesn't directly launch you into whitewater, outfitters in Moab can arrange excursions that explore sections of the Colorado River. Even if you're just driving, the constant presence of the river adds a dynamic element to the scenic journey, reminding you of the natural forces that shaped this breathtaking region. TikTok

Ancient Petroglyphs and History

As you drive along Utah 128, keep an eye out for designated pull-offs that lead to ancient petroglyph sites. These rock carvings, created by the Ancestral Puebloans and Fremont people centuries ago, offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the region's earliest inhabitants. You can spot depictions of animals, human figures, and abstract symbols etched into the desert varnish of the rock faces. TikTok+1

It's crucial to remember that these are fragile historical artifacts. Visitors are urged to observe them from a respectful distance and never touch or deface them. The petroglyphs are a vital part of the cultural heritage of this land, and their preservation is paramount. Taking the time to seek out and quietly contemplate these ancient messages adds a profound layer of discovery to your journey along the scenic byway. TikTok

Iconic Formations: Fisher Towers

One of the most striking landmarks along Utah 128 is the Fisher Towers. These towering sandstone spires, sculpted by eons of wind and water erosion, rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. The tallest tower reaches over 900 feet, and the formations are a popular subject for photographers and hikers alike. TikTokInstagram

There's a short, relatively easy trail that leads to the base of the towers, allowing you to get up close and personal with these geological wonders. The hike offers incredible perspectives and photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the rock glows with intense color. The area around Fisher Towers is also a popular spot for rock climbing, adding another dimension to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Instagram

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