Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway
A breathtaking drive along the Colorado River, flanked by towering red rock canyons and ancient petroglyphs. Utah's Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the rocks
Utah 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the rocks
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.
"Considered one of the most spectacular drives in the USA, this byway snakes along the Colorado River with stunning red rock canyon views."
📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Various pull-offs along UT-128
Discover ancient rock art left by early inhabitants, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Services are limited along the byway. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
☀️ Be Prepared for Sun
The desert sun can be intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
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!
🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
This is a scenic drive, not a race. Enjoy the views and be mindful of other drivers and cyclists.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Services are limited along the byway. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
☀️ Be Prepared for Sun
The desert sun can be intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Utah 128 is a paved state highway for its entire length. It's suitable for all vehicles, including sedans and RVs.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, several trailheads are accessible from UT-128, including those leading to Fisher Towers and various viewpoints along the river.
Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, deer, various bird species, and other desert wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance.
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.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rock formations. The golden hour light truly makes the landscape glow.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Moab, located at the western end of the byway, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores.
Yes, there are several designated picnic areas along the byway, offering beautiful spots to enjoy a meal with a view.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers
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.
🚴 Cyclists & Outdoor Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of the Colorado River
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.
Ancient Petroglyphs and History
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.
Iconic Formations: Fisher Towers
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.
Social
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