“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
— John Muir
$14.99
La Sal Mountain Loop Self Guided Driving Tour
Just outside Moab…the desert does something unexpected.
The red rock fades. The air cools. And suddenly—you’re climbing into real mountains.
On this cinematic La Sal Mountain Loop Road scenic drive, you’ll leave the Colorado River behind and rise into a completely different world—alpine lakes, aspen forests, and peaks that almost became volcanoes.
But this isn’t just another Moab scenic drive.
It’s a journey through extremes.
Along the way, you’ll discover:
How the La Sal Mountain Loop was formed by “failed volcanoes”
The story of a river that carved through mountains like a saw
Dinosaur tracks left behind on what is now a cliff edge
The rise and fall of gold rush towns in the mountains
Outlaws, explorers, and pioneers who crossed this land
Why Castle Valley exists because the earth literally collapsed
This is one of the most unique Moab Utah scenic drives—a loop where desert, river, and mountains collide.
Tour Highlights / What You'll See
This immersive La Sal Mountain Loop scenic drive blends geology, history, and unforgettable views.
Colorado River Scenic Corridor (UT-128)
Start along one of the most beautiful Moab scenic drives, with towering canyon walls and the Colorado River carving its path through rock for millions of yearsGrandstaff Canyon & Morning Glory Arch
A hidden oasis hike leading to one of the longest natural rock spans in the U.S.Laccolith Mountains (Failed Volcanoes)
Learn how the La Sal Mountains formed when magma rose—but never broke through the surface.Castle Valley & Parriott Mesa
A surreal landscape shaped by collapsing salt beds and erosion, creating towering rock formations.Castleton Tower
One of the most iconic desert spires in the world—and a legendary climb.Round Mountain Volcanic Plug
A rare glimpse of hardened lava that once tried to erupt 24 million years ago.La Sal Mountains Lookout Point
Stand above Moab and take in sweeping views of mesas, buttes, and the Colorado River.Oowah Lake & Alpine Forests
Escape the desert heat and enter a cool, high-elevation world of lakes and pine forests.Ken’s Lake & Faux Falls
End your journey at a peaceful reservoir with a surprising man-made waterfall.
This is one of the most diverse Moab scenic drives—all in a single loop.
Price:
$14.99
Tour Route Map
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the La Sal Mountain Loop Road?
It’s a scenic drive just outside Moab that connects the Colorado River corridor with high alpine terrain in the La Sal Mountains.
How long does the La Sal Mountain Loop scenic drive take?
Driving only: ~2–3 hours
With stops: 4–6 hours recommended
Is this one of the best Moab scenic drives?
Yes—this is one of the most underrated Moab Utah scenic drives, offering both desert and mountain landscapes.
Do I need a high-clearance vehicle?
No for the main loop, but side roads (like Oowah Lake) may require higher clearance depending on conditions.
When is the best time to drive the La Sal Mountain Loop?
Spring through fall. Snow can close sections in winter.
Is this a self guided tour?
Yes—this is a GPS-based La Sal Mountain Loop self guided driving tour that plays automatically as you drive.