Salt Lake City to Moab by motorcycle
Most visiting riders land at Salt Lake City International. This is the classic first day: from the Wasatch Front, over the mountains and down into red-rock country.
The route at a glance
- Start: Salt Lake City
- Roads: I-15 south to Spanish Fork, US-6 southeast over Soldier Summit to Price and Green River, I-70 east, then US-191 south to Moab
- Distance: about 235 miles (estimate; check your map app)
- Riding time: about 4 hours without stops (estimate)
- Best for: any road bike. Long straight stretches suit tourers and cruisers.
The ride, section by section
Salt Lake to Spanish Fork. Interstate traffic. If you're filtering, remember Utah only allows it past stopped traffic on roads posted 45 mph or less, at 15 mph or under (Parker & McConkie). Not on I-15 at speed.
US-6 and Soldier Summit. The road climbs through Spanish Fork Canyon. It carries a lot of truck traffic; pass with care and expect wind at the top.
Price to Green River. Open high desert. Fuel in Price or Green River. Green River is the last easy stop before Moab.
US-191 into Moab. The red rock starts. Arches' entrance is on the right just before town.
Arches on arrival
Arches does not need a timed-entry reservation in 2026. You still need an entrance pass, and Fiery Furnace and Devils Garden Campground still need reservations (TownLift, Feb 2026).
Tips
- Leave early. Afternoon heat in Green River and Moab is real in summer.
- Wind on the open desert sections can be strong. Keep a relaxed grip.
- Rules for visiting riders (helmets, eye protection, endorsements): Riding in Utah.
Keep going
- Day two: Moab to Bryce via Highways 24 and 12.
- The full week: the Mighty 5 by motorcycle.