La Sal Loop Road
The mountain range to the east of Moab is the La Sal’s. What better way to experience the wide variety of Moab terrain than to take a drive through it?
Length:
Time:
63 miles
2-4 Hours
Trail Type:
Loop
Rating:
Season:
Fees:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Summer and Fall
None
This drive combines the different types of terrain and geology that the Moab area has to offer all in one 63-mile loop. From the low point of the Colorado River to the upper slopes of the La Sal mountains, you will experience desert and alpine views at every turn.
Route Info
You can drive this loop clockwise or counterclockwise. This route description will describe the drive going counterclockwise by beginning in downtown Moab and heading south on Highway 191. The views will be different based off of your loop direction but will be memorable either way.
Head south on Highway 191 from center street in Moab. After 8 miles look for a signed turnoff on your left called “Kens Lake”. Head east on the turn off until the road reaches a T. Turn right and follow the signs to Kens Lake. After about a mile, the turn off to Kens Lake will be on your left. Stay straight on the road and follow the signs to the “La Sals”.
Pretty quickly after passing Kens Lake the road will begin to climb up onto the benches of the La Sal range. In 10 to 11 miles you will reach the head of Mill Creek Canyon. This is also the Mill Creek Recreation area. There are trails, lakes and climbing here if you wish to stop and explore the area and stretch your legs. The Mill Creek stream makes its way from here all the way down to the town of Moab. The canyon views from here are quite dramatic and rugged.
Continuing on, the loop road will start making its way north. You’ll pass many cabins and side roads. The turn off to Oowah Lake, Werner Lake and the Werner Campground. Most of the side roads and excursions are dirt roads so plan accordingly if you decide to explore off of the main paved road.
Eventually you will come to the descent into Castle Valley. This scenic valley is framed by the Porcupine Rim on the west and Castleton Tower on the east. After dropping into the valley it is a quick drive until you reach the Colorado River road or Highway 128.
Hang a left on Highway 128 and follow the Colorado River back to Moab. This is another scenic section of road with many recreational opportunities. Once you arrive back to Highway 191, you are a quick 3 to 4 miles back to downtown Moab.