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, beautifully manicured ranch resorts, natural springs, and enough red rock to overload the senses.
Start the drive off with a stop by Matrimony Spring - a natural spring where many have stopped for years to fill up their bottles or to simply enjoy seeing the fresh water gush from the rockside.
Continue up the windy road 8 miles to Big Bend Campground, where you can sit aside the river and enjoy the beautiful surrounding red-rock landscape.
Further up the road at Mile 14, the tight canyon walls will open up and Red Cliffs Lodge sits majestically in the open valley. The lodge offers incredible horseback riding tours, free movie museum, delicious meal options, and an award-winning winery on-site.
After an enjoyable lunch and wine tasting at the resort, continue to mile 21 where a right turn option off highway 128 take you toward the Fisher Towers - a great opportunity for an easy to moderate hiking.
Once back on highway 128, travel up to mile 23: Hittle Bottom Campground; another great opportunity to sit aside the river and enjoy the rocky landscapes.
This is a great point to either continue up the highway to the junction of I-70; or turn around and head back towards the town of Moab.
Free Insiders Guide to Moab, UTWhat to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Our Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.
Expedition GuideWhat to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Not unlike your own personal Jiminy Cricket, (minus the worries of the little guy getting smooshed) the Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.
