The LaSal Mountain Loop Road

The LaSal Mountain Loop Road is a 60-mile paved route, which begins in the desert, then goes up and over the majestic La Sal Mountains giving spectacular views of the 12,000 foot plus peaks and the red rock canyons far below. In summer the climb in elevation provides a relief from the heat. In autumn, the quaking aspen provides a color explosion as the shorter days and cooler temperatures signal to the trees to get ready for winter.

Head south on US 191 for approximately 6 miles and turn left onto Airport Road and continue to the stop sign and make a right-hand turn onto Spanish Valley Drive and continue past Ken's Lake.  After the turn-off to Pack Creek Ranch, a steep ascent begins, topping out with a right-hand hairpin curve, followed by a series of ups and downs before a steep descent into Mill Creek Canyon which, with its peaceful bubbling brook, makes for a great place to stretch your legs. 

As elevation is gained, the temperature falls and the vegetation begins to change. Pinyon and Jupiter trees give way to oak and then to large pines and aspen, spruce and fir.  Along this drive there are numerous overlooks with breath-taking vistas featuring the three unique land ecosystems of alpine, desert and red-rock canyons.  Make sure to stop and enjoy the views as the road will demand your undivided attention during the often steep descent back to the desert below. 

When Castle Valley Road is reached turn left, then continue to scenic Byway 128, then left for 1.5 miles to the Red Cliffs Lodge where many John Wayne movies were made, for lunch.  Visit the Moab Film Museum housed on the property and/or tour the Castle Creek Winery free of charge. 

Heading back to town after lunch, you'll want to focus on the road as it begins to follow the river with its spectacular curves.  Breath taking scenery is in abundance on the well-maintained paved two-lane road with twists and turns as often as the river it follows, through the steep canyons to the intersection with highway 191 just 2 miles north of Moab. The tight curves can catch you off guard, and the beauty can be overwhelming, so watch out for on-coming traffic.

The total time to complete this loop depends on the total number of stops made, but can easily be completed in 4 hours including a one-hour lunch break. For more information: http://discovermoab.com/la_sal_mountain_loop_road.htm.