Moab, Utah, is your gateway to the iconic red rock formations, inspiring desert landscapes, and sweeping vistas that define the historic American Southwest. As a destination along our Rockies to the Red Rocks route, Moab is a favourite part of the journey for Rocky Mountaineer guests.
Moab’s remote location adds to its timeless charm, but it also means getting to (or leaving from) there requires a bit of planning. There are several great options for travelling to Moab, and if you’ve booked a package with Rocky Mountaineer, your transfer from Salt Lake City or Las Vegas may already be included.
This guide focuses on three easy travel options to help you get to Moab comfortably and confidently, but the options also work if you’re leaving Moab after your train journey from Denver. Whether you prefer flying, driving, or a combination of both, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Option One: Flying to Moab
The most convenient way to reach Moab by air is through Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT). These smaller airports are closest to Moab, making them ideal entry points for your journey through the American Southwest.
Flying into Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY)
Canyonlands Regional Airport is the closest and most convenient gateway to Moab, just a 20 minute (18 mile) drive from the heart of town.
Direct flights to Canyonlands Regional Airport are available from:
Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport (PHX)
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Upon arrival, you’ll need a rental car or shuttle service to reach downtown Moab. Moab Express provides quick and comfortable airport transfers, but since taxi services are limited, we strongly recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.
For Rocky Mountaineer guests who want to explore Moab by car prior to their rail journey, Canyonlands Jeep and Car Rentals offers pick-ups and drop-offs from Canyonlands Airport or their downtown location at the Moab Adventure Center. Complimentary pick-up and drop-off services can also be arranged from any hotel within a 16 km (10 mile) radius of their Moab office.
Flying Into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)
Grand Junction Regional Airport is another popular arrival point for travellers heading to Moab, though a 1 hour and 45 minute (113 miles) drive is required to reach Moab. Despite this added distance, GJT may still be the most convenient option for some, as it offers a wider selection of direct flights.
Direct flights to Grand Junction Regional Airport are available from:
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS)
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
John Wayne Airport in Orange-County-Santa Ana (SNA)
Moab Express also provides transfers from Grand Junction airport, with the option to add-on a scenic detour along Highway 128, allowing you to relax and soak in your first views of desert scenery en route to Moab.
If you prefer to drive yourself, one-way rentals can be arranged through Enterprise Rent-A-Car allowing for drop-off in Moab.
Booking Your Trip by Air
Search for Flights to Moab
When booking your flight, enter Moab (CNY) or Grand Junction (GJT) as your destination. Most booking platforms, like Google Flights, will automatically find the best available routes, including layovers and connections.
Compare Routes for the Best Connection
If flights to Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) involve long layovers or multiple connections, try searching for flights to Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) instead. Depending on your departure city, one option may offer a shorter travel time or more convenient layovers.
Arrange Local Transportation
Once you arrive at either CNY or GJT, you’ll need to arrange a rental car or shuttle service to reach downtown Moab, which we recommend booking in advance.
Note: Taxis from Canyonlands and Grand Junction airports are limited. To reduce travel complications, we recommend booking in advance or opting for a custom airport shuttle through Moab Express.
Traveller Example:
Joe and Maria plan to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary onboard Rocky Mountaineer, booking the Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic package, a spectacular journey from Moab to Denver.
They’ve chosen to begin their adventure by flying into Denver International Airport (DEN), as it offers plenty of flight options from their home city, Chicago. From Denver, they take a direct flight to Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY).
Upon arrival, Joe and Maria board the Moab Express, and enjoy a short and comfortable drive into central Moab, where the shuttle drops them off at their hotel, Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab.
Option Two: Fly, Then Drive to Moab
If flying into one of the smaller regional airports near Moab requires too many layovers for your liking, consider flying into a larger airport, picking up a rental car, and driving instead. This option not only gives you more flight availability but also extends your adventure with a scenic road trip through the stunning landscapes of the Southwest.
Key Details for Driving to Moab
Moab is accessible from several iconic Southwest cities, and the best route depends on which incredible sights you want to experience along the way. The closest major airports to Moab, Utah include:
Denver International Airport (DEN): Approximately 603 kms (6 hours) via I-70. This route includes beautiful mountain views and passes through Glenwood Springs, known for its hot springs.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): Around 378 kms (4 hours) via I-15 and US-6. A shorter and direct drive, perfect for travellers looking to minimize time on the road.
Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS): About 740 kms (6.5 hours) via I-15 and I-70. This route offers opportunities to stop at Zion National Park and other iconic landmarks of this historic region.
For a seamless transition from air to road travel, Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the best option for travellers flying into Denver, Salt Lake City, or Las Vegas. They offer one-way rentals with drop-off in Moab, perfect for those continuing their journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer. We recommend booking in advance to secure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
How to Plan Your Road Trip to Moab
Book Your Car Rental
Reserve your rental car in advance to ensure availability. Select a rental that offers one-way drop-off in Moab – Enterprise Rent-A-Car is our top recommendation.
Plan Your Route
Use a GPS or mapping service like Google Maps to choose the most scenic or efficient route from your desired starting point.
Make Rest Stops Count
Consider stopping at landmarks or small towns along the way to stretch your legs and make the most of each rest stop.
Ensure a Comfortable Drive
Plan for gas stations, rest breaks, and dining options along your route to make the trip more enjoyable and ensure you are prepared for anything.
Traveller Example:
David and Susan, a couple from Toronto, choose the fly-and-drive option to reach Moab for their 2 Day Rail Journey from Moab to Denver. They opt to fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, where they pick up a compact SUV they pre-booked with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, conveniently located at the airport.
Along the way, they stop at Helper, Utah, a charming old mining town with art galleries and coffee shops. They arrive in Moab in time to watch the sunset over the red rocks, feeling excited and ready to begin their unforgettable rail adventure.
Option Three: Book a Rocky Mountaineer Package with Scenic Transfer to Moab
For the ultimate balance of convenience and adventure, consider booking a Rocky Mountaineer package that includes a scenic motorcoach sightseeing transfer from a major airport to Moab. This option eliminates the need for a rental car while allowing you to relax and take in the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest before beginning your rail journey.
Key Details for Booking a Package with Scenic Transfer
For a seamless and scenic journey to Moab, Rocky Mountaineers offers curated packages that include a guided motorcoach transfer from two major airports:
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): 235 miles (4 hours to Moab).
Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS): 460 miles (6.5 hours to Moab).
These packages include our Rockies to the Red Rocks Mighty 5 Explorer and Rockies to the Red Rocks Excursion Salt Lake City. Both options offer a stress-free way to reach Moab, combining convenience and adventure with stunning scenery every step of the way.
How to Book Your Scenic Transfer:
Select a Rocky Mountaineer Package with a Transfer
Rocky Mountaineer packages can include a scenic ground transfer from Salt Lake City or Las Vegas to Moab, making your journey effortless. Our Vacation Consultants are happy to assist you with selecting the best package for your travel plans by phone or email.
Book Your Flight
Book a flight to Salt Lake City (SLC) or Las Vegas (LAS) based on flight availability, convenience, and preferred airline.
Enjoy the Journey
Upon arrival at Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, step onboard our comfortable motorcoach and enjoy the sights of towering red rock formations, deep winding canyons, and rushing rivers on your journey to Moab.
Traveller Example:
Sarah and James, a retired couple from Seattle, want a stress-free way to reach Moab for their dream rail journey with Rocky Mountaineer. After speaking with a Vacation Consultant, they decide to book the Rockies to the Red Rocks Mighty 5 Explorer package, which allows them to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes with a guided tour of five iconic national parks.
They fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, where our comfortable motorcoach is waiting for them. They begin their journey with a scenic drive through Zion National Park, before spending the night in Bryce Canyon.
The next morning, their journey continues through Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park, before arriving in Moab for the evening. The following day they continue the tour, enjoying lunch at a one-of-a-kind location while taking in the spectacular views of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. After a final night exploring downtown Moab, they embark on their rail journey to Denver.
Your Red Rocks Adventure Awaits!
Natural archways, vast canyons and impressive desert vistas await in Moab, Utah, and getting there is part of the adventure! By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, you'll arrive in Moab relaxed, prepared, and ready to embark on your unforgettable Rocky Mountaineer journey.
Ready to step onboard? Explore our Rockies to the Red Rocks packages to find the perfect journey for you.
