Denver to Salt Lake City is one of America's great mountain drives — about 525 miles crossing the Rocky Mountains via the dramatic I-70 corridor. The route passes through the Eisenhower Tunnel, Vail, Glenwood Canyon, and Grand Junction before entering Utah.
Glenwood Canyon on I-70 is one of the most spectacular stretches of interstate in the country — the highway is carved into sheer red cliffs above the Colorado River. Winter driving requires caution and chains may be needed.
Stops Along the Way
Famous for Glenwood Hot Springs — one of the world's largest mineral hot springs pools, perfectly located halfway through the canyon.
A vibrant Western Slope city surrounded by canyon country and vineyards — Colorado's wine country, surprisingly good.
A classic old mining town with excellent dinosaur fossil museums and striking canyon landscapes on the descent toward Salt Lake.
Tips for This Trip
Glenwood Canyon closes in severe weather
Rockslides and floods occasionally close I-70 in Glenwood Canyon. Always check CDOT road conditions before departing.
The Eisenhower Tunnel at 11,000 ft needs caution in winter
Chains may be required. Allow extra time for stops, altitude adjustment, and slow-moving trucks on the passes.
Flying is the practical choice in winter
Mountain passes can make the drive treacherous November–March. The 1.5-hour flight from DEN to SLC avoids the risk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Salt Lake City is about 370 miles (595 km) from Denver in a straight line, and approximately 525 miles (845 km) by road via I-70 through the Rocky Mountains to Grand Junction, then I-15 north into Utah.