From Moab to Gateway: Easy Scenic Off-Road Drive Over the La Sal Mountains (Fall Colors!)

Описание: Experience one of the most scenic and easy off-road drives near Moab, Utah as we travel from Bull Canyon Overlook high above the Colorado River, across the stunning La Sal Mountains, and descend into the dramatic red rock landscapes of Gateway, Colorado. This route is perfect for those looking for beginner-friendly off-roading near Moab with nonstop scenery and incredible fall colors.

In this video we begin at Bull Canyon Overlook, where sweeping views stretch across the Colorado River canyon and the red rock fins surrounding Moab. From there, the drive climbs into the cooler alpine elevations of the La Sal Mountains. In the fall, this area transforms with vibrant golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and dramatic contrasts between snow-dusted peaks and Utah’s iconic desert sandstone.

Here is a full description of how to go from Moab to Gateway:
🚗 Route Description
1️⃣ Moab → Hwy 128 (Paved)
From Moab, head north on US-191 for about 2 miles.
Turn right onto Utah State Route 128 toward Cisco.
Follow 128 along the Colorado River.
⏱ ~25–30 minutes from Moab to the La Sal Loop turnoff.

2️⃣ Hwy 128 → La Sal Loop Road (Paved Climb)
Turn right onto La Sal Loop Road (signed).
This road is fully paved and climbs into the La Sal foothills.
Continue following signs toward Castle Valley / Geyser Pass.
⏱ About 25–35 minutes climbing.

3️⃣ La Sal Loop → Bull Canyon Overlook (Paved)
Stay on La Sal Loop Road toward Castle Valley.
Watch for the signed turnoff for Bull Canyon Overlook.
The road to the overlook is paved all the way to the viewpoint parking area.
This overlook sits high above the Colorado River canyon with dramatic views.
⏱ Roughly 10–15 minutes from the main loop road to the overlook.

4️⃣ Bull Canyon Area → John Brown Canyon (Dirt Begins)
From the Bull Canyon area, continue following signs toward John Brown Canyon.
The pavement ends and transitions to a graded dirt road.
This section becomes progressively rougher as you head toward Colorado.
High-clearance recommended; 4WD helpful depending on conditions.
⏱ Allow 1.5–2.5 hours for this dirt stretch depending on road conditions and stops.

5️⃣ John Brown Canyon → Gateway (Dirt to Paved)
The road descends through John Brown Canyon.
Eventually you reach pavement near Highway 141.
Turn as signed toward Gateway.
You’ll arrive in the small community of Gateway along the Dolores River.
🕒 Total Driving Time
➤ One Way (Moab → Gateway via this route)

Paved sections: ~1.25–1.5 hours
Dirt section: ~1.5–2.5 hours
Estimated total: 3–4.5 hours one way

➤ Round Trip (same route back)
6–9 hours total driving time

Add extra time for:
Photos at Bull Canyon
Slow dirt conditions
Wildlife or washboard sections

🚙 Vehicle Notes
Passenger car is fine to Bull Canyon Overlook.
From there to Gateway: high clearance strongly recommended.
After rain, the dirt can become muddy and slow.

High-elevation meadows and aspen groves glowing with fall color

Wildlife such as deer and wild turkey in the early mornings and evenings

This scenic backcountry route is considered easy, but drivers should always check conditions before heading out. In fall especially:

Watch for early snow or muddy sections at higher elevations

Bring extra water and layers — temperatures can vary dramatically

Ensure you have a high-clearance vehicle

Download offline maps, as cell service is limited

Be mindful of hunting season and share the road responsibly

Descending into western Colorado, the landscape shifts again into rugged canyon country as we approach Gateway, Colorado, a quiet and scenic outpost along the Dolores River.

Near Gateway, we explore John Brown Canyon, known for:

Towering red rock canyon walls

Remote desert beauty with fewer crowds than Moab

Sweeping desert views and peaceful backcountry camping opportunities

This drive showcases the incredible diversity of terrain in just one day — from river canyons to alpine mountains to high desert red rock. It’s a perfect addition to any Moab itinerary if you’re looking for scenic overland routes, fall color drives, or easy off-roading adventures near Moab, Utah.

This video is Part 13 of our 16-part series featuring scenic drives and beginner-friendly off-road trails near Moab, Utah. Be sure to check out the full playlist for more routes that combine adventure with incredible views.

If you enjoy scenic backcountry drives, overlanding routes, and hidden gems near Moab, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow along for the rest of the series.


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