Glenwood Springs to Jerome: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

This 590-mile route from Glenwood Springs, CO to Jerome, AZ follows the Colorado River through the heart of the Colorado Plateau. The drive takes approximately 9-10 hours by interstate (I-70 West to US-191 South and I-17), but meandering through national parks and backroads can stretch it to three days. The most direct route passes through Grand Junction, CO, Moab, UT, Flagstaff, AZ, and finally the winding switchbacks up to Jerome.

A peculiar fact: Jerome was once the largest copper producer in the territory, but today it's a bohemian ghost town clinging to Cleopatra Hill. The drive showcases an extraordinary transition from alpine forests to high desert, culminating in the unique climate of a hillside mining town at 5,000 feet.

Quick Reference Table

The landscapes transition from the pine-covered Rockies to the red rock canyons of Utah, then to the volcanic fields of northern Arizona. In Moab, the entrance to Arches National Park is a must-see for its delicate arches and balanced rocks. Detour to Dead Horse Point State Park for an iconic view of the Colorado River gooseneck.

Further south, the Four Corners area offers a glimpse into Navajo culture, but the monument itself is a tourist trap. Instead, visit the small trading posts in Mexican Hat or Kayenta for authentic Navajo jewelry and textiles. Flagstaff marks a return to cool pine forests, centered around historic Route 66. The city has a vibrant craft beer scene and excellent Mexican cuisine, particularly El Charro or Salsa Brava.

• Arches National Park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle
• Navajo Nation: Photography permits required for commercial use
• Flagstaff breweries: Mother Road Brewing, Lumberyard Brewing

Depart Glenwood Springs on I-70 West towards Grand Junction. After 80 miles, you'll pass through the dramatic Glenwood Canyon, where the highway is carved into cliff walls alongside the Colorado River. At Exit 187 (Rifle), consider a detour to Rifle Gap State Park for a quick swim. Continue to Grand Junction (a good fuel stop) then head south on US-50 towards Delta and Montrose. Alternatively, stay on I-70 into Utah to Moab (200 miles), which opens up Arches and Canyonlands.

The route then follows US-191 South from Moab, traversing the stunning but remote sections of southeastern Utah. This stretch has few services, so fill your tank in Moab. The road eventually meets I-70 again near Green River, then continues south on US-191 through Navajo Nation towards Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, take I-17 North to AZ-260 West, which leads to the winding, narrow AZ-89A up to Jerome. The final 10 miles are steep and curvy; check your brakes and engine cooling.

• Fuel stops: Grand Junction, Moab, Blanding, Flagstaff
• Toll roads: None
• Road conditions: Mostly paved, but US-191 can be single lane in parts

Highway 191 south of Moab is a two-lane road with limited shoulder; watch for wildlife, especially deer and cattle at dawn/dusk. The climb up to Jerome (AZ-89A) has steep grades and tight switchbacks; use lower gears to avoid brake fade. Summer temperatures in the desert can exceed 100°F, so carry extra water and a cooler. Winter ice is possible near Flagstaff.

Family-friendly stops include the Moab Museum or the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park (in the start city). Between Flagstaff and Jerome, the town of Sedona offers beautiful red rock views and easy hikes, but traffic can be heavy. For kids, the Arizona Science Center in Flagstaff is a good rainy-day option. Pets are welcome at most national parks on leash, but check individual rules; Arches allows pets on paved trails only.

• Rest areas: Near Grand Junction, Moab, and Flagstaff
• Fatigue tip: Stop every 2-3 hours; stretch at viewpoints
• Pet-friendly hotels: La Quinta chain widely available