Mesa to Orderville: Scenic Utah Road Trip Guide

At the junction of US-89 and UT-9, the tiny town of Orderville (population under 600) marks the entrance to the East Zion tourism corridor. This route from Mesa, AZ to Orderville, UT crosses three distinct geological provinces, from the Sonoran Desert to the Colorado Plateau. The drive spans 370 miles and typically takes 6 hours and 15 minutes of pure driving time, not counting stops.

The route follows US-60 west to US-89 north, then drops onto I-17 to Flagstaff before continuing on US-89 through Page and Kanab. Uniquely, you'll cross the Little Colorado River Gorge, a 1,000-foot-deep chasm, via the Cameron Bridge—the only river crossing for 100 miles in either direction.

Here's a quick overview of day-by-day driving segments, though you can adjust based on where you linger.

The route showcases the transition from saguaro cacti to juniper forests, then to vermilion cliffs. Drive through the Navajo Nation, where you'll see the towering sandstone monoliths of Monument Valley on the horizon (a short detour). Near Page, the Glen Canyon Dam creates Lake Powell, a top recreation spot.

Both Page and Kanab serve as commercial hubs, with grocery stores, outfitters, and souvenir shops. Kanab is known as 'Little Hollywood' for its film history. The local commerce thrives on tourism, so you'll find boutique hotels and art galleries alongside standard chain restaurants.

Both US-60 and US-89 are two-lane highways for most of the route, with I-17 as the only divided freeway segment. Expect fuel stops every 50-70 miles, but prices climb sharply at remote stations. As of this writing, gas averages $3.50/gallon in Mesa, but you'll pay up to $4.20 in Cameron or Page, so fill up before leaving the Phoenix area. how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities is key to planning affordable breaks.

• Mesa to Orderville total distance: 370 miles
• Driving time without stops: 6h 15m
• Major highways: US-60, I-17, US-89, UT-9
• Road conditions: Generally good, with some winding sections near Page and Mt. Carmel Junction.

Road quality is excellent on I-17 and US-89, but watch for livestock on open range sections. Wildlife crossings are common at dusk. Plan rest stops every 2 hours; towns like Flagstaff, Cameron, Page, and Kanab have modern services. For fatigue management, pull-offs are plentiful, and the scenic views make for refreshing breaks.

• Family-friendly stop: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument visitor center with hands-on exhibits.
• Pet-friendly breaks: Wahweap Overlook near Page has shaded picnic tables and water.
• Hidden gems: Horseshoe Bend overlook (just 1.5 miles from US-89) and the Toadstool Hoodoos, 5 miles off the highway near Kanab.