Moab to Laughlin Road Trip: Epic Southwest Journey

The journey from Moab, UT (latitude 38.5733° N) to Laughlin, NV (latitude 35.1678° N) spans roughly 430 miles via US-191 and I-70 then south on US-89 and I-15. This route crosses the Colorado Plateau, descending from 4,026 feet in Moab to 525 feet in Laughlin along the Colorado River. A little-known fact: the stretch of US-191 between Moab and I-70 passes through the ghost town of Cisco, once a bustling railroad stop but now mostly abandoned.

Key Route Details

• Total distance: ~430 miles
• Driving time: 6.5–7.5 hours without stops
• Primary highways: US-191, I-70, US-89, I-15

Plan for a full-day drive with multiple stops to appreciate the diverse landscapes. Use the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities approach to maximize your experience.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While no UNESCO sites are directly on the route, a short detour to Mesa Verde National Park (a UNESCO site) near Cortez, CO, is about 1.5 hours from Moab. Alternatively, Grand Canyon National Park (also UNESCO) is a 2-hour drive from Kanab.

Scenic Highlights

• Arches National Park (near Moab): Over 2,000 natural stone arches
• Dead Horse Point State Park: Panoramic views of the Colorado River
• Goblin Valley State Park: Unique hoodoo formations
• Zion National Park (detour): Iconic canyons and cliffs

Local Commerce and Culture

Moab's Main Street offers gear shops, galleries, and restaurants. In Laughlin, the riverwalk casinos and riverside parks dominate. Midway, the town of Kanab (population ~5,000) is known as 'Little Hollywood' for its film history. Visit the Kane County Historical Museum.

Fuel economy is critical: expect about 18–25 mpg depending on your vehicle. Gas stations are plentiful in Moab and Green River, but become sparse along US-89 between Kanab and Fredonia. Carry extra water and snacks.

Fuel Stops and Costs

• Moab: Multiple stations; average price ~$3.60/gal
• Green River, UT: ~$3.50/gal
• Kanab, UT: ~$3.70/gal
• St. George, UT: ~$3.80/gal
• Laughlin: ~$3.90/gal

Toll roads: None on this route, but I-15 near St. George has express lanes (optional).

Infrastructure and Road Quality

I-70 and I-15 are in excellent condition. US-191 and US-89 are two-lane highways with occasional rough patches; watch for construction near Kanab. Wildlife (deer, cattle) may cross near dusk. No safety checkpoints.

Fatigue Management

• Take breaks every 2 hours: recommended stops include Green River, Hanksville (if detour), Kanab, and St. George
• Rest areas: Exits 149 and 182 on I-70; also near Scipio, UT
• Stay hydrated; drop in elevation increases dehydration risk

Family and Pet-Friendly Stops

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (near Kanab) allows dogs on leash. Most rest stops have pet areas. For kids, the Moab Giants dinosaur museum is a hit. Laughlin has a sand beach and riverwalk pet areas.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

• Factory Butte near Hanksville: A massive sandstone monolith
• Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef National Park (requires high-clearance vehicle)
• Paria Ghost Town: Abandoned settlement near the Arizona border