Moab to Nogales Road Trip Guide

The drive from Moab, UT to Nogales, AZ covers roughly 850 miles (1,368 km) via US-191, I-70, US-163, and I-19, taking about 13 hours without stops. This route traces the edge of the Colorado Plateau, dipping into the Sonoran Desert, passing through Monument Valley, the Navajo Nation, and the historic mining towns of Arizona.

One little-known fact: you cross three time zones if you detour through the Navajo Nation (which observes Daylight Saving Time) while the rest of Arizona does not. Plan accordingly.

Major highways: US-191 south from Moab, I-70 west, US-163 south through Monument Valley, US-160 west, US-89 south, I-15 east, US-95 south, I-10 east, I-19 south. Fuel is plentiful within towns but sparse between Kayenta and Tuba City (about 70 miles). Gas prices rise in remote areas; fill up in Moab and Flagstaff.

• Estimated driving time: 13-15 hours without overnight stops.
• Best stops Moab, UT to Nogales, AZ include Monument Valley, Lake Powell, and Saguaro National Park.
• How long to drive Moab, UT to Nogales, AZ? Typically 2-3 days for a relaxed pace.

Check road conditions on AZ511.gov. Summer monsoon can cause flash flooding near washes. Winter snow possible on I-40 near Flagstaff.

Road quality is generally good on interstates, but rural two-lane highways (US-191, US-163) require caution for wildlife, especially deer and cattle. The Navajo Nation has strict speed limits and enforcement; no alcohol allowed. Family-friendly stops include the Moab Giants dinosaur park and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum near Tucson.

• Pet-friendly framework: Most national parks allow dogs on trails; Monument Valley does not. Alternatives: Petrified Forest National Park (leashed dogs welcome on trails).
• Fatigue management: Use rest areas near Kayenta and Flagstaff. Plan an overnight in Page, AZ or Tucson.
• Hidden off-route spots: Goosenecks State Park (UT-316) for a stunning incised meander; Chiricahua National Monument (off AZ-181) for rock pinnacles.

Is it worth driving Moab, UT to Nogales, AZ? Yes, for those seeking diverse landscapes and cultural depth. Things to do between Moab, UT and Nogales, AZ include rafting the San Juan River, hiking in the Superstition Mountains, and exploring Bisbee's historic district.

From Moab's red rock arches to the towering buttes of Monument Valley, this route is a geological masterpiece. Beyond the famous parks, lesser-known gems like Valley of the Gods (off US-163) offer free camping and solitude. The Sonoran Desert near Tucson boasts the iconic saguaro cactus, best viewed at sunrise.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: None directly on route, but Mesa Verde National Park (off CO-145) is a 1.5-hour detour from Cortez, CO.
• Climatic conditions: Moab averages 90°F in summer, 30°F in winter; Nogales 100°F summer, 40°F winter. Spring and fall are ideal.

Local commerce thrives in trading posts along the Navajo Nation: buy handwoven rugs, silver jewelry, and pottery. In Nogales, the Mercado de Artesanías offers Mexican crafts. For a deeper dive, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.