Price to Midway: Utah's Scenic Cross-State Drive

The road from Price to Midway is a 123-mile journey that climbs from the high desert of the Colorado Plateau to the alpine valleys of the Wasatch Mountains. It takes about 1 hour 45 minutes of pure driving, but the route’s geological and historical layers make it a trip that rewards a slower pace.

You’ll traverse US-6 and US-40, crossing the Wasatch Plateau and the historic Soldier Summit. The drive passes through a region that witnessed the rise and fall of coal-mining towns and the construction of the transcontinental railroad.

Here’s a snapshot of the journey:

The landscape evolves dramatically: from the red-rock badlands of Price Canyon to the forested slopes of the Wasatch Plateau. Near the summit, you’ll see the spectacular Spanish Fork Canyon, carved by glacial meltwater.

One UNESCO World Heritage Site lies near the route: the Dinosaur National Monument, which is a short detour north of Vernal, about 70 miles east of Price. Its visitor center houses one of the largest dinosaur fossil displays in the world.

Local commerce along the corridor is sparse. In Helper, a historic coal-mining town, you’ll find the Western Mining and Railroad Museum, housed in a restored 1913 depot. For coffee or a quick bite, Heber City offers several cafes and bakeries.

The journey passes through small communities like Colton and Soldier Summit, where the only stop is a gas station and a diner that serves hearty burgers. For authentic regional cuisine, try a Dutch oven dinner at a local restaurant in Heber City.

To find additional hidden gems, consult how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route is US-6 west out of Price, then US-40 north near Heber City, and finally US-189 into Midway. Roads are well-maintained, with ample shoulders and clear signage.

• US-6 is a two-lane highway with occasional passing lanes, while US-40 is a divided highway for the final stretch.
• Cell coverage is spotty on Soldier Summit, but 4G returns near Heber City.
• Gas stations are clustered in Price, Helper, and Heber City; carrying a full tank is wise.

Fuel costs are moderate, with prices typically $0.10–$0.20 higher than in the Salt Lake City area. A mid-size car will use about 6 gallons, costing roughly $20 at current rates.

Winter driving requires traction devices, as Soldier Summit can receive heavy snow. The summit often has icy patches even in good weather.

The road is generally safe, but wildlife (deer and elk) is common at dawn and dusk. Livestock may cross near ranch gates. Slow down in these zones.

Families will enjoy the Dinosaur Museum in Price, with interactive exhibits. Heber Valley Railroad offers a scenic steam train ride that kids love.

Pet-friendly stops are limited. There are a few rest areas with leashed areas, but no dedicated dog parks until Midway. Pack water and a bowl.

Fatigue management is key. There are two designated rest areas: one near Helper and another at Soldier Summit. The latter has panoramic views but few amenities. The drive is short enough that a single break suffices.

For an off-route detour, take the Old Spanish Trail near Tucker for a gravel road that winds through aspen groves and offers solitude. Or visit the Scofield Reservoir for fishing and picnicking, just 10 miles south of the route.

Local commerce thrives in Midway, known for its Swiss-inspired architecture and the weekly farmers market in summer.