Introduction: From Alien Lore to Red Rock Majesty
Roswell, NM sits at 3,579 feet elevation and is forever linked to the 1947 UFO incident. Kanab, UT, at 4,970 feet, is known as 'Utah's Little Hollywood' for its film history. The 700-mile route via US-70, I-25, and US-89 traverses three states, eight national forests or monuments, and offers dramatic shifts from high plains to alpine peaks to canyon country.
Drive time averages 11 hours without stops, but this guide helps you extend it to a multi-day adventure. This is one of the best roads for experiencing the American Southwest's diversity. Use the strategy outlined in how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to craft your own unique itinerary.
Route Logistics and Infrastructure
US-70 west from Roswell is a well-maintained two-lane highway through ranchlands to Alamogordo. Then take US-54 north to I-25 in Socorro. I-25 is a divided four-lane highway to Albuquerque. Continue north on I-25 to Santa Fe, then take US-84/285 to US-160 west via Durango, Colorado. Finally, US-89 south to Kanab.
- Fuel stops: Every 30-50 miles on I-25, but 60-80 miles on US-160 in Colorado and US-89. Fill up in Alamogordo, Socorro, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Durango, Monticello, and Page.
- Electric vehicle charging: Superchargers in Roswell, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Durango, Moab, Page. Level 2 chargers in smaller towns.
- Tolls: None on this route, but I-25 uses express lanes near Albuquerque.
Natural Landscapes and Local Commerce
The route sweeps through four distinct biomes: the Chihuahuan Desert, the Jemez Mountains, the Colorado Plateau, and the Sonoran influence near Kanab. White Sands National Park is a must-see just east of Alamogordo. The gypsum dunes glow under sun and moon. Entrance fee $25 per vehicle.
- Very Large Array (VLA): Off US-60 near Datil. 27 radio telescopes. Self-guided tours free.
- Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Seasonal steam train through the San Juan Mountains.
- Four Corners Monument: Only in the area if you want a quick photo op. Entry $8 per person.
- Monument Valley: On the Utah-Arizona border. Scenic drive $20 per vehicle. Iconic buttes.
- Lake Powell / Glen Canyon NRA: Near Page, AZ. Boat tours, hiking, photography.
Local commerce along the route: Roswell's UFO-themed shops. Alamogordo's pistachio farms and wine tasting. Santa Fe's art galleries and Native jewelry. Durango's craft breweries. Moab's outdoor gear shops. Kanab's Western-themed storefronts and art co-ops.
Road Safety, Family Stops, and Fatigue Management
Road quality is generally good, but watch for wildlife on US-160 in Colorado especially at dawn/dusk. Mountain passes like Wolf Creek Pass (10,857 ft) have steep grades and switchbacks. Chains may be required in winter. Summer monsoons bring flash floods in Utah canyon country.
- Rest areas: Every 60 miles on I-25. Smaller highway rest stops on US-160 and US-89. Some are unstaffed.
- Family stops: Santa Fe Children's Museum. Moab's dinosaur tracks. Page's Wahweap Marina for boat tours.
- Pet-friendly: Many motels on the route accept pets. National parks allow pets on a leash in developed areas only. Consider boarding in Moab or Page.
Fatigue management: Plan to stop every 2 hours. Ideal midway stops are Santa Fe (for culture and food) or Durango (for recreation). The route offers abundant scenic pull-offs for stretching legs. Avoid driving through Salt Lake City as it adds time.
Continue Your Adventure
- Chattanooga Raleigh Road Trip Best Stops Scenic Drives Road Trip Guide
- Louisville Kansas City Epic Road Trip Guide Road Trip Guide
- Pigeon Forge Jekyll Island Ultimate Road Trip Guide Road Trip Guide
- Laramie Guthrie Road Trip Guide Scenic Highways Hidden Gems Road Trip Guide
- Detroit Eau Claire Ultimate Road Trip Guide Road Trip Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to drive from Roswell, NM to Kanab, UT?
The drive is about 11 hours without stops, but plan at least 2-3 days to enjoy attractions.
What are the best stops between Roswell, NM and Kanab, UT?
Top stops include White Sands National Park, Santa Fe, Durango, Four Corners, Monument Valley, and Lake Powell.
Is it worth driving from Roswell, NM to Kanab, UT?
Absolutely. The route offers diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains to red rock canyons, with many iconic National Parks.
Are there pet-friendly accommodations on this route?
Yes, many motels and some hotels in Roswell, Santa Fe, Durango, Moab, and Kanab accept pets. National parks have restrictions.
What is the best time of year for this road trip?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather. Summer can be hot in low deserts; winter may cause mountain closures.
Your voluntary support keeps the project running and fuels our future development
