Salt Lake City to Hanksville: Utah's Scenic Desert Drive

Measuring 225 miles via US-89 and I-70, the drive from Salt Lake City to Hanksville swings through some of Utah's most dramatic transitions—from the urban Wasatch Front to the rust-red slickrock of the San Rafael Swell. This route closely follows the path of the Old Spanish Trail, a historic trade route linking Santa Fe to California. Notably, the San Rafael Swell itself is a massive geological dome that forced the interstate to carve through its core, creating the stunning 16-mile-long Reef Road (Exit 131).

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

Best months: April–May and September–October for moderate temps. Summer highs exceed 100°F; winter can bring snow on I-70 near Salina. The low humidity creates crisp views. Sun glare is intense at sunrise/sunset.

Infrastructure Safety

Roads are patrolled; emergency call boxes exist on I-70 but not on UT-24. Carry water and a first aid kit. Wildlife (deer, pronghorn) crossings are common at dawn/dusk.

Family and Child Suitability

Goblin Valley State Park is a hit with kids—they can scramble among the hoodoos. The John Wesley Powell Museum in Green River (just north) offers interactive exhibits. For restaurants, Ray's Drive-In in Salina serves classic burgers and shakes.

• Pet-Friendly: Goblin Valley allows leashed pets on trails
• Rest zones: Scenic overlooks on I-70; rest areas near Salina
• Fatigue management: Take a break every 2 hours; stop at the Salina Dairy Queen

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Explore the Buckhorn Wash pictograph panel (south of I-70, unpaved road). Or visit the Swing Arm City ghost town near I-70 exit 114—remnants of a uranium mining boom. For dining, try the Hollow Mountain Gas Station at exit 231 (built inside a rock).

For more tips on uncovering lesser-known stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations cluster at major junctions: Fill up in Salt Lake City, then again in Richfield (mile 140) or Salina (mile 150). After that, the next reliable station is in Hanksville itself. Prices tend to be 10-15% higher in rural areas. The route consumes about 10 gallons in an average sedan. Using cruise control on I-70 can improve fuel economy by up to 8%.

• Salt Lake City to Richfield: 140 miles (2 hrs)
• Richfield to Hanksville: 85 miles (1.5 hrs)
• Alternative fuel: Ethanol-free gas available at Maverik stations in Salina
• EV charging: Level 2 chargers in Richfield and Hanksville; plan for a top-up

Road Quality and Navigation

I-15 and I-70 are well-maintained interstates with 80 mph speed limits. US-89 from I-15 to I-70 is a two-lane highway with occasional passing lanes. UT-24 from I-70 to Hanksville is a narrow but paved road with curves and elevation changes. Cell coverage is spotty from Salina onward—download offline maps.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While no full UNESCO sites lie directly on the route, Capitol Reef National Park (part of the Grand Staircase–Escalante system) is a short detour from Hanksville. Capitol Reef is a candidate for future UNESCO recognition due to its Waterpocket Fold.

Geological Highlights

Between Salina and Hanksville, I-70 cuts through the San Rafael Swell—a 75-mile-long, 1000-foot-high anticline. The reef’s exposed Navajo Sandstone creates slot canyons and slickrock domes.

• San Rafael Reef Overlook (UT-24): Panoramic view of the reef
• Goblin Valley State Park (off UT-24): Hundreds of hoodoos
• Little Wild Horse Canyon (near Goblin Valley): Slot canyon hike

Local Commerce and Culture

Richfield offers dining and motels. Salina's historic downtown has a soda fountain and antique shops. Hanksville is a service town with a general store, two gas stations, and the Whispering Sands Motel. The nearby Mars Desert Research Station (off-season tours) draws scientists and space enthusiasts.