A 60-mile scenic loop that runs over the top of the range and back down again, the La Sal Mountain Loop Road is the best way to see the La Sals up close. However, it can also be a little confusing to find, especially since the road changes names a few times. Here’s a guide to help you find the right turns so you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and stunning vistas from the mountaintops.
If you start in Moab, you can reach the loop by heading either north or south out of town on Highway 191. If you’re driving north, leave Moab and then turn right on Highway 128 heading east. After a few miles, take another right onto the loop road. It can sometimes be tricky to spot the turn on a map app because the road changes names, so look out for “La Sal Mountain Loop Road” or “Castleton Road.”
We personally prefer to start the loop by driving south out of Moab so we can save Castle Valley for the end of the drive. If you head south from the city, take a left when you see signs for Ken’s Lake and La Sal Mountain Loop Road. Once you’ve taken that turn, you can stay on the same road all the way up and down the mountains until you reach Highway 128 at the other end.
However, we would recommend turning down a couple of the dirt roads you pass along the way so you can explore the area a little better. About 15 or 20 minutes into the loop, half a mile past the Mill Creek Recreation Area (the last bathroom for a few hours, by the way), you’ll see the turnoff for Oowah Lake on your left. This dirt road leads to a gorgeous alpine lake that is ideal for hiking, fishing, or picnicking. About two miles down the road from Oowah Lake is Warner Lake, which we also recommend visiting if you have the time.
To make the most of your drive, take advantage of our La Sal Mountains Self-Guided Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
