Spring break road trip itinerary help needed

Nov 21·1 min read

Taking the family from Denver to Moab and back over 5 days. Kids are 6, 9, and 11. Want to do some actual activities/hikes but also don't want to be the family that exhausts everyone. Currently thinking: drive to Moab day 1, spend 2 days exploring Arches/Canyonlands (kid-friendly trails), then spend a day somewhere else on the drive back. Open to suggestions if I'm missing something obvious about that area.

6 comments280 views

Comments(6)

NNeil C.New Dadjust now

How long is the drive from Denver to Moab? If it's more than 8 hours I'd honestly suggest splitting it over 2 days or you'll spend your first day just recovering from the drive.

HHank C.Regularjust now

Dead Horse Point is actually better than Canyonlands for younger kids - shorter views, easier trails, equally stunning. Just a thought based on your group composition.

JJared C.Regularjust now

Split day 1 differently - break up the drive, maybe stop in Grand Junction for lunch/gas, keeps the van energy better. Otherwise your first night in Moab is going to be rough with overtired kids.

BBob G.Regular17h ago

5 days Denver to Moab with those ages is doable. I'd say don't try to cram more than 2 actual hikes - the drive is already a ton of stimulation. Your 6yo will be over it fast.

FFritz N.Regular9h ago

Pro tip: book lodging that has a pool or hot tub. After hiking days, kids crash harder and you get evening time to decompress. Makes the whole trip better.

TTony L.Regularjust now

Arches has some genuinely kid-friendly options - Landscape Arch is short and they get the payoff of something incredible looking. Canyonlands is trickier with a 6yo, be real about distances.