Road Trippin’ Utah State Route 191/163

From Interstate-70 to Monument Valley

On this week’s KSL Outdoors Show, we are talking about state routes 191/163 that run from Interstate-70 north of Moab to the Four Corners region in the southeast corner of Utah.

It’s the Journey, Not the Destination

This route is packed full of iconic landmarks, scenery, and interesting roadside attractions, it is much more than just a road to Moab and Monument Valley. The map below highlights a few of the roadside attractions and points of interest that are accessible and worth visiting. Information about these places is detailed in the tabs below. We’ll also pin major attractions to the map that are accessible from the route.

Crescent Junction to Moab

Crescent Junction Rest Area – Great panoramic views from her of the Book Cliffs and red rock country to the south. The panels are located approximately four miles north of Thompson Springs.
Sego Canyon Rock Art – Wonderful displays of Fremont era petroglyphs and Barrier Canyon Style pictographs that are unique to the Canyonlands and San Rafael Swell region.
Utahraptor State Park – Created in 2021, this is a primitive park that is still in the development phase. Located 15 miles north of Moab and includes the popular recreation spots of the Dalton Wells and Willow Springs areas.
Moab Giants – Located at the junction 191/313 where you turn to go to Dead Horse Point and Canyonlands. We frequently take our groups here for lunch and when we have private family tours. There is a 5D Prehistoric Aquarium, walking trail with more than 100 dinosaur exhibits, cafe, and gift shop. Click here for more information.
Arches National Park Entrance – The main entrance is located on 191 five miles north of Moab. Reservations are required from April 1 – October 31. Information and instructions are located here.
Courthouse Wash Rock Art – Located slightly north of the Colorado River bridge and on the north side of the highway right on the bend. The panel is located within the boundaries of Arches National Park. There are several generations of ancient native Americans represented on this panel of pictographs and petroglyphs. Please be respectful of these fragile and sacred sites and know the rules.

Moab to Monticello

Hole ‘N’ The Rock – Located 12 miles south of Moab is a unique roadside attraction that appeals to all ages. This 5,000 sq ft house carved into a sandstone hill is worth a visit. In addition to the rock house there is a petting zoo and “village” of metal sculptures, vintage neon signs, trading post and general store. Click here for details.
Wilson Arch – Named after pioneer, Joe Wilson who lived in the area. Standing 46 ft. high, this 91 ft. arch is located 24 miles south of Moab and is situated right off the highway on the east side of the road. There is parking on both sides of the road.
Church Rock – This solitary rock located on the east side of the highway is near the junction of 191/211, which is the road to Newspaper Rock and the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This 200 ft. rock stands out and seems out of places at this location. Most travelers give it a casual glance, but the shape has always stood out gaining our attention. We think it’s worth more than a glance.

Monticello to Bluff

Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum – Located in the town of Blanding Utah, this state park museum houses a large collection of Ancestral Puebloan artifacts from the Four Corners Region. There’s is also an authentic Puebloan village behind the museum. Click here for more information.
The Dinosaur Museum – This Dinosaur Museum offers a comprehensive history of dinosaurs. A collection of skeletons, fossils, footprints, sculptures and more from the Four Corners region and other parts of the world are well represented. The museum is season, click here for details.
Twin Rocks (Navajo Twins) – Located behind Twin Rocks Cafe and Trading Post in Bluff Utah. These twin rocks were named for the Hero Twins, who held great power in Navajo creation stories. The twin rocks also symbolize twin prayer sticks that bless and watch over the Navajo to this day.
Bluff Fort – This beautifully restored historic site is located in the center of Bluff Utah. The story is recounted of the long arduous trek taken by early pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that began in Parowan Utah 250 miles away.

Bluff to Monument Valley

Sand Island Petroglyphs Panel – More than 100 yards in length, this panel of ancient petroglyphs is estimated to being 800 to 2,500 years old. It’s situated near the Sand Island Campground on the banks of the San Juan River southwest of Bluff which is the launching site for boats and river trips.
Valley of the Gods – Known as a miniature Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods is located 17 miles south of Bluff. There is a 17-mile loop on a graded gravel and clay surface road that is suitable for passenger cars but not recommended when wet.
Mexican Hat Rock – 26 miles south of Bluff is a rock formation that resembles a sombrero. Watch for the dirt road you can take to get a closer look and where a hiking trailhead can be found.
Forest Gump Hill / Monument Valley Overlook – You’ve most likely seen the movie. Remember the scene when Forest Gump stops running with the group of followers behind him? He then says, “I’m pretty tired. Think I’ll go home now.” This is where that scene took place. Click here to see photos and movie scene.
Monument Valley – Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii (Navajo), means Valley of the Rocks. The formations and landscapes of this tribal park, was dubbed Monument Valley by movie director John Ford, are very recognizable from the many movies and commercials that have been used as a backdrop. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park | Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation