Road Trip Adventure: Burlington, Iowa to Kanab, Utah!
Are you ready for a wild adventure through America's heartland and the rocky mountains? Look no further than the scenic drive from Burlington, Iowa to Kanab, Utah. With several route options, this drive can take anywhere from 20 hours to multiple days depending on your preferred stops and detours.
The Classic Route - 1,280 miles
For those looking for the most direct route, simply take I-80 West through Nebraska and Wyoming, then follow I-15 South through Utah to Kanab. This route covers 1,280 miles and can take around 20 hours of non-stop driving. Avoiding major cities, this option is perfect for those who want to feel immersed in the stunning countryside and can make a cross-country road trip out of it.
Recommended stops
- Omaha, Nebraska: Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, or take a stroll through the Old Market District for shopping and dining.
- Cheyenne, Wyoming: Explore the frontier history at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum or take a tour of the Wyoming State Capitol.
- Park City, Utah: Take a break for some outdoor adventure at Park City Mountain Resort, or relax with some world-class spa treatments at Montage Deer Valley.
The Scenic Route - 1,580 miles
If breathtaking views are a must, consider taking US-20 West through Iowa and Nebraska, then connecting to US-385 South through South Dakota to I-90 West. From there, take I-25 South through Colorado to I-70 West, which will eventually lead to I-15 South to Kanab. This 1,580 mile route adds a few extra hours of driving time but offers an unforgettable experience. Stop and explore the Badlands National Park, the majestic Black Hills, and the Rocky Mountains.
Recommended stops
- Sioux City, Iowa: Visit the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a national historic landmark, or the the Sioux City Art Center.
- Rapid City, South Dakota: Check out the life-sized bronze sculptures at the City of Presidents or learn about the Lakota tribe at the Museum of the American Bison.
- Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Soak in the world's largest hot springs at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort or take a dip in the Vapor Caves.
The Off-the-Beaten-Path Route - 1,500 miles
For those who want to trade the highways for smaller roads with quirkier charm, try this route that tracks through Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Arizona and Utah. Take US-34 West through Iowa and Nebraska, then take US-36 West through Missouri and Kansas. Continue with US-24 West through Colorado and then take US-191 South through Utah to Kanab. This drive covers 1,500 miles and can take a little over 24 hours of non-stop driving.
Recommended stops
- Red Oak, Iowa: See the birthplace of actress Esther Williams, or tour the Red Oak Express Newspaper Museum.
- Nicodemus, Kansas: Discover the only remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi or join in the annual Emancipation Celebration in August.
- Cortez, Colorado: Marvel at the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park or browse the funky boutiques in the historic downtown.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to take numerous stops to stretch your legs and experience the best of the Midwest and Rocky Mountains. Happy driving!