Tourist traveling from Denver to Salt Lake City (Glenwood Springs, Vail: train, vacation)

[Trkstp Tina]

We are thinking of taking a vacation out west to Denver this spring and then driving to Salt Lake City. Which route to Salt Lake City would you recommend--by way of 70 or by way of 25 to 80 through Wyoming? I know from Mapquest that the latter way is quicker, but I'm wondering which way is more scenic and interesting. We also thought about taking Amtrak from Denver to Salt Lake (although it's a very long train ride--about 15 hours!)--if anyone has any input on that as well, would like to hear it. We are a couple with a three-year-old daughter. Thanks!

[ramanboy33]

I-70 through the mountains is MUCH, MUCH, MUCH more scenic. The drive across Wyoming on I-80 is about the most uninteresting and boring stretch of highway in the US. Keep in mind that I-70 doesn't go straight from Denver to SLC - you have to cut up to SLC on UT-191 via Provo.

The I-70 / UT 191 route is slightly longer. In decent weather it takes 8.5-9 hours, whereas the I-25 / I-80 route takes 7.5-8 hours.

Also, when you make the drive could affect your plans (I'm not sure when in Spring you'll be out here). Many people don't know this, but the two snowiest months in Colorado are March and April. While beautiful, the I-70 route isn't much fun in a snow storm.

[Katiana]

Originally Posted by ramanboy33

I-70 through the mountains is MUCH, MUCH, MUCH more scenic. The drive across Wyoming on I-80 is about the most uninteresting and boring stretch of highway in the US. Keep in mind that I-70 doesn't go straight from Denver to SLC - you have to cut up to SLC on UT-191 via Provo.

The I-70 / UT 191 route is slightly longer. In decent weather it takes 8.5-9 hours, whereas the I-25 / I-80 route takes 7.5-8 hours.

Also, when you make the drive could affect your plans (I'm not sure when in Spring you'll be out here). Many people don't know this, but the two snowiest months in Colorado are March and April. While beautiful, the I-70 route isn't much fun in a snow storm.

True, although unless the storm is actually in progress, the road is usually passable. Such a storm would probably impact I-80 as well.

[Jerry Bckr]

I-70 all the way. I've driven both and the 80 route is Boring! Much more to see and do through the mountains. Take your time and check out some of the sites along the way. Grand Mesa, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Canyon, and Vail.

[steveindenver]

I-70 if you can like everyone above has mentioned. The train is almost worth it for the views; but with preferences given to freight it can frequently be 20 hours +.