No, there is no direct passenger rail service between Des Moines and Salt Lake City.

How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 17 to 19 hours of driving time.

Are there direct flights?

No, flights from Des Moines to SLC typically require a connection.

Yes, the stretch through Wyoming offers dramatic mountain and high-desert scenery.

What is the best route?

I-80 West is the most direct and well-maintained route.

Des Moines

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Des Moines to Salt Lake City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Des Moines to Salt Lake City spans approximately 1,850 kilometers across the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The primary driving route is I-80 West, which offers a direct path through Nebraska and Wyoming. Flying is a popular alternative, with flights connecting through hubs like Denver. This journey takes you from the rolling hills of Iowa to the high-altitude desert of Utah.

Total Distance: 1,850 km driving, 1,580 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking about 5 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for multiple passengers.

Compare Des Moines to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	17 hours
Avg Price	$300-$550	$250-$400 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	DSM to DEN or SLC.	I-80 West through Omaha, Cheyenne, and Laramie.
Tip	Flights into SLC are frequent; book early for better pricing.	Be prepared for high winds in Wyoming, especially if driving a high-profile vehicle.

Travel Tips

Altitude
Salt Lake City is at high altitude; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Public Transit
Use the TRAX light rail system for easy travel around the city and to the airport.
Ski Season
If visiting in winter, check road conditions for mountain passes before driving to resorts.
Dining
Explore the diverse food scene in the Sugar House neighborhood.
National Parks
Use SLC as a base to visit the 'Mighty 5' national parks in southern Utah.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain grades on I-80 to prevent brake overheating.
Winter Weather
Carry tire chains if traveling through Wyoming or Utah during winter months.
Wind Safety
Wyoming is known for extreme crosswinds; keep both hands on the wheel.
Emergency Supplies
Keep blankets and extra food in your car, as services can be sparse in rural Wyoming.