Is there a train from Moab to LA?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service from Moab to Los Angeles.

How long is the drive from Moab to LA?

The drive typically takes between 11 and 12 hours depending on traffic.

What is the best route to drive?

Taking I-15 South through Las Vegas is the most efficient and common route.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Moab require at least one connection, usually in Salt Lake City.

Do I need a rental car in LA?

Yes, a rental car is highly recommended for navigating the sprawling city of Los Angeles.

Moab

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Moab to Los Angeles

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Moab to Los Angeles spans approximately 1,200 kilometers through the heart of the Mojave Desert. Most travelers prefer driving via I-15 South, which takes about 11 to 12 hours of pure transit time. Alternatively, you can fly from Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) to Los Angeles International (LAX) with a connection in Salt Lake City. The drive offers stunning transitions from red rock canyons to the sprawling urban landscape of Southern California. Ensure your vehicle is serviced for high-heat desert driving before departing.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking roughly 5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups or families.

Compare Moab to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	11 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$300-$600	$150-$250 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	CNY Airport to SLC, then SLC to LAX.	US-191 North to I-70 West, then I-15 South through Las Vegas to Los Angeles.
Tip	Book flights well in advance as regional flights from Moab have limited capacity.	Stop in Las Vegas for a mid-way break to avoid driver fatigue.

Travel Tips

Hydration
Carry at least two gallons of water in your car when crossing the Mojave Desert.
Fuel Stops
Fill your tank in St. George, Utah, before entering the remote stretches of the Nevada desert.
Traffic Timing
Avoid entering Los Angeles during weekday rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM or 4 PM and 7 PM.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure and coolant levels, as desert heat can cause rapid tire degradation.
Offline Maps
Download offline maps for the stretch between Cedar City and Las Vegas where cell service is spotty.

Safety Tips

Desert Heat
Never leave pets or children in a parked car, even for a few minutes, due to extreme temperatures.
Night Driving
Avoid driving at night in rural areas to prevent collisions with wildlife like deer or coyotes.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables and a flashlight in your trunk.
Fatigue Management
Switch drivers every three hours to maintain alertness on long, monotonous highway stretches.