Is there a train to Salt Lake City?

Yes, Amtrak's California Zephyr stops in Salt Lake City.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 20 hours of active driving time.

What is the best airport?

Salt Lake City International Airport is the primary hub.

Are there tolls on I-70?

Most of I-70 is toll-free, but some urban bypasses may have fees.

Is it safe to drive in winter?

Mountain passes can be dangerous; check CDOT reports frequently.

Perryville

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Perryville to Salt Lake City

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

The journey from Perryville to Salt Lake City spans approximately 1,300 miles across the American heartland. You will primarily utilize I-70 West, passing through Kansas City and Denver before crossing the Rockies. Driving is the most flexible option, taking roughly 20 hours of pure transit time. Alternatively, you can drive to St. Louis Lambert International Airport for a direct flight. This route offers a dramatic transition from the rolling hills of Missouri to the high-altitude desert of Utah.

Total Distance: 2,100 km driving distance and 1,750 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from St. Louis takes 5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups, costing roughly 300 dollars in fuel.

Compare Perryville to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	20 hours
Avg Price	250-600 dollars	300-450 dollars
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	STL to SLC via Denver or Las Vegas.	I-55 North to I-70 West through Kansas City, Denver, and I-80 West.
Tip	Book flights from St. Louis Lambert Airport for better availability.	Check mountain pass conditions in Colorado before departing.

Travel Tips

Altitude Adjustment
Salt Lake City is at high elevation; drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Toll Roads
Keep a few dollars in cash for occasional tolls in the Midwest, though most of I-70 is free.
Packing
Bring layers, as temperatures in the mountains can drop significantly even in summer.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your tires are in good condition for the long haul across the plains.
Time Zones
Remember you will cross from Central Time to Mountain Time during your drive.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid I-70 in Colorado during heavy snowstorms due to avalanche risks.
Fatigue
Take breaks every 3 hours to prevent driver fatigue on long stretches of highway.
Emergency Kit
Carry a roadside emergency kit including water, blankets, and a flashlight.
Cell Service
Expect spotty cell coverage in remote parts of Western Kansas and Eastern Utah.