Is there a train from SLC to Las Vegas?

No, there is currently no passenger rail service connecting Salt Lake City to Las Vegas.

How long is the drive from SLC to Las Vegas?

The drive typically takes between 6 and 7 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there buses between SLC and Las Vegas?

Yes, Greyhound and FlixBus offer service, though it often requires a transfer.

What is the best highway to take?

Interstate 15 South is the only direct and practical highway route.

Do I need a rental car in Las Vegas?

Not necessarily, as ride-shares and the Las Vegas Monorail provide sufficient transport on the Strip.

Salt Lake City

Las Vegas

Flight Driving

Salt Lake City to Las Vegas

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas spans approximately 680 kilometers primarily via Interstate 15 South. Driving is the most popular method, taking roughly 6 hours through the scenic Virgin River Gorge. Direct flights are available from Salt Lake City International Airport to Harry Reid International Airport. The route passes through St. George, Utah, and the high desert landscapes of Southern Nevada. Travelers often choose this route for weekend getaways to the entertainment capital of the world.

Total Distance: 680 km driving, 580 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight is the fastest, taking 1.5 hours in the air plus airport transit time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of two or more, costing roughly $80 in gas.

Compare Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	6 hours
Avg Price	$150-$350	$60-$100 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	SLC to LAS	I-15 South through Provo, Cedar City, and St. George.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.	Watch for speed traps in small towns along the Utah-Nevada border.

Travel Tips

Hydration
Carry extra water in your car, especially during summer months when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Traffic
Avoid arriving in Las Vegas on Friday evenings to bypass heavy weekend tourist traffic.
Fueling
Fill up in St. George, Utah, as gas prices are significantly higher in rural Nevada stretches.
Parking
Check if your hotel charges for parking, as many Strip resorts have implemented daily fees.
Time Zone
Both cities are in the Mountain/Pacific transition zone; ensure your watch is set to Pacific Time upon arrival.

Safety Tips

Desert Driving
Check your tire pressure and coolant levels before leaving, as the heat can cause blowouts.
Fatigue
The long, straight stretches of I-15 can cause driver fatigue; take breaks every two hours.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables and a flashlight in your trunk.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cell service in the remote areas between Beaver and the Nevada border.