Road Trip with RVshare Moab to Albuquerque

This Moab to Albuquerque road trip takes you through Utah's Canyon Country, the Four Corners region, and the high deserts of eastern Arizona, southwestern Colorado, and western New Mexico. Moab gives you prime access to national parks like Canyonlands and Arches. Albuquerque offers many of the amenities and attractions you would find in a big city, like museums, theaters, and plenty of restaurants. In between, you'll explore the wide-open spaces of the American Southwest.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Because there is so much to see on this Moab to Albuquerque road trip, figure out your itinerary before starting. Any of the national parks on this route can take you at least a day each to explore. You may also wish to stay for a few days once you reach Albuquerque to sample the various sights.

Natural Bridges National Monument

Upon heading south on U.S. 191 from Moab, consider a side trip from Blanding on UT-95 to the Natural Bridges National Monument. This park protects three natural bridges, Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo, formed over time by the forces of erosion. Hiking in the park consists of short, easy treks and longer, more strenuous loop trails. Natural Bridges National Monument is an International Dark Sky Park and a perfect place to stargaze.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The monument does not offer RV camping; drive up to Canyonlands or Moab for the nearest RV camping facilities. 

• Seasonality This part of Utah gets brutally hot in the summer; visit the monument in the spring or the fall for pleasant temperatures.

• Gear & Prep: For hiking in Natural Bridges National Monument, dress appropriately for the season, pack one gallon of water for each person, and bring along snacks.

Hovenweep National Monument

Straddling the Utah and Colorado state line is Hovenweep National Monument. This monument preserves six prehistoric sites that date back to the 1200s and 1300s. You can visit the various ruins by hiking to and from each one. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to difficult. Bird-watching is another popular activity here. You can spot ravens, canyon wrens, roadrunners, raptors, and hummingbirds.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Hovenweep's campground can accommodate RVs up to 36 feet long, but there are no hookups.

• Seasonality: Like much of the Four Corners region, the best time to visit Hovenweep is either spring or fall.

• How Long to Stay: If you want to see all the ruins, plan for a full day as the sites are scattered throughout the monument.

Petrified Forest National Park

The I-40 route gets you close to Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Check out the Jasper and Crystal forests, which are home to deposits of petrified wood. In the northern part of the park is the colorful Painted Desert, with its various shades of pink, orange, and red. Hiking trails here range from short loops to longer treks. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Petrified Forest National Park does not have any RV campgrounds, but you can find campsites nearby in Holbrook. 

• Roads: The main road through the park is paved and accessible to RVs, although if you have a larger vehicle, you may want to avoid both Pintado Point and Agate Bridge due to tight turnarounds.

• Seasonality: Spring through fall features the best weather for exploring; winters can get chilly here.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Traveling in the high desert regions of the Southwest means you should have an RV that's prepped and ready. Discover some of the best hacks to make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. 

Alternate Route Options

There really isn't one main route from Moab to Albuquerque, so you have the option of choosing among several itineraries. You can take U.S. 191 south from Moab toward I-40 in Arizona, with a side trip possible to the Four Corners region. From here, you can access Interstate 40 and head east to Albuquerque.

Another route is to take U.S. 191 to Monticello in Utah. From here, take U.S. 491 into Colorado. Stay on 491 through Cortez and into New Mexico. When you reach Gallup, take I-40 east.

Another option is to follow the U.S. 191/U.S. 491 route above to Cortez. Then, get on U.S. 160 east to Durango. Once here, take U.S. 550 south into New Mexico to Bernalillo. Get on Interstate 25 and drive south to Albuquerque.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

Until you get to Interstate 40, a lot of the driving along this road trip takes place along state highways in remote regions of the Southwest. You'll need to be strategic when choosing rest areas and gas stations. No matter the route you take, fill up before leaving Moab. Other towns that make good rest stops include Holbrook, Gallup, Cortez, Durango, and Farmington.

Route Logistics

• Seasonal driving conditions: Snow is a possibility in the high desert regions of the Four Corners. Summer is the monsoon season in the Southwest; watch for strong thunderstorms in the afternoons from roughly June through September. 

• RV-friendly campgrounds or overnight stops: If you want to make this road trip more of a leisurely drive, stop for the night about halfway along the route. Some cities with lots of RV campgrounds include Holbrook, Farmington, and Durango.

• Bonus tip: Take a detour to Monument Valley, straddling the Utah and Arizona state line. When you reach Bluff, Utah, take U.S. 163 and stay on it into the valley. You'll never forget the sight of the sandstone buttes jutting up from the high desert ground, and you'll understand why this region has been featured in so many Westerns.

Select your towable, travel trailer, or Class A, B, or C motorhome on RVshare. Once you have your rig chosen, you'll be ready to take on this unforgettable road trip from Moab to Albuquerque.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Moab to Albuquerque?

To plan an RV road trip from Moab to Albuquerque, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Moab to Albuquerque without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Moab to Albuquerque. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!