La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Moab and want to see some of Utah’s most stunning scenery without the hassle of a guided group, the La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour might be just what you need. It promises a flexible, informative way to experience towering red rock formations, sweeping vistas, and unexpected historical sights—all from the comfort of your own car.

I’ll be honest: I haven’t personally taken this tour, but I’ve looked into what makes it tick. What really caught my eye are two standout features. First, the ability to explore at your own pace—stop for photos, take a hike, or linger over a view without feeling rushed. Second, the engaging storytelling through a dedicated app that enriches the landscape with fascinating details, making the scenery come alive with history and nature.

But there’s a small consideration worth noting. This isn’t a guided tour with a live guide or entry tickets included, so you’ll need to plan for any attractions or hikes separately if they require admission, and ensure your mobile device is ready for offline use. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys a personalized adventure that combines driving, exploring, and learning at your own rhythm, this tour could suit you perfectly.

This experience seems ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, educational, and flexible day trip—from families to solo explorers, anyone eager to uncover Utah’s rugged beauty while maintaining control over their schedule.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided format allows you to explore at your own pace and time.
• Affordable price point at $14.99 per car, making it a cost-effective way to access multiple scenic stops.
• Offline accessibility means no signal? No problem—download the app beforehand.
• Engaging storytelling enhances your experience with interesting facts and local tales.
• Multiple stops include breathtaking viewpoints, hikes, and even some filming locations.
• Suitable for most travelers with a car, no need for guided groups or tickets.

What You Get with the La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive

This tour offers a comprehensive route through some of the most spectacular parts of the La Sal Mountains, all delivered through a user-friendly app. For just $14.99, you and up to three companions can enjoy a 2 to 3-hour journey packed with visual delights and stories that bring the landscape to life.

From the outset, you’ll download the Action Tour Guide App before heading to the starting point at Lions Park in Moab. Once there, launch the app, enter your password, and you’re set to go. The beauty of this setup is that it’s completely hands-free—the narration plays automatically as you arrive at each stop, allowing you to focus on the views or take photos without fiddling with your phone.

The tour is designed for easy accessibility—works offline after download, and the app smartly guides you from point to point, making sure you don’t miss any of the highlights. Plus, it’s a purchase you can reuse for a whole year, so if you’re planning a return trip, it’s a real bargain.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Petrified Sand Dunes

Your journey kicks off at the peculiar Petrified Sand Dunes, where you’ll learn that the striking red walls are made of Wingate Sandstone, which was once actual sand—imagine that! The narration highlights that this sandstone formed about 200 million years ago, transforming from loose grains into the dramatic formations we see today. It’s a quick stop, but the explanation adds a layer of understanding to the landscape’s age and origins.

Stop 2: Take Out Beach & Colorado River

Next, you’ll pass Take Out Beach, a popular spot along the Colorado River, known for its paddle rafts, tubes, and kayaks. If you’re into water activities, this stretch is perfect for a break or a quick dip. While the tour itself doesn’t include water sports, the views of floating boats and the river’s lively activity paint a vivid picture of the area’s recreational appeal.

Stop 3: Grandstaff Canyon Trail

A highlight here is the Grandstaff Canyon Trail, a 5-mile moderate hike that rewards you with impressive canyon vistas. The narration suggests that doing this trail can take around an hour and is well worth the effort if you’re into outdoor adventures. It’s a great way to connect physically with the landscape if time allows.

Stop 4: Hauer Ranch & Filming Sites

An optional detour takes you to Hauer Ranch, a spot famous for being a filming location—so if you’re a movie buff or just curious about classic Western scenes, it’s worth the 15-minute drive. Here, you might see some iconic set pieces or even saddle up a horse for a quick ride, depending on availability.

Stop 5: Parriott Mesa

Standing to your left is Parriott Mesa, a long, narrow sandstone formation that stretches over a mile. The narration describes its impressive size and the visual contrast with the lush greenery of Castle Valley, fed by water flowing from surrounding rocks—though interestingly, the valley’s salt origin adds a layer of geological intrigue.

Stop 6: Castleton Tower & Round Mountain

Further along, you’ll spot Castleton Tower, a recognizable summit that’s been a climbing classic since the early days of American rock climbing. It’s a fun visual—looking like a giant thumb poking out of the landscape. Nearby is Round Mountain, notable for its different coloration, possibly due to its unique geological makeup.

La Sal Lookout & Nearby Lakes

Your route offers spectacular views from the La Sal Lookout Point, where you can see the mesas and buttes more clearly. Then, optional detours to Warner Lake and Oowah Lake provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, or even a brief hike. These lakes are secluded gems that add variety to the scenic drive.

Geyser Pass Road & Mountain Views

Finally, you’ll pass Geyser Pass Road, where the towering peaks—Mount Mellenthin, Mount Peale, and Mount Tukuhnikivatz—command attention. These mountains, reaching over 12,700 feet, showcase Utah’s rugged Himalayan-like terrain.

Why Travelers Love and Appreciate This Tour

Based on a recent review, one traveler describes their experience as “fantastic” and highlights the “seamless blend of breathtaking landscapes and fascinating stories.” The narration’s quality and the opportunity to explore at your own pace resonated strongly with them.

Another point travelers seem to appreciate is the great value for money—for just $14.99 per car, you get access to a route filled with stunning vistas, historical insights, and optional side trips. The app’s offline feature means you won’t have to worry about losing signal in remote areas, which is a huge plus.

Several mention that the app is easy to use and offers engaging storytelling, elevating the experience beyond just a scenic drive. It’s these thoughtful details that make it a worthwhile investment for those who want more than just pretty pictures.

The Bottom Line: Who is This Tour Best For?

This self-guided audio tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy exploring on their own terms. It suits those who appreciate scenic views, informative narratives, and the flexibility to linger or skip around. It’s especially attractive for visitors who want a budget-friendly way to see multiple sights without a guided group but still enjoy meaningful stories about the land.

If you’re someone who values independent exploration with a structured narrative to enrich your understanding of the landscape, this tour could be a real highlight. It’s also great for those who prefer driving or hiking and want to mix in some historical or geological facts along the way.

However, if you’re hoping for a guided experience with an guide present, or if you need everything included (like tickets or transportation), this might not tick all the boxes. It’s a flexible, casual way to enjoy Utah’s remarkable scenery—nothing more, nothing less, but often that’s exactly what makes a trip memorable.

FAQ About the La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
No, you just purchase the tour for $14.99 per car and download the app. It’s recommended to book at least 7 days in advance, but you can start whenever you’re ready.

What should I bring?
Bring your mobile device with the app downloaded and your car’s charging cable or a portable charger. For hikes or lakes, consider water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. The app works offline, so download everything while on WiFi.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the stops—like viewpoints, lakes, and light walks—are generally suitable for most travelers. Keep in mind the optional hikes may require moderate effort.

Can I pause the tour?
Absolutely. The narration plays automatically as you approach each stop, and you can pause or resume anytime through the app.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour itself is just $14.99 per vehicle. Any extra activities, such as hikes or visiting attractions like Hauer Ranch, may have separate fees.

Is there support if I encounter issues?
Support is available if you face audio issues or technical problems. The app’s design is user-friendly, and help should be accessible if needed.

In summary, the La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour offers a solid, flexible way to experience Utah’s rugged beauty without the fuss of guided tours or tickets. It’s an especially good choice for those who value independence, storytelling, and scenic exploration—all at a very accessible price point. Whether you’re visiting once or planning to return, it’s a handy tool to make your Utah adventure memorable.