Why rent a car at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Welcome to Salt Lake City! Renting a car at SLC International Airport is your ticket to experiencing both the vibrant urban scene of Salt Lake and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. Use the search form above, just enter Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) and your dates, to instantly compare deals from all the top rental brands in Utah. In moments, you’ll see options ranging from compact cars (perfect for downtown and fuel savings) to spacious SUVs (great for family ski trips to Park City or road trips to the national parks). Our platform makes booking quick and easy: filter by vehicle type, choose the best price, and reserve with no upfront payment on most rentals. Plus, enjoy free cancellation on almost all bookings, so you have flexibility if your plans change. With a rental car, you’ll be ready to explore Utah’s famous mountains, reach those scenic trailheads, and even venture to neighboring states on your own schedule.
Salt Lake City’s airport is modern and efficient, and the same goes for its rental car experience. Below, we’ll guide you through the pickup process at SLC’s convenient on-site rental car center, share why a car is the ideal way to get around Utah, and offer local driving tips, from navigating mountain roads in winter to finding the best routes to the ski resorts. Whether you’re here for business downtown, hitting the slopes, or heading down to Moab’s red rocks, we’ve got you covered with great rates, no hidden fees, and friendly service every mile of the way. Let’s get you in the driver’s seat and on the road to discovering the Beehive State!
On-Airport Rental Car Facility: All major rental companies at SLC operate from the Gateway Center, which is adjacent to the parking garage and terminals. After you land and grab your luggage, it’s an easy walk via skybridge from the terminal to the Gateway Center rental car counters (signage for “Rental Cars” will point the way). No shuttle needed, it’s all connected in the main terminal complex. Cars are picked up and returned in the parking garage just a short distance away. This means you can go from plane to car quickly, and when you return, you’ll be just minutes from the check-in counters/security in the airport.
Vehicle Selection: Salt Lake City offers a wide variety of rental vehicles tailored to Utah’s unique mix of urban and outdoor attractions. Economy and Compact cars are budget-friendly and perfect for city use or couples heading out on the road. If you’re here to ski or explore the mountains, consider an SUV, we have plenty of AWD/4x4 SUVs that can provide extra traction on snowy canyon roads (Mid-size and Standard SUVs are popular for ski trips, often equipped with all-season tires; some larger SUVs even have snow tires or can be requested with ski racks). Minivans are available for families or groups (great for a summer Zion/Bryce road trip). Pickup trucks can sometimes be rented if you’re hauling bikes or gear. And for those wanting a little luxury, we have options like premium sedans or full-size SUVs (ride in comfort to that Sundance film premiere in Park City!). Basically, whatever your plans, cruising downtown SLC, driving to Arches National Park, or anything in between, we have the right car for you.
Rental Brands at SLC: You’ll find all the familiar names: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, Alamo, National, Thrifty, Dollar are all on-site at the airport Gateway Center. In total, around 9-10 rental agencies operate here, including Payless and Fox as value options. They’re typically open from early morning (5 AM or so) until late night (past midnight) to accommodate most flight schedules. If you happen to arrive during the few hours counters might be closed (the wee hours), there are courtesy phones to call an agent, or an arrangement will be made, but since SLC has many redeye flights, agencies often staff nearly 24/7. All these brands share the same return garage, which is clearly marked when you drive back. With multiple brands competing, you can often find great rates, and we show you all of them, so you can pick the best deal and company for you.
Picking Up Your Rental: Once you reach the Gateway Rental Car Center (via the skybridge from baggage claim), you’ll see the row of rental counters. Have your driver’s license, credit card, and reservation info ready. The process is straightforward, most renters find they are at the counter only a short time before being directed to the garage to pick up their vehicle. The rental garage is adjacent; you might take an elevator or short walk to reach your assigned stall. SLC’s facility is new (opened with the updated terminal), so it’s well-designed for efficiency. If you have extra drivers, bring them to the counter to show their licenses for addition. If you need any special equipment (GPS, child seat, ski rack), request it at the counter. For ski trips: many cars will have all-wheel drive, if yours doesn’t and you think you need it due to weather, ask if an AWD model is available (it could be a small upgrade fee, but worthwhile for mountain driving). Utah law in winter (usually Nov 1–Mar 31) requires traction devices or 4WD on certain canyon roads when snow is heavy, an AWD vehicle from our fleet can keep you legal and safe. The agent will direct you to your car. Before you drive off, take a moment to familiarize with controls, especially lights and windshield wipers (Utah weather can change quickly, and if you’re heading into snow or rain, you’ll want to know where wiper controls are). Also note the fuel type (almost all rentals are regular gasoline) and verify any existing damage is noted (do a quick walk-around; our cars are generally new and damage-free, but always good to check). Then simply follow signs to exit the garage, the exit leads you onto the airport road system with direct access to I-80 and I-215 freeways.
Navigating Out of the Airport: Salt Lake City Airport is only about 6 miles west of downtown, and conveniently right on I-80. When you exit the rental facility, you’ll merge onto the freeway or city road of your choice. For downtown, follow signs for I-80 East toward “City Center” which merges into I-80/ I-15 briefly and take the exits for downtown (400 South is a common exit). If you’re heading to the ski resorts in Big Cottonwood or Little Cottonwood Canyons, you’ll want I-215 South Belt Route which you can access by taking I-80 East a few miles, then I-215 South. For Park City, you’ll take I-80 East up Parley’s Canyon about 30 miles. We provide free maps at our counter if you’d like one, but your rental car will likely have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto if you prefer using your phone’s navigation on the car screen. One thing to be aware of: Salt Lake’s street system is a grid with addresses in a format like “300 West 500 South”, it can be confusing at first, but GPS will handle it. The key is understanding that “0,0” is Temple Square downtown, and addresses radiate out in blocks of 100. If you ask for directions, locals might give you blocks rather than miles.
Winter Driving & Ski Trips: If you’re visiting in winter for skiing or snowboarding, here are some crucial tips. Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has a Traction Law (Code 4) that can be enacted during storms on canyon roads (like the road to Alta/Snowbird or Park City). This means you must have either chains, M+S (mud & snow) rated tires, or AWD/4WD. Our rental cars in winter are usually fitted with at least all-season M+S tires, which satisfy the requirement. Many travelers rent SUVs for peace of mind, but note, even a 4WD must have M+S tires under law (ours do). Drive cautiously on snowy roads: slow down, avoid sudden braking, and give extra space. The speed limit might be 65 on I-80 up to Park City, but in a blizzard you’ll be going much slower. Also, keep an eye on ski resort parking, many resorts fill lots early; consider carpooling with friends or taking ski buses, which your rental makes easy by driving to a park-and-ride. If you plan to head to places like Bryce or Yellowstone in winter, check road closures, some scenic routes close seasonally. Always carry an ice scraper (we include them in winter rentals) and clear ALL windows of snow/ice before driving (it’s Utah law, and just safe). Last tip: watch weather forecasts, a sunny morning in SLC can turn into a heavy snow afternoon in the mountains. We advise keeping some water, snacks, and a phone charger in the car in case of unexpected delays (like road closures for avalanche control). The good news: Utah is excellent at snow removal, main roads get plowed quickly, and sun often comes out to melt away ice.
Fueling Up: Gas stations are plentiful in the SLC area. There are a couple near the airport (a 7-Eleven with gas on North Temple & 2200 West is very close to the rental center, for instance), though prices might be a bit higher right by the airport. We recommend refueling a few miles out where prices are lower (in the city or suburbs) and then topping off close to the airport if needed. Our policy is to give you the car with a full tank, and you return it full to avoid extra fuel charges, keep your gas receipt from the last fill (some companies ask for proof you filled up within 10 miles of the airport). Note Utah is a self-serve state, pump your own gas. Regular unleaded is usually 85 or 87 octane (Utah commonly has 85 due to altitude; it’s fine for most cars). If your car has a sticker “87 min octane,” go for 87 since some turbo engines require it. Paying at pump will ask for ZIP code if you use a credit card, if international, see if the pump accepts it or pay inside. A quick note: if you’re going to remote areas in Utah (like southern Utah’s national parks), note distances between stations, fill up when you can in small towns because it can be 50+ miles between services in some rural areas.
Sightseeing & Road Trip Considerations: Salt Lake City is a gateway to many incredible places. If you’re doing a National Parks tour (Utah has the “Mighty 5” parks), know that from SLC to, say, Zion or Arches is a 4-5 hour drive. Break up your trip, stay overnight at park lodges or nearby towns, don’t try to rush it all in one day. The interstates (I-15, I-70) to those areas are fast and well-maintained. If you venture off the beaten path (like driving to Monument Valley or through the Grand Staircase-Escalante on scenic byways), ensure your rental contract allows travel on unpaved roads, many are fine graded gravel, but off-roading is not allowed. Generally, stick to marked routes and you’re good. Summer in Utah is hot, so have AC (all our cars do) and perhaps sun protection in the car (windshield sunshade, etc.). Also, altitude: SLC is at ~4,200 feet, parks like Bryce are 8,000+, so drink water and don’t be surprised if the car’s engine feels a tiny bit less powerful (thin air). All rentals handle it but maybe floor it a little more on steep climbs. If you’re here in summer festival season (Sundance in Jan, outdoor concerts in summer, etc.), consider an EV or hybrid rental if available, Utah has charging stations, and it’s eco-friendly. We have some hybrid options if you prefer fuel savings and green travel. Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the drive, Utah’s scenic roads are some of the best in the world. With your rental car, you can stop at viewpoints, take detours to hidden gems, and truly explore at your own pace, that’s the beauty of having your own wheels!
Driving in the Salt Lake area is generally easy and pleasant, thanks to wide roads and light traffic compared to many cities. Here are some local tips:
The Grid System: As mentioned, SLC addresses are on a grid radiating from the downtown Temple Square (100 South, 200 South, etc. one way; 100 East, 200 East, etc. the other). It can be confusing at first (e.g., 2100 South and 1300 East is a valid intersection quite far from city center). But once you get the hang of “the lower the number, the closer to downtown,” it helps. Many roads also have names: e.g., 400 South is also named “University Blvd.” Don’t worry, car GPS and Google Maps handle it fine. Just know that locals often give directions like “take 7th East up to 33rd South…” meaning 700 East to 3300 South.
Freeways & Traffic: The main interstates are I-15 (north-south) and I-80 (east-west) through SLC. There’s also I-215, a beltway around the city. Speed limits on I-15 through the city are generally 65 mph, increasing to 70-75 outside town. Rush hour traffic in Salt Lake (approx 7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) is definitely present but not usually horrendous by big-city standards. You’ll see slow spots on I-15 between SLC and Provo and on I-15 north toward Ogden during peaks. Plan a little extra time if traveling then. The Legacy Parkway (SR-67) is an alternate north route with a scenic vibe (and 55 mph limit, plus no big trucks allowed). If you head to Park City around ski resort opening or closing times, I-80 east can back up, leaving early or late can help, or use US-40 through Heber as an alternate if coming from south. Also, in winter, the Cottonwood Canyons (SR-190 to Brighton/Solitude and SR-210 to Alta/Snowbird) have heavy traffic on powder days, carpool if possible and obey the traction laws. UDOT sometimes requires vehicles stop for avalanche control brief closures; be patient, it’s for safety.
Parking in the City: Downtown Salt Lake City has ample parking. Many streets use metered parking (often via a centralized kiosk or mobile app). Rates are reasonable (around $2 per hour in prime spots) and evenings/weekends are often free. There are also parking garages near City Creek Center, Gallivan Center, etc. which are usually $10 or less for an evening. Around residential areas near downtown, you might see permit zones, watch signs if parking on a neighborhood street. The good news: you won’t face the exorbitant parking fees of bigger cities. If attending an event at Vivint Arena or Rice-Eccles Stadium, plan parking ahead (event rates in lots apply, or use public transit, the TRAX light rail is great for games). Speaking of TRAX: it’s a tram that runs in streets downtown; be mindful of its lanes and signals, don’t turn in front of a train or drive in the train-only lanes (marked with signs).
Unique Laws: Utah’s DUI limit is 0.05% BAC (lower than the 0.08 national standard), so if you drink, even a little, be very careful, or better, use a rideshare. It’s quite strict. Also, seat belts are mandatory for all ages, and police do enforce it. Utah drivers generally are polite, but some have a “autopilot” habit on wide roads, still, road rage is rare. One thing: you’ll notice many large pickup trucks/SUVs, common in a mountain state; just be aware of their presence since they take more space and sometimes, they forget their size when parking!
Scenic Routes & Passes: If you’re an adventurous driver, consider some scenic byways: Alpine Loop (SR-92 through American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon), gorgeous fall colors, but closed in winter; Mirror Lake Highway (UT-150) east of Park City to the Uintas, beautiful high-country drive (also closed by snow in winter beyond a point). Always check if seasonal roads are open on UDOT’s website or local info. If you rent in summer and want to take a day trip to Bonneville Salt Flats, it’s ~1.5 hours west on I-80, bring sunglasses, the reflection is blindingly bright! You can even (carefully) drive on the flats if conditions are dry (rentals technically aren’t for off-road… but driving on the hard salt crust at the edge where everyone does might void insurance if stuck, so do at your own risk). And if you head east to Colorado or north to Wyoming for national parks, remember altitude and grades: give semis room on long climbs and descents, and use lower gear on downhill to spare your brakes (especially heading down steep canyons).
Wildlife: When driving in rural Utah, especially at dawn/dusk, watch for deer or even elk on roads. Collisions happen, and they can be serious. If you see one deer, usually more follow. Use high beams at night on lonely roads to spot the eye glints. In summer, also watch for cattle on open-range highways (if you see a “Open Range” sign, cows might literally be on the road, hit a 1000-pound cow and you’ll have a bad day). Just be alert outside city areas.
Weather Alerts: Utah weather can vary, scorching sun one-minute, sudden thunderstorm the next (particularly in late summer monsoon season). Roads generally handle rain well, but in heavy downpours, minor flooding can occur. If a storm causes flash flooding, never drive through standing water of unknown depth, turn around, don’t drown. And if wind gusts kick up, hold the wheel steady; dust storms are rarer in SLC than Arizona, but can happen in West Desert areas.
Overall, driving here is a joy, low congestion, amazing scenery, and with a little common sense and our tips, you’ll have zero trouble.
Salt Lake City’s central location makes it a superb jumping-off point for road trips. Here are a few exciting itineraries:
Mighty Five National Parks Tour (Southern Utah Loop):
Distance: ~1,200 miles round-trip (if visiting all five Utah national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands), typically 5–7 days.
Route: Head south on I-15 from Salt Lake City (~4 hours) to Zion National Park (via exit at UT-9). After Zion, take UT-9 east to US-89 north to Bryce Canyon National Park (~2 hours). Next, from Bryce take UT-12 (scenic Byway 12) east through Escalante to Capitol Reef National Park (~3 hours). Continue east on UT-24 to Hanksville, then north on US-24 to I-70 east. Take exit for US-191 south to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park near Moab (~2.5 hours from Capitol Reef). After exploring Moab area, return to SLC via US-191 north to I-70 west to US-6 (through Price), about 4 hours from Moab.
Highlights: This is the grand tour of Utah’s famous red rock parks. Zion offers incredible hikes like The Narrows (wading up a river in a slot canyon) or Angels Landing (if you have a permit and a head for heights!). Don’t miss the Zion Canyon scenic drive (use shuttles in peak season). Bryce Canyon stuns with its amphitheater of hoodoos, catch sunrise at Sunrise Point for a symphony of colors on the rocks, and take the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop trail down among the hoodoos. The drive on Highway 12 to Capitol Reef is an attraction itself, winding through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, it has views like Powell Point and the hogback (a ridge with drop-offs on both sides!). Capitol Reef is quieter but fascinating, see petroglyphs and the historic Fruita orchard district (fresh pie at the Gifford House is a must in summer). Arches National Park is next, with over 2,000 natural stone arches, hike to Delicate Arch (Utah’s iconic symbol) in late afternoon for a glowing arch at sunset, or visit Landscape Arch (one of the longest spans) on the Devil’s Garden trail. Nearby, Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district) offers vast vistas; stand at Grand View Point or Mesa Arch at sunrise (the sun silhouettes the arch, photographers love it). On your way back, if time allows, stop by Goblin Valley State Park (off UT-24), a valley of whimsical rock “goblins” kids and adults can wander among. And as you drive US-6 back to SLC, the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway off I-15 near Nephi is a pretty detour if you haven’t had your fill of scenery.
Tips: Summer is hot (90-100°F) in these parks, do hikes early and hydrate often. Spring and fall are ideal. Many parks now use reservation systems or timed entry during peak times (e.g., Zion shuttles, Arches timed entry in summer), check and plan ahead. Drive times can be longer than they look because you’ll stop for photos a lot! Gas up in the bigger towns (Springdale, Bryce Canyon City, Moab) as services are sparse in between. Lodging: consider staying in Springdale for Zion, near Bryce for that park, maybe Torrey for Capitol Reef, and Moab for Arches/Canyonlands. If camping, book sites early or look for BLM (Bureau of Land Management) public lands where dispersed camping is allowed. Don’t try to do too much in one day, better to cut a park if needed than to rush through all five. The loop can be tailored: many travelers do Zion-Bryce-Moab and skip Capitol Reef due to time. And for a cherry on top, detour to Monument Valley (Navajo Nation) 3 hours from Moab to see the famous buttes, though that adds a couple hundred miles. This journey will immerse you in Utah’s otherworldly landscapes, it’s like a road trip on Mars (but with better air and more juniper trees).
Yellowstone and Grand Teton Expedition (Northern Loop):
Distance: ~700 miles round-trip. Recommend 4–5 days.
Route: From Salt Lake City, drive north on I-15 to Idaho Falls (3 hours). Then take US-20 northeast to West Yellowstone, MT (gateway to Yellowstone’s west entrance), about 2 more hours. Explore Yellowstone National Park (likely over 2 days to see key areas). Exit via the south to Grand Teton National Park (Jackson, WY area). Drive back to SLC via US-89 south through scenic Star Valley to Logan, UT (or faster route: from Jackson hop to I-15 via Swan Valley, ID).
Highlights:Yellowstone is a place like no other, geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife. From West Yellowstone, you can head to Old Faithful first, watch the iconic geyser erupt (about every 90 minutes) and explore Upper Geyser Basin with its rainbow-colored hot springs like Morning Glory Pool. Don’t miss Grand Prismatic Spring (best viewed from the short uphill trail at Midway Geyser Basin overlook for full colors). The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is stunning, see Lower Falls from Artist Point (the 308-ft waterfall in a pastel-painted canyon). At Hayden Valley or Lamar Valley, you have great chances to spot bison herds, elk, maybe even wolves or grizzlies (dawn/dusk are best; bring binoculars). Keep your distance from animals, bison may look lazy but can charge quick! If time permits, soak in the Boiling River near Mammoth (a hot springs meets river spot; check if open). After Yellowstone’s wonders, heading south, you enter Grand Teton National Park, the Teton Range jagged peaks rise suddenly from the valley floor. It’s one of the most photogenic ranges in the world. Drive Jenny Lake Scenic Loop, take the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake and hike to Hidden Falls/Inspiration Point for close-up Teton views. Or just admire the reflection of the mountains in Jackson Lake at sunset. The Snake River Overlook (famous from Ansel Adams’ photo) is a must-stop. Jackson Hole town is a fun western-flavored stop (get a bison burger or browse art galleries). On the way back to SLC, you’ll go through Logan Canyon if you take US-89, which is beautiful, especially in fall for leaves and at the summit you see Bear Lake, a large turquoise lake on the Utah-Idaho border (stop at the overlook; perhaps get a raspberry shake in Garden City, they’re renowned). Then Logan to SLC is about 1.5 hours.
Tips: Yellowstone gets very crowded in summer, lodging inside the park often books a year in advance. Consider staying in West Yellowstone for a night and one night at Canyon or Old Faithful area to reduce driving. In-park speed limits are low (45 max, often less), and bison jams (animals on road) can cause traffic halts, be patient and enjoy the encounter from your car. Bring warm layers, even summer nights in Yellowstone/Tetons can be in the 40s °F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common mid-summer; have rain gear for hikes. If visiting May or October, check road status, Yellowstone has limited road access outside summer, some roads open by late May, and close by early October due to snow. Carry bear spray (you can rent it in towns or buy and then donate when leaving) if hiking in these parks, know how to use it (and always hike in groups, make noise to avoid surprise encounters). Gas in the parks is available but pricey, fill up in gateway towns like West Yellowstone or Jackson. Also, the driving distances within Yellowstone are larger than you think, it’s 2.2 million acres! Don’t try to see every corner; prioritize a few areas. Perhaps one day focus geysers, another day focus wildlife and canyon. For Tetons, even a day is magical, sunrise at Schwabacher Landing or Oxbow Bend is spectacular for photos (the calm Snake River reflecting the peaks). This road trip is a journey through a wildlife wonderland and towering peaks, a total contrast to the red rocks down south. You’ll return to Salt Lake City with a deeper appreciation of nature’s diversity so close to Utah.
Scenic Southwest Colorado & Four Corners Drive:
Distance: ~1,000 miles round-trip. 5 days recommended.
Route: From SLC, take I-15 south then US-6/US-191 to Moab (4 hours). Continue on US-191 into Colorado to Monticello and Cortez (3 hrs from Moab). Visit Mesa Verde National Park (near Cortez). Then drive east on US-160 to Pagosa Springs and north on US-160/US-550 to Ouray, CO (the Million Dollar Highway scenic route). Return via I-70 west through Grand Junction to SLC (or backtrack via Moab).
Highlights: This loop dips into the Four Corners region (where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona meet) and showcases ancient cultures and high mountains. After possibly seeing Moab’s parks (Arches/Canyonlands) en route (see earlier itinerary), head to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, it’s famous for cliff dwellings, the stone villages built into cliff alcoves by the Ancestral Puebloans (Anasazi) ~800 years ago. Take a ranger-guided tour of Cliff Palace or Balcony House to actually climb into these ancient apartments (note: involves ladders and crawling through a tunnel for Balcony House, but it’s amazing). It’s fascinating to imagine life tucked in those cliffs. Next, near Four Corners, you can literally stand in four states at once at the Four Corners Monument (Navajo Nation site, small fee, lots of vendor stalls with native crafts, worth a quick stop for the novelty). Then in Pagosa Springs, enjoy a soak in natural hot springs alongside the San Juan River (great relaxation!). Heading north, US-550 from Durango to Ouray, nicknamed the Million Dollar Highway, is one of America’s most thrilling drives, incredibly scenic but do drive carefully (steep drop-offs, no guardrails in parts). You’ll pass through Silverton, an old mining town turned tourist stop (maybe ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad if time permits, a historic steam train). Ouray is a charming mountain town, known as “Switzerland of America” for its dramatic peaks, take a dip in Ouray’s public hot springs pool or do a section of the Perimeter Trail that circles town with views of waterfalls. On the way back west, stop at Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction, a smaller park with gorgeous red rock canyons and monoliths (the Rim Rock Drive is a nice loop with viewpoints, well worth an hour or two). Then I-70 west takes you through the high desert and the interesting San Rafael Swell area in Utah (if time, detour on UT-24 to Goblin Valley or hike Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon). Finally, you’ll pass by Wasatch Front mountains re-entering SLC from the east.
Tips: This is a multi-state tour, so check rental car policies if crossing into NM/AZ briefly at Four Corners (totally fine, unlimited miles and no restrictions). Altitudes range from 4,000 ft in Moab to 11,000 ft on passes on Million Dollar Hwy, your car will climb, just drop to lower gear if needed and don’t ride brakes on downhills. Summer storms can slick the mountain roads, take it slow in rain. In winter, the passes can be very snowy, unless you are experienced with winter mountain driving, avoid Million Dollar Hwy in bad winter conditions (there’s an alternate via Cortez to Montrose that’s gentler). Reservations: if you want a Mesa Verde tour, book on recreation.gov ahead of time for your date. Lodging in Silverton/Ouray is limited, plan ahead or stay in Durango (bigger town). Fuel up in major towns (Durango or Montrose) as mountain towns have pricier gas. And definitely try some local southwest food, maybe green chile dishes in Colorado’s San Juan region, or Navajo fry bread at Four Corners stands. This trip combines archaeology, relaxation, and alpine adventure in one loop, a fantastic blend of the southwest’s lesser-known gems.