Description

Smack dab in the middle of two other difficult trails, Poison Spider and Gold Bar Rim, Golden Spike is not only hard to get to, but challenging once you are there. Most of the route follows high heart-pumping cliffs that overlook Moab. Some of the highlights of this route include a steep slickrock ramp called Launchpad, a giant slickrock mountain called Skyline Drive, Zuki Hill, a challenging rock gap called the Golden Crack, a steep ledgy area called the Golden Stairs, and a smooth but very steep section called the Wall. You get the point.

• Distance: 12 miles.
• Average Time: 8 to 12 hours.
• Difficulty: Expert.
• Trail Type: Point to point.
• Trailhead: Head to the Poison Spider Trailhead, navigate Poison Spider, and then continue on to Golden Spike. At the end of Golden Spike continue onto Gold Bar Rim back to the highway.

Plan Ahead

This is a long day out on the rock. Make sure to plan accordingly with extra supplies, food, and water.