- 13.6 miles (typically 3-4 hours)
- Difficult with steep ascents, descents, and many creek crossings.
- Trailhead: Located off Kane Creek Road, approximately 11.3 miles from its junction with Main Street.
Overview
4 wheeling enthusiasts head to Kane Creek Canyon for a chance to tackle some of the most diverse driving terrain in the area. The trail is home to more than 60 water crossings (in an area that is overwhelmingly bone dry), challenging ascents and descents of slick rock, and tight navigation through narrow canyons.
Trailhead
To find the trailhead, begin from the junction of Main Street and Kane Creek Road in Moab. Head west out of town on Kane Creek. You’ll bear left at the first fork, and continue south. At the end of the pavement, you’ll continue to follow the road, crossing the creek several times. Just as the main wide road begins to take a hard right, you’ll find a single land road turning off to the left (your trailhead), approximately 11.3 miles from where you started.
Details
- Distance: Approximately 13.6 miles.
- Average Time of Drive: 3-4 hours.
- Difficulty: Difficult. Highly rutted, steep, and sometimes treacherous conditions, as well as over 60 water crossings. Experienced drivers only.
- Trail Type: Point to point.
- Trailhead: Find the trailhead off Kane Creek Road, approximately 11.3 miles from its junction with Main Street.
Plan & Prepare
This drive is best attempted in spring and fall.
Take Note: Heavy rains can make sections of this trail impassable. Make sure to check current conditions before setting out on your trip. Also beware as flash floods can impact the narrow canyon.
4 wheeling is an inherently dangerous activity and shouldn’t be attempted without the appropriate training and equipment. Following a few basic tips can help keep you safe:
- Understand your vehicles 4 wheel drive system and know how to use it.
- Make sure you know your cars dimensions and lowest point of clearance – you don’t want to get stuck in the middle of nowhere.
- At all times, make sure you travel with at least one passenger and one other vehicle. Take emergency supplies and extra parts.
- Make sure you know your route. Know where you are and know where you are going. In and around Moab, radio towers can serve as useful landmarks.
Careful preparation for your trip will ensure that if, and when, things do go wrong, you are prepared for the situation.
