Moab, Utah: A Beginner's Guide To Offroad Adventure

If you're looking for an unforgettable off-road adventure, look no further than Moab, Utah, a mecca for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Since the first Easter Jeep Safari in 1967, off-roaders have been drawn to this iconic red rock playground, where a stunning mix of terrain, breathtaking scenery, and challenging trails have made it a world-class destination for 4x4 enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a newcomer to the off-roading scene, Moab’s rugged beauty will captivate you and keep you coming back for more.

Finding the Perfect Trail for You

With legendary trails like Hell’s Revenge, Metal Masher, Steel Bender, and Cliff Hanger, it’s easy to see why Moab is a bucket-list destination for off-roaders. But for beginners, the sheer number of challenging routes can feel overwhelming. If you're new to off-roading or just want a more relaxed introduction to the terrain, don’t worry, there are plenty of beginner-friendly trails that still deliver an epic adventure. Here are 5 must-try lists you can create to get you started.

Onion Creek: A Scenic Introduction

If you want to dip your tires into Moab’s off-roading scene without tackling challenging obstacles right away, Onion Creek is the perfect place to start. This stunning trail winds through a deep-cut canyon, offering over two dozen creek crossings along a well-maintained dirt road. The red rock formations along the way are nothing short of breathtaking, creating a picture-perfect setting for a laid-back yet adventurous drive.

The best part? Onion Creek is a stand-alone connector trail, meaning you can turn around at any point if you're short on time or want to keep things easy. But if you’re feeling adventurous, continue onward into the Manti-La Sal Mountains, where you’ll find a network of trails leading to other scenic gems like Hideout Road and Castleton Road.

Gemini Bridges: A Shelfy Three-Trail Adventure

This adventure-packed route is perfect for any SUV, but drivers should be comfortable navigating steep drop-offs, as all three trails include lengthy shelf roads. This full-day excursion takes you through Gemini Bridges, Mineral Bottom Road, and Long Canyon, each offering breathtaking scenery and family-friendly stops.

Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to step out, take in stunning viewpoints, and explore hiking trails. For those looking to extend their stay, Mineral Bottom Road features numerous dispersed camping spots along its many spur trails, making it an ideal location for a basecamp under the stars.

Backway to Arches: A Nostalgic 4x4 Escape

Why sit in a long line of traffic with 1.8 million visitors when you can take the road less traveled? Skip the RV congestion and enter Arches National Park the adventurous way, via 4x4. Before 1958, Willow Springs Road was the park’s original entrance, and today, along with Salt Valley Road, it remains a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter, more adventurous route into the heart of over 2,000 natural arches.

Nestled between these remote backroad entries are two awe-inspiring formations; Tower Arch and Eye of the Whale, accessible only by foot or a high-clearance 4x4. These rugged trails weave through deep sand and slickrock ledges, demanding both caution and true four-wheel drive. While this off-road journey can easily take up most of your day, be sure to leave extra time to fully explore the wonders of Arches National Park.

Dome Plateau: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Experience

Perched high above the Colorado River, Dome Plateau is part of a vast network of trails that lets you craft your own adventure. With multiple access points ranging from easy dirt roads to challenging slickrock climbs that can high-center a vehicle, this area offers something for everyone. No matter which route you take, you’re guaranteed breathtaking views.

For those seeking more than just graded roads, start on Owl Draw, where you can explore historic mining cabins before connecting to Highlands Road. From there, head south to the Dome Plateau Overlook, making a quick detour onto Owl Draw Upland to visit La Boca Arch. If you want more of these epic cliffside views, venture out to Professor Valley Rim, where solitude and stunning scenery await.

To mix things up, backtrack to Tub Canyon and link up with Squaw Park, where dense grasslands create the illusion of an African savanna, making you half-expect to see lions and giraffes. For a more adrenaline-pumping route filled with obstacles, follow Owl Draw Upland down to Dewey Bridge for a thrilling end to your journey.

Chicken Corners: A Journey Worth Experiencing Twice

Just minutes west of town lies a network of trails boasting grand vistas, ancient rock art, and a labyrinth of wind-carved caves. Begin your adventure on Kane Springs Road, tracing the Colorado River beneath towering red rock walls before descending into Kane Springs Creek Canyon. Along the way, you'll pass scenic campgrounds, fascinating petroglyphs, and make a thrilling water crossing at Kane Creek.

From there, the trail embarks on a rugged, rocky ascent to the top of Hurrah Pass, where sweeping views of the Kane Creek drainage, the Colorado River basin, and Dead Horse Point await. As you continue down Chicken Corners, a dramatic shelf road hugs the cliffs, before reaching an optional detour to explore Catacomb Rock and the mesmerizing Wind Caves. The route gradually gains elevation alongside the Colorado River before culminating at a breathtaking cliffside turnaround. Here, you can venture on foot to the edge, if you dare, to take in the sheer beauty of the landscape below. But the adventure isn't over yet. Now, turn around and experience the entire drive again, this time in reverse, with a whole new perspective.

Once you've tackled your first trail, you’ll quickly understand why off-roaders from around the world keep coming back to this one-of-a-kind destination.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your gear, fuel up your 4x4, and hit the trails. Moab is calling!