Moab 4-Wheeling
Moab is a must visit destination for those who love scenic adventures.
The easiest way to cover the most ground out here is in a vehicle — and we’re a world-renowned destination for doing so. Off-roaders who want to see everything and off-roaders who want to test their rig can each find satisfying adventures here. Routes range from bumpy gravel roads created for the uranium mining industry to white-knuckle drops chosen for fun: This is where skill, patience, and a little nerve come standard.
Bring your own 4x4, rent one in town, or ride shotgun with a seasoned guide who knows the terrain like a second language. And trust the community who built this area: the Red Rock 4-Wheelers developed the difficulty system we rely on and host local off-roading events like the annual Easter Jeep Safari. Whether you’re easing into your first slickrock climb, chasing a more technical route you’ve been working up to, or navigating the road so you can see a scenic viewpoint, Moab welcomes you.
Recommended Trails
Chicken Corners
Accessible by: SUV, High-Clearance 4x4, SxS (60”), ATV (50”), Dirt Bike, Adventure Motorcycle
Difficulty Rating: Easy 2. 44 miles out and back from Kane Creek staging/parking area.
Perfect for beginners. The route travels through the spectacular Kane Springs Canyon, climbs the anticline to Hurrah Pass, and descends to benches above the Colorado River. The trail dead-ends at a landscape feature called “Chicken Corners,” about 400 feet above the river and across from Thelma & Louise Point (where the final scene in the film was shot). Riders can also choose to explore the Wind Caves/Catacomb Rock along this route.
Trailhead: 38.533050, -109.601074 - this is a staging area; continue along Kane Creek Boulevard from here.
Gemini Bridges
Accessible by: SUV, High Clearance 4x4, SxS (60”), ATV (50”), Dirt Bike
Difficulty Rating: Easy 2. 14 miles out and back from Gemini Bridges trailhead.
Scenic, beginner-friendly trail that ends with a small hike to twin rock bridges called the “Gemini Bridges.” The route climbs a steep, exposed section right at the beginning; other challenges include ledges that can be tricky for newer drivers. The trail offers views of the La Sal Mountains and Moab valley, and is popular with mountain bikers—please share the area with other recreators.
Trailhead: 38.656618, -109.677655
Fins and Things
Accessible by: High-Clearance 4x4, SxS (60”), ATV (50”), Dirt Bike
Difficulty Rating: Moderate 4, with optional Moderate 6 obstacles. 9.4 mile loop from trailhead.
Tremendous, rollercoaster-like fun and grand views of the La Sal Mountains and Arches National Park. Good for beginners looking to test their skill and explore this unique slice of Moab’s landscape. The route weaves its way over huge sandstone fins and domes; challenges include sudden, steep climbs and sandy berms. Any tire tread will do on the sticky, friction-y slickrock, but clearance added by tall tires is an advantage.
Trailhead: 38.580317, -109.499443. This is within the Sand Flats Recreation Area, which charges a small day-use fee. The trailhead also starts near a campground: please be aware of noise when traveling through.
Other Trails
The Red Rock 4-Wheelers is a non-profit club organized to bring together adventure loving individuals and families who share the common interest of active four-wheeling. Their objective is to encourage family recreation through safe and responsible operation of four-wheel-drive vehicles. They also seek to utilize public lands in a responsible manner as part of an effort to keep public land trails and roads available for multipurpose use. The club organizes one of Moab’s largest events, the annual Easter Jeep Safari, which consists of trail rides, mostly day long trips, departing from Moab throughout the 9 day-long event.
The club’s website contains a fantastic reference to most of the 4-wheel drive trails in the Moab area. Visit their website here: rr4w.com.
Go with a Guide
Want to discover Moab's "hidden gems"? The best way to do that is with a local guide.