So much attention is often focused on extreme off-roading in Moab that you’d be forgiven for thinking that’s all we have to offer. Fortunately, some of the popular off-roading trails in Moab are geared towards people who want to go out for a scenic drive and combine that with some mild off-roading. During the Dixie 4 Wheel Drive trail riding events, we try to mix up the various trails so that we cater to all types of off-roaders.
One trail that’s perfect for mid-level off-roaders (those who aren’t novices or experienced) is Jax Trax.
Jax Trax Trail Overview
The Jax Trax trail is named after the late Jack Bickers- a former member of the Red Rock 4 Wheelers who contributed to putting Moab’s famous trails on the map.
This trail is rated 5 and is mostly made up of old mineral exploration routes that Jack rediscovered in the 1990s. It is found about 25 miles south of Moab in the Cameo Cliffs area. Like other trails in the area, Jax Trax offers a great combination of scenery and mild obstacles- enough to keep a driver’s attention on the road while allowing them to appreciate the beautiful views.
The trail wanders across valleys and ridges and while the challenges are fun, you’ll still need a vehicle with tall tires (33” and above), sufficient ground clearance, and rear lockers to make it over some of the obstacles. Good driving skills are also an advantage if you don’t want to end up stuck on a ledge.
Jax Trax Trail Scenery and Surface
The trail winds through the picturesque Cameo Cliffs Area, giving you plenty of time to take in the magnificent scenery. With the Steen Road to the south, Wilson Arch to the north, and Lisbon Valley to the east, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Some of the notable natural features you can spot include Agate Point, Mikes Knob, Cameo Mesa, and the Casa Colorado Rock.
The trail is steep and ledgy in places with some two-track dirt sections and some sandy wash bottoms. Expect to do a lot of climbing and descending on the slickrock as well, making it an ideal trail to practice driving on this surface.
Trail Details and Jax Trax Obstacles
The most notable obstacles found along this trail are Top Notch and El Diablo. The later isn’t technically difficult but the extremely steep ascent and descent can be intimidating to drivers. The good news is that it has an easier bypass.
The Jax Trax trail is dotted with lots of sagebrushes, and with the trail being narrow in places, you can expect some scratches and pinstriping from the scratchy brush. Should this happen, don’t hesitate to bring your rig to our full-service 4WD auto shop in Moab and we’ll buff those right out and restore your paint job.
