While this part of the southwest has lots of trails, some are more famous than others. These are the ones that have gained a reputation for being the toughest or most challenging trails. Avid off-roaders come from different parts of the country and even the world just for a chance to take on these trails.
One such trail is the Moab Rim. This has been one of the most popular trails in Moab for decades and is famous for being a gnarly Jeep trail.
Moab Rim Trail Overview
Moab Rim can be spotted just to the southwest of Moab and is one of the most accessible trails in the area. The trailhead is located just off Kane Creek Road and is open to all kinds of 4WDs. Once you get started, it’s easy to see why the Moab Rim trail is rated 7. It’s a highly technical trail that starts climbing right from the beginning. Along with the constant climbing to the top of the mesa on the 1st mile, you’ll also encounter numerous off-camber ledges and stair steps. This is the most intense section of the trail and many of those who bring their rigs to our 4×4 auto shop in Moab for repairs have snagged their undercarriages on this section.
The Moab Rim trail has a huge number of large obstacles and isn’t for stock vehicles, beginners, or those afraid of heights. To tackle this trail, ensure your rig has maximum ground clearance, both front and rear lockers, and tires that are at least 35” and above. A winch is also great to have but not completely necessary.
Moab Rim Trail Surface and Scenery
For most of the trail, you’ll be hugging the edge of the rim. While this is harrowing, it does give good glimpses of the surrounding area. For the best view of Moab and great overlooks of the Spanish Valley, the La Sal Mountains, and the Colorado River gorge, you have to make it to the top of the mesa. From there you can also catch glimpses of interesting rock fins and domes that are behind the rim.
Most of the trail surface is made of slickrock. You’ll start on this bedrock with several steps and ledges then gradually climb to the rim. Towards the end of the trail, you’ll encounter a sandhill where the blow sand has plenty of broken rocks mixed in.
Moab Rim Trail Obstacles and Other Details
The Moab Rim trail is not for the faint of heart. The succession of steep steps and rock ledges you have to negotiate will push you and your rig to the limit. Some of the notable obstacles include the Devil’s Crack and the Z Turn which will require careful wheel placement and some rock-crawling experience.
If you’d like to experience this and other fascinating trails in Moab, sign up for the Dixie 4 Wheel Drive trail riding events. We guarantee you’ll have a great time!
