Kane Creek Scenic Drive
A breathtaking scenic drive through Utah's red rock country, featuring ancient petroglyphs and the mighty Colorado River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Kane Creek Scenic Drive
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking scenic drive through Utah's red rock country, featuring ancient petroglyphs and the mighty Colorado River.
"The most epic road in Moab, Utah, winding through stunning desert landscapes!"
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
For exploring beyond the paved sections, a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are harsh. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petroglyph Panel
Along Potash Road
Marvel at ancient Native American rock art etched into the canyon walls, offering a glimpse into the past.
Colorado River Views
Adjacent to the drive
Enjoy stunning vistas of the mighty Colorado River carving its way through the dramatic red rock landscape.
Towering Red Rock Cliffs
Throughout the drive
Be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of the towering sandstone formations that define this desert scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Vehicle & Preparation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
For exploring beyond the paved sections, a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are harsh. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
⛽ Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Ensure your tank is full before starting the drive.
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light on the red rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Recommended
For exploring beyond the paved sections, a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are harsh. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
⛽ Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Ensure your tank is full before starting the drive.
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light on the red rocks.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download maps for navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning red rock scenery and the impressive petroglyph panel along Kane Creek Scenic Drive. The drive offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and is a fantastic option for a scenic road trip. Some note that the unpaved sections can be rough, requiring a high-clearance vehicle for full exploration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kane Creek Scenic Drive, also known as Potash Road, is easily accessible from Moab, Utah. Head west on UT-279, which becomes Kane Creek Scenic Drive. The paved portion starts just outside of Moab and continues for several miles, offering access to various viewpoints and trailheads.
The initial section of Kane Creek Scenic Drive (Potash Road) is paved. However, as you continue further, the road can become unpaved and rough, especially if you decide to explore side roads or continue towards the Shafer Trail. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the unpaved sections.
The best way to experience Kane Creek Scenic Drive is by car, allowing you to stop at various pull-offs for photos and short walks. Many visitors also use it as a starting point for hiking and climbing adventures.
Yes, the area around Moab is renowned for its scenic drives. Nearby options include Arches National Park Scenic Drive, Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district), and Dead Horse Point State Park.
The paved portion of Kane Creek Scenic Drive can be navigated by a regular car. However, if you plan to go beyond the paved section or attempt the Shafer Trail, a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle is strongly advised due to rough terrain and potential obstacles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no permit required to drive the main paved section of Kane Creek Scenic Drive (Potash Road). However, if you plan to enter Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, separate entrance fees and potentially timed entry reservations will apply.
Kane Creek Scenic Drive is a public road and is generally accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to weather or road conditions before your visit.
There are no entrance fees for driving the Kane Creek Scenic Drive itself. This is a public road. Fees only apply if you plan to visit adjacent national parks or state parks.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Weekends and holidays, especially during peak summer, will be significantly busier.
Dispersed camping is allowed in some areas along Kane Creek Scenic Drive, but regulations can change. It's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for current rules and designated camping areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the ancient petroglyph panel, stunning views of the Colorado River, and the dramatic red rock formations. Many visitors also use the drive as access to trailheads for hiking and climbing.
Yes, several hiking trails are accessible from Kane Creek Scenic Drive, including those leading to petroglyphs and viewpoints. The drive also serves as a gateway to more challenging backcountry adventures.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might spot desert bighorn sheep, various bird species, and smaller desert animals. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed any wildlife.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, unique rock formations, and the Colorado River make it a photographer's paradise. The best light for photography is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Dress in layers, as desert temperatures can fluctuate. Comfortable walking shoes are essential if you plan to stop and explore. Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The low-angle sun casts long shadows and illuminates the red rocks with warm hues, creating breathtaking scenes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes and towering cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting or isolating interesting rock formations. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Many pull-offs along the drive offer fantastic photo opportunities. Look for spots that frame the Colorado River with the red rock cliffs in the background. The petroglyph panel also makes for unique shots.
Include a human element in your shots to convey the immense scale of the desert landscape. This could be a person standing on a viewpoint or a vehicle on the road.
Beyond the grand vistas, look for interesting textures in the rock formations, the patterns of the Colorado River, and the ancient petroglyphs. The contrast between the red rock and the blue sky is also a classic shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are limited. Consider bringing binoculars for spotting wildlife. If you have a vehicle with higher clearance, exploring some of the less rugged unpaved sections can add to the adventure, but always prioritize safety and know your vehicle's limits.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider combining this drive with visits to nearby national parks like Arches and Canyonlands for a comprehensive Moab experience. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and fill up your gas tank before you depart. The drive offers numerous pull-offs for photo opportunities and short explorations.
📸 Photographers
Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for sweeping vistas to telephoto for isolating details. A tripod is essential for capturing the best light and for any shots of the petroglyphs. Don't overlook the reflections of the cliffs in the Colorado River for unique compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Petroglyphs
Many visitors find the petroglyphs to be a highlight of their drive, providing a unique cultural and historical dimension to the stunning natural scenery. The contrast between the ancient art and the vast desert landscape is truly captivating. Take your time to observe the different symbols and imagine the stories they tell.
The Colorado River's Majesty
For those seeking a more active experience, the river offers opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and fishing, though access points and conditions can vary. Even if you're just driving, the presence of the river adds a dynamic element to the scenery, contrasting with the static grandeur of the red rock cliffs. The sound of the water and the reflections on its surface can be incredibly serene.
Navigating the Terrain
It's always wise to check current road conditions before you go, especially after rain or snow. If you're in a standard sedan, it's best to stick to the paved portion and enjoy the views from there. If you have a capable off-road vehicle, exploring further can lead to more secluded spots and a true desert adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit