Moab Rim Trail
An extreme 4x4 challenge with steep climbs, off-camber driving, and iconic rock obstacles set against breathtaking desert scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Moab Rim Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An extreme 4x4 challenge with steep climbs, off-camber driving, and iconic rock obstacles set against breathtaking desert scenery.
"This trail is not for the faint of heart, but the views and the thrill are unmatched!"
Vehicle Capability is Crucial
High-clearance 4x4s with good articulation and aggressive tires are a must. :car:
Bring Recovery Gear
Winch, tow straps, and a friend are essential for potential rollovers or getting stuck. :red_car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tire Test Hill
Moab Rim Trail
A notorious obstacle testing tire grip and vehicle articulation. Conquer it for bragging rights!
The Devil's Crack
Moab Rim Trail
A steep, off-camber climb that will test your nerve and your rig's capabilities.
Panoramic Desert Vistas
Various points along the trail
Breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock landscape and canyons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Off-Road Adventure
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Vehicle Capability is Crucial
High-clearance 4x4s with good articulation and aggressive tires are a must. :car:
Bring Recovery Gear
Winch, tow straps, and a friend are essential for potential rollovers or getting stuck. :red_car:
Scout Obstacles First
Take time to assess challenging sections before attempting them. :mag:
Off-Camber Driving Skills
Be prepared for significant side-hill driving; it's a defining feature of the trail. :womantippinghand:
Tips
from all over the internet
Vehicle Capability is Crucial
High-clearance 4x4s with good articulation and aggressive tires are a must. :car:
Bring Recovery Gear
Winch, tow straps, and a friend are essential for potential rollovers or getting stuck. :red_car:
Scout Obstacles First
Take time to assess challenging sections before attempting them. :mag:
Off-Camber Driving Skills
Be prepared for significant side-hill driving; it's a defining feature of the trail. :womantippinghand:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Moab Rim Trail is a highly challenging and rewarding off-road experience, praised for its technical obstacles and stunning desert views. While exhilarating for experienced drivers with capable vehicles, it's considered too difficult and potentially dangerous for beginners or stock vehicles. Some find the off-camber sections particularly nerve-wracking.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Moab Rim Trail is located just south of Moab, Utah. Access is typically from Rimrock Road. It's a popular off-roading destination, so you'll likely see other 4x4 vehicles heading to the trailhead. Ensure your vehicle is trail-ready before you depart from Moab.
No, regular passenger cars cannot access the Moab Rim Trail. It is a challenging off-road trail requiring high-clearance 4x4 vehicles with specialized equipment for rock crawling.
Navigation can be tricky due to the technical terrain. Downloading offline maps or using a GPS device is highly recommended as cell service is unreliable. Many off-roaders also rely on spotters to guide them through difficult sections.
Yes, Moab is a hub for outdoor adventure. Nearby attractions include Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park (including the Shafer Trail), and numerous other off-road trails like Behind the Rocks.
A highly capable 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance, locking differentials, and aggressive off-road tires is essential. Jeeps, rock crawlers, and modified trucks are common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no specific permits or reservations are required for the Moab Rim Trail itself, as it's a public off-road trail. However, always check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any temporary closures or regulations.
The Moab Rim Trail is an outdoor trail and does not have set operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Avoid attempting the trail at night unless you are extremely experienced and well-equipped.
There is no direct entrance fee for the Moab Rim Trail. However, if you plan to visit nearby national parks like Arches or Canyonlands, separate entrance fees will apply.
Yes, several outfitters in Moab offer guided off-road tours that can take you on the Moab Rim Trail or similar challenging routes. This is a great option if you don't have a capable vehicle or experience.
Most businesses in Moab accept credit cards. For park entrance fees or smaller purchases, having some cash on hand can be useful.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The trail is known for its steep climbs, off-camber sections, and large rock obstacles. Tire Test Hill and The Devil's Crack are particularly notorious challenges that require precise driving and capable vehicles.
The time to complete the Moab Rim Trail can vary significantly depending on your vehicle's capability, your driving skill, and how long you stop to enjoy the views or tackle obstacles. It can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, or even longer for less experienced drivers.
No, the Moab Rim Trail is generally not suitable for beginners. It's considered an advanced to expert-level off-road trail due to its technical difficulty and potential hazards. Beginners should consider easier trails or guided tours.
You'll experience stunning panoramic views of the Moab Valley, the Colorado River, and the surrounding red rock desert landscape. The trail itself winds through rugged, rocky terrain.
There are no developed restrooms or facilities directly on the Moab Rim Trail. It's advisable to use facilities in Moab before you head out. Pack out everything you pack in.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture dramatic shots of vehicles navigating challenging obstacles like Tire Test Hill and Devil's Crack. The expansive desert vistas at sunrise and sunset also offer incredible photographic potential.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out details.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near national parks. Always check current regulations with the BLM and FAA before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the trail. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Many points along the trail offer stunning overlooks. Keep an eye out for natural pull-offs that provide unobstructed views of the canyons and rock formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples Seeking Adventure
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mastering the Obstacles: A Guide to Moab Rim Trail's Challenges
Another iconic obstacle is The Devil's Crack, a narrow, off-camber climb that can make even experienced drivers nervous. The trail's natural contours mean you'll be driving at significant angles, testing your vehicle's stability and your nerve. Successfully navigating these obstacles is a hallmark of completing the Moab Rim Trail.
Beyond these famous challenges, the trail is peppered with smaller rock gardens, ledges, and steep descents. It's crucial to scout each obstacle before attempting it, looking for the best line and assessing potential risks. Patience and a methodical approach are key to a successful and safe run on this demanding trail.
Vehicle Preparation: What You Need for Moab Rim Trail
Aggressive off-road tires with good sidewall protection are essential for traction on the slickrock and for absorbing impacts. Many enthusiasts also opt for locking differentials (front and rear) to ensure power is sent to all wheels, even when one tire loses traction. Suspension articulation is also critical, allowing your tires to stay in contact with the ground over uneven terrain.
Beyond the vehicle itself, recovery gear is paramount. This includes a winch, tow straps, shackles, and a high-lift jack. Knowing how to use this equipment, and having a reliable spotter, can be the difference between a successful day on the trail and a costly recovery operation.
The Thrill of the Moab Rim: Beyond the Rocks
These vistas provide ample opportunities for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The stark beauty of the red rock formations, sculpted by millennia of wind and water, creates a dramatic backdrop for any adventure.
For those seeking an even bigger adrenaline rush, nearby attractions like the Moab Rope Swing offer a different kind of thrill, allowing you to experience the canyons from a unique perspective.




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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit