Moab Rim Trail - A dirt road in the middle of a field
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Moab Rim Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·Moab, United States

An extreme 4x4 challenge with steep climbs, off-camber driving, and iconic rock obstacles set against breathtaking desert scenery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Moab Rim Trail - A dirt road in the middle of a field

Moab Rim Trail

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An extreme 4x4 challenge with steep climbs, off-camber driving, and iconic rock obstacles set against breathtaking desert scenery.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This trail is not for the faint of heart, but the views and the thrill are unmatched!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tire Test Hill

Tire Test Hill

Moab Rim Trail

A notorious obstacle testing tire grip and vehicle articulation. Conquer it for bragging rights!

The Devil's Crack

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

Panoramic Desert Vistas

Various points along the trail

Breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock landscape and canyons.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Challenging Off-Road Adventure

Moab Rim Trail is a renowned 4x4 trail demanding significant vehicle capability and driver skill. Expect steep ascents, technical rock crawling, and off-camber sections. Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for rock crawling and consider bringing recovery gear. This trail is not for the faint of heart or stock vehicles.

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

Visiting Moab Rim Trail during cooler months like spring and fall is highly recommended to avoid extreme desert heat. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more enjoyable and less congested experience on the trail. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer more comfortable temperatures and better light for photos.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less busy, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Plenty more where this came from! #trailmater #moabmotorsports #bfgoodrich #builtonbfg #km3 #pullpal #premierpowerwelder #optimabatteries #yankumropes #offroadrecovery #offroaddesign #warnwinches #theoriginalsmittybilt #factor55llc #tomwoodsdriveshafts
@trail_mater
160.7K likes • 2.1M views

Vehicle Capability is Crucial

High-clearance 4x4s with good articulation and aggressive tires are a must. :car: Instagram+1

Bring Recovery Gear

Winch, tow straps, and a friend are essential for potential rollovers or getting stuck. :red_car: TikTok

Jackson’s Trail - Moab #fyp #foryoupage #mtb #mtbtok #utah
@slampsonite
67.7K likes • 1.9M views
Tire Test Hill on the Moab Rim trail I know I was supposed to stop then start again, but I just rolled through it. Oh, well. Should we go back and try again? #jeep #jeeps #jeeplife #4x4 #offroad #4wd #moab #utah #moabrim #trails #trailsoffroad #conqueredtrailz #moabrocks #tiretesthill #tires #yokohamatires #jeepsofinsta #jeepsofinstagram #desert
janetgranitejeep
18 likes • 438 views

Scout Obstacles First

Take time to assess challenging sections before attempting them. :mag: Instagram

Off-Camber Driving Skills

Be prepared for significant side-hill driving; it's a defining feature of the trail. :womantippinghand: Instagram

Coming through the first obstacle on the Moab Rim Trail, @finnquief shows why Moab is so much fun. Any obstacle can have multiple lines that can test a vehicle and its driver. He decided to take a more challenging line and had to figure out his route not having seen anyone do it before him. Good driving Technique and patience got his 80 through the challenge, maybe the @milestar.tires 40s helped a...
techniquevehicleoutfitters
176 likes • 5.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Vehicle Capability is Crucial

High-clearance 4x4s with good articulation and aggressive tires are a must. :car: Instagram+1

Bring Recovery Gear

Winch, tow straps, and a friend are essential for potential rollovers or getting stuck. :red_car: TikTok

Scout Obstacles First

Take time to assess challenging sections before attempting them. :mag: Instagram

Off-Camber Driving Skills

Be prepared for significant side-hill driving; it's a defining feature of the trail. :womantippinghand: Instagram

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation. :iphone: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Technical rock crawling
Stunning desert vistas
Sense of accomplishment

What People Dislike

Extreme difficulty
Requires highly modified vehicles
Off-camber sections are intimidating

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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram+2

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Most businesses in Moab accept credit cards. For park entrance fees or smaller purchases, having some cash on hand can be useful. Reddit

🎫 ⛰️ 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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near national parks. Always check current regulations with the BLM and FAA before flying. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Moab Rim Trail is generally not recommended for families with young children due to its extreme technical difficulty and inherent risks. The rough terrain and steep climbs can be uncomfortable and unsafe for kids. Consider family-friendly alternatives like the paved paths in Arches National Park or easier off-road trails with a guided tour operator. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While the trail itself is free, the cost of preparing a vehicle for the Moab Rim Trail can be substantial. If you don't own a capable 4x4, renting one can be expensive. Opting for a guided tour might be a more budget-friendly way to experience the thrill without the vehicle investment. TikTok Alternatively, explore the many free hiking trails and scenic drives around Moab. Reddit

💑 Couples Seeking Adventure

For adventurous couples, tackling the Moab Rim Trail together can be an exhilarating bonding experience. Coordinate your driving and spotting to navigate the challenging obstacles as a team. The shared accomplishment and the stunning desert scenery make for a memorable outing. Instagram+1 Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks for a romantic touch amidst the rugged landscape.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Mastering the Obstacles: A Guide to Moab Rim Trail's Challenges

The Moab Rim Trail is legendary for its technical obstacles, demanding a combination of vehicle capability and driver finesse. Tire Test Hill is a prime example, a steep, rocky incline that requires precise tire placement and momentum to ascend without getting hung up. Many drivers opt for a spotter to guide them through this and other challenging sections. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Vehicle Preparation: What You Need for Moab Rim Trail

Attempting the Moab Rim Trail without proper vehicle preparation is a recipe for disaster. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is non-negotiable. This means a vehicle with ample ground clearance to clear rocks and obstacles, and a robust 4-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing for crawling. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

The Thrill of the Moab Rim: Beyond the Rocks

While the technical challenges are a major draw, the Moab Rim Trail also offers spectacular scenic rewards. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the Moab Valley, the winding Colorado River, and the vast, rugged desert stretching towards the horizon. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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