
Potash Road Petroglyphs Moab
Drive alongside the Colorado River, marvel at ancient petroglyphs, and discover dinosaur tracks on this epic Utah scenic byway.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Potash Road Petroglyphs Moab
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive alongside the Colorado River, marvel at ancient petroglyphs, and discover dinosaur tracks on this epic Utah scenic byway.
"The most epic road in Moab, Utah, with breathtaking views and ancient history!"

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Flip-flops aren't ideal; you'll need good grip for climbing to the tracks and petroglyphs.
🚗 All Vehicles Welcome
The paved road is accessible for cars, SUVs, and RVs. No special vehicle needed!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Petroglyphs
Along Potash Road
Marvel at intricate rock art etched by ancient peoples, offering a glimpse into history.

Dinosaur Tracks
Near the parking lot
Discover fossilized footprints of prehistoric creatures, a thrilling find for all ages.

Colorado River Views
Alongside Potash Road
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the mighty Colorado River framed by towering red rock cliffs.

Potash Ponds
End of Potash Road
Witness the striking, vibrant blue industrial ponds, a unique contrast to the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Potash Road
What to Expect on the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Flip-flops aren't ideal; you'll need good grip for climbing to the tracks and petroglyphs.
🚗 All Vehicles Welcome
The paved road is accessible for cars, SUVs, and RVs. No special vehicle needed!
🗺️ Follow the Blue Trail
Look for blue trail markers to find the easiest path to the petroglyphs and tracks.
🚻 Restrooms Available
There are restrooms at the parking lot, a convenient amenity for visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Flip-flops aren't ideal; you'll need good grip for climbing to the tracks and petroglyphs.
🚗 All Vehicles Welcome
The paved road is accessible for cars, SUVs, and RVs. No special vehicle needed!
🗺️ Follow the Blue Trail
Look for blue trail markers to find the easiest path to the petroglyphs and tracks.
🚻 Restrooms Available
There are restrooms at the parking lot, a convenient amenity for visitors.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning red rock formations and river scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning red rock scenery and the unique opportunity to see ancient petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks. The drive is considered epic and accessible, offering a less crowded alternative to national parks. Some find the climb to the sites a bit challenging, but most agree it's well worth the effort for the historical and natural wonders encountered.
"You can go up to the left or the right. Trails are on both sides. Follow the blue trail tracks ( left side) They're a little hard to find immediately, but it's likely someone else will be there so follow them!!
Do not wear flip flops! You have to do an easy climb to get to the tracks and the drawings. My seven year old did the hike with no issues. My 6' 265lb self did the climb completely terrified, but it was worth it!! I watched probably 4/5 year olds go up before us and back down after us all wearing flop flops!! We saw lizards. You can do this!!
No tickets needed.
Two bathrooms available at the parking lot.
Camping sites are nearby."
Rebecca Gutierrez
"Nice little hike up the rocks to the tracks and a little further up to the petroglyphs. Very nice view from there as well. Plenty of parking and a lot toilet available if needed."
Wayne Walk Jr
"We had 1year old with us so we only hiked to first steps. Quite challenging road to hike.
Nice bathrooms and like 30 car parkingslots."
KOTKALLE OY
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Potash Road, also known as Utah Scenic Byway 279, is located just outside of Moab, Utah. Simply head north from Moab on Highway 191 and turn west onto UT-279. The paved road winds along the Colorado River for about 17 miles, offering continuous scenic views.
Yes, Potash Road is a paved scenic byway and is suitable for all types of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and RVs. You don't need a 4x4 to enjoy the main drive and access the main petroglyph and dinosaur track sites.
The drive itself is about 17 miles and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how often you stop to admire the views and explore the sites. Allow extra time if you plan to hike or spend significant time at the petroglyph areas.
Potash Road is conveniently located near Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. It's often considered an excellent alternative or addition to visiting the parks, offering similar stunning scenery without the same level of crowds.
Yes, the famous Shafer Trail switchbacks, which lead up to the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, can be accessed from Potash Road. However, Shafer Trail is a challenging unpaved road requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entrance fees required to drive Potash Road or visit the petroglyph and dinosaur track sites. It's a free public access area, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring Moab's natural beauty.
Potash Road is open 24 hours a day, year-round, as it's a public road. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for optimal viewing of the petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and scenic landscapes.
Yes, there is parking available at the designated pull-offs and parking lots along Potash Road, especially near the main petroglyph and dinosaur track viewing areas. Parking can fill up during peak times, so arriving earlier is recommended.
Yes, there are primitive camping sites available along Potash Road, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These sites are first-come, first-served and offer a more rugged camping experience with stunning views.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the main parking lot near the start of the trail to the petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, as amenities are limited along the road.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Look for pull-offs and parking areas along Potash Road. The most popular sites are accessible via short trails. Follow the blue trail markers to find the easiest path to the petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks.
The hike to the petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks is generally considered easy to moderate. It involves a short climb up rocks, which can be a bit challenging for some, but is manageable for most visitors, including children.
It's highly recommended to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip, like hiking shoes or athletic sneakers. Avoid flip-flops or sandals, as the rocky terrain can be slippery and difficult to navigate.
Yes, many families with young children visit Potash Road. While the climb can be a bit tricky for very young ones, many children manage it with supervision. The thrill of seeing ancient art and dinosaur footprints is usually a hit!
Besides petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks, Potash Road offers stunning views of the Colorado River, towering red rock cliffs, and access to climbing areas like Wall Street. The road also leads to the unique blue potash ponds.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rock formations and the Colorado River. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for capturing the petroglyphs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes and towering cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the petroglyphs or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and rocks.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's essential to check current rules with the BLM. However, some creators have captured aerial footage of Potash Road, showcasing its dramatic scenery. Always fly responsibly and be aware of any restrictions.
While you can get relatively close to view the petroglyphs, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching them to preserve them for future generations. Use a zoom lens to capture detailed shots.
The sections with the Colorado River juxtaposed against the massive red rock cliffs are incredibly photogenic. The areas with concentrated petroglyphs and the unique blue potash ponds also make for striking images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
🚶 Hikers & Climbers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Petroglyphs and Dinosaur Tracks
To reach these sites, a short, relatively easy climb up the rocks is required. While described as manageable, sturdy footwear is essential for grip and safety. The dinosaur tracks are also a significant draw, offering a tangible connection to prehistoric life. Following the blue trail markers can help guide you to the best viewing spots.
Remember to observe these historical and geological wonders with respect. Avoid touching the petroglyphs to ensure their preservation for future visitors. The effort to reach them is widely considered worthwhile for the unique historical and natural insights they provide.
The Scenic Drive Experience
As you journey along the road, you'll encounter various pull-offs and viewpoints perfect for stopping and soaking in the scenery. The landscape is characterized by its vibrant red hues, sculpted rock formations, and the powerful presence of the Colorado River. Some sections, like the popular Wall Street climbing area, are also visible from the road.
Beyond the natural beauty, the drive also leads to the striking blue potash ponds near the end of the route, offering a unique industrial contrast to the surrounding desert. This scenic byway is an excellent option for a leisurely drive, a photography excursion, or a way to experience Moab's iconic landscapes at your own pace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit