
Thelma and Louise Point
Stand at the iconic movie filming site, overlooking vast desert canyons and the winding Colorado River. A symbol of freedom and breathtaking beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the canyons.

Thelma and Louise Point
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the canyons.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand at the iconic movie filming site, overlooking vast desert canyons and the winding Colorado River. A symbol of freedom and breathtaking beauty.
"Iconic and awesome for many reasons, and a great place to throw a late night desert party."

🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
Essential for a safe and enjoyable drive on Shafer Trail. SUVs are recommended; sedans are not advised. :car:
🗺️ Navigation is Key
Service can be spotty. Download offline maps or consider a guided tour to avoid getting lost. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Overlook
Shafer Trail, near Canyonlands National Park
Stand where cinematic history was made and gaze upon the vast, stunning desert panorama. A true 'point of no return' view.

Scenic Shafer Trail Drive
Access to Thelma and Louise Point
Navigate a rugged, scenic two-track trail with breathtaking red rock landscapes and winding river views.

Colorado River Vistas
View from Thelma and Louise Point
Marvel at the Colorado River as it carves its way through the majestic canyons and mountains below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle & Trail Conditions
Embrace the 'Thelma & Louise' Spirit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
Essential for a safe and enjoyable drive on Shafer Trail. SUVs are recommended; sedans are not advised. :car:
🗺️ Navigation is Key
Service can be spotty. Download offline maps or consider a guided tour to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
📸 Capture the Moment
The views are epic! Bring your camera and be ready for some unforgettable photo opportunities. :camera:
🎉 Desert Party Vibes
This spot is perfect for a memorable late-night gathering under the stars. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
Essential for a safe and enjoyable drive on Shafer Trail. SUVs are recommended; sedans are not advised. :car:
🗺️ Navigation is Key
Service can be spotty. Download offline maps or consider a guided tour to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
📸 Capture the Moment
The views are epic! Bring your camera and be ready for some unforgettable photo opportunities. :camera:
🎉 Desert Party Vibes
This spot is perfect for a memorable late-night gathering under the stars. [^Review]
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Desert conditions can be harsh. Stay hydrated during your visit. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the iconic cinematic connection of Thelma and Louise Point. The drive along Shafer Trail is a highlight for many, offering a thrilling off-road experience. However, the challenging road conditions and the need for a high-clearance vehicle are frequently mentioned, with some finding similar views elsewhere. [^Review]
"Iconic and awesome for many reasons, and a great place to throw a late night desert party."
Josiah Roe
"You need a 4*4.We had a tour bring us there. Beautiful scenery"
Iris Moroz
"Scenic drive getting there and even more beautiful once you arrive."
Scott n Paige
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thelma and Louise Point is accessed via the Shafer Trail, a rugged off-road route near Moab, Utah. It's often reached from the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park or by driving up Shafer Canyon Road. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and many visitors opt for guided 4x4 tours for a safer and more scenic experience.
While some have managed to drive sedans like a Hyundai Sonata on the Shafer Trail, it's a very challenging and time-consuming journey, taking nearly four hours and requiring careful navigation. It's not recommended for regular cars due to the rough terrain and potential for getting stuck.
Shafer Trail can be driven in either direction. Many visitors drive it from top to bottom (or vice versa) as part of a larger Moab off-road adventure, often connecting to other trails like the White Rim Trail.
The road is a rough, unpaved two-track trail with steep grades and numerous switchbacks, especially on Shafer Canyon Road. It's considered an intermediate to difficult off-road trail, best suited for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles.
Yes, several tour operators in Moab offer guided 4x4 tours that include a visit to Thelma and Louise Point. This is a great option if you don't have a suitable vehicle or prefer to have an experienced guide navigate the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Thelma and Louise Point itself does not require an entrance fee. However, if you access it via the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, you will need to pay the park's entrance fee.
Thelma and Louise Point is an outdoor scenic overlook and is accessible at any time. However, driving the Shafer Trail is best done during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no specific admission fee for driving the Shafer Trail. The costs are associated with entering Canyonlands National Park if you use that as an access point.
Yes, there are campgrounds along the Shafer Trail and the White Rim Trail, offering a unique desert camping experience surrounded by canyons. Reservations are often required and can be booked through the National Park Service.
You can book tours through local Moab adventure companies. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the red rock formations. Nighttime provides incredible opportunities for astrophotography due to the dark skies.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the canyons. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light and night photography.
The main overlook provides the iconic view. Exploring slightly off the main path (safely!) can reveal unique perspectives of the Colorado River and surrounding canyons.
Drone usage is restricted within national parks and monuments. Always check the latest regulations for Canyonlands National Park and surrounding BLM land before flying a drone.
Besides the point itself, the switchbacks of Shafer Canyon Road offer dramatic perspectives. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations and the winding path of the Colorado River.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of the canyons and the Colorado River. It's also a popular spot for photography, picnics, and experiencing the spirit of the iconic movie. Some visitors enjoy it as a destination for a desert party. [^Review]
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the views and take photos. If you're driving the Shafer Trail, factor in several hours for the drive itself, depending on your vehicle and stops.
There are no developed facilities like restrooms or visitor centers directly at Thelma and Louise Point. You'll need to come prepared with everything you need.
While the immediate overlook area is accessible, extensive hiking isn't the main focus. The surrounding Shafer Trail and nearby areas offer opportunities for more rugged exploration if you're equipped for backcountry travel.
The point is famous as the filming location for the climactic final scene of the 1991 movie 'Thelma & Louise,' where the protagonists drive their car off a cliff, symbolizing their ultimate act of freedom.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided 4x4 tour for a safer and more comfortable experience with younger travelers. These tours often provide interesting commentary about the area's geology and history, keeping kids engaged. The stunning views are a great way to spark curiosity about nature and geography.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
Many enthusiasts combine this trip with the White Rim Trail for an extended off-road adventure. Remember to check your vehicle's condition, carry essential recovery gear, and be prepared for remote conditions. The sense of accomplishment after navigating the trail is immense, and the views from the point are a perfect reward.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
For videographers and content creators, the Shafer Trail drive itself offers dynamic footage. Consider capturing the switchbacks, the river views, and the expansive overlook. Nighttime photography here is exceptional, with minimal light pollution allowing for incredible stargazing shots. Always be mindful of safety and any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shafer Trail: An Off-Road Adventure
Navigating the Shafer Trail requires a high-clearance vehicle, preferably a 4x4, due to its rough surface, steep grades, and numerous switchbacks, particularly on the Shafer Canyon Road section. While some determined drivers have made it through in less capable vehicles, it's a risky endeavor that can lead to damage or getting stuck. Many visitors opt for guided tours to safely experience the trail's beauty and challenges.
Along the Shafer Trail, you'll find opportunities for dispersed camping in designated areas, offering an immersive desert experience under a canopy of stars. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out everything you pack in, and be prepared for remote conditions with limited services and cell reception.
The 'Thelma & Louise' Legacy
The phrase 'a Thelma and Louise moment' has entered popular culture, often used to describe a point of no return or a radical act of self-determination. Visiting the point allows travelers to connect with this cinematic legacy and reflect on the film's themes of female empowerment and escape.
While the movie depicted the cliff as part of the Grand Canyon, the dramatic landscape of Canyonlands National Park provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable scene. The raw beauty of the Utah desert perfectly complements the film's narrative of breaking free and embracing the unknown.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit