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Moab Utah - Potash Road Trail

 
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Submitted by ahsumtoy on Thu, 06/18/2009 - 10:49am.

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Last updated 09/06/2015

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Introduction
Few OHV experiences can rival the fun of riding an ATV in Utah’s Moab backcountry. An endless variety of undulating and challenging terrain combined with spectacular scenery provide an unforgettable experience.

It’s easy to find your way around the small town of Moab. Main St (Hwy 191) runs north and south all the way through town. Center St and Main St, where Moab Information Center is located, marks the center of town. If you need lodging or camping, it is a good idea to call well in advance.

There are several places in Moab to rent ATV’s. Check www.discovermoab.com/autorental.htm for latest information or just drive down Main St. You should check Utah’s OHV Laws (http://stateparks.utah.gov/stateparks/ohv) or call 800-648-7433.

Using your GPS for each trail
I have included Way Points for the trail. Also, in the description below, I have included complete instructions on the trail. I would print or copy the instructions off if you plan on using these Way Points.

Potash Road Trail

Highlights: Outstanding overlooks high above the Colorado River just outside Canyonlands National Park. Drive along edge of salt company’s bright blue evaporation ponds (blue dye accelerates evaporation) in the shadow of towering Dead Horse Point State Park. Stand at point where Thelma & Louise jumped their car into the Colorado River. This is rated very easy. A wide, maintained road. Side roads are easy, but not maintained. Watch for fast moving salt mine trucks that cross the road at stop sign at 2.2 miles.

Getting There: From Moab, take Hwy 191 north about 1.5 miles after crossing the Colorado River, turn left on Potash Road 279. Drive 16.7 miles south along the Colorado River. Pavement ends after going by potash plant. Turn left into parking area next to the river.

  1. Staging (mile 0) – Head south from parking lot.
  2. (miles 2.1) – Stay right where private road goes left.
  3. (miles 2.2) – After stop sign, continue straight through 4-way intersection. Watch for fast-moving trucks crossing on private mine road.
  4. (miles 2.4) – Stay right where private road goes left.
  5. (miles 3.1) – Follow fence along evaporation ponds.
  6. (miles 5.4) – Leave private property of salt mine company and enter public lands.
  7. WP1 (miles 6.0) – Continue straight where easy road goes left to overlook around Pyramid Butte.
  8. (miles 6.9) – Continue straight as lesser roads branch left then right.
  9. WP2 (miles 8.8) – Pass through frnce and, as the road curves right, a wide area on the left goes to Thelma & Louise Point.
  10. (miles 9.9) – Road curves right and crosses a wide shelf with a scary cliff on the left.
  11. (miles 10.8) – Overlook of Goose Neck on left.
  12. (miles 11.5) – Last wide spot to turn around.
  13. WP3 (miles 11.6) – Turn around at wll-marked boundary to Canyonlands National Park. Non-street-legal vehicles are not allowed in park.
  14. Staging (mile 23.2) – Return to start.