Moab Utah - Picture Frame Arch Trail

 
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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.

Picture Frame Arch Trail

Highlights: This short, easy route introduces you to a popular area with many legal side roads and very diverse terrain. Visit two distinctive arches and ride across small sand dunes. Don't get too far off the main road. Most side roads to the north connect to "Behind the Rocks" Jeep Trail, one of the toughest in Moab. This is also a popular mountain bike area. Avoid this trail three days in mid-October, when thousands of bikers flood the area for the 24 Hours of Moab Bike Race.

Getting There: Starting at Kane Creek Road and Highway 191 in Moab (at McDonald's Restaurant), drive south 12.4 miles on Highway 191. After a long, steep hill, turn right after mile marker 113 onto a wide dirt road. Drive a short distance past cattle guard.

  1. Staging (mile 0) – From parking area just inside cattle guard, head north, then west on wide dirt road.
  2. WP1 (miles 0.3) – Bear left at major fork. Right goes to very difficult "Behind the Rocks" Jeep Trail. Pass through area with many treed campsigtes on both sides of the road.
  3. (miles 2.3) – Cross open valley. In mid-October, a 3-day weekend is set aside for the 24 Hours of Moab Bike Race. Avoid riding this trail at that time (unless you are a professional Mountain Bike Racer.)
  4. (miles 3.1) – Round a curve and head north. A lesser road goes left here. It leads to a minor overlook of Kane Creek Canyon.
  5. WP2 (miles 3.2) – Road goes right to an area of small sand dunes.
  6. WP3 (miles 5.1) – Bear right off main road heading directly toward Lone Rock. Go slow and straddle large ruts in road.
  7. (miles 5.4) – Bear right at "T." Note Balcony Arch above. Follow undulating, sandy road around to other side of Lone Rock. Stay left when roads branch right.
  8. WP4 (miles 5.8) – Watch for Picture Frame Arch on left. This is a great place for lunch. Take time to look around. You can climb to the arch but it is not easy. Right from this point takes you on Kane Creek Canyon Rim Trail. Continue southwest around Lone Rock over slickrock ledges.
  9. WP5 (miles 6.3) – Turn left on main road to return to start. (Many miles of easy scenic roads to right.)
  10. Staging (mile 11.7) – Return to start.