Moab Utah Off Road / 4x4 Trails: Shafer Trail

Moab Utah
> Trails
> Shafer Trail

Shafer Trail

Drivers come to Shafer Trail for an opportunity to experience a well-maintained dirt road that packs in mile-a-minute scenery, including well marked Indian petroglyph’s, natural stone arches, and expansive views of the surrounding canyon-lands.

Read More

  • 18.2 miles (typically 2 hours)
  • Easy. The road is well maintained.
  • Trailhead: Find the trailhead off Potash Road\Highway 279, about 16.5 miles from its junction with Highway 191.

Overview

This is great trail for someone who is looking for an off road experience, but doesn’t have access a highly modified rock crawler. Virtually any four-wheel drive vehicle will succeed in navigating this well maintained road. Highlights of this trip include well marked Indian petroglyphs and amazing natural stone arches. You’ll also have an opportunity to tackle the Schafer Switchbacks, a breathtaking climb with expansive views of the surrounding canyon-lands.

Trailhead

From Moab, head north on Highway 191. Turn left on Potash Road\ Highway 279. Continue south on this road for about 16.5 miles until the pavement ends. You’ll find the trailhead here.

Details

  • Distance: Approximately 18.2 miles.
  • Average Time of Drive: 2 hours.
  • Difficulty: Easy.
  • Trail Type: Point to Point
  • Trailhead: Find the trailhead off Potash Road\Highway 279, about 16.5 miles from its junction with Highway 191.

Plan & Prepare

This drive is best attempted in spring and fall.

4 wheeling is an inherently dangerous activity and shouldn’t be attempted without the appropriate training and equipment. Following a few basic tips can help keep you safe:

  • Understand your vehicles 4 wheel drive system and know how to use it.
  • Make sure you know your cars dimensions and lowest point of clearance – you don’t want to get stuck in the middle of nowhere.
  • At all times, make sure you travel with at least one passenger and one other vehicle. Take emergency supplies and extra parts.
  • Make sure you know your route. Know where you are and know where you are going. In and around Moab, radio towers can serve as useful landmarks.

Careful preparation for your trip will ensure that if, and when, things do go wrong, you are prepared for the situation.

In the Spotlight