Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park Travel Guide

Dead Horse Point State Park is a Utah state park located near Moab, featuring a dramatic overlook of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. The park covers 5,362 acres of high desert at an altitude of 5,900 feet.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dead Horse Point State Park is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C), making it comfortable for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.

Summer (July and August) is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). While the park is still open, the heat can make outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Winter (November to March) is the least crowded time to visit, but temperatures can be cold, with highs ranging from 30 to 50°F (-1 to 10°C) and lows often below freezing. Snow is possible, especially in December and January, which can add a unique beauty to the landscape, but also may limit access to some areas of the park.

Getting to Dead Horse Point State Park

Getting to Dead Horse Point State Park is relatively easy, and the drive offers stunning scenery along the way.

By Car:

• The park is located about 32 miles (51 km) southwest of Moab, Utah.

• From Moab, take US-191 North for about 11 miles (17.7 km).

• Turn left onto UT-313 West and drive for about 21 miles (33.8 km) to reach the park entrance.

By Plane:

• The nearest major airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) located about 35 miles (56 km) north of the park. This airport is served by regional airlines with flights from Denver and Salt Lake City.

• From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to the park.

  
  

Please note that public transportation options are limited in this area, so having a car is the most convenient way to visit the park.

Things to See and Do

Top Attractions in Dead Horse Point State Park:

1. Dead Horse Point Overlook:

   • The park's most famous viewpoint, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Colorado River winding through the canyon 2,000 feet below.

2. Shafer Canyon Overlook:

   • Another popular viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and landscape.

3. Meander Overlook:

   • A viewpoint that offers a unique perspective of the Colorado River meandering through the canyon.

Top Activities in Dead Horse Point State Park:

1. Scenic Views:

   • The park's main attraction is the Dead Horse Point Overlook, offering stunning panoramic views of the Colorado River as it winds through the canyon 2,000 feet below.

   • Other viewpoints include Shafer Canyon Overlook and Meander Overlook, each offering unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

2. Hiking:

   • The park has several hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Popular trails include the Dead Horse Point Rim Loop and the West Rim Trail.

   • Hiking is a great way to explore the park's unique desert landscape, including juniper forests and biological soil crusts.

3. Photography:

   • The park is a popular destination for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset when the canyon walls glow in shades of red and orange.

   • The Dead Horse Point Overlook is particularly popular for capturing the dramatic bend in the Colorado River.

4. Mountain Biking:

   • The Intrepid Trail System offers 17 miles of non-motorized singletrack trails, ranging from easy to challenging.

   • The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River.

5. Stargazing:

• Dead Horse Point State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering spectacular views of the night sky, including the Milky Way.

  
  

Where to Stay

When visiting Dead Horse Point State Park, you have a few options for accommodations, both inside the park and in nearby areas.

Inside the Park:

• Kayenta Campground:

  • This campground, located within the park, offers 21 campsites with electrical hookups, tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.

  • Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets and hot water, as well as RV dump stations.

  • Reservations can be made online, and some sites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Nearby Areas:

• Moab:

  • Located about 32 miles northeast of the park, Moab is the nearest town and offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and RV parks.

  • Moab also has numerous restaurants, shops, and other amenities.

• Green River:

  • Located about 50 miles northwest of Moab, Green River is another option for accommodations, with a few hotels and motels available.

Park Information

Entrance Fees:

• The entrance fee for private vehicles is $20, good for three days. There are also fees for motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

Facilities and Services:

• The park has a visitor center, restrooms, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

• There are no restaurants or lodging facilities within the park, but these can be found in the nearby town of Moab.

Enjoy your visit to Dead Horse Point State Park, a breathtaking destination with something to offer for everyone!