Moonscape Overlook Guide: A Journey Near Hanksville, Utah

Introduction:

Tucked away near the small yet vibrant town of Hanksville, Utah, the Moonscape Overlook offers an excursion that seems not of this world. This guide gently leads you through a celestial journey to Moonscape Overlook, revealing the sublime beauty and serenity of this unique hiking destination.

Quick Facts:

Location: Near Hanksville, Utah

Coordinates: 38.45235048193429, -110.83798731612643

Length: Roadside

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: None

Dog Friendly: Yes

Getting There: Directions and First Impressions:

From Hanksville, Utah:

1. Head north on UT-24: Leave Hanksville heading north on UT-24.
2. Turn left onto Coal Mine Road: After approximately 11 miles, turn left onto Coal Mine Road (also known as BLM 2410).
3. Continue on Coal Mine Road: Drive for about 6 miles on this dirt road.
4. Turn right onto Moonscape Overlook Road: Follow this road for about 3.5 miles to reach the overlook.

Parking 101: Tips and Tricks:

The path to Moonscape Overlook is initiated through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Hanksville, where signs are discreetly placed, guiding adventurers to a parking area that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. Here, ample space is provided for vehicles, allowing hikers to start their journey with peace of mind.

The Landscape: What to Expect:

Once the trail is embarked upon, adventurers are enveloped by a landscape that captures the imagination and stirs the soul. The terrain at Moonscape Overlook, characterized by its stark, rugged beauty, mirrors lunar surfaces, with expansive views that stretch to the horizon, where the earth meets the sky in a breathtaking tableau.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

Moonscape Overlook is adjacent to the parking area where hiking is not required. 

Rules and Regulations: For a Safe and Responsible Hike:

Dog-Friendliness: Dogs are gladly welcomed on the trail to Moonscape Overlook, as long as they are kept on leashes, sharing in the adventure while ensuring the preservation of the natural flora and fauna.

Use of Drones: Yes, drones are currently allowed in the area around Moonscape Overlook and Factory Butte.

Other Trails Nearby:

Nearby trails, such as the Factory Butte and Goblin Valley, offer further adventures in contrasting landscapes, inviting a deeper exploration of Hanksville’s rugged environment.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

Non-hiking attractions include the mystical Goblin Valley State Park and the historic insights offered by the Hanksville Visitor Center.

Accommodations: Rest Your Weary Legs:

Nearby lodging options vary from basic campsites that allow you to sleep under the stars to comfortable motels in Hanksville, catering to a range of preferences. 

Best Time to Visit: Seasonal Splendors:

The best times to visit Moonscape Overlook are during the cooler months of spring and fall, when the desert’s beauty is most accessible, and the climate invites longer stays outdoors.

Conclusion: Take the Leap into Nature’s Embrace:

Hiking to Moonscape Overlook is not merely a physical journey but a venture into a landscape so surreal it feels like stepping onto another planet. Each visit promises not only a trek but an escape into vast, open spaces that echo with the whispers of the cosmos.