Quick Facts:

Location: Moab, Utah

Coordinates: 38.72052133611222, -109.34353916196686

Length: 20 Miles (Out and Back)

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 2,000 Feet

 

Discovering Onion Creek Trail: An Off-Roading Gem Near Moab, Utah

Just outside Moab, Utah, Onion Creek Trail is a favorite for off-roaders drawn to its red-rock canyons, fun creek crossings, and dramatic rock formations. This scenic route winds through Onion Creek Canyon, flanked by towering cliffs and vibrant, multicolored rock formations that create a surreal desert landscape. Known for its manageable terrain and epic photo spots, Onion Creek Trail is the perfect mix of adventure and jaw-dropping scenery, ideal for both beginners and experienced off-roaders.

How to Get There

Getting to Onion Creek Trail is simple and scenic. Head north on US-191 from Moab, then turn onto UT-128, also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway. After about 20 miles, you’ll see a marked turnoff for Onion Creek Road, where the dirt trail begins. The road is accessible for most vehicles, but a high-clearance 4×4 is best if you want to tackle the creek crossings and rougher sections. It’s a straightforward drive, and the red-rock views along the way are worth the trip alone!

The Landscape: What to Expect

Once you’re on the trail, you’ll be surrounded by classic Utah scenery, deep red rock, sheer canyon walls, and a winding creek that you’ll cross multiple times. The trail hugs Onion Creek as it carves through the canyon, and you’ll hit over 20 shallow creek crossings along the way, making for a fun and sometimes splashy drive. One of the most striking parts of Onion Creek Trail is the colorful rock layers, with reds, oranges, purples, and greens showing off Utah’s unique geology. Along the way, keep an eye out for natural arches, hoodoos, and rocky towers that make this trail a dream for photographers.

Trail Difficulty and Length

Onion Creek Trail stretches about 10 miles one way, giving you roughly 20 miles of round-trip adventure. The terrain is mostly moderate, with creek crossings and some rocky patches that keep things interesting without being too technical. The trail’s fun, scenic, and manageable for all skill levels, making it a hit with beginners and experienced drivers alike.

Local Guidelines and Helpful Tips

To help keep Onion Creek Trail beautiful and accessible, there are a few local guidelines to follow. Always stay on designated trails to avoid damaging plants and rocks, and pack out all trash as part of the Leave No Trace principles. Keep noise to a minimum near water sources, as Onion Creek is a key water supply for local wildlife. Pets are welcome but should be leashed, and fire restrictions may apply in dry months, be sure to check before you go. And if it’s flash flood season, be cautious of rain in the forecast, as water levels in the creek can rise quickly and make crossings risky.

Other Trails Nearby

Moab is an off-roader’s paradise, with plenty of nearby trails to explore. Just a short drive from Onion Creek is the Fisher Towers Trail, a scenic hiking route with towering rock formations and amazing overlooks. If you’re up for more off-roading, Dome Plateau offers cliffside views, scenic vistas, and cool geological landmarks for a bit more challenging ride. For those after a real thrill, check out Moab’s famous Hell’s Revenge and Fins & Things trails, which offer exciting, technical terrain for seasoned drivers.

Non-Off-Road Attractions Around Moab

Moab is full of things to do beyond the trails. Arches National Park, just outside Moab, is a must-see for its stunning rock arches and scenic drives. Nearby, the Colorado River has spots for rafting, paddle-boarding, and relaxing river cruises. For a bit of history, stop by the Moab Museum to learn about the area’s geology, history, and Native American heritage. Downtown Moab has a vibrant atmosphere with lots of local restaurants, art galleries, and shops, a great place to unwind after a day of adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to hit Onion Creek Trail are spring and fall (April to May and September to October) when temperatures are mild, making the whole experience much more comfortable. Spring even brings wildflowers in bloom, adding more color to the already stunning landscape. Fall offers cooler temps and fewer crowds, ideal for those seeking a quieter trail. Summer can be scorching, often hitting 100°F, which can make creek crossings a bit less fun. Flash floods are more common in summer, so always check the weather before heading out.