Quick Facts:
Location: Moab, Utah
Coordinates: 38.54489418989045, -109.76380252500867
Length: 7.5 Miles One Way OR 15 Miles Out and Back
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation Gain: 2,300’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re driving through a scene from an epic Western, the Long Canyon OHV Route near Moab, Utah, is your ticket to adventure. This stunning trail offers a mix of jaw dropping landscapes, manageable terrain, and a touch of off-road drama at the famous Pucker Pass. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon soaking in the wild beauty of Moab’s desert.
How to Get There:
From downtown Moab, head north on US-191 for about nine miles, then take a left onto UT-313, the road leading to Canyonlands National Park. After a couple of miles, look for the turnoff for Long Canyon Road. This dirt road will guide you straight into one of the most scenic drives in the area. While most of the route is accessible with a high-clearance vehicle, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended, especially for navigating the rocky section under Pucker Pass.
Description of the Landscape:
The Long Canyon trail is a feast for the eyes. The road takes you through a narrow canyon surrounded by towering red rock walls that seem to glow in the sunlight. As you wind your way through, the landscape opens up to sweeping views of the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River, and even Dead Horse Point in the distance. The highlight of the trail is Pucker Pass, where a massive boulder has wedged itself between the canyon walls, creating a dramatic rock tunnel.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
Long Canyon is one of Moab’s shorter off-road trails, at just under 8 miles long, but it packs a punch when it comes to scenery. The trail is rated easy to moderate, depending on your comfort level with off-roading. Most of the route is fairly smooth, but the rocky section at Pucker Pass can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to off-roading. Take it slow, enjoy the ride, and don’t forget to stop and admire the views, they’re worth every stop.
Can Your Dog Join the Fun?
Yes, Long Canyon is dog-friendly, so your pup can enjoy the adventure too! Just make sure to keep them on a leash, as the rocky terrain and steep drop-offs in some areas can be risky. Pack plenty of water for them, as the desert heat can sneak up fast, and shade is almost non-existent. If your dog loves riding in the car and exploring new places, they’ll have the time of their life here.
Local Regulations:
Since Long Canyon is located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, it’s open for public use, but there are some important rules to follow. Stick to the designated trail to help protect the fragile desert ecosystem. Always pack out your trash, and be courteous to other trail users, including hikers and mountain bikers. If there’s been recent rain, check road conditions before heading out, Pucker Pass can become slippery and challenging after a storm.
More Trails to Explore:
If Long Canyon leaves you wanting more, Moab has plenty of options to keep the adventure going. Shafer Trail in nearby Canyonlands National Park is a longer, more challenging route with jaw-dropping views of the canyons below. Gemini Bridges offers another scenic drive with a unique sandstone arch at the end, and Potash Road is perfect if you’re interested in spotting ancient petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks.
Non-Driving Fun Nearby:
You don’t need to be behind the wheel to enjoy the area around Long Canyon. Dead Horse Point State Park, just a short drive away, has some of the most breathtaking overlooks in the region. The Colorado River is ideal for a relaxing float trip or a bit of kayaking if you want to cool off. Back in Moab, there’s no shortage of fun, from quirky shops and delicious local restaurants to the fascinating Moab Museum that dives into the area’s history.
Accommodations: Where To Set Up Basecamp
Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton
Hoodoo Moab feels like a desert oasis after a long day of red rock adventures. The design blends rustic Southwest character with modern luxury, and the pool area is one of the best in town for cooling off after hiking in Arches or Canyonlands. You’ll get spacious rooms, excellent on-site dining, and a location that keeps you within walking distance of shops and restaurants on Main Street.
👉 Book your stay at Hoodoo Moab here for exclusive rates and perks.
Element Moab is all about comfort and functionality with a clean, eco-friendly vibe. The rooms come with kitchenettes, perfect for travelers who want to fuel up on their own schedule. The complimentary breakfast is a huge plus before hitting the trails, and the hotel’s location gives you quick access to Arches National Park. Add in the saltwater pool and firepit area, and it’s a fantastic base for both families and solo adventurers.
👉 Reserve your stay at Element Moab here and save while supporting Unicorn Adventure.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
Spring and fall are the sweet spots for visiting Long Canyon. From March to May and September to November, the weather is just about perfect, warm days and cool evenings that make desert exploring a breeze. Summer can be brutally hot, and the lack of shade on the trail makes midday visits uncomfortable. Winters are quieter but can bring snow and ice, especially around Pucker Pass, adding an extra layer of challenge. For the best experience, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is magical and the temperatures are mild.
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