Quick Facts:
Location: Cedar Mesa, Mexican Hat, Utah
Coordinates: 37.27152783295158, -109.93999013879892
Length: 3 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 1,200’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
If you’ve ever wanted to drive a road that feels more like a dare, Moki Dugway is your ticket. Tucked into the edge of Cedar Mesa in southeastern Utah, this gravel road climbs over 1,200 feet in just three miles, snaking its way up sheer sandstone cliffs with zero guardrails. It’s short, sharp, and totally unforgettable.
Getting There:
You’ll find Moki Dugway along Utah Highway 261, about 24 miles north of Mexican Hat. If you’re coming from Monument Valley, it’s just under an hour’s drive. Look for the sign that says “Impassable When Wet”they’re not kidding. The road starts paved but turns to gravel as you begin the climb up the mesa.
Two-wheel drive vehicles can usually make it, but for off-roaders, this is pure joy. A high-clearance vehicle gives you confidence, and four-wheel drive makes the descent feel like a controlled thrill rather than a white-knuckle slide.
Landscape Description:
The road zigzags up a cliff with sweeping views of Valley of the Gods and the distant spires of Monument Valley. Red rock formations stretch for miles. The air is dry, clean, and smells like sagebrush and dust. At the top, Cedar Mesa opens up like a secret, wide, flat, and ancient, with junipers and stories carved in stone.
Sunrise and sunset here hit different. Shadows stretch forever, and the sky goes pink and orange behind jagged silhouettes.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
Moki Dugway is only about 3 miles long, but don’t let the length fool you. The gravel surface is graded but can be rough in spots. There are sharp switchbacks and steep drop-offs, definitely not for the nervous or distracted. There are no guardrails, so keep your eyes on the road and don’t try to selfie while driving.
In dry conditions, it’s manageable for most vehicles, but after rain, it can turn slick and dangerous fast. Cell signal is spotty, so download your maps ahead of time and let someone know your plans.
Dog Friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome. Just keep them leashed if you stop to take in the view. The drop-offs are no joke, and the road gets dusty, so bring water and don’t leave them in the car for long. It gets hot out here quickly, especially in summer.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Moki Dugway is public and free to access, but it’s maintained by the Utah Department of Transportation. No permits needed, but pack out everything you pack in. Stay on the road, off-roading beyond the trail is strictly forbidden to protect the fragile desert landscape. Fires aren’t allowed, and camping is not permitted directly on the Dugway. You’ll find campgrounds nearby, like Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks State Park.
Other Drives Nearby:
If you’re not ready to call it a day after Moki Dugway, head to Muley Point Road at the top of the mesa. It’s a dirt road that leads to a killer overlook of the San Juan River. Or drive through Valley of the Gods, a 17-mile dirt loop that’s like Monument Valley’s cooler, less crowded cousin.
Non-Driving Attractions:
Just a short drive south, Goosenecks State Park offers unreal views of the San Juan River’s winding curves. For a deeper cultural hit, stop by Bluff Fort in the town of Bluff or visit the Navajo-operated trading posts in Monument Valley.
There’s also Natural Bridges National Monument to the north if you want to see some of the oldest natural arches in North America without the Moab crowds.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall are prime. March through May and September through early November offer cooler temps and clearer skies. Summer can be blazing hot and dangerous for pets and people alike. Winter brings snow and mud, which can make the Dugway sketchy or even closed.
Still Want More?
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
