Moab Utah Things to Do off the beaten path

Top 6 Things to Do on Scenic Potash Road in Moab

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Nestled in the stunning landscape of Moab, Utah, Potash Road (also known as UT-279) is a scenic byway with multiple outdoor adventure opportunities and breathtaking landscapes. If you are looking to get away from the crowds in the parks, this scenic byway runs along the Colorado River west of the town of Moab and offers an array of activities for every type of adventurer. Here are our top 6 things to do to make the most of your scenic drive along Potash Road.

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1. Rock Climbing at Wall Street

For climbing enthusiasts, Wall Street is a must-visit. This renowned climbing spot features a vertical playground of sandstone cliffs that attract climbers from all over the world. Whether you are a beginner looking to practice your skills or an experienced climber seeking a challenge, Wall Street has routes for every level.

If you are not an experienced climber but want to give this a try, we recommend learning from an experienced guide (see tours below).

Top Climbing Tours in Moab

Top rated rock climbing tour: Half day rock climbing tour in Moab

Things to do Potash Road Moab
Wall Street Climbers Potash Road Moab

2. Discovering Ancient Petroglyphs

Moab is home to fascinating petroglyph panels that date back thousands of years. Potash Road has a large collection of these directly along the road. These ancient rock carvings, created by Native American tribes, provide a glimpse into the past lives of these early inhabitants. Take a moment to observe these historical artifacts and reflect on the region’s ancestral heritage. See if you can find the big bear petroglyph when you visit these panels.

Top Petroglyph Tours in Moab

Moab off the beaten path things to do
Potash Petroglyphs Moab Utah

3. Tracking Dinosaurs

Imagine walking the same ground as dinosaurs did millions of years ago. Along Potash Road, you can do just that by visiting the dinosaur track sites. These well-preserved imprints make for a great visit for both young explorers and seasoned paleontology enthusiasts. The trail to the dinosaur tracks starts at the Poison Spider parking lot of Potash Road. The trail is clearly marked. Keep in mind that, unlike the petroglyphs, this does require a short stretch of hiking on a narrow, rocky trail.

Moab things to do Potash dinosaur tracks
Potash dinosaur tracks

4. Hiking Opportunities Abound

Potash Road offers several hiking trails that lead to stunning natural arches. Here are some highlights:

  • Corona and Bowtie Arches: This moderately challenging hike rewards you with views of two spectacular arches. Corona Arch, the larger of the two, is a massive, awe-inspiring natural bridge that is perfect for photography.
  • Pinto Arch: For a more secluded experience, the hike to Pinto Arch is a hidden gem. This less-traveled path offers a peaceful retreat into nature. You can access this trail from the Corona Arch trail. We often combine this into a three arch loop.
  • Longbow Arch: Longbow Arch trail is another fantastic hike that provides scenic views over the Colorado River. It leaves from the Poison Spider parking lot. You’ll need to climb up a short rung ladder early in the trail, walk through some sandy stretches, and then navigate through the rocky terrain to reach the arch.
  • Jeep Arch: This hike features interesting rock formations and panoramic views, making it a worthwhile trek.
Moab Utah Things to Do off the beaten path
Corona Arch, Moab

Top Hiking Tours Moab

Private Guided Hike in Arches National ParkTop rates hiking tour of Arches with private guide, including pickup and drop-off and entry fees.
Arches Devils’ Garden Primitive Loop Hike PrivateThis hike will get you away from the crowds and into Devil’s Garden in Arches.
Arches and Canyonlands Two Day Private Tour and Hike2-day tour with master naturalists, a perfect way to learn about the geology and history of the parks.
Arches NP Hidden Arches Solitaire Desert Hike PrivatePrivate hike to the quieter side of the park, hiking to Tower Arch, among others.

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Tips for Avoiding Crowds Longbow Arch Moab Utah
Longbow Arch Moab Utah

5. Off-Roading on Poison Spider Trail

If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-pumping activity, the Poison Spider Trail offers one of the best off-roading experiences in Moab. This trail is a favorite among 4×4 enthusiasts for its challenging terrain and stunning vistas. Suitable for both ATVs and high-clearance vehicles, it promises an exciting adventure with memorable landscapes.

Top Off-Roading Tours Moab

Off roading Moab Utah
Off roading Moab, photo credit Brian Erickson on Unsplash


6. Biking Along Potash Road

For cycling enthusiasts, biking along Potash Road offers a relatively flat road with gentle climbs, making it accessible for bikers of various skill levels. As you pedal along the Colorado River, you’ll be treated to stunning views of towering red rock cliffs. Bring a bike lock so that you can lock your bike up and explore the dinosaur tracks or do one of the hikes along the way. The petroglyphs are directly along the road, so no bike lock needed to visit these.

Top Moab Bike Tours

Moab Back Roads, History and Winery E-Bike TourThis is a gentle 9-14 mile bike ride to the Winery, with wine tasting and e-bikes included. There is a van ride back from the winery.
Private Group Half-Day Moab Brand Trails Guided Mountain Biking Tour1/2-day tour private mountain bike tour through Moab, customizable based on your group.
Introductory Mountain Biking Adventure in Moab CourthouseThis tour is a great 4-hour tour, introducing you to off road biking on the Moab Brands Trail and Moab’s Courthouse Loop,
Colorado River View from Pinto Arch Trail
Colorado River View from Pinto Arch Trail

Potash Road in Moab is a destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re scaling cliffs, tracing the steps of dinosaurs, or exploring majestic natural arches, this route offers an unforgettable adventure in one of the most picturesque settings in the American Southwest. Make sure to bring your sense of adventure and your camera to capture the incredible Moab memories you’ll make on Potash Road. Once you’ve explored Potash Road, be sure to enjoy the scenic River Road.

Where to Stay in Moab

Check out our recommended Unique Places to Stay in Moab here! Search for additional lodging options below:

Travel Resources

We recommend booking through our preferred travel booking sites below.

Air TravelSkyScanner
LodgingBooking.com, VRBO.com, Expedia.com, Hostelworld
Tours and ActivitiesViator.com, GetYourGuide.com
Car rentalsDiscovercars.com
Travel insuranceSquaremouth
Bike and scooter rentalsBikeBookings.com
Train ticketsTrainline, RailEurope
Bus ticketsFlixbus, Busbud
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