Have you ever wanted to take your 4×4 vehicle offroad in the Canyonlands Area? Well, I did. Here are some tips for exploring the Canyonlands using the Potash Road, White Rim Road, and Shafer Trail Road.
Tips for taking your 4×4 vehicle offroad in Canyonlands.
First, if you haven’t driven the area, aren’t an experienced off-roader, or just want to know what to expect? Go on an offroad adventure with an expert. We highly recommend Navtec. We went with them twice before taking our own 4×4 Jeep offroading in the Canyonlands area. More information about Canyonlands National Park adventures can be found here,
Have a reliable map. We use both Google Maps and a paper map of the area. If you noticed the cover photo, we also practice taking a photo of any trail we head out on. If the other technology fails, we still have photos to rely on. Your offroad adventure in Canyonlands will be much more enjoyable if you are fully prepared.
Pay attention to the posted signs. White Rim Road requires both a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle and a permit.
In contrast, Shafer Trail Road and Potash Road only require a 4×4 vehicle with high clearance. Some of these roads lay within Canyonlands National Park, some are private, and some border Dead Horse State Park. The entire region is amazing!
Comparing the photos above of White Rim Road and Shafer Trail Road. I think you see the difference. Of course, there are other 4×4 offroading trails in the Canyonlands area to experience. Be a boy scout. Always be prepared.
More advice. Make sure your vehicle is in good running condition. Know how to drive your vehicle in rugged landscapes. Make wise choices. If you don’t, this could be you. True story, this is a real picture.
The most amazing scenery is seen on offroad drives.
That’s not just a saying, it is totally a true statement. Now, I really enjoy scenic drives. Period. But the things you can see after getting off the main drag are just plain. Well, incredible.
Breathtaking.
Beautiful beyond words. Awe-inspiring.
Worth taking a risk.
These photos were all taken on White Rim Road, Shafer Trail Road, and Potash Road. Some were taken while Papa Joe and I were 4×4 offroading ourselves, some with an experienced driver with professional equipment.
Sometimes the risk (and cost) are just plain worth it.
A few last pieces of advice about offroading in Canyonlands.
Or frankly, anywhere.
Papa Joe practiced first on the OHV roads outside of Mesa with the Jeep and with a side-by-side. He learned a lot about wheel placement and how to use our Jeep’s offroad capabilities.
He also peppered our Navtec guides about offroading techniques. Many Moab locals enjoy offroading in Canyonlands and Arches as a casual pastime. Pick the brains of one of them.
That’s how we found this “hidden” entrance to Canyonlands.
And the view of the Colorado River deep within the wilderness of Canyonlands National Park. Are you ready to explore Canyonlands?
Last bits of advice about going offroad in Canyonlands.
Always be aware of your terrain. Remember when you go out to explore the Canyonlands area, this is a desert, and the desert doesn’t treat those who take it for granted kindly. Pack plenty of water, snacks are never a bad idea. Cell phone signal is limited in some areas, so have a backup. Make sure someone knows where you are.
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