Dead Horse Point State Park
Where the River Bends Beneath the Sky
Stand atop a soaring desert mesa where immense red-rock canyons unfold around a graceful bend in the Colorado River. From sunrise glowing across the cliffs to stars emerging above the silent landscape, Dead Horse Point offers one of Utah’s most unforgettable views.
Follow the Land. Find the Story.
Dead Horse Point at
a Glance
Location:
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Southeastern Utah, near Moab
Known for:
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Sweeping views of the Colorado River and canyon country
Elevation above river:
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Approximately 2,000 feet
Dark Sky Park:
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Yes ☾✦
Open:
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Year-round
Where the river bends beneath an endless sky.
Three Ways to Explore Dead Horse Point
Dead Horse Point Overlook
Follow a short, paved pathway to the park’s signature overlook, where the Colorado River curves through vast layers of sculpted stone.
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Distance: Approximately 200 feet each way
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Difficulty: Very easy
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Accessibility: Paved, ADA-accessible pathway
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Best for: Panoramic views, sunsets and first-time visitors
East & West Rim Trails
Walk along the mesa’s edge through pinyon-juniper woodland, desert potholes and a series of spectacular canyon overlooks.
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East Rim: 1.5 miles one way
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West Rim: 3 miles one way
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Combined option: Approximately 5-mile loop
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Difficulty: Easy to moderate
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Important: Many overlooks are unfenced—use extreme caution near cliff edges
Intrepid Trail System
Explore more than 17 miles of non-motorized desert trails designed for mountain biking and hiking.
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Experience: Mountain biking and hiking
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Difficulty: Beginner to advanced route options
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Best for: Active exploration and wide-open desert views
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Important: Carry plenty of water and remain on marked trails
From Daylight to Starlight
As evening settles over the canyon, the river disappears into shadow and the desert sky fills with stars. Dead Horse Point became an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, the first Utah State Park to receive the designation.
When the canyon falls silent, let the stars carry your gaze beyond the horizon.
☾✦
Explore Responsibly
Stay on established trails and durable surfaces, protect biological soil crust, pack out everything you bring, and never carve or mark the sandstone.
Stand at the edge of wonder. Leave the canyon wild.
Before You Go
The mesa offers limited shade, changing weather and exposed cliff edges.
Bring plenty of water, watch for approaching thunderstorms, and check current park conditions before exploring.
Follow the rim. Watch the river turn. Stay until the canyon disappears beneath the stars.
