Shafer Trail Viewpoint — Attraction in Moab

The Shafer Trail is an iconic road that winds 1,500 feet (457 meters) down colorful sandstone walls. It’s located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Geological Context: The trail itself is more than just a scenic drive; it has a rich history. Here’s a brief overview of its geological significance: Formation: The trail begins near the top of the Jurassic Navajo Sandstone and descends to the Permian Cutler Formation1. These rock layers tell a story spanning millions of years. Colorful Sandstone: As you descend, you’ll witness layers of sandstone painted in vibrant hues of reds, oranges, and browns. These colors result from varying mineral content and environmental conditions over time. Massive Sandstone Cliff: The Shafer Trail takes you through a massive sandstone cliff, showcasing the erosional forces that shaped this landscape. Imagine the ancient seas, shifting sands, and geological processes that sculpted these dramatic formations. Historical Significance: The trail’s function has evolved over time: Native American Route: Initially, Native Americans used this route to access resources on the mesa top. Sheep Herders and Uranium Transport: Later, it served as a trail for sheep herders moving flocks during winter. Subsequently, it became a road for trucks transporting uranium-bearing rock from the backcountry to Moab...

Excellent drive. We drove down all the way and left the park via Potash road. Shafer Trail is an excellent maintained gravel road that you can drive with almost any car, at least down. Don't be afraid, the street is wide and you are never really that exposed (other reviews are exaggerating quite a bit imho). Potash road is much worse though, but if you have a bit of ground clearance you're good to go as well. We drove an Nissan Rogue/Xtrail with 2WD only and although it is just a mid sized SUV not designed for off roading we never struggled even once. Try to drive early in the day (before 10am), that way you will encounter much less traffic. Shafer Trail took us 30min and Potash road 1.5h until you are back on the paved road after the...

Did this trail with my girlfriend on our last day visiting Moab. Was a big highlight for both of us on the trip. We didn’t do much research on it before but luckily we had rented a jeep lol. Which if you’re going to Moab you should just do no matter what your plans are. 10/10 will recommend this for great views and exploring the desert more. As an off road challenge, if looking for something more serious, this trail will feel a little dull but there are areas to offshoot to if you desire. But obviously would want to have a car with more clearance and a winch or buddy if you get stuck. An SUV with 4WD is a must have though either way especially if it’s...