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Shafer Trail
Off-Road Trail
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Trail Information
Nestled within the majestic Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah, the Shafer Trail is a gateway to the rugged, untouched wilderness of the Canyonlands National Park. They key feature of this trail is the descent, dropping over 1500 feet down a series of steep, narrow switchbacks with a view you can only understand once you've seen it yourself.
From the top of the trail you'll be treated to an overlook of Canyonlands that's almost certain to take your breath away. The vivid red rock formations you'll encounter are primarily composed of sedimentary rock, shaped by ancient seas, wind, and water erosion. They tell a story spanning hundred of millions of years.
The Shafer Trail is not particularly technical or difficult but it does require a solid 4WD vehicle and a careful attention to the road. The switchbacks are sharp, and the price for negligence on this trail is high. You'll want to make sure you're looking ahead for traffic and creating safe opportunities for oncoming traffic to pass by.
This trail serves as a connection to both Potash Road (which is what we have mapped here) and White Rim Road. The route that includes Potash Road typically takes around four hours to complete and finishes just off the Colorado river, southwest of Moab, UT. The alternative route that continues on to White Rim Road typically takes 2+ days to complete offers a full tour of the Islands In The Sky district of the park. Both options are more than work the drive!
This trail serves as a connection to both Potash Road (which is what we have mapped here) and White Rim Road. The route that includes Potash Road typically takes around four hours to complete and finishes just off the Colorado river, southwest of Moab, UT. The alternative route that continues on to White Rim Road typically takes 2+ days to complete offers a full tour of the Islands In The Sky district of the park. Both options are more than work the drive!
To make the most of your drive on the Shafer Trail, here are a few tips and preparations:
- Ensure your vehicle is in top-notch condition. The rugged terrain demands a well-maintained 4x4 with high clearance. Make sure you have a spare tire, basic tools, and recovery equipment.
- Entry into Canyonlands National Park requires a park pass. Additionally, camping permits may be necessary, so check the National Park Service website for the latest information and availability.
- Carry enough water, food, and supplies to sustain yourself throughout the trip. There are no amenities on the trail, so self-sufficiency is key.
- Be mindful of the weather, especially during the summer months when temperatures can soar. Always check the weather forecast before embarking on your adventure.
- As always, be sure to respect the environment and leave no trace of your visit. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the natural beauty of the area for future generations.
If you're interested in finding out more, check out this video from Peter Holcombe as he shares his experience on the Shafer Trail in his Sprinter!
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Basic Info
Difficulty
Moderate
Length
18.1 mi
Hightest Elevation
5918 ft
Nearest City
Moab
Website
www.nps.gov
Categories
Mountains
Views
Canyons
Off-Road
National Park
Desert
Overland