Moab, Utah: Off-Road Heaven and Its Hidden Dangers
Moab has a reputation among off-roaders for good reason. Surrounded by towering red cliffs and vast slickrock expanses, it's a destination like no other. Its rugged terrain is a magnet...
Moab Summers Demand Serious Prep
Summer highs regularly hit 100 °F, with July–August temperatures often exceeding that. Moab sees an average of 41 days per year above 100 °F and 109 days over 90 °F. Despite its beauty, the desert turns brutal fast—vehicle overheating, heat exhaustion, and dehydration become immediate threats.
One NPS report recounts a hiker lost for eight hours in 100-degree heat, seriously dehydrated until rescued via helicopter. Outside Moab, a father and daughter died in Canyonlands after running out of water in similar midday conditions. Within Grand County, search and rescue teams logged over 100 calls in a single season, with dehydration and mis-navigation common causes.
What You Must Bring—and Use
Whether you're driving Hell’s Revenge or exploring lesser-known side roads, every piece of gear matters once you're off pavement.
1. Self-Rescue Gear
Traction boards, recovery straps, a functional jack for sand or rubble, soft shackles, a winch—these aren’t optional. On Hell’s Revenge and Poison Spider, one mistake can leave you clambering for hours.
2. Hydration and Electrolytes
Plan for at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day, more if you're hiking in the heat. Electrolyte tablets are non-negotiable—Moab’s air is dry, and sweat dries faster even when you’re sitting still.
3. Communications
Have a reliable two-way radio (GMRS or ham) for in-group comms. Carry a satellite messenger or PLB as a backup—cell coverage is spotty at best.
4. Navigation Tools
Every rig should include a paper map, compass, and route notes. Add a GPS device with offline maps. Moab has intersecting trails that can deceive even experienced users.
5. Trip Plan Filed With Someone
Tell a trusted friend your route, expected times, trail names, and vehicle details. Update them if plans change. This simple step often saves lives.
6. Medical Kit
Pack a trauma kit with bleeding control, instant ice packs (critical for heat-related injuries and sprains), snake bite care, and sunscreen. Even summer missteps can lead to swelling or dehydration.
7. Sun and Heat Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, UV-protective clothing, and light layers. Early morning activity avoids the midday oven, which typically peaks between 3 and 5 p.m.
Trails to Know—and Prepare For
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Hell’s Revenge: Slickrock ridges with steep drops.
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Fins and Things: Roller-coaster rock fins.
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Poison Spider Mesa: Rocky technical climbs, river views.
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Steel Bender: Stream crossings with ledges.
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White Rim Road: Epic canyon views, long and remote.
Each trail covers miles of unforgiving terrain in baking temperatures—count on being away from help for hours at a time.
Respect Is the Only Guarantee of Return
Off-road adventures in Moab can feel legendary—until they don’t. The beauty, history, and challenge are unmatched. But so are the stakes.
Moab’s popularity brings frequent rescue operations: roughly 100+ SAR calls per season in Grand County. Most involve dehydration, minor injuries, or stranded vehicles. Avoid becoming a statistic by taking every risk seriously and respecting the desert we drive through.
Final Advice
Gear up with tested recovery tools, ample water, navigation aids, and medical supplies. Learn how to use them before you need them. Set expectations with someone who’s not on the trail. Above all, know Moab rewards preparation. Plan well, move smart, and stay ready—so you can enjoy its horizon-expanding views and epic trails with confidence.