Long Canyon remains one of Moab’s most scenic “gateway” trails, famous for its dramatic red rock walls and the iconic drive-through rockfall at Pucker Pass. As of April 2026, the trail is in its peak spring season with generally favorable conditions, though some sections remain rugged due to winter erosion.
Trail Overview
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Rating: 2-3 out of 10).
- Distance: Approximately 7.5 to 9.5 miles one way.
- Time: 1–2 hours depending on how many photo stops you take.
- Vehicle Req: High-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended. While some AWD crossovers can handle the trail in dry conditions, the steep, loose section at Pucker Pass often requires 4WD and good tires.
April 2026 Conditions
- Surface: The majority of the trail is a graded dirt road, but the upper section near Pucker Pass is steep, rocky, and can be loose.
- Weather Impact: Spring in Moab (mid-60s to 80°F) is ideal, but the clay-heavy soil becomes extremely slick when wet. If recent spring rain has occurred, avoid this trail as it can become impassable and dangerous near the cliff edges.
- Obstacles: No major washouts have been reported this month, but always watch for fallen rocks in the narrower “narrows” section.
Route Highlights
- The Fallen Rock: The most famous feature of the trail—a massive sandstone slab that fell across the road, creating a natural tunnel just wide enough for a full-sized vehicle to drive under.
- Pucker Pass: A series of tight switchbacks and steep grades near the top of the canyon that offer breathtaking (and nerve-wracking) views of the canyon floor 2,000 feet below.
- La Sal Viewpoints: As you descend (if traveling from Dead Horse Point toward Potash Road), the La Sal Mountains provide a stunning snow-capped backdrop against the red desert floor.
Logistics & Staging
- Direction: The trail can be driven in either direction. Most people prefer driving down (from UT-313/Dead Horse Point Road toward Potash Road/UT-279) to keep the spectacular views in front of the windshield.
- Connectors: This trail perfectly links the “Island in the Sky” district of Canyonlands with the Colorado River corridor (Potash Road), making it a great shortcut for a full day of exploring.
- Clearance Note: Vehicles higher than 9 feet 6 inches are not recommended due to the low-hanging rock at the Pucker Pass tunnel.
Note: Long Canyon is on BLM land and does not require a permit, unlike the nearby White Rim Road. However, always stay on the designated track to protect the fragile desert environment.