Location: Moab, Utah Trail: 7 Mile Rim Date of Visit: April 4, 2025 Vehicle Type: UTV Honda Talon
Weather Conditions: Clear skies, sunny, mild temperatures. Slight breeze in open areas.
Trail Conditions: Mostly dry with some minor obstacles.
Overall Impression: The 7 Mile Rim trail continues to deliver stunning Moab scenery with challenging but manageable obstacles for most UTVs. The highlight of this trip was undoubtedly the rewarding detour to the Uranium Arch.
Trail Details and Observations:
- Access and Start: The trailhead was easily accessible. Plenty of parking was available this morning, although it might get busier later in the day, especially during peak season.
- Initial Section: The beginning of the trail offers fantastic views almost immediately. The wide-open vistas of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking. The trail surface was primarily packed dirt and sand with some embedded rocks.
- Obstacles: The trail features a variety of obstacles, including:
- Rock Ledges: Several moderate rock ledges require careful navigation and good wheel placement. 4×4 and decent ground clearance are definitely recommended. Some of the larger ledges might require momentum for smaller or less powerful UTVs.
- Sand Washes: There are a few sandy sections, but they were mostly firm today. Be prepared for potential soft spots, especially after recent rain (none reported recently).
- Uneven Terrain: Expect plenty of bumpy and uneven sections throughout the trail. Good suspension is appreciated for a comfortable ride.
- Tight Turns: Some sections wind through rock formations, requiring careful steering.
- Uranium Arch Detour: The spur trail leading to the WOT Uranium Arch is well-marked. This detour is definitely worth the extra time. The arch itself is impressive and offers fantastic photo opportunities. The trail to the arch is a bit narrower and has some tighter turns, but it’s generally manageable for most UTVs. Be mindful of the drop-offs near the arch viewpoint.
- Scenery: The panoramic views from the rim are spectacular. You’ll be treated to vistas of the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River corridor, and the vast red rock landscape that Moab is famous for. There are numerous opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.
- Crowd Levels: We encountered a moderate number of other UTVs and some Jeeps on the trail today. Everyone was generally courteous and shared the trail well. Expect more traffic on weekends and holidays.
- Wildlife: We didn’t spot any significant wildlife today, but keep an eye out for lizards, birds, and possibly deer or bighorn sheep in the distance.
Recommendations:
- Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4×4 UTV is strongly recommended. Lower clearance vehicles may struggle with some of the obstacles.
- Tire Pressure: Consider airing down your tires slightly for better traction and a smoother ride over the rocks. Remember to air back up before heading back to pavement.
- Navigation: While the main trail is generally well-marked, having a GPS unit or a good trail map is always a good idea. Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in areas.
- Supplies: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and any necessary tools and spare parts.
- Respect the Environment: Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing the fragile desert environment.
Overall: The 7 Mile Rim trail, with the added bonus of visiting the Uranium Arch, provides an excellent UTV adventure in Moab. The combination of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery makes it a memorable experience. Be prepared for some technical sections and ensure your vehicle is up to the task. The detour to the arch is a must-do for the unique perspective it offers.
Trail Rating (Subjective): Moderate to Challenging (depending on your UTV and driving experience).
Enjoy your ride!