When it comes to scenery in Moab, Utah, the national parks get all the glory. Arches NP and Canyonlands NP are a huge draw—and for good reason. They’re gorgeous! But if you’re looking for stunning views without the crowds, check out Dead Horse Point State Park.
This Utah state park overlooks dramatic canyons and the Colorado River. The rock formations are stunning. The kid-friendly hiking trails are perfect for mountain goats—I mean children—who like a little scramble with their walk. And the mountain biking trails draw experts as well as families from all over.
Views from the visitor center and Dead Horse Point overlook alone are worth the short drive from Moab and Arches.
So if you’re looking for something to do in Moab that’s not a national park, check out Dead Horse Point State Park. The views are breathtaking. Then, once you catch your breath again, you can tell all your friends about this impressive park. They’ll be sure to thank you.
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Why do they call it Dead Horse Point?
Maxine and Edie were less than thrilled with the name of this Utah state park. The name is a bit grisly—especially when you hear the history behind it.
So why is Dead Horse Point named that?
Years ago, cowherds used to use the geography of the land to corral wild horses. They’d herd them to what’s now called Dead Horse Point, which is a small piece of land surrounded by sheer dropoffs. A narrow stretch of land—the Neck—connected this spot to the rest of the area. The cowherds would block the Neck so horses couldn’t escape.
The horses would be penned in by the natural landscape, enabling cowherds to select the horses they wanted to keep. Once they’d made their selections, they’d remove the obstacles and let the other animals run free.
Legend says that one day, cowherds forgot to take away the block. The horses weren’t able to get free. Supposedly, the horses were left without water and died.
Gruesome, I know.
I keep in mind that stories like these are often apocryphal—meaning they make good stories but aren’t necessarily rooted in fact. I don’t know if that’s the case with Dead Horse Point but I sure hope so.
Maxine and Edie just about revolted every time Hubs and I said the park’s name. Edie took it upon herself to rename the park. Now, in our family, this area is called The Dip. She chose that name because the land takes a big dip—thousands of feet down red cliffs to the valley floor. It’s a much nicer name, don’t you think?
Start at the Visitor Center
Right after you enter Dead Horse Point State Park, you’ll arrive at the visitor center. Insider, you’ll find postcards, gifts and books—the usual. You can even grab a drink and sit on the wide porch overlooking the canyons. The restrooms are also clean—ideal if you’ve been driving a while.
Those things aren’t this spot’s main draw, though.
Leave your car in the parking lot and go straight to the viewpoints.
These spots give you different views of the canyon. Look for the strata in the cliffs—the different layers of rock formed over millions of years. You can see layers of rock formed by petrified sand dunes and even sediments left behind by prehistoric oceans.
Erosion scooped and sculpted the landscape, leaving behind deep canyons, towering spires and high buttes.
A paved path winds along the rim. This is an easy walk for kids and dogs. I don’t believe the path is ADA accessible because it seemed steeper than is allowed in parts and there were cracks in the pavement here and there.
A few benches provide spots to rest and admire the views—or complain and refuse to go farther without M&M’s, as the case may be.
Dead Horse Point Overlook
Next, drive a little farther past the visitor center. Head to the Dead Horse Point Overlook to see the vast landscape spread out 2,000 feet below. You’ll see the Colorado River winding its way through the desert.
The Dead Horse Point Overlook is truly special because you can see nearly 360 degrees around you. Check out the different viewpoints around the overlook. No matter where you stand, you’ll catch breathtaking views.
On the west side of Dead Horse Point Overlook, a raised platform raises you even higher. You can peer almost straight-down into the canyon at the river. This is also an ideal place for a group photo.
You can continue hiking from Dead Horse Point Overlook. Stay on the side of the visitor center to catch the East Rim Trail or walk past the raised platform to connect to the West Rim Trail. (More on hiking below.)
The Dead Horse Point Overlook has plenty of shaded picnic tables and benches, making it an ideal stop for lunch. You can also use the restroom here.
Let the kids climb around on the rocks—but watch them closely. We kept Maxine and Edie away from the edge, which is unfenced. The fall would be catastrophic to say the least. Thankfully, large stone shelves and boulders away from the edge offer plenty of spots for rock climbing.
When you’re driving back toward the visitor center and state park exit, stop at a pullout along the road. Get out of the car for a moment to see the Neck, the narrow stretch of land that connects Dead Horse Point to the rest of the park. The Neck is only 30 yards wide! At this amazing spot, you can see canyons dropping off to your left and right.
You can also walk to these points from the parking lot at the Dead Horse Point Overlook.
Dead Horse Point State Park Yurts and Camping
Dead Horse Point camping is some of the most impressive in the area. Yurts and campsites are located on little hills, giving you an incredible vantage point.
It’s no wonder why this is some of the best camping near Moab, Utah!
My family didn’t camp at Dead Horse Point—this time. We stayed in nearby Moab, about 40 minutes away. A friend of mine camped with her family recently at this Utah state park, though, and she was generous enough to share her camping photos.
One thing I appreciate about Dead Horse Point State Park camping: Campsites are distributed among several campgrounds. That means you never feel crowded.
There are 64 sites total among three campgrounds: Kayenta, Wingate and Moenkopi. Campgrounds include tent sites, yurts, and partial hookup RV sites.
The Dead Horse Point yurts in particular are incredibly popular, so you’ll want to make reservations as soon as you can. Like many camping reservations, you can book a stay six months in advance. Any sooner than that and you’ll have to wait until the reservation system opens availability.
| Camping Type | Cost per night |
| Tent only | $40 |
| Yurt | $150 |
| RV – partial hookup | $50 |
Click here to make camping reservations at Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab, Utah.
Dead Horse Point Hiking
It’s time to stretch your legs! Good thing Dead Horse Point hiking is so gorgeous.
Several hiking trails wind through Dead Horse Point State Park. It’s easiest to talk about them in two main parts: the East Rim Trail and West Rim Trail.
Hike on the side of the visitor center and you’re on the East Rim Trail. Dead Horse Point Overlook is the dividing line between it and the West Rim Trail.
The East Rim Trail seems to be more popular because you can easily start it from the visitor center—the first stop most visitors make.
The hiking trails involve stepping over (or even climbing) rocks along the clearly marked path. Watch for cairns to show you the way. Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, but bikes are not. (We didn’t hike much here because Luna, our 10-year-old Great Pyrenees, can’t navigate up and over rocks. Her ol’ hips aren’t what they used to be.)
Several spurs jut out from the East Rim and West Rim Trails. These spurs lead to overlooks for more gorgeous views of the canyons.
The West Rim Trail has more views of the Colorado River. It’s the longer of the two—3 miles compared to 1.5 miles. You can combine them for a Dead Horse Point Park hiking loop:
Begin at the visitor center. Walk 1.5 miles along the East Rim Trail. You’ll continue around the Dead Horse Point Overlook, connecting to the West Rim Trail. Keep right at the spur leading to Big Horn Overlook to return to the visitor center. This loop is less than 5 miles, though you will exceed that length if you hike the spurs to overlooks along the way.
In addition to the East and West Rim Trails, you can hike the Bighorn Overlook Trail and Desert View Overlook Trail. The Big Horn Overlook Trail is the least trafficked because it’s a bit out of the way. It’s a great hike if you’re camping in the Kayenta Campground: The trailhead is just past the campground.
Moab mountain biking – Utah
Some of the most popular mountain biking in Utah can be found at Dead Horse Point State Park. Trails wind through the park, taking you through gorgeous desert landscapes.
You’ll find trails beginner through advanced here, near Moab. Your best bet is to check out the map and look for the key on the bottom right.
Here are the mountain biking trails within Dead Horse Point SP:
| Dead Horse Point Mountain Biking Trail | Difficulty | Length |
| Raven Roll | Beginner | 1.7 miles |
| Intrepid | Beginner | .5 mile |
| Pyramid | Beginner/Intermediate | 2.2 miles |
| Big Chief | Beginner/Intermediate | 3.6 miles |
| Crossroads | Beginner/Intermediate | 1.7 miles |
| Whiptail | Intermediate | 2.6 miles |
| Twisted Tree | Intermediate/Difficult | 1.5 miles |
| Prickly Pair | Intermediate/Difficult | 1.8-2.2 miles |
As you can see, no single trail is particularly long. That’s why it’s common for people to combine trails to make a customized route.
When my family visited Dead Horse Point State Park, we didn’t bike any of the mountain bike trails. We saw plenty of other folks do so, though. We also saw plenty of kids riding the easier trails.
So if you’re looking for Moab mountain biking trails, don’t discount this scenic Utah state park.
Finally, consider some of the other mountain biking in Utah near Dead Horse Point. There are trailheads all along Highway 313. This is the road between Highway 191 (the road Moab and Arches are along) and Dead Horse Point.
Dead Horse Point with Kids
As you can see, I absolutely recommend visiting Dead Horse Point with kids. My girls loved this scenic alternative to Arches National Park.
Although national parks are much better known for their junior ranger programs, some state parks have their own versions. Good news: Dead Horse Point State Park has a junior ranger program, too!
Here’s how to participate:
Stop by the visitor center when you first arrive. A ranger inside will give each of your kids a paper booklet filled with activities.
Kids complete activities as they explore the park. Maxine and Edie got really into their junior ranger booklets!
When you’re ready to leave, stop by the visitor center again. Your kids will show their completed pages to a ranger. The ranger will lead them in saying a pledge, which centers around protecting outdoor spaces.
Then the kids officially become junior rangers—complete with a free badge!
Dead Horse Point State Park with Dogs
National parks, including Arches and Canyonlands, have strict policies about visiting with dogs. State parks are much more flexible.
That means Dead Horse Point State Park is dog-friendly!
Dogs are welcome along all this park’s walking trails, overlooks and other areas to explore. Dogs are not allowed on mountain biking trails.
Pets must be kept on-leash at all times. Please be respectful and clean up dog waste. Don’t leave animals in your car—vehicles can heat up quickly.
What to do if Arches is full
Dead Horse Point State Park is an excellent alternative activity if Arches National Park is full.
Less than a 40-minute drive from the entrance to Arches, this state park is much less popular—and a great option of you can’t get into the national park.
Folks familiar with visiting Arches National Park know that Arches closes when it reaches a maximum number of visitors. If that’s the case, don’t return to Moab. Instead, continue on to Dead Horse Point State Park.
You’ll get to explore another gorgeous outdoor area. It’s hard to feel disappointed when you’re taking in these views!
How to visit Dead Horse Point: The details
Now that you’re excited to visit, here’s what you need to know about coming to Dead Horse Point.
A day use fee for Dead Horse Point State Park costs $20 for a personal vehicle. If you bike in, entry costs $10. The fee is good for entry for two days in a row.
You can also buy an annual Utah State Parks Pass here. An annual pass costs $100 for Utah residents, $50 for Utah seniors and $150 for all out-of-state visitors.
Dead Horse Point State Park is open from 6am to 10pm daily, year-round. The visitor center is open 9am to 5pm daily, except for a few holidays. The park is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.
The best time to visit Dead Horse Point is during the spring and fall. Mild temperatures mean you can explore the park without worrying about extreme hot or cold.
Summer temperatures reach an average peak of 91 degrees in July. With minimal to no shade cover and unrelenting sun, the heat can feel uncomfortable very quickly.
January and December tend to be the coldest months at Dead Horse Point. Low temperatures average around 21 and 22 degrees during these winter months. If you visit in the winter, be extra-careful about ice.
No matter when you visit, wear layers, drink more water than you think you need and always wear SPF.
There is zero wifi in Dead Horse Point. Cell coverage is extremely limited in the park. You may catch a signal around the visitor center, but don’t count on being able to use your phone.
If you’re driving from Moab, expect a 40-minute trip. From Moab, drive north on Highway 191 (the main road through town). 11 miles past city center, turn left onto Highway 313, at Moab Giants. (There is a large sign directing you to Dead Horse Point.) Continue on Highway 313 for 14.5 miles, then keep left at the sign for Dead Horse Point State Park. You will come to the fee station, then continue driving until the visitor center.
Have you ever been to Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah? Let me know in the comments!
If you’re adding it to your wish list of places to visit near Moab, pin one of these images for later!
Looking for more places to go? Check out my post on Valley of Fire in nearby Nevada.
My husband has mountain biked many times in the area and loves it. I’m not much of a camper, but the yurts do look as though they would be a fun adventure!
Yurts are a great middle ground for people who don’t want to camp but also want to spend more time outdoors. Definitely worth a try!
Nature can be really incredible! Would love to see with my own eyes this fantastic place! thanks for all the information!
You’re so welcome Lasma!
I’m a huge fan is hiking at state parks and Utah keeps calling my name! Dead Horse Point State Park is beautiful (in spite of how it got its name). Definitely adding this to my list!
There’s SO MUCH amazing hiking in Utah state parks. Dead Horse Point SP is a gorgeous destination – I hope you make it soon!
What a beautiful state park, the views look amazing. Reminds me of Horseshoe bend a little. Found the story behind its name very interesting and a bit sad too. Thanks for all the useful information about visiting this stunning place.
You bet, so glad you found this post! Happy travels!
so bummed we skipped Dead Horse Park after reading this post…time for a return trip!
It’s always hard to include everything you want to do, isn’t it?! Dead Horse Point definitely warrants a return trip. 🙂
I really need to visit Moab and check out the national and state parks! Dead Horse State Park looks beautiful. It reminds me of the landscape in Northern Arizona, like in Sedona! Thanks for sharing this helpful information.
Don’t you just love these types of desert landscapes?! I’ve never been to Sedona so can’t compare from firsthand experience but I believe you. I adore the desert near Moab!
We canceled our trip plans to Utah during COVID. Seeing your pics and reading your article – I definitely must do! What a cool park, I will have to see dead horse point. Thanks for great tips!!
Dang, so many of us have stories about canceling trips during COVID. I hope you’re able to explore Utah soon! It’s absolutely worth it.
Dead Horse State Park looks incredible for a day hike. The scenery is just amazing and totally different from other places we have hiked.
Oh, love to hear that you had a great time hiking at Dead Horse Point too! It’s a special place.