Discover the Majestic Beauty of Horseshoe Canyon

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and ancient rock art of Horseshoe Canyon, a stunning natural attraction in Utah that promises adventure and serenity.

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Horseshoe Canyon

Horseshoe Canyon, nestled in Utah, is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and exhilarating outdoor activities. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this park offers a serene escape into the heart of nature, where you can explore ancient rock art, hike scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the stunning vistas.

A brief summary to Horseshoe Canyon

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the park.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the canyon.
Take time to appreciate the rock art; it's a significant part of the area's history and culture.

Getting There

Car

If you are starting from Moab, Utah, head west on US-191 for about 30 miles. Then, turn left onto UT-313 and follow it for about 22 miles. This road will take you to the entrance of Canyonlands National Park. Once you reach the park entrance, continue on the main road until you see signs for the Island in the Sky district. From there, you will need to continue onto the dirt road that leads to the Horseshoe Canyon trailhead. Be aware that the last section of the road is unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle.
Public Transportation + Hiking

If you are reliant on public transportation, you can take a shuttle service from Moab to Canyonlands National Park. Once you arrive at the park, you will need to arrange for a taxi or shuttle to take you to the Horseshoe Canyon trailhead, as public transport does not reach this area directly. The taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes and may cost between $50-$100. Once you arrive at the trailhead, prepare for a hike down to the canyon, which is about a 1.5-mile descent.
Bicycle

For the adventurous, you can bike from Moab to Canyonlands. Take the same route as the car option, but be prepared for a challenging ride. The distance is about 52 miles one-way, and the last section will involve navigating the unpaved roads to reach the Horseshoe Canyon trailhead. Ensure you have proper gear and water, as this is a strenuous route.

Discover more about Horseshoe Canyon

Horseshoe Canyon is a gem located in the heart of Utah, renowned for its dramatic scenery and rich cultural history. This stunning area is part of the larger Canyonlands National Park and is celebrated for its breathtaking views and unique geological formations. Visitors to Horseshoe Canyon can experience a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and photography, all while taking in the impressive landscapes that define the region. One of the highlights of this location is the ancient rock art, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the Native American peoples who once inhabited this land. The stunning pictographs, some dating back thousands of years, are a testament to the artistic expression and cultural significance of the area. For those who enjoy hiking, the trails in Horseshoe Canyon provide a range of difficulty levels, making it accessible for both casual walkers and seasoned adventurers. The most popular trail leads to the canyon's rim, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the canyon floor below and the surrounding wilderness. The park is also an excellent spot for bird watching, with numerous species calling this area home. With its rich history, stunning vistas, and abundant recreational opportunities, Horseshoe Canyon is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Utah's natural wonders.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Goblin Valley State Park

45.7 km

Discover the surreal rock formations and enchanting landscapes of Goblin Valley State Park, a unique natural wonder in Utah offering endless exploration and adventure.

Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel

46.7 km

Explore the Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel in Utah, a historical landmark revealing ancient rock art and the stories of Native American heritage.

Intestine Man Petroglyphs

47.4 km

Explore the Intestine Man Petroglyphs in Utah, a captivating historical landmark showcasing ancient Native American rock art.

Elephant Hill Trailhead

47.5 km

Explore the scenic Elephant Hill Trailhead in Utah's Canyonlands National Park, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await.

Needles District Canyonlands

49.8 km

Uncover the mesmerizing landscapes of the Needles District in Canyonlands, where colorful cliffs and canyons create a perfect outdoor adventure.

Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail

50.0 km

Discover the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail in Moab, Utah, where ancient fossils meet breathtaking desert scenery for a unique outdoor adventure.

Anticline Overlook

50.4 km

Experience the stunning vistas of Canyonlands National Park from the Anticline Overlook, a must-visit observation deck in Monticello, Utah.

Wooden Shoe Arch

50.8 km

Explore the Wooden Shoe Arch, a stunning natural landmark in Monticello, Utah, showcasing the beauty of sandstone formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite

51.0 km

Discover the ancient footprints of dinosaurs at Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite, a captivating attraction in Moab, Utah, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Moab Giants

51.5 km

Explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs at Moab Giants, an open-air museum in Moab, Utah, showcasing life-sized replicas and stunning landscapes.

Druid Arch

51.6 km

Explore Druid Arch, a stunning hiking destination in Monticello, Utah, where nature's artistry meets adventure in the heart of Canyonlands.

Pinto Arch

52.5 km

Explore Pinto Arch in Moab, Utah – a breathtaking hiking destination showcasing stunning red rock landscapes and natural beauty.

Moab Isolation Center Ruins and Dalton Wells CCC Camp

52.8 km

Explore the Moab Isolation Center and Dalton Wells CCC Camp, a historical landmark showcasing America's rich history amidst Utah's stunning landscapes.

Moab Isolation Center Ruins and Dalton Wells CCC Camp

Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs

52.9 km

Explore the Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes converge in Moab, Utah.

Bowtie Arch

52.9 km

Explore Bowtie Arch in Moab, Utah - a stunning natural arch perfect for hiking, photography, and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the high desert.

Unmissable attractions to see

Upheaval Dome

23.9 km

Explore Upheaval Dome in Utah, a geological marvel with stunning views and adventurous trails, perfect for nature lovers and exploration enthusiasts.

Upheavel Dome

24.2 km

Explore the geological marvel of Upheaval Dome, a stunning hiking area in Canyonlands National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

White Rim Rd

27.9 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of White Rim Road in Utah, a scenic drive through stunning canyons and rock formations in Canyonlands National Park.

Green River Overlook

28.7 km

Discover the stunning vistas of Green River Overlook, where the beauty of Utah's canyons meets the winding Green River.

Aztec Butte

29.4 km

Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Aztec Butte, a stunning mountain peak in Utah perfect for hiking and exploration.

Murphy Point Overlook

29.8 km

Discover the stunning scenery and rich history at Murphy Point Overlook, a prime location for breathtaking views in Moab, Utah.

Mesa Arch Trailhead

30.2 km

Explore the breathtaking Mesa Arch Trailhead in Moab, Utah—an iconic hiking destination with stunning views of the canyon and the iconic arch.

Mesa Arch

30.4 km

Discover the stunning Mesa Arch in Utah, a breathtaking scenic spot perfect for sunrise views, hiking, and immersing in nature's beauty.

Candlestick Tower Overlook

30.5 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Candlestick Tower Overlook in Moab, Utah, where stunning rock formations meet panoramic views of the American Southwest.

Murphy Trailhead

31.5 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventurous spirit of Murphy Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Moab, Utah.

Buck Canyon Overlook

32.2 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Buck Canyon Overlook in Moab, Utah—an unforgettable scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Grand View Point Rd

32.6 km

Explore the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Grand View Point Road in Utah, a must-visit destination for every nature lover.

Shafer Trail Viewpoint

33.5 km

Explore the stunning Shafer Trail Viewpoint in Moab, Utah, where breathtaking scenery and endless adventure await in the heart of the desert.

Island in the Sky Visitor Center

33.5 km

Discover breathtaking views and vital information at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center, your gateway to Canyonlands National Park in Moab, Utah.

Moonshine Wash

33.5 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Moonshine Wash, a serene ravine in Utah, perfect for outdoor adventures and historical exploration.

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Fiesta Mexicana in Moab - where vibrant flavors meet welcoming hospitality.

Arches Thai

58.5 km

Savor authentic Thai flavors at Arches Thai in Moab - a culinary oasis amidst breathtaking desert scenery.

Explore Moab Momento for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Utah's stunning landscapes.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Outlaw's Roost

44.2 km

Discover the heart of Hanksville at Outlaw's Roost, where hearty meals and local charm await every traveler.

Stan's Burger Shak

44.3 km

Savor the best burgers in Hanksville, Utah, at Stan's Burger Shak – where flavor meets adventure in every bite!

Duke's Slickrock Grill

44.6 km

Discover Duke's Slickrock Grill: A Barbecue Haven in Hanksville, Utah, Offering Delicious American Cuisine and Unforgettable Flavors.

Moab Giants Cafe

51.5 km

Experience a delightful taste of American cuisine in the heart of Moab, Utah, at Moab Giants Cafe, the perfect dining spot for adventurers and food lovers alike.

Jeep Arch

52.0 km

Explore the breathtaking Jeep Arch in Moab, Utah, a natural marvel surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and hiking trails.

Sandbar Lounge Moab

57.1 km

Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Sandbar Lounge Moab, a top destination for food lovers in Utah's stunning landscapes.

World Famous Woody's Tavern

58.6 km

Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at Woody's Tavern, a premier bar in the heart of Moab, Utah, perfect for relaxation after adventure.

The Spoke Bar

58.6 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Spoke Bar in Moab, where craft drinks and local culture meet for an unforgettable night out.

Moab Garage Co.

58.7 km

Discover the cozy charm of Moab Garage Co., a beloved café offering delicious breakfast, lunch, and ice cream in the heart of Moab, Utah.

The Alley Sports Pub and Grill

60.5 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious menu at The Alley Sports Pub and Grill, the perfect spot for sports fans and food lovers in Moab, Utah.

VFW

61.2 km

Discover VFW in Moab, Utah: A lively bar where locals and travelers gather to enjoy drinks and camaraderie amidst stunning landscapes.

Susie's Branding Iron Restaurant

61.8 km

Experience family-friendly dining in Moab with delicious hamburgers and steaks at Susie's Branding Iron Restaurant, a local favorite.

The Cowboy Grill

70.8 km

Experience the authentic taste of the Wild West at The Cowboy Grill, where hearty American dishes meet stunning desert views.

River Grill Restaurant

75.0 km

Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and stunning river views at River Grill Restaurant in Moab, Utah.

Capitol Reef Sign / Orientation Pullout

82.5 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park by starting your adventure at the iconic Capitol Reef Sign and Orientation Pullout.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Discover the Majestic Beauty of Horseshoe Canyon

A brief summary to Horseshoe Canyon

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation + Hiking

Bicycle

Unlock the Best of Horseshoe Canyon

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Horseshoe Canyon

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Goblin Valley State Park

Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel

Intestine Man Petroglyphs

Elephant Hill Trailhead

Needles District Canyonlands

Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail

Anticline Overlook

Wooden Shoe Arch

Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite

Moab Giants

Druid Arch

Pinto Arch

Moab Isolation Center Ruins and Dalton Wells CCC Camp

Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs

Bowtie Arch

Unmissable attractions to see

Upheaval Dome

Upheavel Dome

White Rim Rd

Green River Overlook

Aztec Butte

Murphy Point Overlook

Mesa Arch Trailhead

Mesa Arch

Candlestick Tower Overlook

Murphy Trailhead

Buck Canyon Overlook

Grand View Point Rd

Shafer Trail Viewpoint

Island in the Sky Visitor Center

Moonshine Wash

Essential places to dine

The Sandstone Restaurant and Bar

Proper Brewing & Burger Co.

Moab Kitchen

Spitfire Smokehouse + Taps

Desert Bistro

Moab Canyon Pizza Co.

Moab Grill Restaurant

Tey’s Home made Mexican Food

Giliberto's Mexican Taco Shop

Josie Wyatt's Grille

McDonald's

Subway

El Local

Fiesta Mexicana

Arches Thai

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Rockin Riddle Rock Shop

Moab Giants Gift Shop

Never Enough Stitches

Millers Shopping Center

Moab Gear Trader

The Village Market

Gearheads Outdoor Store

Canyonlands General Store

Hogan Trading Company

Express Grocery Sporting Goods

Pinyon Tree Gift Shop

Anasazi Desert Gear

Arches Trading Post

Moab T-Shirt Co

Moab Momento

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Outlaw's Roost

Stan's Burger Shak

Duke's Slickrock Grill