Colorado Riverway Recreation Area Moab
Experience breathtaking red rock canyons and the mighty Colorado River on scenic drives and accessible trails. Discover ancient petroglyphs and enjoy ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Colorado Riverway Recreation Area Moab
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking red rock canyons and the mighty Colorado River on scenic drives and accessible trails. Discover ancient petroglyphs and enjoy outdoor adventures.
"Some of the best scenery we had in Utah, highly recommend traveling to see this area."
🚗 Scenic Drive Must-Do
Drive Potash Road (Hwy 279) for incredible red rock and river views. No 4x4 needed!
🛶 River Adventure
Consider rafting or kayaking on the Colorado River for a different perspective.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Potash Road Scenic Drive
Along the Colorado River
A stunning drive with towering red cliffs and the Colorado River. Perfect for photos and soaking in desert beauty.
Colorado Riverway Recreation Area
Along the Colorado River
Offers river access for rafting and kayaking, plus picnic spots and walking trails with great views.
Petroglyph Viewing
Along Potash Road (Highway 279)
Discover ancient rock art etched into the canyon walls, a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Lions Park Footbridge
Lions Park Transit Hub
A great spot for panoramic views of the Colorado River and surrounding red rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Timing is Key for Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Must-Do
Drive Potash Road (Hwy 279) for incredible red rock and river views. No 4x4 needed!
🛶 River Adventure
Consider rafting or kayaking on the Colorado River for a different perspective.
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Enjoy paved trails for walking and biking along the river.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Many pull-offs offer stunning backdrops for memorable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Must-Do
Drive Potash Road (Hwy 279) for incredible red rock and river views. No 4x4 needed!
🛶 River Adventure
Consider rafting or kayaking on the Colorado River for a different perspective.
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Enjoy paved trails for walking and biking along the river.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Many pull-offs offer stunning backdrops for memorable photos.
⏳ Beat the Heat
Visit in cooler months or early mornings to avoid intense summer sun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery along the Colorado River, particularly the scenic drive on Potash Road and the accessible trails. Many appreciate the opportunity for outdoor activities like rafting and the historical petroglyphs. While generally free and beautiful, some note that it can get busy during peak times and that specific amenities might be limited compared to national parks.
"Stopped here to eat lunch while waiting for our time entry to Arched NP. had a beautiful view of the Colorado River and rock formations. After visiting the NP we drove Route 128 towards I-70. Some of the best scenery we had in Utah. If visiting Moab area I would recommend traveling to see this area."
rich troutman
"Lions Park is near the Colorado Recreation Area. The park has a foot bridge with great views of the Colorado River. The Potash road along the river has great views. We saw people river rafting and kayaking. There were camp areas and picnic areas along the road."
Merideth Oliver
"Nice paved trail for walking, biking, and sightseeing of the beautiful areas along the Colorado River."
T C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area is easily accessible from Moab. Potash Road (Highway 279) runs alongside the Colorado River and is a popular scenic drive directly from town.
Yes, Potash Road is a paved scenic byway, making it accessible for most vehicles. You don't need a 4x4 to enjoy the stunning views.
Yes, you can drive from cities like Denver, Colorado, which offers a scenic train journey ending near Moab. From Las Vegas, Nevada, it's a road trip that can include stops at places like Valley of Fire State Park.
The recreation area is spread along the Colorado River. Key access points include Lions Park and various pull-offs along Potash Road (Highway 279).
Driving the scenic routes like Potash Road is highly recommended. You can also find designated picnic and camping areas along the river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general recreation areas along the river, including Potash Road, is typically free. However, some specific parks or trailheads might have day-use fees.
While general access is free, specific activities like overnight camping may require permits or fees from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area is generally open year-round, with access to roads and trails. However, extreme weather conditions can sometimes affect accessibility.
Lions Park itself is usually free to enter, offering access to the footbridge and river views.
The America the Beautiful National Park Pass is generally for National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands. While this is a BLM area, it's always good to check specific signage for any applicable passes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, biking on paved trails, river rafting, kayaking, and exploring ancient petroglyphs.
Many petroglyphs are visible along Highway 279 (Potash Road) as you drive. Look for them etched into the rock faces.
Swimming can be done, but the river's currents can be strong and water temperatures vary. Always exercise caution and be aware of local conditions.
Yes, there are several picnic areas and pull-offs along the river, especially near Lions Park and along Potash Road. +1
You might spot various desert wildlife, birds, and potentially bighorn sheep in the surrounding cliffs.
📸 📸 Photography
Potash Road offers numerous pull-offs with dramatic red rock formations and river views. Lions Park also provides excellent vantage points.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the red rocks.
The towering cliffs along Potash Road, the Colorado River itself, and the ancient petroglyphs are all iconic photo subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant rock formations.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check with the BLM and local authorities regarding drone operation policies in recreation areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a gentle kayaking or rafting trip if your children are old enough and you opt for a guided tour that caters to families.
Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats, as the desert sun can be intense, even on cooler days. 🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
This scenic byway offers continuous, jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River and towering red rock formations, making it a perfect addition to any itinerary. Plan to spend several hours here, as the temptation to stop at every overlook for photos will be strong. This area is also a great stop between major destinations. For instance, it's a logical extension if you're traveling between Las Vegas and Moab, or if you're exploring the broader Utah national park circuit.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Beyond the landscapes, the area offers unique subjects like the ancient petroglyphs, adding a historical and artistic dimension to your portfolio.
For nature lovers, the chance to spot local wildlife and experience the unique desert ecosystem along the river is a significant draw. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Potash Road
It's an accessible route, meaning you don't need a specialized vehicle to experience its grandeur, making it perfect for a leisurely drive. The road is dotted with numerous pull-offs, each offering a unique perspective and a chance to capture breathtaking photographs. Beyond the stunning vistas, Potash Road is also a gateway to historical discovery. Keep an eye out for the ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock faces, silent testaments to the indigenous peoples who once inhabited this land.
These carvings add a layer of cultural depth to the already spectacular natural beauty. Whether you're stopping for a picnic lunch or simply pausing to admire the view, Potash Road provides an unforgettable introduction to the rugged charm of the Moab region. Many travelers recommend dedicating a significant portion of your day to this drive, as the scenery constantly changes and invites frequent stops. It's a fantastic alternative or complement to the more crowded national parks, offering a more intimate connection with the desert landscape.
Experiencing the Colorado River
Along the riverbanks, you'll find designated picnic areas and campgrounds, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or an overnight stay immersed in nature.
It's important to be mindful of the river's conditions, as currents can be strong and water temperatures can vary. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings when engaging in water activities.
The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area truly offers a multifaceted experience, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful moments of natural appreciation.
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