Moab, UT – Many visitors to Moab, Utah focus on the two nearby National Parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and view the town as simply a place to sleep and eat. But if you’re looking for a less crowded hike (Arches National Park commonly closes its entrance due to crowds in the summer) Moab has plenty to offer, and most are a short drive from town. This hike is one of my favorites, towering high above Moab with views down into Poison Spider Mesa, of the Colorado River as well as of the distant La Sal Mountains.
Poison Spider Mesa from the Portal
Views include the distant La Sal Mountains
Before I describe the hike I’ll quote the BLM website as to the seriousness of one part, “There is a short section of trail near the top which is very narrow and exposed. Bikers must dismount and walk this section as 3 cyclists lost their lives here.” Not being a mountain biker I would never attempt this trail, but for those that do please heed this warning. This narrow and exposed section even got this hikers attention.
One of the “Dismount Now” signs on the Portal Trail
The trailhead is a 10 minute drive from town and starts at the JayCee Campground. Begin hiking though thick brush as you parallel noisy Route 279. Don’t worry, soon enough this internal combustion clatter will fade into a distant memory and you’ll only hear the whispers of the wind. After a short distance the trail ascends steeply and it’s time to get those calves burning. Appreciate the few switchbacks while you can because once this trail reaches slickrock, it goes straight up.
A view along the Portal Trail
The trail offers excellent views of the Colorado River
Most of the 1100’ climb occurs in about a mile, culminating at an overlook with sheer drops and no rails. Some people stop here and return, which is entirely reasonable. If you do return, you’ll have done about 3 miles round trip with a bunch of elevation gain and enjoyed fantastic views. Those that persevere onward will be justly rewarded with even better views and signs like this:
Another warning sign on the Portal Trail
The trail winds along a cliff, narrow at points, for another mile before gaining the top of Poison Spider Mesa. The crux of the trail, at least for mountain bikers, is that aforementioned very narrow section with a large boulder pushing you towards the edge of a 1000’+ drop. I would not be comfortable carrying my bike across this, let alone riding it. But walking across is not bad, just don’t look down.
The Colorado River and Moab from the Portal Trail
Another view from the trail
Return via the way you came and marvel at the level of riding required for mountain bikers to successfully negotiate the huge rock ledges we mere hiker mortals must climb down.
We stayed at The Portal RV Resort in Moab, Utah. During this trip we also hiked the Moab Rim Trail. For other hikes check out our Hiking Moab Trails post. We’ve also written about 4WD Trails in the Moab region.
