For first-time visitors to the Moab area in Utah, this practical guide to Dead Horse Point State Park explains how to reach the famous overlook, the current park hours and fees, details on its designation as a Dark Sky Park, and the available hiking and mountain biking trails on the mesa top.
A brief overview of Dead Horse Point
Dead Horse Point State Park is one of Utah’s most scenic viewpoints, offering a commanding vista 2,000 feet (610 metres) above a gooseneck in the Colorado River. Located on a high desert mesa near Moab, the park provides an unobstructed panoramic view of the vast canyon country that forms Canyonlands National Park. The area is named for the legend of cowboys using the narrow neck of land to corral wild mustangs.
The park is a Utah State Park, meaning the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is not accepted for entry.
Park hours and driving to Dead Horse Point
Dead Horse Point State Park is located approximately 32 miles (51.5 km) from the town of Moab, requiring a 45-minute drive.
- Park hours: The park is open year-round, seven days a week, from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm for day-use visitors.
- Visitor Center hours: The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It closes on major holidays, though the park gates remain open.
- Directions: From Moab, drive 9 miles (14.5 km) northwest on US 191, then turn southwest onto Utah State Route 313 and follow it for 23 miles (37 km) to the end of the highway.
Dead Horse Point State Park entrance fees
Day-use fees are valid for two consecutive days starting from the date of purchase. Fees are subject to change; visitors should confirm the current rates on the Utah State Parks website.
| Pass type | Price (checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private vehicle | $20.00 | Up to 8 passengers. |
| Motorcycle | $10.00 | Per motorcycle. |
| Pedestrian or cyclist | $10.00 | Per person walking or biking into the park. |
| Utah Senior Pass | $15.00 | For Utah residents aged 65 or older. |
Annual Passes: Utah residents can purchase a State Parks Annual Pass for $125.00 ($65.00 for Utah residents aged 65+), which is valid for entry to all Utah State Parks for one year.
Hiking and mountain biking at Dead Horse Point
The park is known for its system of trails on the flat mesa top, which are generally rated easy to moderate and offer multiple viewpoints.
- East and West Rim trails: These are the primary hiking trails, totaling approximately 5 miles (8 km) as a loop when starting and ending at the Visitor Center. The paths are relatively flat, traversing the canyon rim and offering views of the Colorado River. Dogs are allowed on these hiking trails when kept on a leash.
- Intrepid Trail system: This is a 16.6-mile network of trails specifically designed for mountain biking, ranging from easy to challenging difficulty. Hiking is permitted on the bike trails, but dogs are not allowed on the mountain bike trails.
- Overlook trail: A very short, paved, and accessible path leads from the final parking area to the famous Dead Horse Point Overlook.
Why book the Discover Moab in a day tour?
- See Moab’s three headline parks in one day: Visit Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.
- Knowledgeable local guide: Clear explanations of geology, landscapes and the region’s natural history throughout the day.
- Travel without planning stress: Transport, park access and timing are handled for you, making the day straightforward.
- Iconic viewpoints included: Stop at Mesa Arch, Delicate Arch viewpoint and the overlooks at Dead Horse Point.
- Efficient use of limited time: Well suited to short stays where you want a broad overview of the Moab area.
Camping, yurts, and dark skies at Dead Horse Point
The park is celebrated as an International Dark Sky Park due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, making it a prime spot for stargazing.
- Camping: The Kayenta and Wingate Campgrounds offer a mix of RV and tent sites with electrical hookups, shade shelters, and modern restrooms. Water fill-ups and showers are not available within the park; RVs must fill up in Moab.
- Yurts: Several yurts are available for rent year-round. They feature electricity, heating, air conditioning, and an outdoor grill, offering a comfortable camping experience.
- Reservations: Camping and yurt reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the spring and fall seasons, and can be made up to four months in advance via ReserveAmerica.com.
Accessibility and facilities
- Wheelchair access: The Visitor Center, restrooms, and the final Dead Horse Point Overlook are all wheelchair accessible. The paved Overlook Trail is a short, easy walk.
- Water: Potable water is limited and must be trucked into the park. Visitors should fill all water containers in Moab before arrival.
- Food: The Visitor Center has a small gift shop that sells hot and cold beverages, ice, and snack foods. The Dark Horse Cafe, located just outside the Visitor Center, serves breakfast and lunch on select days.
Nearby attractions for Dead Horse Point
The park’s location on Utah State Route 313 makes it a convenient stop when visiting other major attractions in the Moab area:
- Canyonlands National Park, Island in the Sky district: The entrance to this national park district is less than 15 minutes away from the turn-off to Dead Horse Point. The two locations offer similar, yet distinct, canyon rim views.
- Arches National Park: Located closer to Moab, this park is approximately 40 minutes from the turn-off to Dead Horse Point. It’s the home of Delicate Arch.
- Moab: This nearby town serves as the primary gateway for all regional activities and provides the closest full services, dining, and accommodations.
- Goosenecks State Park: Located farther south near Mexican Hat, this small state park offers another striking view of a Colorado River meander.
FAQ: Practical visitor questions about Dead Horse Point
Question: Is the America the Beautiful Pass accepted here?
Answer: No. Dead Horse Point is a Utah State Park, not a National Park. You must pay the state entrance fee, which is valid for two consecutive days.
Question: Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Answer: Yes, dogs are allowed on all designated hiking trails (East/West Rim) if kept on a 6-foot leash. However, they are not allowed on the dedicated Intrepid mountain biking trails.
Question: Is there potable water available?
Answer: Potable water is available at the Visitor Center, but services are limited. Campers must fill all RV water tanks and containers in Moab before driving to the park, as there are no water hookups or showers.
Question: How far is Dead Horse Point from Moab?
Answer: The park is approximately 32 miles (51.5 km) from Moab, requiring about a 45-minute drive via US 191 and Utah State Route 313.
Question: How do I make yurt or camping reservations?
Answer: Reservations for all campsites and yurts are strongly recommended and can be made up to four months in advance via the Utah State Parks reservation site
More Utah travel
Other Utah travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Driving Utah Highway 12 – one of America’s most spectacular drives.
- A taste of cowboy country at the Bryce Canyon City Rodeo.
- First time visitor’s guide to Dead Horse Point State Park.
- Tracing Utah’s Mormon Heritage at This Is The Place and Temple Square.
- Antelope Island – the wildlife refuge of the Great Salt Lake.
