Wide-angle panoramic of Bartlett Wash Trail near Moab, Utah, showing vast rolling sandstone slickrock glowing orange at sunset with hikers silhouetted against the horizon and La Sal Mountains in the background.

Bartlett Wash Trail – Moab, Utah

A Desert Playground of Slickrock and Sky

The first thing you notice at Bartlett Wash isn’t a defined path—it’s freedom.
Step out of your car and onto the sandstone and the world opens up into rolling waves of pale orange rock that stretch as far as the eye can see. Your boots crunch against the grainy surface as the sun warms the stone beneath you. There is no single route to follow here. Instead, you choose your own way, wandering across a vast slickrock bench carved smooth by wind and time.

As you climb higher, the landscape reveals itself in layers—the blue silhouettes of the La Sal Mountains rising to the east, the Book Cliffs fading into the distance, and the endless desert sky overhead. On a calm evening, Bartlett Wash transforms into one of the best sunset theaters near Moab. The rock glows golden, shadows stretch long and thin, and for a moment you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own secret world.

Quick trail facts infographic for Bartlett Wash Trail near Moab, Utah, showing distance 2–4 miles, difficulty easy to moderate, elevation gain 200 feet, trail type open slickrock, and best seasons spring and fall.

Quick Trail Stats

  • Trail Type: Slickrock wander (no official path)

  • Distance: Flexible, usually 2–4 miles round trip

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on route

  • Elevation Gain: ~200 feet

  • Trailhead: Bartlett Wash Road, north of Moab

  • Best Season: Spring and fall (cooler temps, glowing sunsets)

What It’s Like to Explore Bartlett Wash

Hiking Bartlett Wash feels more like an adventure than a route. Some sandstone domes invite you to scramble to their crests. Natural bowls create amphitheaters where children laugh and run. After a storm, small water pockets mirror the desert sky like hidden oases.

Unlike Moab’s more famous trails, Bartlett Wash isn’t about a single landmark at the end—it’s about the journey. Every curve in the stone feels like a new discovery. It’s also one of the few places near town where you can wander without feeling pressed by crowds.

Bring your camera, a picnic, and a sense of play. This is a place to linger.

Safety Callout

⚠️ Safety Tips for Bartlett Wash

  • No Shade: There are no trees—bring a wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and extra water.

  • No Marked Trail: Drop a GPS pin or remember your entry point so you don’t get turned around.

  • Slick Conditions: Sandstone can be slippery when wet or icy. Avoid right after storms in colder months.

  • Shared Area: Bartlett Wash is also popular with mountain bikers—be aware of riders.

Safety tips infographic for Bartlett Wash Trail near Moab, Utah, featuring icons and text: no shade—bring water and hat, no marked trail—use GPS pin, slick conditions—avoid after storms, shared with bikers—stay alert.

Mini Itinerary: A Potash Road Adventure

  • One of the best ways to enjoy Bartlett Wash is to pair it with a scenic half-day drive along Potash Road, just west of Moab:

  • Morning – Corona Arch Hike
    Hike the 3-mile round trip to Corona Arch, one of Moab’s most iconic arches. Don’t miss nearby Bowtie Arch along the way.

  • Midday – Petroglyphs and Dinosaur Tracks
    Drive further down Potash Road and stop to admire ancient Fremont petroglyph panels etched into sandstone walls. A short detour leads to the Dinosaur Tracks site, where real footprints are preserved in stone.

  • Afternoon – Bartlett Wash Sunset
    Cap off your day by wandering the slickrock at Bartlett Wash. Bring snacks or dinner to enjoy while the setting sun paints the rock in brilliant shades of orange and rose.

This itinerary offers arches, rock art, dinosaurs, and slickrock—all within a single day’s adventure.

FAQs Bartlett Wash Trail

 

  • Is Bartlett Wash Trail family-friendly?
    Yes. The broad slickrock is perfect for kids to run, climb, and explore. Keep an eye on them near steeper domes and bring plenty of water.
  • Do I need a permit to hike Bartlett Wash?
    No. Bartlett Wash is on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and does not require a permit.
  • How do I get to Bartlett Wash Trailhead?
    From downtown Moab, head north on Highway 191 for 13 miles. Turn left (west) on Bartlett Wash Road. The trailhead parking area is about 1 mile in on the dirt road. High-clearance vehicles are best, though passenger cars may reach it in dry conditions.
  • What is the best time of day to hike Bartlett Wash?
    Late afternoon is magical, with cooler temperatures and glowing sandstone. Sunrise offers solitude and soft light for photography.
  • Is Bartlett Wash good for mountain biking?
    Yes. Bartlett Wash is a well-known slickrock biking playground. Expect to share the area with cyclists.
  • Can I camp near Bartlett Wash?
    Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas along nearby BLM roads, but not directly on the slickrock. Always follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Is Bartlett Wash crowded?
    No. It’s far less crowded than trails inside Arches or Canyonlands, making it a great choice for peace and quiet.
  • What makes Bartlett Wash different from the Slickrock Trail?
    The Slickrock Trail is a marked biking loop near town, while Bartlett Wash is an unmarked slickrock expanse where hikers and bikers can freely explore. Bartlett Wash feels more open-ended and playful.
  • Nearby Next-Step Hikes and Attractions

  • Gemini Bridges: Two massive natural bridges you can walk across, just across Highway 191.

  • Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracks: A quick stop where you can see fossilized dinosaur prints.

  • Dead Horse Point State Park: Breathtaking canyon views with short, family-friendly hikes.

  • Corona Arch Trail: A must-see natural arch easily combined with Bartlett Wash.