Corona Arch, a massive freestanding sandstone arch along Potash Road near Moab, Utah, with blue desert sky and red rock cliffs.

Potash Road, Moab, Utah

Drive west from Moab and watch the desert unfold into one of the most scenic corridors in the Southwest. Potash Road hugs the Colorado River, weaving between red sandstone cliffs and river bends that glow in the afternoon sun. Along the way, you’ll discover dinosaur tracks, ancient rock art, popular climbing walls, and trailheads to some of Moab’s most iconic hikes.

This stretch of BLM-managed land offers a journey through both deep time and outdoor adventure—all within a short drive of downtown.

Infographic showing road distance, attractions, and river views near Moab.

Explore Potash Road

Potash Road (Utah Scenic Byway 279) is a perfect half-day adventure that combines scenery, history, and recreation:

  • Rock art & petroglyphs: Panels line the roadside, some just steps from your car.

  • Dinosaur tracks: At the Poison Spider Trailhead, you can stand where giants once walked.

  • World-class climbing: “Wall Street” is one of Moab’s most accessible and popular climbing cliffs.

  • Scenic views: The road ends at a potash plant, but along the way you’ll see river bends, desert cliffs, and trailheads leading into the backcountry.

Getting There

From downtown Moab:

  • Drive north on US-191 for about 4 miles.

  • Turn left onto UT-279 (Potash Road) and follow the Colorado River westward.

  • Attractions are marked with roadside pullouts and trailhead signs.

👉 Tip: Potash Road is fully paved and suitable for all vehicles.

What to Expect

  • Terrain: River corridor flanked by cliffs, roadside rock art, sandy trailheads.

  • Atmosphere: Scenic and family-friendly; expect climbers and hikers near trailheads.

  • Best Seasons: Spring and fall for mild weather; summer afternoons are hot but evenings along the river are spectacular.

⚠️ Safety Callout

Even though Potash Road is close to town, it’s still rugged desert terrain.

  • Traffic: Watch for parked cars and cyclists along the narrow road.

  • Heat: Bring water, especially if stopping for hikes.

  • Climbing areas: Stay clear of climbers and their ropes when visiting Wall Street.

  • Respect ancient sites: Do not touch or deface petroglyphs or dinosaur tracks.

Infographic showing narrow road icon, water jug, flash flood warning, and petroglyph with protection symbol.

FAQs About Potash Road

Q: How long is Potash Road?
It’s about 17 miles one-way from US-191 to the potash plant.

Q: What are the main attractions?
Petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, Wall Street climbing, Corona Arch Trailhead, and scenic river views.

Q: Do I need a special pass?
No. Potash Road and its attractions are free to visit.

Q: Can I drive Potash Road in a regular car?
Yes, the entire road is paved.

Q: Is it family-friendly?
Yes. Petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks make for great kid-friendly stops, but keep children safe near the road and cliffs.

Map of Potash Road (Utah 279) near Moab showing the Colorado River corridor, petroglyph sites, dinosaur tracks, Wall Street climbing area, and trailhead access to Corona Arch.

Next-Step Adventures Nearby

If Potash Road inspires you, consider exploring more nearby:

  • [Corona Arch Trail] – An iconic arch hike right off Potash Road.

  • [Gemini Bridges] – A short drive north on US-191.

  • [Kane Creek Area] – Another scenic canyon drive with petroglyphs and camping.