Looking through the sandstone Tusher Tunnel toward desert buttes near Moab, Utah.

Tusher Tunnel Trail Guide: Exploring Moab’s Hidden Passage

If you’re looking for something short, unique, and a little adventurous near Moab, the Tusher Tunnel Trail is the perfect choice. This natural sandstone tunnel gives you the chance to walk straight through a rock formation to a desert viewpoint that feels like a secret window into canyon country.

It’s easy, family-friendly, and only a short drive from town. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your hike.

Quick Facts infographic for Tusher Tunnel Trail with icons for distance, elevation, time, difficulty, dog-friendly, and fee.

Quick Facts Tusher Tunnel Trail

  • Distance: 0.6 miles round trip

  • Difficulty: Easy (short hike, uneven footing inside the tunnel)

  • Elevation Gain: ~100 feet

  • Time Required: 30–45 minutes

  • Trail Type: Out and back

  • Best Season: Spring through fall (icy inside during winter)

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

  • Fee: None (BLM land)

  • Trailhead GPS: 38.7011, -109.7452

Getting to the Trailhead

The Tusher Tunnel Trailhead is located about 12 miles north of Moab. The last stretch is a dirt road, so check conditions before heading out.

Directions from Moab:

  1. Drive north on Highway 191 for about 10 miles.

  2. Turn left onto Mill Canyon Road (look for the brown BLM sign).

  3. Continue 2.5 miles on this graded dirt road until you see a small pullout and trail sign for Tusher Tunnel.

Road Conditions:

  • In dry weather, most vehicles can make it, though a higher-clearance car is more comfortable.

  • After rainstorms, the road can be muddy and rutted—avoid if conditions look bad.

Hiking the Trail

From the parking area, the sandy path leads straight toward a sandstone fin. Within minutes, you’ll see the dark crack in the wall—that’s the tunnel entrance.

Inside the Tunnel

The tunnel is about 100 feet long and completely dark in the middle. The sandy floor is uneven, so walk carefully. A headlamp or flashlight makes it easier, but if you turn it off, you’ll quickly notice the faint glow of daylight from the far end.

The Desert Viewpoint

When you step out on the other side, the tunnel frames an incredible view of Utah’s red rock country, with Monitor and Merrimac Buttes visible in the distance. The slickrock balcony is a perfect photo spot, but be careful—there are steep drop-offs and no railings.

Best Time to Hike

  • Spring (March–May): Comfortable temperatures and wildflowers along the road.

  • Summer (June–August): Start early in the morning; the road and rocks get very hot.

  • Fall (September–November): Cooler air, great light for photography.

  • Winter (December–February): Quiet and scenic, but the tunnel floor can be icy—bring traction.

What to Pack

Even though this is a short hike, it’s still in the desert, and preparation makes it more enjoyable:

  • Flashlight or headlamp (mandatory for the tunnel)

  • Grippy hiking shoes or boots

  • 1 liter of water per person

  • Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

  • Snacks if you want to linger at the viewpoint

  • Phone with offline map or GPS (no service in the area)

  • Optional: trekking poles if you’re unsteady on sandy terrain

Safety Callouts

⚠️ Darkness: The tunnel is pitch black in the middle—bring a light.
⚠️ Uneven footing: Watch your step; the sandy floor is rough.
⚠️ Road conditions: Avoid the dirt road if rain is in the forecast.
⚠️ Edges: The viewpoint has steep drop-offs with no guardrails.

Safety callout infographic for Tusher Tunnel Trail with icons for flashlight, uneven floor, road conditions, and cliff edges.

Hiking Tusher Tunnel

This hike delivers big rewards for minimal effort. It’s off the beaten path, never as crowded as trails in Arches or Canyonlands, and it has a sense of adventure that appeals to kids and adults alike.

There aren’t many places where you can walk through a sandstone fin and step out onto a desert overlook—it’s one of Moab’s more unusual experiences.

FAQs About Tusher Tunnel Trail

Is Tusher Tunnel good for kids?
Yes. Kids love the “secret passage” feel of the tunnel. Just bring a light and keep them close near the overlook.

How long does the hike take?
The trail itself is very short. Plan for 30–45 minutes including time for photos.

Do I need a 4×4 vehicle?
Not typically. In dry weather, most vehicles can reach the trailhead.

Is it worth the drive from Moab?
Yes. If you have a spare hour or two, it’s one of the best short hikes around.

Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on leash. Make sure they’re comfortable with darkness and rocky terrain.

Nearby Places to Explore

Tusher Tunnel pairs well with other short stops in the same area:

  • Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite – Real dinosaur footprints preserved in sandstone (free, family-friendly).

  • Monitor and Merrimac Buttes Overlook – A great photo stop nearby.

  • Bartlett Wash – A popular slickrock area for bikers and hikers.

  • Moab Giants Dinosaur Park – A paid family attraction with life-size dinosaur models.

Suggested Itineraries

  • Quick Stop: Drive from Moab, hike Tusher Tunnel, and return—about 1.5 hours total.

  • Half-Day Adventure: Hike Tusher Tunnel, explore the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite, and grab lunch back in Moab.

  • Family Day Out: Add Bartlett Wash and Moab Giants for a full day of kid-friendly exploration.

Our Two Cents

The Tusher Tunnel Trail is one of Moab’s most underrated short hikes. It’s easy, free, and unforgettable—perfect if you’re looking for a quick adventure outside the national parks.

Bring a flashlight, bring your sense of discovery, and enjoy stepping through one of Utah’s coolest natural features.

✅ Bottom line: If you’ve got an hour to spare, Tusher Tunnel is absolutely worth it.