Shafer Canyon Overlook is one of many breathtaking viewpoints at Canyonlands National Park in Utah. This is the first viewpoint off the main entry road. It overlooks the Shafer Trail, a historic road that descends 1,500 feet down sandstone cliff walls.
- Level of Difficulty: Easy, short stroll.
- Skill Level: All skill levels will enjoy this view.
- Distance: 0.30 miles in length (viewpoint).
- Cost: National Parks fees.
Where is Shafer Canyon Overlook Trail?
Shafer Canyon Overlook is located in the Islands in the Sky section of Canyonlands National Park near Moab, Utah. Driving from Moab, take route 313 which turns into Island in the Sky Rd / Grand View Point Rd after entering the park.
The parking lot for Shafer Canyon Overlook is on your left shortly after passing the Islands in the Sky visitor center. This is the park’s first marked viewpoint, so it’s a must stop, especially for taking photos! Look for signs for Neck Springs Trailhead Parking. It will take you to a parking loop where you can access Shafer Canyon Overlook Trail.
Walking the Shafer Canyon Overlook Trail
This short, 0.30 mile walk from the parking area takes you down to an overlook of panoramic, sandstone cliffs. You’ll see the back-country Shafer Road dramatically wind its way, switchback after switchback, down into the canyon and off towards the La Sal Mountains.
The trail is unshaded, but super short, so I’d recommend anyone park their car for a few moments and see this. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and get a taste of the park before going onto some of the Islands in the Sky’s longer trails, such as Upheaval Dome.
Off-Road Driving on Shafer Trail Road
This 19-mile rugged, dirt road is not for the faint of heart. Shafer Trail attracts thrill-seekers from around the world looking to get the best Jeep off-road experience possible. The legendary backcountry road has tons of daunting switchbacks as you wind down the canyon, passing by Dead Horse Point with views of the Colorado River. Once you are below the rim, take Potash Road towards Moab – an even bumpier dirt road that eventually empties onto a paved road as you get closer to civilization.
What Vehicle Do You Need to Drive Shafer Canyon Road?
The National Park Service recommends that you drive Shafer Canyon Road with a high-clearance 4WD and an experienced driver. However, most AWD cars can handle this road if it has been maintained well and you’re not attempting it in colder months where there is a possibility of the road being covered in snow.
History of Shafer Trail
Named after Mormon pioneer settlers, Shafer Trail has served many different purposes through the years. Originally, the road was made by Native Americans making their way onto the mesa top in search of resources. Then, it was used to move cattle from their summer pastures on the mesa top down to their winter grounds in the canyon.
Later the Atomic Energy Commision widened Shafer Trail and lengthened it to connect with White Rim Road. The expanded roads accommodated trucks that transported loads of uranium-bearing rock from the backcountry down to Moab for processing. Today, the road is only used for recreational purposes as an infamous scenic drive.
Tips for Visiting Shafer Canyon at Canyonlands
- The best time to visit is sunrise, in my opinion.
- Make sure you’ve got enough gas in your car’s tank before leaving Moab and venturing into the park. Gas stations can be far apart in this area of the country.
- The Islands in the Sky section of the park is the most accessible, being close to Moab, and therefore the most trafficked. However, Canyonlands overall is NOT a busy, touristy park. Often, it’s overlooked because of its famous neighbor, Arches National Park. So the amount of traffic here pales in comparison to other National Parks.
- If you’re interested in driving down Shafer Trail, read the National Parks Service driving tips. You’ll need to check the weather reports and current road conditions, too, before grabbing your car keys.
