Behind the Rocks
Moab's hidden technical slickrock challenge
Hidden behind Moab’s signature red rock formations lies a technical playground where massive sandstone fins create narrow corridors demanding surgical precision. Behind the Rocks earned its name from early cattlemen who’d lose livestock in the labyrinth — today’s wheelers face similar navigation challenges threading between 200-foot walls on ledges barely wider than a vehicle. The route climbs through Picture Frame Arch, crosses exposed slickrock domes with thousand-foot exposure, and includes the infamous ‘White Knuckle Hill’ where one wrong move means a very long tumble.
Difficult to expert technical challenge requiring experienced drivers and proper 4WD with low range, skid plates, and recovery gear. Tire pressure adjustments are crucial for slickrock traction. No permits needed but respect private property boundaries. Best in spring and fall when temps won’t fry you on sun-baked rock. Carry tools, extra water, and first aid — help is far away. You’ll test your driving skills against some of Utah’s most photogenic but unforgiving terrain, earning bragging rights among Moab’s hardcore community.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 13 mi / 20.9 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5200 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Moab, Utah |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle Behind the Rocks, or does it need to be built?
A stock Wrangler or 4Runner will struggle — this trail demands a built 4WD with skid plates, a low-range transfer case, and ideally a locker. Lift and all-terrain tires aren't optional here; the slickrock angles and ledges will punish anything underprepared.
When is Behind the Rocks open and what happens if you go in summer?
Best windows are March–May and September–November. Summer temps in Moab regularly hit 100°F+, which turns a half-day technical drive into a genuine heat and mechanical risk — coolant systems and tires on hot slickrock don't mix well.
Do you need a permit to run Behind the Rocks?
No permit required — it's BLM land with free access. There are no fees, but stay on designated routes; the cryptobiotic soil crust surrounding the slickrock is protected and tire damage is irreversible.
What's the hardest section and what specifically makes it difficult?
The tightest sections involve threading between tall sandstone fins on steep, off-camber slickrock where a tire placement mistake means a drop or a rollover — not a scratch. Precise throttle control and a spotter outside the vehicle aren't paranoia, they're standard operating procedure here.
Is there water available on the trail, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
There is no water on the trail — carry everything you need for a half day plus emergency reserve. Moab is the closest town for gas and resupply, roughly a short drive north, so fill up before you head out.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
Log in to contribute a GPX track.