Moki Dugway — Utah 261 Switchbacks Viewpoint

The Moki Dugway is a hand-carved gravel switchback road etched into the face of Cedar Mesa on Utah 261, descending from the high plateau into the San Juan County flats below. Originally built in the late 1950s to haul uranium ore, it’s now a rite of passage for overlanders heading to or from the Valley of the Gods and Mexican Hat. Three miles, 1,100 feet of elevation loss, grades up to 10%, and no guardrails. The views from the top across Bears Ears country to Monument Valley are genuinely staggering. Pull off at the rim viewpoint before you commit to the descent — it’s worth the stop regardless.

Trailers and RVs over 28 feet are not recommended — this is a real advisory, not a suggestion. The switchbacks are tight and the drop-offs are unforgiving. Road surface is compacted gravel and deteriorates after rain; avoid when wet. Cell service is effectively zero on the cliff face. Nearest fuel is in Mexican Hat to the south or Blanding to the north.

1,100-foot cliff descent. No guardrails.