Chicken Corners Road

This notorious shelf road earned its name from drivers who “chickened out” when faced with the narrow, exposed track carved into clifftops high above the Colorado River. Starting near the Moab Information Center, the route climbs steadily across slickrock before reaching the infamous overlook where the road narrows to barely one vehicle width with a sheer 1,000-foot drop just inches from your tires. The payoff is arguably Utah’s most dramatic river overlook, where the Colorado snakes through red canyon walls far below while the La Sal Mountains dominate the eastern horizon.

This moderate trail demands respect rather than rock-crawling skills—the technical challenge is mental, not mechanical. Any stock 4WD with decent ground clearance makes it fine, but drivers uncomfortable with exposure should skip this one. The shelf road section allows no room for error or panic moves. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, though summer heat can be intense. No permits required, but arrive early to avoid crowds and allow nervous drivers time to work up courage. Pack recovery gear and expect to encounter everything from side-by-sides to rental Jeeps—this bucket-list destination draws everyone brave enough to attempt it.