Fins and Things Trail
Slickrock masterclass in Moab's backyard
The towering sandstone fins give this trail its name, but it’s the white-knuckle climbs up near-vertical slickrock faces that’ll have you questioning your life choices. Starting just north of Moab, this 2.2-mile loop winds through a maze of Navajo sandstone formations, including the infamous “Widowmaker” climb that separates the wannabes from the real deal. The trail’s signature obstacle is the steep descent into Hell’s Revenge Bowl, where more than a few rigs have learned expensive lessons about approach angles.
Don’t let the short distance fool you — this is technical terrain that demands respect and a proper 4WD with low range. Stock clearance is marginal; sliders and skid plates are smart money. Spring and fall offer the best weather, though summer morning runs beat the heat. No permits needed, but bring recovery gear and a spotter for the gnarly bits. You’ll earn views across the Colorado River valley and a solid education in reading slickrock that’ll serve you well on Moab’s bigger trails.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Scenic, Technical |
| Length (miles) | 2.2 mi / 3.5 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with low range |
| Nearest town | Moab, Utah |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Good |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| 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
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner run Fins and Things, or does it need lockers?
A bone-stock Wrangler or 4Runner will struggle on the steeper sandstone fins — lockers or at minimum a limited-slip rear end make a real difference here. Lift and aggressive all-terrain tires are strongly advised. This isn't a trail to debut your street-tired crossover.
What months should I avoid Fins and Things?
Skip summer — June through August temps regularly hit 100°F+ and the rock absorbs and radiates that heat brutally. Winter brings ice on the slickrock which makes already-steep climbs genuinely dangerous. Stick to March–May or September–November.
Do I need a permit or pay a fee to run Fins and Things?
No permit required and no trail fee as of now — it's BLM land with open access. If you're camping in the greater Moab area, the BLM has designated camping zones with specific rules, so check current BLM Moab Field Office regulations before you set up camp.
What's the hardest move on the trail and what makes it sketch?
The steep sandstone fin climbs are where rigs get stuck — you're driving near-vertical slickrock where tire placement and momentum management matter more than power. One bad line and you're high-centered on smooth rock with nothing to winch to nearby. Spot your line, air down to 15–18 psi, and don't second-guess mid-climb.
Is there anywhere to air down and stage before hitting the trail, and how far is it from Moab?
The trailhead is roughly 15 minutes from Moab off Sand Flats Road — air down in the parking area before you roll in. Cell service is listed as good here, but don't count on it inside technical sections. Fuel up in Moab; there's nothing out there.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
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