Top of the World
Moab's best bang for your buck
Top of the World offers Moab’s most spectacular views for the least technical effort. This relatively easy trail climbs through pinyon-juniper country to a dramatic overlook 1,000 feet above Arches National Park. From the rim, you’ll peer down into the Fiery Furnace maze and across the entire Salt Valley to the distant La Sal Mountains. The trail follows old mining roads and uranium exploration tracks, with a few rough spots but nothing a stock SUV can’t handle with careful driving.
This is a moderate trail suitable for any high-clearance vehicle with decent tires. The main challenges are a few rocky climbs and narrow spots, but nothing technical. Spring and fall are ideal, though the trail runs year-round except after heavy snow. No permits required and dispersed camping is allowed along the route. What you get is access to some of Utah’s most iconic desert views without needing a built rig or rock crawling skills — perfect for families or first-timers wanting a taste of Moab magic.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12.4 mi / 20 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5200 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock SUV high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Moab, Utah |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Good |
| 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
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