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MOAB, UTAH

Kane Creek Scenic Drive

Aerial view of Kane Creek Road winding along the edge of the Colorado River with steep cliffs on either side.

Overview

With all that the Moab area has to offer, Kane Creek is often overlooked; making it the perfect getaway for a scenic drive that isn’t far from the heart of town. With the Colorado as its companion, Kane Creek road follows through the deep river canyon, providing a pristine playground for Jeepers, rock climbers hikers and mountain bikers. Rock art from ancient peoples who once roamed on the area decorate the canyon walls. They’re not always obvious, so be sure to keep a close eye out.

Quick Drive Summary

Distance: ~22 miles round trip (to Hunter Canyon and back)
Time Required 1.5–2 hours (longer with stops)
Road Type: Paved for the first 5 miles, then graded dirt; high-clearance recommended beyond Hunter Canyon
Highlights: Colorado River views, Moonflower Canyon, Birthing Scene Petroglyph, Amasa Back Trail, Hunter Canyon, Ice Cream Parlor climbing area
Best Time: Spring through Fall (check road conditions after rain)

Getting There

This road is on the south side of the Colorado River as it flows downstream through The Portal towards Canyonlands.

  1. From Moab Main Street, you will turn west at the McDonald's and keep driving
  2. As the road slides between the cliffs on the left and the Colorado River on the right, you will know you're on track!
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Things to See on Kane Creek Road

White, swirling flower bud against blurred green leaves.

Moonflower Canyon

Just a few short miles into the drive, you will come across Moonflower Canyon. This campground is perfect for those wanting to remain relatively close to town; but who also want a little peace and quiet. The canyon offers an easy hike that leads to a natural pool created by rain runoff each year; a great option for families.

Rugged landscape with red rocks, green vegetation, and distant mountains under a blue sky.

Amasa Back, Ahab & HyMasa Trail

Continue down the road and the pavement will end; leading to a washboard dirt road. Along the next couple miles, there will be multiple opportunities for hiking and mountain biking at places such as Amasa Back and HyMasa Trail.

Red rock landscape with large boulder in foreground, blue sky above.

Birthing Scene Petroglyph

If biking isn’t your thing, a continued ½ mile down the road will lead you to the Birthing Scene Petroglyph; a historic rock art site left behind from the native people who once inhabited the area.

Red canyon with a vehicle parked on a dirt road; clear blue sky.

Hunter Canyon & Ice Cream Parlor

Amidst tight switchback turns and canyon walls you will come upon Hunter Canyon camping area and hiking trailhead. You might venture out of the vehicle for some light exploration. Around the corner is a popular rock climbing wall named Ice Cream Parlor

Dirt road winds through a canyon of red rock formations under a sunny sky.

Continue or Return

At this point the road turns into a switch back section that you can continue down for more camping options. You will find tight canyon walls and switchbacks open up to a camping area popular with the 4x4 side-by-side crowds. A vehicle equipped with 4x4 is recommended for following the route all the way out to Hole-n-the-Rock on Hwy 191. At this point in the drive it's best to turn back the way you came and enjoy the views in reverse!

Kane Creek Road

Kane Creek Road follows the Colorado River before winding deep into a red rock canyon filled with hidden gems. Early stops include Moonflower Canyon, a shaded oasis with short hikes and ancient rock art. The famous “Birthing Scene” petroglyph panel lies just ahead, etched into a roadside cliff. Mountain bike trailheads like Amasa Back and Captain Ahab draw riders into technical terrain. Beyond, the road narrows into tight, winding switchbacks carved into the cliffs, eventually leading to remote campgrounds tucked away in the upper reaches of the canyon.

Map with Kane Creek road and a river and labeled points, including a town, a lake, and points of interest.
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Make the Most of Moab

You don’t come all this way just to check landmarks off a list. You’re here to feel the wonder of Arches, the thrill of hidden canyons, and the awe of sunsets over red rock. Our guides make that possible. They handle the details, steer you away from the crowds, and bring the desert to life with stories you’d never find in a guidebook. What could have been a quick stop becomes the highlight of your trip.

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Arches National Park Guided Morning Tour

VIP access to Arches National Park: Expert guides, iconic sights, & mantle-worthy family photos without the hassle of parking or missing key sights.

  • Duration: ~4 hrs
  • Departures: Morning
  • Season: Year Round

ADULTS 13+

$114

YOUTH 5-12

$93
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Full-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch

Colorado River adventure for all ages: Stunning canyons, famous Castle Valley, easygoing rapids, delicious riverside BBQ, and stories you’ll tell long after you dry off.

  • Duration: ~7 hours
  • Departures: 9:00 am Mon-Sat
  • Season: Mar – Oct

ADULTS 13+

$143

YOUTH 5-12

$117
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Hell's Revenge Sunset Hummer Tour

Moab’s wildest sunset: Steep climbs, unreal views, and golden-hour thrills on our most popular off-road adventure at the perfect time of day.

  • Duration: ~3 hours
  • Departures: Evening
  • Season: Feb – Nov

ADULTS 13+

 $132

YOUTH 5-12

 $108
VIEW DETAILS
CHECK AVAILABILITY
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