Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park sits on a mesa about 30 miles from Moab, above a gooseneck bend in the Colorado River. The main overlook is a short walk from the parking area, and late afternoon into sunset is when the canyon walls take on the most colour. The park charges an entrance fee and stays open year round.
Itinerary tips
- 1Plan to arrive at least one hour before the official sunset time to secure a spot along the overlook railing.
- 2Carry a headlamp or flashlight for the walk back to the parking lot as the trail darkens quickly after the sun dips.
- 3Pack a windbreaker or light jacket even in summer, as the mesa sits at 5,900 feet and becomes significantly cooler once shaded.
- 4Pay the park entrance fee at the station or use a pre-purchased Utah State Parks pass, as federal Interagency passes are not valid here.
- 5Stop at the Pony Expresso coffee shop near the visitor center for a snack before heading to the final overlook point.
- 6Walk the short West Rim Trail segment near the point to find smaller, less crowded rock outcroppings for photography.
More in Moab
Hike to Delicate Arch at Sunset
Witness Utah's most iconic sandstone span glow fiery orange as the sun dips below the horizon, perfect for the cooler September evenings.
HikingMountain Bike the Whole Enchilada
Experience the ultimate 7,000-foot descent from the high alpine La Sal Mountains down to the Colorado River, a bucket-list ride that is prime in September.
AdventureRaft the Fisher Towers Section
Float past the soaring red spires of the Onion Creek area on the Colorado River, featuring splashy Class II rapids suitable for the whole family.
OutdoorDrive the Shafer Trail Switchbacks
Navigate a white-knuckle descent on a dirt road that drops 1,500 feet from the Island in the Sky mesa to the canyon floor.
Scenic
