This trail is offered to let people escape the heat that summer brings to the area. It begins on the floor of Spanish Valley out in the Pack Creek area and climbs up to a flower filled meadow in the shadow of Mt Peale, one of the La Sal Mountain’s high peaks. For those used to mountain trails, it will be old hat, but the views of the Moab area are still worth the trip. Those that haven’t experienced mountain four wheeling the switchback filled climbs will probably amaze them as the road clings to the mountain side. The vegetation changes continually along the way, starting with the pinion and juniper zone up unto the dark timber forest, tossing in a few aspen stands, and finally the flower filled meadows near timberline. The return trip depends on the leader, so mileage is difficult to list exactly, start with a full tank of fuel and you’ll be ready for anything!

Scenery
Vista like views of the Moab valley, the Moab Rim, and the Behind the Rocks area.

Surface
Varies by section and altitude. Rutted dirt, loose shale rock, rock imbedded in roadbed, possible mud.

Trail Details
This trip is more for scenery and cool air than it is for challenge unless heights bother you. If that is the case, another trail choice would be wise. But the trip does offer a few sections that will put the vehicle and driver to work a little bit, and there usually is a mud hole or two to dirty up the rig as well.

A short side spur is also often used to access a large meadow that features fantastic views down to the valley below. Just past the 10,000 foot summit there is the Medicine Lakes area, ideal for a picnic or for just a nice afternoon nap in the cooler alpine air.

From the pass summit the leader has many choices, one loops around the mountains and drops back to Moab via the La Sal loop road, another descends to the La Sal town area and then back to Moab, a longer trip still would end up descending into Castle Valley and then return to Moab.

Trail Notes
Length: 36 miles minimum
Min Tire Size: stock
Winch: No
Front Locker: No
Rear Locker: No.

County dirt road with infrequent or light maintenance after rain or snow, high clearance light duty 4WD required.

Trail Difficulty Ratings are for Moab area roads in dry conditions. The effects of snow or rain varies greatly depending upon the altitude of the roads and the type of soil.

NOTE: The Red Rock 4 Wheelers Club attempts to keep the trail ratings current. However weather and usage constantly alters the routes. Heavy but localized rains can change Kane Creek from a moderate trail to impassable in an afternoon. It is always wise to obtain the most up-to-date information prior to departing for a trip, and be prepared. Remember, turning back is usually an option as well.

For more information see the Red Rock 4-Wheeler website, www.rr4w.com, where the entire Easter Jeep Safari magazine is online.