Moab Happenings Archive
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MOTORIZED HAPPENINGS October 2019

Metal Masher

A major trail goal is Arth’s Rim, which overlooks Highway 191 about 1300 feet below. The route first angles up the sloping part of the cliff to a gap in the rim rock. It follows Little Canyon partway into the mesa to resume the climb along the more gentle slope of the tilting rock strata. Much of the trail is routine four-wheeling, but the approach to the rim through Mirror Gulch is difficult and threatens sheet metal. Later in the trip Widowmaker Hill has become so extreme your leader will take a roundabout bypass to the top. Approximate mileages: 66 total, 46 off pavement.

Scenery
The road portion on the slope beneath Arth’s Rim climbs to increasingly fine views of Arches National Park, Moab Valley, and the La Sal Mountains. That is just a warm-up for the view from the perch at the top. Little Canyon has beautiful vertical walls, and a few arches may be spotted by alert riders. The Gooney Bird Rock is interesting to see; the route goes right under it.

Surface
This trail varies from easy dirt to some tall sandstone ledges, with some relatively level slickrock and sand mixed in.

Trail Details
The slickrock slopes leading the way to Arth’s Rim have one step that may warm up some tires. Near the rim the trail passes “Rock Chucker”, once the way to go but now used as a playground. “Mirror Gulch” signals the start of the final .3 mile to the rim. There are a series of ledges, shelves, and a switchback in this short distance to challenge both driver and vehicle. The view from the rim is a highlight all by itself.

Length: 66 total, 46 off-highway
Min Tire Size: 35+ inches
Winch: No
Front Locker: Yes
Rear Locker: Yes

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.
 
Trail consists of rock, sand and considerable slickrock with many steps exceeding 48”. Steep inclines and declines are prevalent. Enhanced off road equipment is required including locking devices (front & rear), 35” tires, maximum vehicle ground clearance, and tow hooks. A winch is desirable. Excellent driving skills are required. Vehicle mechanical or body damage is likely. Roll over possibilities exist.
 
Responsible Recreation
Red Rock 4-Wheelers, Inc.
www.rr4w.com
435-259-rock

Each year we lose a few more roads/trails. Closed to us forever! It’s a horrible thought, but reality! Take a minute and think about what it would mean to you to have your favorite trail closed. One of the best ways to fight this is to practice responsible
4-wheeling.

Stay on the trail. Don’t be tempted to try a new route or obstacle. Someone will follow your tracks and soon we’ll have another unauthorized road. Go over the bumps and mud, not around them. That’s what 4-wheeling is all about.

Pack out what you pack in. If you see litter on the trail, pick it up and take it out with you. Most of all, take care of and respect this land that we love to play on.

Responsible 4-Wheeling will make a difference. Please join with the Red Rock 4-Wheelers and practice responsible
4-wheeling every day. Let’s show them that we care.

 
www.treadlightly.org sharetrails.org

 


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