Summary: The 7 rated Poison Spider Mesa trail is one of Moab’s most popular. It is just a short drive from town and offers a wide variety of obstacles with less difficult bypasses at some of the most difficult ones.
Location: Leave Moab going North on Highway 191. About a mile past the Colorado River bridge turn west on Highway 279. The trail head is about 6 miles farther down Highway 279 on the right. The trail covers the slick rock above and west of the steep Colorado River Gorge that Highway 279 followed to bring you to the trail head.
The Trail: Fun-filled combination of challenging obstacles and incredible scenery. Most people drive the first half of route on their way to Golden Spike. But don’t miss the loop. It’s an entirely different experience featuring a sandy play hill, amazing slick rock climbs, a stunning overlook and a very unique arch. We also found the loop great fun in our Polaris RZR. This is a popular mountain bike trail. If you have time, take the side trip to Barney’s Overlook.
The Poison Spider Mesa trail has scenery and obstacles for everyone. A variety of rock ledges offer the most challenge while some steep slick rock looks more difficult than it may actually be. There is an optional sand hill that will be difficult when dry. There are some fast sections but please keep in mind there is a max speed of 25 mph while out on the trails.
Views back across the Colorado River Gorge toward the Behind the Rocks area are fascinating along with the panoramic view from the 1,000-foot cliff rim above Highway 191 near the end of the trail. MUST TRAILER
Great views! Great fun!
