The best walks and hikes in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area

Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area offers a wide range of hiking experiences, with over 40 distinct routes recorded on komoot. These trails vary in difficulty, catering to different fitness levels.

The area is characterized by a rugged and diverse landscape, featuring massive Navajo sandstone domes, fins, and towering cliffs. You'll encounter a labyrinth of slickrock, deeply cut canyons, and lofty rimlands. The terrain often includes steep ascents, rocky paths, and sandy sections, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Yes, there are several easier options. Out of the 43 routes, 29 are rated as easy. For example, the Moab Rim overlook – Views loop from Scott Matheson Wetlands Preserve is an easy 2.6-mile trail that offers varied desert terrain and can be completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.

Absolutely. The region is known for its challenging routes. One notable difficult trail is The Moab Rim Trail (The Stairmaster to Hidden Valley), an 11.3-mile path known for its strenuous ascent and spectacular views of the Colorado River and towering sandstone cliffs.

Behind The Rocks WSA is rich in unique geological formations. You can explore areas like Hidden Valley, a wide valley nestled between sandstone cliffs, or the dramatic Pritchett Canyon. Many trails offer fantastic views of the Colorado River and the iconic The Stairmaster section of the Moab Rim Trail. The area also boasts numerous natural arches and petroglyphs.

An amazing panel of petroglyphs can be found at the base of cliffs in Hidden Valley. The initial section of The Hidden Valley Trail, accessible from the Spanish Valley Trailhead, leads to these ancient rock carvings, offering a glimpse into the area's cultural history.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit, offering milder temperatures ideal for hiking. Summers can be extremely hot, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable, while winters can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow, though many trails remain accessible.

Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area is managed by the BLM, and generally, dogs are permitted on trails. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, pack out all waste, and ensure they have plenty of water, especially on hot days, as water sources are scarce. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out.

Yes, parking is typically available at various trailheads leading into the Wilderness Study Area, such as the Spanish Valley Trailhead for Hidden Valley. These are often unpaved lots. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

Public transport options directly to the trailheads within the Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area are very limited or non-existent. Access is primarily by private vehicle. Hikers typically drive to the trailheads from nearby Moab.

Generally, permits are not required for day hiking in the Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area. However, for specific activities or larger groups, it's always best to check the latest regulations with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) directly. You can find more information on their official website: blm.gov/visit/behind-rocks.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning, unearthly landscape of slickrock, fins, and domes, the solitude found away from crowds, and the breathtaking views of the Colorado River. The unique geological formations and the sense of wild exploration are often highlighted as favorite aspects.