Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park, located near Moab in southeastern Utah, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Colorado River and the surrounding red rock landscape. Encompassing over 5,362 acres, the park is perched atop a stunning mesa with cliffs that drop 2,000 feet to the canyon floor below, providing visitors with some of the most spectacular vistas in the American Southwest.

One of the park's most iconic viewpoints is Dead Horse Point, a promontory that offers sweeping views of the meandering Colorado River as it winds its way through the deep canyons below. Legend has it that the point was used as a natural corral by cowboys in the late 19th century, who would herd wild mustangs onto the narrow neck of land and then block off the entrance with brush and rocks. Tragically, one herd was left stranded on the point and died of thirst, giving rise to the park's name.

In addition to its stunning viewpoints, Dead Horse Point State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, mountain biking, and photography. The park features a network of hiking trails that wind through the rugged desert landscape, offering opportunities to explore the park's unique geology and encounter native wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, and desert birds. The Intrepid Trail System is popular among mountain bikers, offering challenging singletrack trails with stunning views of the surrounding canyon country.

Dead Horse Point State Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild, and the park's flora is in bloom. Summer temperatures can be hot, exceeding 100°F (38°C), making outdoor activities more challenging, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere in the park. Whether admiring the panoramic views from Dead Horse Point or exploring the park's scenic trails, Dead Horse Point State Park offers an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.