Attractions and Places To See in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area - Top 8

The area is renowned for its dramatic geological formations, including towering Navajo sandstone domes, sharp fins, and steep cliffs. You can also find a significant concentration of natural arches, such as Pritchett Arch, Otto Arch, Balcony Arch, and Picture Frame Arch. Another notable feature is Hidden Valley, a peaceful, wide valley tucked between sandstone cliffs.

Various points within the Wilderness Study Area offer stunning vistas. The Stairmaster section of the Moab Rim Trail provides fantastic views of the Colorado River and the towering sandstone cliffs over Potash Road. Other 4x4 trails also offer beautiful views of the river and the dramatic desert landscape, often with the snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the distance.

Yes, Behind The Rocks is home to a significant number of natural arches. Notable named arches include Pritchett Arch, Otto Arch, Balcony Arch, and Picture Frame Arch. Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch are also present, offering unique formations for exploration and photography.

Yes, the area features several cultural sites. An amazing panel of petroglyphs can be found at the base of cliffs to the west in Hidden Valley. Additionally, the Hurrah Pass Trail passes Native American petroglyphs, including the notable 'Birthing Rock'.

The area supports a variety of wildlife. You might spot mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, cottontails, and even desert bighorn sheep. The cliff faces provide nesting habitats for raptors such as red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, prairie falcons, and occasionally golden eagles and peregrine falcons.

For those seeking a challenge, Pritchett Canyon is well-known as a difficult 4x4 route and is also part of the Moab Trail Marathon course. The Stairmaster, a section of the Moab Rim Trail, is another challenging option, gaining over 900 feet in the first mile with rewarding views.

Beyond exploring the attractions, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including options for touring bicycles and road cycling, such as the 'La Sal Mountains Lookout Point – La Sal Loop Road' or the 'Courthouse Wash – Bridge over the Colorado River' loops. There are also waterfall hikes available, like the 'Mural "The Delicate Arch" – Mill Creek Waterfall loop'. For more details, explore the nearby cycling, waterfall hikes, and road cycling guides.

The extreme topography and desert climate mean that the cooler months are generally best for visiting. Early mornings are also recommended during warmer periods to avoid intense heat. Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures for hiking and exploring.

For general hiking, permits are typically not required. However, for specific activities or areas, it's always best to check. Dispersed camping is available in designated spots along Behind The Rocks Road. For the most up-to-date information on permits and regulations, it is advisable to consult the official Bureau of Land Management website for the area: blm.gov/visit/behind-rocks.

While many trails can be challenging, areas like the flat, sandy floor of Hidden Valley offer a more gentle experience suitable for families. When planning, consider the length and elevation gain of trails, and always carry plenty of water, especially with children.

The Wilderness Study Area is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash and pack out all waste. Be mindful of the rugged terrain, potential wildlife, and extreme temperatures, especially during summer, which can be dangerous for pets. Always ensure your dog has access to plenty of water.

The Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area is located just south of Moab, Utah. Moab serves as the primary hub for amenities, offering a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, grocery stores, and outdoor gear shops. It's the closest town to stock up on supplies before heading into the wilderness.