Molly Hogans Overlook

Total Miles
1.4

Technical Rating

3

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

Non-Resident OHV permits apply to ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes. Plated street-legal vehicles typically do not need one on legal motorized routes. This lesser-traveled route offers a quieter and more remote feel compared to the more commonly used roads in the area. The route begins on a lightly worn two-track and gradually climbs across open desert terrain with sections of loose rock, embedded rock, and uneven surfaces that keep drivers paying attention. Because it does not see much traffic, brush and faint track lines may be more noticeable in places, adding to the sense of exploration. As you continue upward, the trail reaches a broad high point where the reward is the view. From the top, you can look across the surrounding desert landscape and spot features such as the upper portions of Molly Hogans Peak, along with nearby historic mining areas, including the Telluride Mine and Johns Incline Mine. This is a great short route for scenery, solitude, and a glimpse into the area's mining past.

Photos of Molly Hogans Overlook

Molly Hogans Overlook
Molly Hogans Overlook

Difficulty

This route is generally manageable for most high-clearance 4x4s, but it is not a simple passenger car road. The main challenges come from loose rock, embedded rocks in the sand and dirt, mild uneven terrain, and the gradual climb to the top. Because the trail appears lightly traveled, some sections may have faint lines, minor brush encroachment, or loose surfaces that require attention to tire placement.

History

The Yellow Cat area played a major role in the uranium boom of the 1950s when prospectors and mining companies developed roads across the mesa to reach claims and haul material. Many of today's trails began as mining access roads. Remnants of that era can still be found throughout the region, giving modern travelers a glimpse into an important chapter of Moab-area history.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Molly Hogans Overlook can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High-Clearance 4x4
  • SUV
  • SxS (60")
  • ATV (50")
  • Dirt Bike

Access Description

Access this trail from the Yellow Cat / Thompson Springs area northeast of Moab. The easiest approach is to use the established main roads and loops through Yellow Cat Mesa, then branch onto this lesser-used spur. Make sure to download your offline maps because intersections can be faint, and some side roads are easy to miss. There are no developed trailhead facilities, so arrive fueled up and prepared

Molly Hogans Overlook Map

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