Trail Overview
The 3D trail is an exceptional route for intermediate offroaders, offering a perfect blend of scenic canyon vistas and moderate slickrock obstacles northwest of Moab. This scenic trail, which gets its name from being introduced during the 30th anniversary of the Easter Jeep Safari, takes travelers down into the depths of Hidden Canyon and back up to the rim, providing spectacular vantage points of the surrounding red rock country. Drivers will encounter a variety of terrain including two-track dirt sections, sandy wash bottoms that can hold water after rain, and several slickrock domes and sandstone ledges. While high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs will handle the route with ease, stock SUVs can complete the trail with careful tire placement and an experienced spotter.
Notable landmarks and obstacles along the route include the steep descent or ascent of Mean Hill, a loose, rocky slope that serves as the most challenging obstacle on the trail, and the Launch Pad, a fun slickrock dome climb. Route navigation is relatively straightforward, but travelers should be prepared for changing traction conditions in the sandy canyon bottoms and occasional off-camber sections on the slickrock. In addition to the driving challenges, the area is rich with scenic stopping points such as Brink Spring, which offers a great spot to park and enjoy a picnic under the desert sky. This trail is best driven in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, making it an excellent choice for a family-friendly day of exploring Moab’s iconic backcountry.
Difficulty
There are some two-track dirt sections, a little slick rock, a sandy and maybe wet wash bottom, and some rock/dirt mixtures with a few ledges.