Chicken Corners

Total Miles 9
Technical Rating
4 Moderate
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
Open Trail Map

Trail Overview

Chicken Corners is a quintessential Moab trail that takes drivers through a stunning progression of red rock terrain, culminating in a dramatic overlook of the Colorado River as it winds below through deep canyon walls. This trail offers a great mix of adventure, scenery, and accessibility, making it a favorite for those looking to experience the area's beauty without tackling intense obstacles. The route features varying terrain, including hard-packed dirt, gravel, slickrock sections, and stretches of loose rock and small ledges. While the trail is rocky in places, most of the technical features are mild and manageable for stock high-clearance vehicles. Drivers will encounter a few shelf road areas, particularly near the namesake "Chicken Corners" -- a narrow ledge with a steep drop-off on one side that gives the trail its reputation, which also leans off camber the wrong way in an uncomfortable manner. While not overly difficult, it may feel nerve-wracking for those with a fear of heights. Scattered along the way are numerous pullouts and riverside cliff campsites, offering excellent spots to pause, explore, or set up camp. The trail is known for its incredible canyon views and wide-open desert scenery. Wildlife sightings, blooming cacti, and views of the river far below add to the appeal. The trail ultimately ends at an unmarked overlook that offers expansive views into Lockhart Basin and the Colorado River corridor--well worth the final push. The drive back follows the same route, as there is no through. Route from the overlook.Chicken Corners is a must-do for those exploring Moab's backroads. With just enough challenge to keep things interesting and iconic scenery throughout, it's a rewarding drive for drivers of all experience levels.

Photos of Chicken Corners

Difficulty

This trail has varying terrain over a long distance. There is a sandy hill climb with the potential to get stuck, as well as ledges and rock-ramp type features that demand proper tire placement.

History

The Chicken Corners trail in Moab, Utah, has a rich history rooted in the region's ranching past. Initially a challenging pack trail, it's now primarily a scenic 4x4 route known for its dramatic views and unique features. The trail's name likely stems from the fact that only the most "chicken" wouldn't dare attempt it in the early days. The end of the vehicle trail is a scenic spot overlooking the river, directly across from Dead Horse Point.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Add Status Report
Thomas Nazarenus
Jun 10, 2026
Open
This trail was not difficult, just rough. Mostly stock Tacoma and it beat us up! First 45 minutes into Hurrah Pass and last 5 minutes are the most scenic although I think Schaefer is much prettier, shorter, and doesn’t shake you to pieces. Maybe in a side by side, but not worth it to me in a truck. From Moab and back to Moab was 5.5 hours without much stopping. My wife needed a massage when we were done, but didn’t want it from me when we were finished. The rocks and washboards were relentless with very little technical reward or view along the way. I know it’s popular, but we didn’t enjoy it.
Nick Van Fleet
May 29, 2026
Open
Went May 4th. Did Hurrah Pass through to the end of Chicken Corners. Stock Cherokee Trailhawk handled it great. Used a spotter as a precaution in a few places, but overall a fun and decently easy trail with stunning views!
Tyler Harwell
Mar 11, 2026
Open
I would say the 4 rating is accurate. This is a beautiful trail with so much to see. I have a GX460 with 32" AT tires and had them aired down. I scraped front and back bumpers and my side steps, so proper line placement is critical if your vehicle has similar specs to mine and you don't have a spotter. It took me 6 hours to complete this and Hurrah pass combined and I didn't really get out and do anything besides take a few pics at the end. I think 10 inches of ground clearance is the minimum needed if you want to be able to sit back and enjoy the ride and not worry about scraping. It's a pretty rough riding trail in a lot of areas. I wouldn't suggest it if you don't enjoy rough trails.
Stephen
Mar 07, 2026
Open
Drove in my 2014 Subaru Crosstrek with 2" lift, AT tires and skid plates. Couple spots were a bit tough with some larger rocks but with careful tire placement I was fine. Wouldn't really recommend for a stock Subaru.
Aaron Yang
Mar 03, 2026
Open
Trail conditions were good. I did it in a stock 2024 4runner trd orp with RCI skids and it definitely did its job. There are some parts that are steep but with a spotter and taking a good line you should be good in a 4x4. I hit my skids couple times but it was fine besides that. Lot of switchbacks on but definitely worth the drive. If you go slow like me on the trails then pack enough food and water.
Max Erik
Feb 21, 2026
Open
The actually corner is a little sketchy. I slide about 1/2 a foot toward the edge on ice. It is all compacted Ice/snow at the corner, but the rest of the trail is clear of snow for now.
Wyatt Merrill
Feb 14, 2026
Open
Steep cliffs. Be careful around blind corners. Stock Tacoma and Land Cruiser 200 did just fine. A couple of optional obstacles that are a little tougher and need higher clearance. By passes for the tougher obstacles. Cool abandoned diamond truck from the 40s still partially intact. Lots of fun places to get out and explore.
Paul Gieger
Jan 08, 2026
Open
Just me. Stock 4runner. Turned around 95% of the trail as the rain started falling hard at the chicken corners part and decided the juice wasn’t worth the squeeze. Very wet,snowy and muddy conditions. Overall the trail is as advertised. Simple but I had to respect the weather.
Justin Swaim
Dec 31, 2025
Open
Awesome trail, set up camp at the end. Perfect place to spend New Year’s Eve.
Austin Mandeville
Dec 29, 2025
Open
Great ride all around in a stock rubicon.
Daniel Hsieh
Nov 29, 2025
Open
Visited on 11/29 and trail was in decent condition. Was able to access with full sized lifted pickup with camper and had no issues.
Brian H
Oct 29, 2025
Open
In and back via Kane Creek to Hurrah Pass to Chicken Corners. Stopped at the Wind Caves for lunch. Weather was perfect as was the trail.
Juan Gamboa
Oct 11, 2025
Open
Hurrah pass and Chicken Corners took us 6 hours to complete round trip. That included a few stops for picture/sight seeing and we stopped to eat at the end of Chicken Corners.
Susan B
Sep 17, 2025
Open
Dan Dritt
Sep 04, 2025
Open
Was a fairly easy ride. Did almost the entire trail in 2x4. At chicken corner at goofed and scraped a flare against the rock

Chicken Corners Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Chicken Corners Map

The onX Offroad Difference

onX Offroad combines trail photos, descriptions, difficulty ratings, width restrictions, seasonality, and more in a user-friendly interface. Available on all devices, with offline access and full compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto. Discover what you're missing today!

Open Trail Map