Geyser Pass

Geyser Pass is a scenic mountain road climbing through the La Sal Mountains southeast of Moab, making it an ideal route for stock SUVs, overland rigs, and anyone seeking cooler high-alpine temperatures and expansive views. Spanning approximately 25 miles, this well-traveled dirt and gravel pass ascends from around 7,700 feet to a maximum elevation of 10,700 feet, offering a cumulative elevation gain of over 3,200 feet. The trail serves as a vital artery through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, winding through stunning groves of aspen, high alpine meadows, and pine forests that provide a stark, refreshing contrast to the red rock desert below. Rated a 1 out of 10 for technical difficulty, the semi-maintained road features no major obstacles, though drivers should prepare for washboard stretches, tight switchbacks, and areas with limited to no cellular service. Rich in local history, the pass is named after Al Geyser, a cattleman who grazed livestock here in the 1880s, rather than any geothermal activity. Today, the route provides crucial access to numerous dispersed campsites, hiking trailheads, and serves as a key high-altitude segment of the world-famous Whole Enchilada mountain biking trail. The pass is typically passable for standard high-clearance vehicles from late spring through autumn, while heavy winter snows transform the corridor into a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. To reach the trail, travel south from Moab along the La Sal Loop Road to find the well-marked eastern entrance, ensuring you download offline maps beforehand to navigate the network of connecting forest roads.