Trail Overview

Embark on a leisurely journey along this quieter route, offering a welcome escape from Moab's intense summer heat. From its elevated viewpoints, you'll be rewarded with expansive and breathtaking vistas in every direction. Along the way, discover the intriguing remnants of abandoned mine ruins, whispering tales of the area's past. Be prepared for long, scenic drives both into and out of this captivating area, adding to the overall sense of remote exploration. While unlicensed vehicles are permitted on this route, opportunities for extensive side-road exploration are somewhat limited. Keep an eye out for mountain bikers sharing the path as they follow sections of the renowned Kokopelli Trail. Finally, this route is particularly enchanting during the autumn months, showcasing a spectacular display of vibrant fall colors.

Photos of Polar Mesa

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Difficulty

For the majority of its length, this road is notably wide and generally maintained in good condition, facilitating relatively easy travel. However, be aware that the steeper uphill sections present a rougher driving surface. Additionally, lingering snow during the spring season or periods of wet weather can significantly increase the overall difficulty of the route. This trail is best suited for stock, high-clearance four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicles to comfortably navigate the varying conditions.

Technical Rating

Josh Daigle

Apr 11, 2026

Open

Beautiful drive up Polar Mesa today. Nothing overly challenging here, few small rocky areas where a bit of ground clearance is helpful.. any stock rig with a little clearance could do this. AMAZING views on the way up and an incredible vista at the top

Tyler Harwell

Mar 10, 2026

Open

There is a fun climb in the first half of this trail that gives you fantastic views of the La Sal mountains. The further up you go, the better the views get. The climb involves some moderately steep sections, and some switchbacks, tbough they were on the milder side in my opinion. I had to turn around about 60% of the way in due to very slick mud that didn't seem like it would get better if I pushed through it. I was alone and don't have a winch, so I turned back. I run a GX460 with 32" tires and had no issues until I hit the muddy section. I would suggest only vehicles with low range 4wd go on this trail. The climb is steep enough to require 4Lo, especially on the way back down, in my opinion.

Steve Lipscomb

Sep 17, 2025

Open

The ride up Polar Mesa was very enjoyable, a few well graded switchbacks takes you up on the top of the mesa and you are rewarded with a fantastic view at the end of this out and back trail!