Utahraptor State Park: Plan Your Visit

Utahraptor State Park is Moab’s newest playground—wide-open desert, rugged ridgelines, and traces of the giant predator that once ruled this ground. Just 15 minutes north of town, the park delivers big-sky solitude without the crowds. Spend an hour exploring or a full day linking trails, snapping photos, and soaking up the silence that feels miles from anywhere.

At a Glance

• Location: 15 mi north of Moab off US-191
• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• Fees: $10 per vehicle (verify current rates)
• Best for: Hiking, mountain biking, photography, camping
• Trail style: Mix of slickrock and sandy desert singletrack
• Tip: Bring plenty of water and download maps before arrival—cell service is spotty

• From downtown Moab, drive north on US-191 for about 15 minutes and follow signs for Utahraptor State Park. The main entrance and trailheads sit just south of Crescent Junction. Parking is gravel and limited—arrive early if you plan to ride or camp. There are no services yet inside the park, so stock up in Moab before you go.

Utahraptor’s trail network feels raw and wide open—less developed than Dead Horse Point but with equally stunning vistas. Expect rolling slickrock, sandy stretches, and dramatic views toward Arches and the Book Cliffs. It’s ideal for adventurous families, photographers, and riders who like their rides quiet and their horizons wide.

Top Picks

• Raptor Rim Trail: Signature loop with high-desert views and occasional technical rock sections.
• Fossil Loop: Short family-friendly walk near the campground—kids love the interpretive signs about the Utahraptor that once roamed here.
• Moenkopi Connector: Longer route for mountain bikers linking toward public lands outside the park.