Dead Horse Point State Park sits on a promontory above the Colorado River, a few miles from the entrance road to Canyonlands. The main overlook shows the river winding in a tight gooseneck about two thousand feet below, backed by the layered rim of Canyonlands. The view is wide and almost impossible to take in at once, which is why photographers return for sunrise, sunset and the clear night skies. Short paved paths along the rim connect several overlooks, while a network of primitive hiking and mountain-biking trails explores the mesa top. The park is open year-round from early morning to late evening, the visitor center keeps daily hours, and day use is charged per vehicle. A private tour, linked here, includes the park in a guided half-day if you prefer someone else to drive and share the stories.
Treat it as a sunset and sunrise stop. Arrive well before the light peaks to find parking, walk the rim paths in both directions and settle on one overlook for the show. The cliffs are unfenced in places, so hold small children close and stay behind the barriers. In November the temperature drops fast after sunset, so bring a warm layer even if the afternoon is mild.
The visitor center has exhibits on the geology and the park's name, which comes from a story about wild horses corralled on the point, and the staff can recommend a trail for your fitness level. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park. After the day-use closing time, stargazing is limited to campers, ranger programs and companies with a special permit, so book a program or camp if you want to see the stars here.
Dead Horse Point is easy to pair with Island in the Sky, since both are reached from the same highway about forty minutes from Moab. A common plan is Island in the Sky in the morning and Dead Horse Point at sunset. Check the park's current conditions page for road or trail updates before you drive up, especially after snowfall.
What to expect
The experience
A drive up to the mesa, short paved rim paths between overlooks, and optional primitive trails for longer walks.
Best time
Sunset or sunrise for color; late evening for stars if you are camping or on a ranger program.
How long
One and a half to three hours for the overlooks and a short walk.
Tips
Arrive early for parking, bring a warm layer for the evening and keep children away from unfenced edges.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Sunset seekers who want a spectacular view with little effort.
- Families
- Paved rim paths are easy, but the cliffs are steep, so supervise closely.
- Couples
- Sunset at the main overlook after a day at Island in the Sky.
- Pair with
- Island in the Sky and a Moab dinner afterward.
- Time needed
- Two hours is enough; stay longer for sunset.
Good questions
How much does it cost to enter Dead Horse Point?+
Day use is charged per vehicle, with a standard fee that covers up to eight people. You can pay online or at the entrance, and no entry reservation is needed.
What are the park's hours?+
The park is open year-round from 6 am to 10 pm for day use. The visitor center is open daily and closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Can I stargaze at Dead Horse Point?+
Yes, it is an International Dark Sky Park. After the 10 pm closing time, stargazing needs a camping reservation, a ranger activity or a tour company with a permit.
Is it better than Canyonlands?+
They are complementary. Dead Horse Point has one superb overlook and calmer crowds, while Island in the Sky offers many overlooks and a larger landscape. Most visitors do both.
Can I mountain bike here?+
Yes, the park has primitive hiking and biking trails, and a rental operator works at the mountain-bike trailhead. Reservations are recommended.
