Explore
The eastern section of the White Rim Road begins with a 1,500-foot descent down the mesa wall. This stretch offers clear views of the Colorado River and features several primary landmarks.
Accessing the backcountry from the Island in the Sky district starts here. You will navigate unpaved switchbacks before driving onto the White Rim Sandstone terrace. Guided 9-hour tours frequently use this eastern stretch for sightseeing and lunch.
All vehicles require a day-use or overnight permit to enter. You must drive a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle with a low range gear. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles are not permitted on the trail.
30-45 minutes drivingLow gear required
This unpaved descent drops 1,500 feet down the mesa wall via tight hairpin turns. It connects the paved park road to the White Rim terrace. You must yield to uphill traffic and use low gear to save your brakes. Do not attempt this drive if the road is icy.
20 minutesShort walk from road
This viewpoint requires a short walk from the main dirt road. It offers dramatic, top-down views of a tight meander in the Colorado River. This is one of the premier photo spots in the first quarter of the 100-mile loop.
15 minutesNo walking on arch
This flat, bridge-like natural stone arch spans a deep side canyon. It is located just a short walk from the parking area. Walking across the top of the arch is strictly prohibited for your safety and to preserve the rock.
1.5 to 2 hours round tripSteep descent
This spur road descends steeply off the main terrace all the way down to the Colorado River. It offers direct access to the water banks. Many 1-day guided tours from Moab use this scenic riverside area as a lunch break and turnaround point.
