Just put a road we don’t know in front of us, and we’re likely to drive it — side roads, byways, you name it. But one thing we learned while driving in Utah is this: If it says Utah Scenic Byway, don’t miss it.
To get there from Moab, drive about four miles along Hwy. 191 to Utah 279 — Potash Road. It’s one long stretch — about 30 or so miles round trip — but any part of it will have you falling in love. On your left going in will be breathtaking views of the Colorado River. On your right — steep red rocks, petroglyphs, and mesmerizing scenery.
First, look for rock climbers about four miles in. The climbers we saw must have been taking a class, since instructors were at the ready, coaching them as they scaled red, jagged rocks along Potash Road. Locals call it Wall Street . . . with good reason.
Second, drive about thirteen miles down for a view of Jug Handle Arch. And if you get out to take pictures, look for cliffs below Dead Horse Point State Park in the distance.
Third, drive all the way down to the Moab Salt Plant where a mineral used as fertilizer — potash — is extracted and processed. On the day we were there — a Sunday — trains stood still. But we could imagine the huge operation of loading boxcars for distribution throughout the U.S.
On your drive back from the potash plant, look left or right, and you’ll be amazed at the scenery. Still waters of the Colorado River reflect rock formations bordered by shrubs that turn golden yellow in the fall — a postcard picture suitable for framing.
Hikers know the area. As do campers, RV travelers, and just plain ol’ sightseers like us.
Finally, don’t miss the petroglyphs . . . as we almost did. Even with a sign that says “Indian Writing,” we couldn’t locate the drawings.
But when someone familiar with the area pointed out the artwork to Bert, we immediately picked up on what to look for and where.
Some drawings resemble people with triangular-shaped bodies. And several seem to be carrying orbs or round structures of some kind.
Others were harder to see because they were positioned higher or tucked into a tiny, dark crevice. But keep looking. You won’t be alone. Many visitors stand for a while looking, pointing, and sharing what they see with others.
So, when’s the best time to drive Potash Road? We recommend an afternoon excursion timed for late-day shadows on red sandstone cliffs. But we imagine early morning has its benefits, too. This is a photographer’s paradise, so pack your gear and get ready. Be prepared to pull over often.
No matter what time of year or what time of day you go, make Potash Scenic Byway a destination rather than a mere happen-upon place. It really is that good.
Travel Potash,
Rusha & Bert
For more information:
Moab’s Scenic Byways: http://www.discovermoab.com/byways.htm
For other posts on the natural beauty of Utah, check out We Saw Utah in our Travel Series.
Toonsarah
I always look out for the chance to drive scenic byways on our US road trips, and this one looks super! I loved the reflections of the red rocks and seeing petroglyphs is always a thrill, imagining the long-ago hands tat created them 😮
dawnkinster
I LOVE Utah and can’t wait until I can get back to explore more! And Utah and scenic drives together? Perfection!
Oh, the Places We See
We could have spent a month out there! No wonder people camp out. Hope your new year is kicking off beautifully!
Steven M Berger
Been to Moab many times but have never taken that road. Definitely a must do the next time I’m down that way. Thanks for showing it to me.
Oh, the Places We See
You’re lucky to have been to Moab so often. We wish we had stayed longer. No telling how many great drives are off the beaten path!!! Thanks for commenting.
kzmcb
I love the colours and formations of the rock, reminding me of western movies I’ve seen. And you’re right about the photos with the river in them, they’re twice-beautiful.
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for taking a look. I actually published this one by accident today. I’m gathering all my Utah posts and republishing them. This one got clicked before I had it all together!!!! But isn’t it a grand place? We just happened upon it . . . and we’re all the richer for it. Thanks for taking a look.
leggypeggy
Wow, these are some gorgeous photos. My husband and I hope to do a tour of the US national parks next year. Thanks for showing us some of the great places to include.
Oh, the Places We See
You definitely can’t go wrong in Utah. We didn’t include Zion, but it’s truly a treat, especially if you hike. We just didn’t take pictures when we visited several years ago, and when it came to cutting back on vacation days this time, we decided not to return. But, oh, how we want to. Best wishes on seeing the parks!
restlessjo
Now that’s what I call scenery! 🙂 🙂 Awesome!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much for taking a look. These are breathtaking formations, and, paired with the river reflections, they’ve become some of my favorite photos, too. Lovely. Just lovely. I wanna go back!!!
Ruth
Most definitely postcards and photographers delight! I just don’t get the urge to rock climb, though.
Enjoyed traveling along with you today.
Oh, the Places We See
Rock climbing is not for us either. However, if you’re gonna do it, do it where there’s gorgeous scenery! Thanks for taking a look. We enjoyed stumbling on this pretty place.
Tobias Mann
This is a beautiful road and if you continue along it — you’ll want a vehicle with at least 9-inches of clearance and probably four-wheel drive — it’ll carry you all the way into Canyon Lands National Park. We wrote about our adventure down potash road and the Shafer trail last year. I think you’ll enjoy the post: https://adventurebent.com/moab-jeep-heaven/
Oh, the Places We See
Love your blog and the posts about parks in Utah. You definitely had the right vehicle to traverse the red clay roads. We didn’t, so we stuck to the paved paths. But no matter what, the rocks and scenery took our breath away! What a great state for natural beauty! I’d love to see Shafer trail, too.
Curt Mekemson
You had me breaking out my atlas on this one, Rusha. And I’ve missed it! There is only one solution. Peggy and I have to go back. Sandstone cliffs, the Colorado, reflection shots… and petroglyphs. What more is there. 🙂 Thanks for the tip. I’ve been through Moab several times and always missed the Potash Scenic Byway. It won’t happen again. –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
And there’s one more thing that we didn’t know about until we got home and searched the internet: dinosaur tracks! Of course, we almost missed the petroglyphs, so we’re not surprised we drove right past the dinosaur tracks sign. We both need to go back! It’s a beautiful drive.
Curt Mekemson
Must say, I found the petroglyphs you showed quite interesting. Dinosaur tracks… sounds like big foot. 🙂
dawnkinster
I want to go. I love love love Utah, so much to see! Thank you for sharing this; hopefully someday I will be there too!
Oh, the Places We See
We hope you do get there, Dawn. It’s some of the finest scenery anywhere. We loved our drive right around 5:00, I guess, so that’s what we would recommend for anyone in the area. Best wishes for a good weekend!
Teresa
Interesting petroglyphs and the View are as you said “postcard perfect”!
kzmcb
What a great way to start my day. Thank you
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much for taking a look! We were truly wowed by this place we never even expected to see, and, as you can see from the photos, one of the prettiest places in Utah. Here’s hoping more people will read about Potash Road and drive it to the end! Best wishes for a great weekend ahead.