The visitor center at Dead Horse Point State Park is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The entrance fee at Dead Horse Point State Park is $20 per vehicle for up to eight people, $15 for Utah seniors, $10 for motorcycles, and $10 for pedestrians or bicyclists. Annual permits are $125 for Utah residents under 65 and $65 for those 65 or older. Commercial vehicles are $5 per person. High capacity vehicles pay $2 per person after the first eight.
Drive 40 minutes from Moab via Hwy 191 and U-313 (Dead Horse Mesa Scenic Byway). Nearest airport: Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) with car rentals to the park.
Parking is available at the Visitor Center and Dead Horse Point Overlook with no overnight parking allowed, unless at a campground. Regular vehicles pay $20 for up to eight people; high-capacity vehicles pay $2 per person after the first eight. No specific restrictions mentioned for RVs or motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located near Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park offers 5,300+ acres of red rock vistas, epic overlooks, and desert adventures. The park’s namesake point towers 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, providing one of the most iconic views in the Southwest. Rich in Old West history and cinematic fame, the park features scenic drives, hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, and comfortable camping or yurt stays for those looking to fully immerse themselves in Utah’s canyon country.
- Area (mi²)
- 8.3
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1959
Top 3 Facts about Dead Horse Point State Park
Trees here, only 15 feet tall, can be hundreds of years old due to the slow growth rate in this extreme environment with scarce water and high temperatures. The leaves are small and often have a waxy coating to reduce evaporation.
The park’s cliffs were the backdrop for the final scene of “Thelma & Louise.”
The overlook at Dead Horse Point offers one of the most photographed views in the world.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the park website for entrance hours, events, weather conditions, and campground availability.
Pack Appropriately
Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing; desert temps can swing significantly throughout the day.
Respect Wildlife
Stay quiet to improve wildlife sightings; do not approach or feed animals like mule deer or red foxes.
Stay Informed
Carry ample water, sun protection, and maps. Mornings and evenings offer best conditions and light.
Seasons
Spring blooms and mild temps (50–70°F) make for ideal hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting.
Hot (80–100°F), best for early hikes and stargazing; bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Comfortable weather (60–80°F) and vibrant fall colors—great for hiking, photography, and events.
Crisp temps (30–50°F), peaceful with fewer crowds; some skiing opportunities after snowfall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Dead Horse Point State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Moab, Utah, as it is the closest city to the park and offers a variety of hotels and accommodations. Moab is a popular base for exploring the area’s natural attractions.
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The Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail is the best for kids, as it is a short, 200-foot paved walkway that is ADA accessible and leads to breathtaking views of the Colorado River. This trail has minimal elevation gain and is protected by a natural rock wall, making it safe and easy for children. It also connects to other trails if you want to explore further.
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Dogs must be on a leash at all times, with a maximum leash length of 6 feet. This rule applies even in the campground to protect wildlife and keep the dogs safe.
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Parking for one vehicle is included with admission. Extra vehicles are charged $20 per night and must be parked on the pavement._additional vehicles must be parked on paved areas.
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The top attraction is the Dead Horse Point Overlook, which offers an unparalleled view of the Colorado River Canyon, The Needles and Maze sections of Canyonlands National Park, and the surrounding red rock formations. This overlook is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world and can be reached via a short paved path from the parking area. It provides a breathtaking panorama of the dramatic bend in the Colorado River.
