Behind the Reef Trail Off-Roading Guide – Moab, Utah
Behind the Reef Trail is a rugged 27.5-mile off-roading route located in Utah’s San Rafael Swell, offering a challenging yet rewarding adventure for experienced off-roaders. Known for its dramatic landscapes, the trail passes through a stunning area of towering sandstone formations, slot canyon trailheads, and remote desert terrain.
With its combination of technical obstacles and breathtaking scenery, Behind the Reef Trail attracts overlanders and off-road enthusiasts seeking a rugged backcountry experience.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Point-to-point, out-and-back |
| Length | 27.5 miles |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 1,000 feet |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 38.6675101, -110.687646 |
| Location | San Rafael Swell, Utah |
| Season | March through November (avoid during peak summer heat) |
| Info Phone | 435-636-3600 |
| Managing Organization | BLM Field Office, Price, Utah |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Vehicle Requirements | High-clearance, 4WD with off-road tires. Locking differentials recommended. |
Getting to Behind the Reef Trail
From Highway 24, turn onto Goblin Valley/Temple Mountain Road. Instead of heading to Goblin Valley, continue west through the San Rafael Reef. On the west side of the Reef, you’ll see a well-maintained road heading south, marked as the Behind the Reef Road. Follow this road approximately 6 miles to the trailhead, which features a parking area, kiosk, and registry box.
The Trail
Behind the Reef Trail begins near the Temple Mountain Campground, where amenities such as vault toilets and designated camping spots are available.
The trail traverses a mix of maintained dirt roads and rough, rocky sections. As it progresses, the route narrows, becoming more technical, with steep climbs, ledges, and tight switchbacks.
Along the way, the trail offers access to iconic slot canyons, including Bell, Ding, Dang, Little Wildhorse, and Crack Canyons, making it a popular destination for both off-roaders and hikers.
Behind the Reef Trail is best suited for high-clearance vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive and off-road tires. The trail’s remote location and difficulty rating require careful planning, including packing extra water, recovery gear, and supplies, as there is limited cell service and few facilities in the area.
Slot Canyon Trailheads (Miles 0-6.5)
The trail provides access to several renowned slot canyon trailheads, including Bell, Ding, Dang, Little Wildhorse, and Crack Canyons. These hiking destinations are popular for their narrow, twisting passageways and striking rock formations. Drivers should be cautious and courteous, as the area sees a mix of hikers and off-road vehicles.
Rocky Ledge Climb (Mile 6.5-13)
As the trail progresses, the terrain becomes more rugged. Drivers will encounter steep, rocky climbs along narrow ledges with significant drop-offs. This section demands precision and skill, as the narrow path leaves little room for error. Vehicles with excellent ground clearance and low-range gearing are essential for navigating this part of the trail.
Technical Narrowing (Mile 13-27.5)
Beyond the rocky ledge, the trail narrows further and transitions into a 52-inch maximum width route near the intersection with BLM854. This section is primarily used by ATVs, UTVs, and hikers. Full-width vehicles will need to turn back or connect with alternative routes, such as EM6761 or EM1012, for a longer loop back to the starting point.
Trail Conditions and Requirements
- Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance, 4WD with off-road tires. Locking differentials and recovery gear recommended.
- Obstacles: Narrow shelf roads, steep climbs, ledges, and sandy washes.
- Hazards: Limited cell service, remote location, and potential flash floods in washes during wet weather.
- Best Time to Visit: March through November, avoiding summer heat.
Nearby Camping
The Temple Mountain Campground offers convenient access to the trailhead and basic amenities, including vault toilets. Dispersed camping is available throughout the San Rafael Swell, providing a more remote and scenic experience for those equipped for primitive camping. The area’s dark skies also make it an excellent spot for stargazing.
For more information or to check current conditions, contact the BLM Field Office in Price, Utah, at 435-636-3600 or via email at utprmail@blm.gov.
