Why Potash Road Should Be on Every Moab Traveler’s Radar

Red rocks, river views, petroglyphs, and more — every pullout tells a story

Potash Road, UT-279 (a.k.a. the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway), is more than a drive — it’s a journey through desert postcards. Towering sandstone cliffs hug you as you follow the Colorado River; ancient rock art and dinosaur tracks peek from pullouts; arches beckon hikers ready to explore.

Spring and fall are ideal for this route — temperatures are milder, light is golden, and crowds thin. Early morning or late afternoon brings those red rocks alive. If you’re flying in, Salt Lake City or Grand Junction airports are good entry points, and Moab is just the gateway to this byway.

https://ucarecdn.com/0e2c1bcc-2888-4b20-aff8-0811d111d486/EpicRoadObservation.mp4

You’ll see Wall Street’s cliffs, easy-access petroglyphs just a few miles in, trailheads for Corona Arch and Longbow Arch, plus spots like Poison Spider and Jug Handle Arch. And, as always, respect the rock art, obey road signs, and carry enough water and shade. Even midday, the desert demands preparation.

Read the full field note:

https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/field-notes/potash-road-moab-epic-drive