Exploring Moab's Hidden Gems with PAKRAX: An Epic Off-Road Adventure Through Hurrah Pass, Chicken Corners, and Poison Spider

The Adventure Begins: Off-Roading in Moab with PAKRAX

Off-roading is more than just a pastime—it's a journey to hidden landscapes, a test of endurance, and a celebration of camaraderie. With two Tacomas, a fifth-generation 4Runner, and two first-generation Sequoias in our convoy, the PAKRAX crew set out to tackle some of Moab, Utah’s most thrilling trails: Hurrah Pass, Chicken Corners, and parts of Poison Spider. Each vehicle, each trail, and each driver contributed to an experience that was as challenging as it was breathtaking.

Hurrah Pass: The Gateway to Moab’s Backcountry

Our journey began at Hurrah Pass, a 4x4 trail that offers a perfect balance between rugged challenge and stunning scenery. Located just southwest of Moab, Hurrah Pass is known for its sweeping views over the Colorado River and the red-rock canyons that Moab is famous for. The trail climbs to an elevation of around 4,780 feet, with an elevation gain of roughly 800 feet from the start. Not overly technical, Hurrah Pass is a fantastic warm-up trail that got everyone in the right mindset for adventure.

As we climbed higher, the views opened up, revealing canyon walls that glowed in the warm desert sunlight. The Colorado River snaked below us, a ribbon of green cutting through the vast expanse of red rock. Along the way, we stopped frequently to take in the sights, snap some photos, and of course, appreciate the sheer quiet of the desert—something that’s almost impossible to find in daily life.

Chicken Corners: Beauty, Thrills, and Narrow Edges

From Hurrah Pass, we headed towards Chicken Corners, one of Moab’s iconic trails that’s famous for both its beauty and its nerve-testing cliffside sections. Named for a point along the trail where the ledge becomes too narrow for most to continue on foot (let alone in a vehicle!), Chicken Corners takes you deeper into the heart of Moab’s backcountry along the Colorado River Canyon and Kane Springs Canyon.

The trail here hugs steep cliffs, with hairpin turns and narrow paths that drop down hundreds of feet. At some points, the road is barely wide enough for one vehicle, which makes you grateful for good brakes and a reliable rig. But what makes Chicken Corners so special is the payoff: sweeping, panoramic views that you simply can’t get from anywhere else. Seeing the vastness of the canyon stretch out before us, with nothing but rock and river in sight, was worth every bumpy, white-knuckle moment.

We paused often along the trail, not just to soak in the views but to appreciate the connection we shared as a group. Off-roading isn’t just about the destination; it’s about taking time to savor every moment along the way, from the banter on the radios to the shared sense of accomplishment after a tricky climb. Having friends along for the ride makes every view, every challenge, and every laugh that much more memorable.

Poison Spider: A Taste of Moab’s Toughest Trails

To wrap up our adventure, we hit parts of the Poison Spider trail, which is known for its challenging terrain, steep inclines, and slickrock obstacles. This trail isn’t for the faint of heart; it demands both driver skill and a capable vehicle, which made it the perfect place to see what our Tacomas, 4Runner, and Sequoias could do.

The elevation here tops out around 5,300 feet, giving way to some incredible views of the La Sal Mountains in the distance. Poison Spider’s rocky ledges and slickrock slopes make it a thrill from start to finish, and the occasional dinosaur tracks add a sense of history to the journey. Traversing this rugged terrain, we felt a shared respect for the power and reliability of our vehicles; without them, these landscapes would be unreachable.

Why Explore with Friends? The Magic of Shared Adventure

Off-roading is about so much more than the thrill of the drive. It’s a chance to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people around you. Tackling trails like Hurrah Pass, Chicken Corners, and Poison Spider isn’t something you do alone—having a convoy of friends and reliable rigs means you’re all in it together, encouraging each other, lending a hand, and sharing in the wonder of it all.

There’s something almost magical about watching the sun dip below the red rocks, the sky fading from blue to pink to deep purple, while you sit around with friends who share the same passion. Off-roading empowers us to reach places most people will never see, places that only exist for those willing to put in the effort to find them. And when you reach these spots with friends by your side, the experience becomes even richer.

Key Points of Interest and Tips for Your Own Moab Adventure

If you’re planning a Moab off-road trip of your own, here are a few must-see spots and tips from our experience:

• Hurrah Pass Lookout: This spot offers panoramic views of the Colorado River and the surrounding canyons. It’s a relatively easy trail with plenty of photo ops.
• Chicken Corners Overlook: Known for its dizzying drop-offs, this area provides some of the best views in Moab, but be cautious—the narrow sections can be nerve-wracking!
• Poison Spider Dinosaur Tracks: These fossilized footprints add a prehistoric touch to your adventure. Keep an eye out for them along the trail.
• Travel with Reliable Rigs: Moab’s trails are challenging, so make sure your vehicle is up to the task. Our Tacomas, 4Runner, and Sequoias held up like champs!
• Stay Prepared: Bring extra water, food, and basic recovery gear. Moab is remote, and cell service is spotty, so it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected.

The PAKRAX Experience: Making Memories That Last a Lifetime

For the PAKRAX team, this trip was more than just a weekend getaway. It was a reminder of the beauty that exists just beyond the well-trodden paths and the importance of slowing down to appreciate it. Off-roading offers a unique way to experience the world—one where the journey is as important as the destination, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow closer to the friends who share it with you.

So, here’s to Moab’s rugged landscapes, to dependable rigs, and to the friendships that make every mile worthwhile. If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, load up your gear, round up your crew, and set your sights on the trails less traveled. Moab and its hidden gems are waiting for you.