Discovering the Hidden Gem: Dead Horse, Utah's Most Underrated State Park
If you've been following me for a while, you know this park is truly special to me. The picture on my homepage was taken at sunrise in October of 2020, while I stood on the edge of this park. Even parts of “Let’s Be Gray,” my short story in Blood Sweat Tears, feature it. It is, hands down, my favorite state park, and I’ll tell you why below!
When you think of Moab, you automatically think of Arches and Canyonlands National Park. Or, when you think of Utah in general, you immediately think of other iconic national parks like Zion and Bryce, or maybe of hiking through some slot canyons.
However, just before you reach Canyonlands, you’ll find Dead Horse State Park. It shares the same road that leads to the national park, and all you have to do is turn right. This park offers breathtaking views, a fascinating history, and abundant outdoor activities.
A Scenic Marvel
I vividly remember the moment I first stood on the ledge, watching the sunrise. Darkness still covered Dead Horse State Park when I arrived. But when I reached the overlook, I could see the orange outline of the La Sal Mountains. This was my first time seeing them up close. I started to break into a huge smile. I swear I could walk up to them if I kept going straight!
Luckily, I didn’t, because a minute later, I started to see the outlines of the brown rocks turning different shades of red as the sun rose higher. Light pierced the darkness, revealing the 2,000-foot drop to the Colorado River from the famous viewpoint called Dead Horse Point, which ironically matches my jacket. Which, if you haven’t noticed, is my main picture on my homepage….
Why It's Called Dead Horse
The story says that cowboys would round up the wild mustangs roaming the mesa and herd them down the neck of the peninsula, through a 30-foot-wide entrance fenced off with branches and brush. Sadly, for unknown reasons, the herd was left and forgotten. After a while, the horses succumbed to death due to a lack of food and water. The legend says those horses can still be seen and heard roaming the area.
Outdoor Adventures
Dead Horse State Park provides more than 16 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels. Besides hiking and biking, it’s a favorite destination for stargazing, and I've enjoyed some stunning sunrises and sunsets there, too!
One time, I brought some meat and cheese and had myself a little picnic on a rock while watching the sunset. That sunset is still preserved in my memories. I suggest trying to catch both sunrise and sunset if you have the time. You will not be disappointed!
Camping
Sadly, I haven’t had the chance to camp here, but I would! Their campground tends to fill up quickly from online reservations that were booked months in advance. If you can plan in advance, I recommend camping here, especially if you are interested in clean bathrooms and showers! Which is a significant advantage because the surrounding camping areas lack these amenities.
Conclusion
Dead Horse State Park may not be as well-known as Utah's national parks, and I admit I am biased, but it offers stunning views that make it stand out. So, next time you visit Utah, be sure to add Dead Horse State Park to your plans and share your experience! I was lucky to visit three times, and it remains my favorite stop whenever I go to Moab.