Dead Horse Point State Park
If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural landscape to explore, look no further than Dead Horse Point State Park. With its mix of stunning views and historical sites, this park is sure to impress. Check out our visitors’ guide for all the information you’ll need to plan your visit!
Dead Horse Point State Park is located in southeast Utah between Moab and Monticello. It’s only about a half hour outside of Moab – so it’s the perfect activity to plan for your trip!
Top 5 Tips For Visiting Dead Horse Point State Park
But before you start making plans, check out these 5 things that every person needs to know before visiting Dead Horse Point State Park.
1. Arrive as early as possible
The park is open all day, every day from sunrise to sunset – which makes it easy to visit no matter what time of year you’re traveling. But the best time to hit up this scenic park? As early as possible! There’s a small parking lot right at the entrance that gets full quickly in the morning and in the summer and fills up completely in the evening. So, for a stress-free experience, we recommend arriving as early as you can to get a great parking spot!
2. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes
The water at Dead Horse Point State Park is cold year-round – but the air temperature is usually very hot. If you plan on swimming or even just getting close to the water, make sure to bring a swimsuit under your clothes. This way, you can quickly warm up after cooling off in the river!
3. Don’t miss the sunset
As we mentioned earlier – Dead Horse Point State Park is open during the day, but it’s especially beautiful at night. Since the park has no lights, you’ll be able to see stars and constellations that you probably never even knew existed. If possible, we recommend staying here until well after sunset; make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp!
4. Be prepared to climb
With its huge rock formations and steep cliffs, Dead Horse Point State Park can get pretty intense. Make sure you only go on the trails that are designated for each area – or don’t go on any of them at all.
5. Don’t forget your camera!
As you’re exploring this beautiful state park, take full advantage of your opportunity to snap some pictures. You’ll find that the red rocks are just as stunning in person- if not more so!
Hiking Trails at Dead Horse Point State Park
Check out the best hiking trails in and around Dead Horse Point State Park!
How To Get To Dead Horse Point State Park
The Dead Horse Point State Park is located in the Moab-Monticello region of southeastern Utah. It can be reached by taking Highway 191 to the park entrance, which is located 17 miles from Moab and 22 miles from Monticello.
Weather In The Park
The weather in Dead Horse Point State Park can vary depending on the time of year. The park is located in a high desert climate, so it can be quite hot during the summer months. The winters are usually mild, but it can get cold at night. Pack clothing for all types of weather, as the temperature can change quickly.
Videos Of The Park
So, if you’re looking for a place to go and want to enjoy the view without any of the hustle or bustle that comes with city life, then head on down. Just remember your camera because there are plenty of opportunities for some great photos. And don’t forget about all those historical sites! Have an awesome time at this park.
Dead Horse Point State Park FAQs
What happened at Dead Horse State Park?
Dead Horse Point State Park is known for its tragic yet fascinating history involving wild horses. Legend has it that in the late 19th century, cowboys used the point as a natural corral to capture wild mustangs. The story goes that one group of horses was left corralled on the point and died of thirst within view of the Colorado River below, unable to escape. This grim event is said to have inspired the park’s name, Dead Horse Point.
How much time is needed at Dead Horse State Park?
The amount of time needed to explore Dead Horse Point State Park varies depending on visitors’ interests and activities. For a brief visit to enjoy the stunning panoramic views from Dead Horse Point Overlook and perhaps take a short hike, a couple of hours may be sufficient. However, to fully explore the park’s trails, viewpoints, and visitor center, and to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape, it’s recommended to plan for at least half a day or more.
What movie was filmed at Deadhorse State Park?
Dead Horse Point State Park served as a filming location for several scenes in the 1991 movie “Thelma & Louise,” starring Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon. The park’s dramatic cliffs and expansive vistas provided the backdrop for key scenes in the film, including the iconic final scene featuring the protagonists driving off the cliff’s edge.
Can you drive to Dead Horse Point Overlook?
Yes, visitors can drive to Dead Horse Point Overlook via Dead Horse Point Road, which is accessible from U.S. Route 191. The overlook is located near the end of the road, and there is a parking area where visitors can park their vehicles and access the viewpoint on foot. The road leading to Dead Horse Point Overlook is paved and suitable for passenger vehicles, making it easily accessible to visitors.
What is the closest town to Dead Horse Point State Park?
The closest town to Dead Horse Point State Park is Moab, Utah, located approximately 32 miles northeast of the park. Moab serves as a gateway to several nearby national and state parks, including Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Moab offers various accommodations, dining options, and amenities for visitors to enjoy during their stay.