Pritchett Canyon Trails | Ultimate Moab ATV & 4×4 Trail Guide (2025)
Last updated on July 23rd, 2025
Pritchett Canyon Trails in Moab, Utah offer one of the most extreme and rewarding off-road experiences for serious ATV and 4×4 riders. Known for its rugged slickrock climbs, technical obstacles, and jaw-dropping canyon scenery, this trail isn’t for the faint of heart — but it’s a must-ride for thrill-seekers who crave a true rock-crawling challenge. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know before tackling Pritchett Canyon: difficulty ratings, required vehicle mods, best times to ride, and pro tips to help you prepare for one of Moab’s most legendary trails.
Quick Trail Facts
- Region: Moab, Utah
- Trailhead Location: 2.8 miles west of McDonald’s (stay left at the fork)
- GPS Coordinates: 38°32’8.48″N 109°35’56.18″W
- Trail Length: 4.5 miles (point to point)
- Elevation: 3900 ft (low) to 4600 ft (high)
- Difficulty: 4+ (Extreme)
- Best Season: Spring & Fall
- Temperature Range: 30–90°F depending on season
- Terrain: Rocky Jeep Trail
- Map Resource: National Geographic Moab Trail Map
Trail Description
The Pritchett canyon is a large trail of about 33 km which is found open all around the year. This point-to-point trail offers scenic views and is considered one of the most difficult trails in Moab. Experts suggest always maintain your ride on the right side of the canyon and follow route point marks all the time.
No matter how experienced a rider you are, you should always analyze the obstacles beforehand and have the courage to call quits if you think it would be extremely risky for you. This is the trail that won’t give a scratch to your pride even if you go back to the start. If you can control your aggression and make full use of the winch points then only you can make it along with the obstacles in the Pritchett Canyon trail.
The most difficulty is found in the obstacles named rocker knocker and the axle hill. Many high-profile rigs would get winced and strapped and your vehicle can easily get a broken axle. The roads that you will find in this trail will either be bumpy with rock ledges or it will be on solid bedrocks and much dirt will also be there in some places. But this trail is also considered to have natural canyon features like no other trail.
The steep walls of rocks which are often found wet are quite unique. From these cliffs, you will also witness large side canyon pour-offs along with pool kind of creek bottoms. Arches of window arch and Pritchett arch are also viewed from this trail. On the left side of the canyon trail, you will also find the wilderness study area which you shouldn’t indulge in any way. A series of hills like the axle, yellow, chewy will be experienced by the rider in this trail.
Trail Difficulty
Let’s be clear — Pritchett Canyon Trails are rated “extreme” by Moab locals for a reason.
Expect:
- Steep slickrock climbs
- Off-camber ledges
- Tight switchbacks with cliffside exposure
- Loose sand in technical sections
If you’ve tackled Hell’s Revenge or Metal Masher and want the next level, this is it.
Pro tip: The trail is harder than it looks on YouTube. You’ll likely need to winch or spot in several places.
Vehicle Requirements for Pritchett Canyon
This trail is not beginner-friendly and definitely not for stock vehicles. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A built 4×4 ATV, UTV, or Jeep
- Front & rear lockers
- 33″ tires minimum (35″+ recommended)
- High ground clearance
- Heavy-duty winch (non-negotiable)
- Rock sliders, skid plates, and roll cage (highly recommended)
Even experienced riders with well-built rigs sometimes have to turn around. If you’re renting, double-check with your rental company — most UTVs are not allowed on this trail.
Obstacles and further details
At the initial part of the trail you will find a steep descent from the canyon ledge but the actual difficulty you will face after a few miles when you reach the rocker knocker which is present in a nasty angle which you need to first study with your eyes before going in with the ride. Then you will soon have to face a difficult narrow bypass where patience and bravery need to go hand in hand.
The rock pile is also present afterward which is also very difficult to ride through because of the rock and tire friction problems. Lastly, you will face the yellow hill where the elevation would be maximum and a great view will be noticed.
There are multicolored rocks present on these uneven ledges that will provide a sense of achievement in itself from the top. Your ride needs to have the ultimate features for off-road riding to make you travel properly through this trail although getting your vehicle damaged is a very common thing in the pritchett canyon trail.
Elevation High: 4600
Elevation Low: 3900
Terrain: Rocky Jeep trail
Best Travel Season: Spring and Fall
Map Availability: National Geographic has two detailed maps of Moab area trails
Best Time to Visit
The best time to ride Pritchett Canyon is spring (March–May) and fall (September–October).
Why?
- Temps are cooler
- Better traction
- Less risk of flash floods
Avoid mid-summer rides unless you’re prepared for 100°F+ heat and dehydration risk. Snow and ice can make this already hard trail dangerous in winter.
Locals often start the trail early in the morning to beat the heat and allow more time for tough spots.
Tips for Riding Pritchett Canyon
Here are some real-world tips from seasoned Moab riders:
- Ride in a group — solo riding is a big risk on this trail.
- Bring recovery gear, including straps, winch extension lines, and a shovel.
- Air down your tires before you start — 10–12 PSI works well for grip.
- Have a spotter for major obstacles like Rocker Knocker and Axel Hill.
- Download offline GPS maps — cell service is unreliable inside the canyon.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks — this ride can take 4–8 hours.
Bonus: Watch videos of the obstacles before you go. Knowing what’s coming can help you plan your lines and stay safe.
Nearby Trails Worth Checking Out
If Pritchett Canyon leaves you wanting more (or just needing a rest day), check out these nearby Moab trail favorites:
- Behind the Rocks Trail – Less extreme but still technical, and it shares access with Pritchett.
- Steel Bender Trail – A fun mix of rock and sand, with amazing views.
- Cliffhanger Trail – Great for experienced drivers, with steep ledges and canyon drops.
- Poison Spider Mesa – Offers a good warm-up for Pritchett-level obstacles.
Each of these trails gives you a different flavor of Moab’s unique terrain.
Final Thoughts on Conquering Pritchett Canyon Trails
Pritchett Canyon isn’t just another trail — it’s a true test of skill, nerve, and your vehicle’s capabilities. If you’re prepared, cautious, and ride smart, the payoff is huge: jaw-dropping views, epic obstacles, and the satisfaction of tackling one of Moab’s most legendary routes.
Whether you’re planning your first run or coming back for redemption, remember — it’s not about how fast you finish, but how well you ride.
FAQs
Is Pritchett Canyon Trail open all year?
Yes, but spring and fall are best. Winter snow and summer heat can make it dangerous.
How difficult is the Pritchett Canyon Trail?
It’s rated extreme and is only for experienced drivers with modified vehicles.
What vehicle do I need for Pritchett Canyon?
A modified 4×4 with lockers, big tires (33”+), and a winch is required.
How long does the trail take to complete?
Expect 4 to 8 hours, depending on conditions and obstacles.
What are the hardest obstacles on the trail?
Rocker Knocker and Axle Hill are the toughest and may require winching.
Can I hike or bike on Pritchett Canyon Trail?
No, it’s unsafe and meant for off-road vehicles only.
What essentials should I bring?
Water, snacks, recovery gear, GPS/maps, and ride with a group.
