Photo: Olivier Blaser
Photo: Gabriel Akonom
Photo: Joshua Johnston
Dead Horse Point State Park
★4.8(6,326 reviews)$$Park
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. The easy, paved trails and dramatic viewpoints captivate school-age children who can appreciate the scale and beauty, while the short distances work well for preschoolers. Babies do great here in carriers or strollers on the accessible paths.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Dead Horse Point State Park offers one of Utah's most breathtaking viewpoints without requiring strenuous hiking, making it ideal for families with young children. The paved, accessible trails lead to stunning overlooks where kids can safely view the Colorado River 2,000 feet below, spot wildlife, and enjoy interactive ranger programs that bring the geology and history to life.
Highlights
- ✓The jaw-dropping main overlook with safe railings where kids can see the Colorado River far below
- ✓East Rim Trail,an easy 2-mile paved loop perfect for little legs with multiple scenic viewpoints
- ✓Junior Ranger program with activity books available at the visitor center
- ✓Wildlife spotting including lizards, ravens, and occasionally desert bighorn sheep
- ✓Stargazing after sunset (the park stays open until 10:00 PM)
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early (right at 6:00 AM opening) to beat the heat and crowds, especially in summer when temperatures soar by midday
- 2.Bring binoculars for kids to spot rock climbers on the canyon walls below and search for desert bighorn sheep
- 3.The visitor center has excellent Junior Ranger activity books and flush restrooms,stop here first before heading to the overlooks
- 4.Pack plenty of water and snacks as there are no food vendors in the park, but lovely shaded picnic tables at Kayak Point
- 5.Download the park's geocaching guide for a fun scavenger hunt that keeps kids engaged on the trails
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for comfortable temperatures and stunning light. Arrive at sunrise or late afternoon for the most dramatic colors and softer light. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends.
What to Know
Entrance fee is $20 per vehicle (or use your America the Beautiful Pass). The visitor center has clean restrooms and water fountains, but bring all food and plenty of water as there are no restaurants or stores inside the park.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but summer temperatures exceed 100°F making morning visits essential. Winter can bring snow and ice making some trails slippery,bring traction devices. Spring wildflowers (April-May) add beautiful color. The park occasionally closes temporarily during severe weather.
Nearby Eats
Head back to Moab (30 minutes away) for kid-friendly options like Milt's Stop & Eat (classic burgers and shakes) or Quesadilla Mobilla (quick, casual Mexican fare with outdoor seating).
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