Skip to main content
Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Portal Trail

Moab, Utah · Grand County

The Portal Trail is the sister trail to the Moab Rim Trail which is just across the Colorado River. It is a hiking and biking only trail that follows a slickrock bench up from the Colorado River to an expansive view of the Moab Valley and the surrounding landscape. Most bikers only come down this trail which is an alte…

Advertisement
38.55647, -109.59025
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Portal Trail

The Portal Trail is the sister trail to the Moab Rim Trail which is just across the Colorado River. It is a hiking and biking only trail that follows a slickrock bench up from the Colorado River to an expansive view of the Moab Valley and the surrounding landscape. Most bikers only come down this trail which is an alternate and very difficult exit for the Magnificent Seven Trail System. There is a short section of the trail near the top which is very narrow and exposed. Bikers must dismount and walk this section as 3 cyclists have lost their lives here. Not for the faint of heart! From JayCee Park, follow the hiking trail up the Colorado towards the river ""portal."" Please register at the visitor box. From the visitor box, the trail begins its climb to the viewpoint. After several switchbacks, the trail follows a cairned route up ""ramps"" of Kayenta sandstone to the overlook. Be cautious around the overlook as there are no safety fences. This trail is frequently used by mountain bike riders. There is no fee for hiking the Portal Trail, however please leave the place nicer than when you arrived by picking up any little you may find and by staying precisely on the trail provided. This trail sees a lot of use and needs some help from you to stay nice! Thank you! Note: During late afternoons in the summer, this trail is largely in the shade of higher cliffs.

How to Get There

JayCee Park Recreation Site is the start of the trail. It is on Utah Scenic Byway 279, 4.2 miles west of the Utah 279/U.S. 191 junction.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Portal Trail

Heading to Portal Trail? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Portal Trail?

No central reservation system listed for Portal Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14497) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Portal Trail?

JayCee Park Recreation Site is the start of the trail. It is on Utah Scenic Byway 279, 4.2 miles west of the Utah 279/U.S. 191 junction.

How do I contact Portal Trail?

You can reach the park at phone: (435)259-2100 or email: utmbmail@blm.gov.