Poison Spider Mesa
Poison Spider Mesa is a expert 14 miles off-road trail near Moab, UT. It requires a properly built 4x4 with 35"+ mud-terrain tires, 4"+ lift kit, Front & rear lockers and is best run March - November. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.
Trail Conditions
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Poison Spider Mesa is Moab's expert-level proving ground, featuring some of the most iconic and challenging obstacles in the off-road world. The trail begins with the infamous Wedge, a steep crack climb that immediately separates the capable from the hopeful. From there, the trail delivers relentless technical terrain including the legendary Golden Crack, a narrow rock fissure that vehicles must straddle with wheels on either side. The mesa top rewards survivors with expansive views of the Colorado River canyon and the La Sal Mountains. This is not a trail for the faint of heart or underbuilt vehicle. It demands lockers, armor, skill, and respect.
Fun Facts
The Golden Crack obstacle is a natural fracture in the sandstone that splits perfectly to accept a vehicle.
Poison Spider Mesa got its name from a Native American legend about venomous spiders guarding the cliffs.
The mesa offers views of the Colorado River from 800 feet above the water.
This trail has appeared in more off-road magazine covers than almost any other in America.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
📦 Other
Closest campgrounds to Poison Spider Mesa:
- Devils Garden Campground · Moab · 14 mi
- Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) Campground · Moab · 20 mi
- The Needles Campground · Moab · 31 mi
- The Needles District Group Campsites · Moab · 31 mi
Where to Camp
GPS Coordinates
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Map of Moab, UT
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Expert-level terrain demands a purpose-built rig. Use every tool here before committing.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Running 35s or 37s? Confirm fitment and sidewall height before you go.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Low-range crawl ratio is everything on technical terrain, calculate yours first.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Remote Expert trails have no fuel stops. Know your range before you leave.
Trail Matchmaker
Not sure this trail matches your rig's current build? Find out fast.
Answer 6 questions and confirm Poison Spider Mesa is right for your setup, or find a better match.