Shafer Trail, Hard 4x4 trail in Moab, UT
    Hard
    Trail
    4.8

    Shafer Trail

    Moab, UT•Southwest

    Shafer Trail is a hard 18 miles off-road trail near Moab, UT. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires, 4WD capability and is best run March - November. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.

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    This trail offers a unique off-road adventure through diverse terrain and stunning scenery. Whether you're seeking technical challenges or scenic exploration, you'll find an experience that connects you with nature and tests your driving skills. Every journey on the trail creates memories and builds the confidence that comes from conquering new terrain.

    Fun Facts

    #1

    Every trail tells a unique story shaped by geology, history, and the adventurers who came before.

    #2

    Off-road trails connect us to landscapes that remain wild and untouched by pavement.

    Length
    18 miles
    Elevation
    4,000 - 6,000 ft
    Best Season
    March - November
    Permit
    Not Required
    Dramatic switchbacksCliff exposurePhoto opportunitiesMoab classicCanyon views

    🛞 Tires

    required
    All-terrain tires

    ⚙️ Drivetrain

    required
    4WD capability

    🪢 Recovery

    recommended
    Basic recovery kit

    Closest campgrounds to Shafer Trail:

    Where to Camp

    GPS Coordinates

    38.4726, -109.8112

    Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin

    Map of Moab, UT

    5-Day Forecast

    Plan this trip

    Planning Your Trip?

    Check out our gear guides and trip planning resources.

    Gear Guides
    Hard Trail

    WHAT YOU'LL NEED

    This trail rewards preparation. Run these tools before you load up, the numbers matter.

    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.

    Use Tool

    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.

    Use Tool

    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.

    Use Tool

    MPG Calculator

    Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.

    Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.

    Use Tool

    Trail Matchmaker

    Not sure this trail matches your rig's current build? Find out fast.

    Answer 6 questions and confirm Shafer Trail is right for your setup, or find a better match.

    Use Tool
    View all 7 planning tools

    Frequently Asked Questions

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