This popular route ascends Poison Spider Mesa, a prominent cliff feature northwest of Moab, bordered by Moab Valley (east) and the Colorado River (south). Access is via Scenic Byway 279. The trail climbs tilted rock layers to the rim, with the first few miles retraced before forming a loop on the mesa top. It balances excellent scenery with moderate, enjoyable four-wheeling challenges that suit most capable vehicles without extreme risk. (Note: Black widow spiders are present but no more common than elsewhere in the area.) Scenery Offers outstanding vistas across the fins of Behind the Rocks to the La Sal Mountains. The rim overlook sits 1,000 feet above Moab with a ~300-degree panorama. Jeep Arch is clearly visible from the rim, and a short hike from the usual lunch spot reaches “Little Arch.” Surface The loop portion is primarily Navajo Sandstone slickrock (including one 0.4-mile bare rock stretch), with rock ledges, sandy wash bottoms, and two blow-sand hills. Trail Details Begins with switchbacks (now tougher due to wear), followed by a sandy flat and sandy canyon leading to the “Waterfall” obstacle. The rating comes from a quarter-mile series of rock ledges on the ascent. An optional V-notch section provides dramatic photo opportunities. The continuous scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. Length: 37 total, 16 off highway Min Tire Size: 35+ inches Winch: No, Front Locker: Yes, Rear Locker: Yes