Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point overlook above the canyon in Dead Horse Point State Park, Arches National Park.
Dead Horse Point overlook at sunset in Arches National Park, with layered canyons and a river below.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Natural Attrβ˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
Last Updated: February 2026

Overview

About This Attraction

Red sandstone cliffs frame a vast panorama as the Colorado River braids into goosenecks far below. The neck of the peninsula sits on a high mesa about 2,000 feet above the river, big views from every angle. This is an entrenched meanderβ€”downcutting by the river during uplift left the canyon perched above a deep, dramatic landscape.

Best Time to Visit

Open year-round. Spring and Fall bring milder temperatures; Sunrise and Sunset illuminate the canyon in warm light; Midday visits are hot and crowds grow in peak season.

Visitor Tips

  • The overlook sits 2,000 feet above the riverβ€”stay behind rails.
  • Bring water, hat, and sunscreen; desert climate is extreme.
  • Parking can fill earlyβ€”arrive before 8am during peak season.
  • East Rim Trail to the overlook is 1.5 miles one-way; plan time.
  • Wear sturdy footwear; uneven slickrock is common.
  • Cell service is spotty; download offline maps and share your plan.
  • Best light is sunrise or sunset for photos.
ℹ️ Data Sources
πŸ“– grokipedia.com πŸ“– wildernesswalks.net πŸ“– utah.com πŸ“– thegeologypage.com πŸ“– reserveamerica.com πŸ“– go-utah.com πŸ“– utah.gov πŸ“– discovermoab.com πŸ“– trailwalkertravels.com πŸ“– moabadventurecenter.com πŸ“– ulumresorts.com πŸ“– thegenxtravels.com πŸ“– visitutah.com πŸ“– youtube.com πŸ“– utahguide.com πŸ“– riversimulator.org πŸ“– moabtimes.com πŸ“– allmoab.com πŸ“– tavernatravels.com ⭐ Google Reviews πŸ“ YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works β†’