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State park · Moab, Utah
Dead Horse Point State Park
A state park on a mesa tip near Canyonlands, with an overlook about 600 meters above a horseshoe bend of the Colorado River.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point is a narrow mesa spur that projects over the Colorado River canyon, connected to the rest of the plateau by a neck only a few meters wide. At its end, an overlook sits about 600 meters above a horseshoe bend in the river, between layered sandstone cliffs.
The name comes from a local story: 19th-century cowboys used the spur as a natural corral for wild horses, and a group of animals were allegedly left there and died of thirst while watching the river below. The state park was created in 1959.
Besides the main overlook, rim trails of a few kilometers pass by other viewpoints. The visitor center has exhibits and a small shop, and the park is recognized for its dark sky, with star-gazing programs. Several films were shot there.
It is on the way to Island in the Sky, and both can fit into the same day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to three hours.
Best time
At sunset, when side light enters the canyon. At night, for the stars.
How to get there
From Moab, via US-191 and County Road 313, about 50 km. The turnoff to the park leaves the road that goes to Island in the Sky.
Tip
Entrance is charged separately, and the national parks pass does not apply here because the park is a state park. Stay close to the railing: the edge is open.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Dead Horse Point State Park
Is Dead Horse Point part of Canyonlands?
No. It’s a Utah state park neighboring Island in the Sky, with a separate entrance fee. The national parks annual pass does not apply.
Why is it called Dead Horse Point?
From a local story that ranchers used the point as a corral for wild horses, and a group of animals supposedly died of thirst there while seeing the river below.
Can you see Dead Horse Point and Island in the Sky in the same day?
Yes. They’re on the same road, a few kilometers apart. Many people do Island in the Sky in the morning and Dead Horse Point at sunset.