Drive the Shafer Trail -Canyonlands Island in the Sky to Moab-

In this segment of the Mighty Five Travel Guide I take you on a drive of the Shafer Trail from Canyonlands to Moab. It's great, I've done it 3 times! This version includes video of my most recent trip. The road is much smoother than it used to be. Passenger cars can likely survive it, if its not raining but check with a Ranger first!

Пікірлер: 231

  • @scottsmith5565
    @scottsmith55652 жыл бұрын

    "As a cyclist I stop to see if he needed water and food" That's why i love the biking community

  • @rollinmckim4719
    @rollinmckim47197 ай бұрын

    The old Uranium roads were NOT "scars" on the landscape! They are an integral part. Thanks for the ride, enjoyed it!

  • @martinforrester8249
    @martinforrester8249 Жыл бұрын

    I did potash to shafer and the complete white rim trail in 2002. Took 2 days, I camped in my tent partway around. What an amazing experience, it was quiet then too, very little traffic at all. Oldtimer Englishman reliving one of many trips through canyonlands and the four corners area whilst watching your vid. Many thanks.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    I'd love to do the White Rim but don't have a vehicle capable of that one- My brother in law did and told me how tough it is.

  • @stephenwatts2879
    @stephenwatts28793 жыл бұрын

    I love your Intermountain videos. As child 1950-1960s all our family did was ski at Alta and hunt fish camp all over the Intermountain Az, Nm, Ut, Co, Wy, Id, and Montana. As still today at 70. Thank you to bring up my memories!!!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸❤️❤️❤️🏉🥊😉

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Cool, thanks

  • @thecellulontriptometer4166
    @thecellulontriptometer41663 жыл бұрын

    Drove this today. Few things I’d add for anyone thinking of taking their SUV down this. 1. There is a fair amount of traffic these days on it, and it is not that easy to pass people near the top, especially if you get nervous with a tire a foot from the edge. I had to back up once to make it passed someone. 2. The lower part of the trail in springtime before crews fix winter damage is very rough. Your suspension will get a workout. 3. If you don’t use low gear on the steep down sections you are likely to hurt your vehicle.

  • @grub32
    @grub325 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing your adventures, I love your videos!

  • @mattheindselman3517
    @mattheindselman35175 жыл бұрын

    This was a perfect video my man! You explained everything in depth and kept things moving along. Hats off.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, It takes scores of hours to research, Write and edit these videos that will never earn back production costs and comments like yours make the effort worth while.

  • @RoadtrippinwithTakacs

    @RoadtrippinwithTakacs

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig I completely agree with Matt. 👍💪

  • @janesturtevant1516
    @janesturtevant1516 Жыл бұрын

    I drove this pulling a open bed trailer as a sag wagon for my husband and a bunch of guys. Scared the crap out of me!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    lol i bet

  • @fijagorockabilly4527
    @fijagorockabilly45274 жыл бұрын

    We did this in August 2019 in a rental slightly by accident - I said "I want to go down there!" - and I have never been more terrified in my life but never more pleased that we did it when we got to the canyon floor. It is prehistoric down there and so worth it

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    great story!

  • @washredskin887

    @washredskin887

    Жыл бұрын

    I'm too scared of heights so I'm not driving on that road! But it looks so beautiful.

  • @crazy3rdgen

    @crazy3rdgen

    Жыл бұрын

    Terrified? It's just a flat smooth trail. You should see other trails there if this is terrifying!

  • @chatchawansukkha9421
    @chatchawansukkha94213 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing, very good production!

  • @brooklynebony
    @brooklynebony5 жыл бұрын

    this video was done very well. my brother just came back from there and loved it so i had to see what he was talking about.

  • @abrahampeters653
    @abrahampeters6533 жыл бұрын

    This was a good reminder, my first 25 years was driving roads like this.

  • @rickm4295
    @rickm42954 жыл бұрын

    Man !!! This video was beautiful and educational. Im going to Moab soon so this video came in handy . Another must see !

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks

  • @tomsteffs6511
    @tomsteffs65113 жыл бұрын

    just amazing beauty, Thanks for the ride.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome!

  • @thesadranis
    @thesadranis3 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic video sir! Very well explained, excellent descriptions of the pros and cons of the drive, great filming quality. I've been to Moab but had never heard of this until recently... looking forward to hopefully returning out west this summer! Cheers

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    thanks

  • @Scrambler85
    @Scrambler855 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video, great information

  • @mickjlv5836
    @mickjlv58363 жыл бұрын

    I agree, this video was great! Thanks very much for sharing. Can’t wait to do those trails!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed!

  • @m.e.9974
    @m.e.99743 жыл бұрын

    Professional.....accurate.... Very informing....Great video with sub titles....multi views,one of the best...This is the type of video that you actually see on public T.V. productions.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    thanks for saying so. I’ve been producing media for large corps for decades. This is the kind of video i do for me. I wish I got paid for it.

  • @Hay-tn6hz
    @Hay-tn6hz3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Looks like a fun drive.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks

  • @strangeimpulse2003
    @strangeimpulse20032 жыл бұрын

    Extremely informative. Thanks! This video was done right and it helped me a lot.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad i could help.

  • @nickrowell2651
    @nickrowell26513 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic job on this. Great info, footage, and narration

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    thanks

  • @metaglypto
    @metaglypto3 жыл бұрын

    For pure information, this is the best video I have watched about Utah. Good job, and thanks.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Wow, thanks!

  • @minorotokyonow3794
    @minorotokyonow37942 жыл бұрын

    Your video is so good. I enjoyed your video. I've been to Moab with my wife a log time ago. This brings back so many memories! And I'm a beginner on youtube, so I can learn a lot from your video. Thank you.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the kind words! and thanks for subscribing!

  • @raywalters6141
    @raywalters61415 жыл бұрын

    Wanted to thank you for this awesome video on Shafer. We just completed this run today in our 2018 JL Sahara... Your video shows going down into the switchbacks from Canyonlands park, we came from Moab, and turned onto Utah 279 to Potash... on this road is where we just happened across the Petroglyphs, they were very visible in the morning sun. As we came into Potash, we weren't entirely sure of the path when we got to the turn into town across the tracks, we simply bared left and then we were on our way onto the Shafer Trail and Potash Rd. We eventually ended going up the switchbacks, meeting 2 Rubicons and 2 "luxury" SUVs coming down. made for an interesting dance on the narrow path, but everyone was courteous and patient... Again, thanks, it made a big difference on what to watch fo

  • @solodad7999
    @solodad79993 жыл бұрын

    Ridden this many times on motorcycle & driven it in my Subaru Outback. Beautiful always, especially when it's raining.

  • @garyacker7388
    @garyacker73882 жыл бұрын

    This looks like an interstate compared to when I was down there both trails and an overnight trip on the white rim trail. I enjoyed your video, thank you. 😊

  • @cristianm7451
    @cristianm74515 жыл бұрын

    Amazing video sir, all the info I needed for my trip there next week

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    5 жыл бұрын

    THanks! Have a good trip.

  • @lukaspotgieter7363
    @lukaspotgieter73635 жыл бұрын

    I am planning a trip to Utah this September.I would like to drive all these trails.Great video and info .Thank you.

  • @solodad7999

    @solodad7999

    3 жыл бұрын

    September & October are best, weather wise. Just don't go may thru September, unless you like to ride in the bowels of hell.

  • @hopeulikenudes
    @hopeulikenudes4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing your adventures.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Glad you like them!

  • @ricardocervantes6299
    @ricardocervantes62993 жыл бұрын

    Great video! I've driven this route a handful of times, and have always preferred this drive starting on the opposite end. Thanks for the trip down memory lane!

  • @Baerchenization

    @Baerchenization

    2 жыл бұрын

    This looks like it can be done in a regular car, isn't it?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Well… mostly yes. This year rain made the road in late summer very rough. Always ask a ranger before driving this road!! btw- a tried doing this road from the other direction once- i got lost. There are no signs and enough tracks to make it easy to choose the wrong one.

  • @BrianGlassEOD
    @BrianGlassEOD3 жыл бұрын

    Great video. I drove it in 2003 and have always wanted to go back. Beautiful scenery.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    thanks

  • @kurtjensen7930
    @kurtjensen79303 жыл бұрын

    I love Moab!!! You didn’t even touch on the rock crawling with jeeps and bicycles. Good video!!!

  • @jefferydickelm130
    @jefferydickelm1303 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video. I lived in Moab from 1990 thru 1998. Did many 4wd trails in my 4x4 Chevy pu truck, but not the Shafer.

  • @travelpockets
    @travelpockets3 жыл бұрын

    What a crazy, beautiful drive! I'll be visiting this area soon, but I'm not sure if I could do it, but I really enjoyed this video. Very informative.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks. I’ve done it three times. it’s well worth doing but talk to a ranger about road conditions first.

  • @gregl2433
    @gregl24332 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video! I LOVE MOAB and this is my favorite trail. Just went all the way through last week and trail conditions are rough. A lot of ruts have formed from recent heavy rains.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the update on Road conditions. Another commenter barely made it in F150. Nice to have confirmation of the conditions.

  • @stephaniefranco3718
    @stephaniefranco37183 жыл бұрын

    I am so glad i found your page!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! I glad these videos are helpful.

  • @shadyjang8665
    @shadyjang86653 жыл бұрын

    It so beautiful!!!

  • @angierox6964
    @angierox69643 жыл бұрын

    That was nice, thank you! Usually I get motion sick watching driving but I feel fine! 🌎

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    That means it’s time to drive it. :)

  • @tinanguyen3092
    @tinanguyen3092 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for incredible video

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you liked it!

  • @TheDisillusioned1811
    @TheDisillusioned18113 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video! Plan on visiting the area this October and do some adventuring in my Chevy Colorado.

  • @josephregallis3394
    @josephregallis33943 жыл бұрын

    A young couple years ago told my friend Harry and I about Moab. They said even though it was a long drive from where we were that it was worth it! They were right! Moab is an awesome place with amazing views of the Colorado River, Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point, Arches National Park and the town is pretty cool as well. I remember we were sitting outside at I believe was an Italian Restaurant and watching the people walk by. Really nice! It's a place you have to visit and see!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad you liked the video. Sounds like you might like my 90 min utah parks video that includes all the places you mentioned and more. its on my channel

  • @johnrogers001
    @johnrogers0013 жыл бұрын

    Great video! I wished I had seen it BEFORE I visited Canyonlands last week!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! BTW- I have lots of other videos about places in the 4 corners on my channel- some you've probably never heard of

  • @johnbob4545
    @johnbob45453 жыл бұрын

    Great video, just awesome!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @elenakeil3644
    @elenakeil3644 Жыл бұрын

    I been there, it was so much FUN! I went with my friend, he's from Utah and he was so familiar with the trail

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    thanksfor the comment

  • @raftingdon2
    @raftingdon24 жыл бұрын

    Just drove this today. My knuckles are still white. Had a rental Hyundai Tucson that we drove from Kentucky. This was not planned, just saw the road at the bottom and asked how to get down. Scary to say the least. My wife had tears...lol..Most beautiful drive I've ever taken.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Glad to hear its open. are there crowds in the park?

  • @raftingdon2

    @raftingdon2

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig I didn't think they were too bad. Saw a total of maybe 8 other vehicles on the 30 mile drive. (We returned all the way to Moab). Park was great.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    thanks for the feedback

  • @garyelswick2459
    @garyelswick24593 жыл бұрын

    At 9:10 is a drop off to the river, no chance for error, stay close to the cliff face, especially after rain erosion on the downhill side. . At the first river overlook in this video is where the final scene of Thelma & Louise was filmed, where they jump off the cliff into the "Grand Canyon".

  • @johnboy5736
    @johnboy57364 жыл бұрын

    Hiya.. Fantastic !!! Well done . Thank you..

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you too!

  • @bavarianbynature
    @bavarianbynature5 жыл бұрын

    Really well made video and commentary!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    5 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! A lot of work went into it.

  • @Hoakaloa
    @Hoakaloa9 ай бұрын

    Wow! Thanks so much. I hope we'll be able to do this drive when we are there in May 2024.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    9 ай бұрын

    Have fun!

  • @steviejd5803

    @steviejd5803

    Ай бұрын

    @@TheWestisBighey, see you there, we are going end of May 24

  • @ToddStafford
    @ToddStafford2 жыл бұрын

    We did that in 2019, coming from the Moab side. Highlight of our trip.

  • @billvegas8146
    @billvegas81462 жыл бұрын

    Outstanding.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks

  • @enriquevblancas3736
    @enriquevblancas37362 жыл бұрын

    Appreciate you shared this

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    thanks😀

  • @antonyfidelis
    @antonyfidelis2 жыл бұрын

    Very good video my man !!!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @craigvogler7672
    @craigvogler76722 жыл бұрын

    i just finished the shafer and potash road drive. parts of it were almost impassable. i drove me f150 that has many offroad upgrades is why i got through. there are many, many places only wide enough for one vehicle. the drive required over 4 hours of intense driving with very occasional outhouses to use. this is the most challenging off road drive i have ever taken and would never repeat it.

  • @scratchsescape1978
    @scratchsescape19784 жыл бұрын

    We did the trail last summer in a half ton crew cab pickup and there was little space between drop off and cliff wall in some spots and going around the switch backs was terrifying. I will never do that decent again in a pickup! Maybe a small SUV or a Jeep. Hope to return this summer and plan to drive in on the Potash Road from Moab on the canyon floor.

  • @steviejd5803

    @steviejd5803

    Жыл бұрын

    Er....sounds like my plan with the Dodge RAM 1500, maybe I should re-think it.

  • @priitpullerits3436
    @priitpullerits3436 Жыл бұрын

    I biked it up in 35 minutes several years ago, never stopping - that was actually my aim.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    That couldn’t have been easy

  • @fpartidafpartida
    @fpartidafpartida3 жыл бұрын

    Great video...thank .

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    So nice of you

  • @fijagorockabilly4527
    @fijagorockabilly45274 жыл бұрын

    We did this last August and it was simply the most terrifying thing I've ever done but it was so worth it.....

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    lol- yep its great!

  • @anterdogan

    @anterdogan

    4 жыл бұрын

    Can you confirm that the road is wide enough to pass? I mean there are some spots where I thought, that's impossible. For exmaple 2:27 ...

  • @jays3438
    @jays34382 жыл бұрын

    The Shafer Trail climb is a wonderful way to end a mountain bike tour of the White Rim, slow and steady, not too strenous!!! Thanks to Rim Tours for a relaxing 4 days!!!

  • @robertallen6710
    @robertallen67104 жыл бұрын

    I drove that road a few years ago...I wasn't scared or intimidated...just ready to soil my shorts...

  • @NebukedNezzer
    @NebukedNezzer3 жыл бұрын

    you need a park reservation to use the white rim trail. been on these trails back in 1998 with my 77 toyota FJ40. seldom need the 4wd but clearance yes. check out the poison strip and highlands area.

  • @coloradomallcrawlers
    @coloradomallcrawlers4 жыл бұрын

    You are a great host! I struggle with hosting in my own videos, but hopefully practice will improve it. Great video and new subscriber!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! It's all in the writing and story telling. I've been in the business for over 20 years. Btw- don’t work under the illusion that youtube videos make enough to pay for themselves- they don’t!

  • @coloradomallcrawlers

    @coloradomallcrawlers

    4 жыл бұрын

    The West is Big! Travel Guides Thanks for the tip! I’m new to being on camera, but I’ve been driving a jeep for 20 years so I got that going for me at least lol. Looking forward to more of your videos!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    There's a couple of more 4x4 trails I want to do in Moab but I don't know if my Subi can handle them- may need your help there.

  • @coloradomallcrawlers

    @coloradomallcrawlers

    4 жыл бұрын

    The West is Big! Travel Guides That’s why I created my stock trail guide series! Love my Funtreks guides, but sometimes you also want to see it before you wheel it. Subies are awesome, ground clearance is sometimes an issue, but there’s a KZreadr (softroadingthewest I think) who gets his all over the place!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    thanks. I'll check it out- Here's one more piece of advice- It's not about you its about the adventure

  • @laughthinkeattravel
    @laughthinkeattravel3 жыл бұрын

    Utah is a beautiful state.

  • @jamesesson4629
    @jamesesson4629 Жыл бұрын

    This is Jim's wife Karen and we did Shafer yesterday. It may have been a piece of cake for you, but it was the scariest thing I have ever done and it seemed pretty narrow to me. I have broken down in many African countries, but I would rather do that than do this road. My husband was driving of course......so I got to see the drop off the cliff. I admit though, it wasn't as scary going up....maybe because I didn't look. Just call me a wimp.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    Bet you had a great time though. And you've got a great story to tell for years.

  • @yodaguy6956
    @yodaguy69562 жыл бұрын

    You might not have been scared your first time, but I soiled myself just watching the video, 10x speed is intense

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    😂 lol

  • @horizon42q
    @horizon42q2 жыл бұрын

    Very cool, I miss your videos.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    I'm writing and editing a series on New Mexico. It's not quite as epic as Utah or Montana, so I don't know if I will post them.

  • @meteorhero526
    @meteorhero5263 жыл бұрын

    The White Rim, Shafer Trail, and Potash Road all require all wheel drive or better. The White Rim in particular requires all wheel up to Musselman Arch, then true four wheel drive (and a free day permit) to go any further.

  • @marcusjensen3409
    @marcusjensen34092 жыл бұрын

    It’s my absolute dream to drive the Shafer Trail. Visited Canyonlands last weekend for the first time. Unfortunately I drive a 2WD Mazda3 hatchback which I love but it wouldn’t stand a chance on this trail. We will be back though, with a better equipped vehicle.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    always talk to a Ranger before heading out on the trail. This year it was quite difficult at the end of the summer.

  • @alsantos5518
    @alsantos55183 жыл бұрын

    Very interesting, fun , informative and educational.. very professional.. Thanks for doing this.I need to study this more if Im to do this solo on my Sprinter MB 4x4 high top.. I heard Utah sand is tricky when it rains, true.. whats the best mos. to do this.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! It’ll be interesting in a sprinter. lots of rocking back and forth. Dont know about wet sand. i did get stuck at lake powell in a 2wd suv once in dry sand. dug out with cooler top and beach towels. the shaffer trail doesnt have deep sand in the main track. The whole white rim trail is another matter!

  • @axios76
    @axios764 жыл бұрын

    Браво! Благодаря!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    Большое спасибо

  • @axios76

    @axios76

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig😁

  • @susied4534
    @susied45342 жыл бұрын

    we did this drive in reverse from you. unknown to us how rough it would be we made the whole drive in a Nissan Sentra. I gained a few gray hairs on that drive! also, it was more like your 2013 drive in March of 2022

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    impressive

  • @manooch
    @manooch Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your video. Don't think that I am crazy. Last night I copied screen at 11:30 and then enlarged it . WOW what a video you have, faces are all over that screen, even at the top of the mountain( in front of that white cloud).At least I saw 10 faces on that screen. It is hard to see but they are there. Easiest one to see are those two top of the mountain faces in front of that white cloud. For many years my hobby is watching videos like yours, ancient pictures and faces on mountains on arid and rainless climates. There have been videos that even the uploader was not aware of the faces that I saw on the mountains even top of the mountains, and then uploader commented back : "WOW i didn't see that, there is another one like that on Zion"s national parK"!! Btw first i copy the still picture of the screen and then enlarge it, totally different from normal screen , you will see faces that you don't see it normally.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    You should watch my New Mexico Tour. I go to 3 Rivers Petroglyph site. There are 20,000 glyphs there.

  • @jshang01
    @jshang015 жыл бұрын

    Great video, thanks so much. Can you confirm that you were in a 2 wheel drive SUV ( 5:12 )? The NPS website still says that only 4 wheel drive vehicles are allowed on Shafer road, but maybe that's out of date.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    5 жыл бұрын

    I've done the trail twice in a 2 wheel drive truck based SUV and a few months ago did it in a all wheel drive Subaru Forester. The trail was quite smooth last time. I think even a passenger car would have been fine, though higher clearance is important. . Its a popular trail these days and they seem to maintain it. Always ask the Ranger about road conditions. After a rain I bet its different.

  • @prashsf
    @prashsf3 жыл бұрын

    Very informative and well done! Once you got to the Gooseneck Overlook, how much time did it take from there to return to Moab? And how much time would it have taken if you turned around and went uphill instead?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I'd have to guess-- maybe 40 minutes to get there. Be careful on the way up. In spots two cars may not fit.

  • @SteelyGabler3387
    @SteelyGabler33873 жыл бұрын

    We were there but didn’t think we could go on it.

  • @stevesteve447
    @stevesteve4474 жыл бұрын

    If you haven't driven the Shafer-Potash Trail you haven't really experienced Moab. Try Long Canyon and Pucker Pass too. It is off Hwy 279 just after the Indian Drawings.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    I planned on doing Long canyon my last time there- but a ranger said my Subaru Forester with road tires might not be able to handle it. Any thoughts on that? Also, I can't find any info on Pucker Pass- where is it? can the subi handle it?

  • @Twobarpsi
    @Twobarpsi3 жыл бұрын

    I could never drive that road 😮!!

  • @RicardoRoams
    @RicardoRoams3 жыл бұрын

    Very informative! Did you air down your tires before tackling this?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yes but only slightly.

  • @russlehman2070
    @russlehman2070 Жыл бұрын

    I drove it in 1979 or 1980 in a 1969 VW Karmann Ghia.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    That must have been interesting!!

  • @nathmad7140
    @nathmad71403 жыл бұрын

    Great video, wonderful place😍. What king of device do you use to film from the car?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I used GoPros and and small sony with really good image stabilization. 6” suction cups held camera in place

  • @jk7721
    @jk77213 жыл бұрын

    This is an easy, epic, must do drive if you are in the area. It's easy to do with a crossover (due to them typically having a bit more clearance than a car), but yes, you can do it in a car if you use some common sense while driving. Watch a few videos, and just drive slowly and in control. I did the White Rim Trail first. I have a GMC Sierra w/ about a 4 in lift, but the majority of both White Rim and Shafer do not require 4 wheel drive. The biggest thing to get over will be if you start in Canyonlands and 'drop in' as this video shows-the decent is steep, but nothing like some of the climbs and descents you'd see on the White Rim Trail in a few places. The trail is plenty wide-we even watched a crossover turn around from across the canyon-the wife apparently wasn't having it! There are a few spots you'll have to wait at if someone else is coming up the steep switch backs-but you can see them coming from miles away-so pull off where you feel comfortable. Don't miss out on the scenery b/c of the one steep section!! This is a great portion of a day trip that requires no permits (White Rim does for overnight use) and will be a memorable experience!

  • @racesmith3075
    @racesmith3075 Жыл бұрын

    Guardsman pass between SLC and park city is short, but scared me worse than Shafer! Maybe the car carcasses had something to do with it...

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    I bet it was fun!! what type of vehicle?

  • @Nathans_Margarita_Salt
    @Nathans_Margarita_Salt3 жыл бұрын

    Unless its been raining a lot, you could do this "trail" with a Prius. Pretty sure last time I was camping on Shafer I saw a couple Toyota Highlanders driving around which should tell you how easy it is. Awesome views

  • @Surrfside24

    @Surrfside24

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hope this is true. I'll be there in May and I'll be in a 2020 hyundai elantra and hoping I can atleast to the switchback portion if it's dry.

  • @williamfaulkner1959
    @williamfaulkner19593 жыл бұрын

    What a great video and commentary...well done. What video editing software do you use. I am using Movie Studio 16 but looking for something else. We started going to Moab in 2012. In 2016 we did Potash one day and then White Rim Road the next...I wish we had taken two days to do White Rim but knocked it out in one. We have a '94 YJ with a 3" body lift and running 31" tires and it does pretty well. We enjoy Long Canyon and have done it several times. You might want to rent a Jeep for that. Again, thanks for posting this well done video.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    It was edited in Premiere Pro. One day I hope to do Long Canyon but Don't know if my 4x4 skills are up to it

  • @williamfaulkner1959

    @williamfaulkner1959

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig Do you like Premiere? Long Canyon is really pretty easy. It's well worth the time and effort. You can do it. Thanks for the reply.

  • @williamfaulkner1959

    @williamfaulkner1959

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig Thanks for the answer. Long Canyon is really not that bad I think you would be ok doing it.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I've been professional Video producer for 30 years. Right now most pros use Premiere. It's powerful but like most Adobe products it has a remarkably un-intuitive interface. If your looking for a powerful editor and don't need to be in the Adobe world check out Resolve. Its powerful and has the world's best color correction tool. The free version is quite good too.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Can my Subi Forester with road tires handle it? I figured I'd have to rent a Jeep in Moab to do it.

  • @steviejd5803
    @steviejd5803 Жыл бұрын

    Hey thanks for the wonderful introdution and film footage, a question if I may, we will be renting a Dodge Ram 1500, would that vehicle be ok for this trail? Or, should we just pucker up and rent a Moab jeep and relax? Many thanks in advance of your considered opinion.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    I’ve seen pickups do it. if u rent a moab jeep you can spend more time down there doing at least part of the White Rim trail - which has tricky parts and other trails that are too much for a standard pickup

  • @steviejd5803

    @steviejd5803

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig Thank you, I had a feeling that the RAM might just be a little too big...I'll rent a Jeep.

  • @steviejd5803

    @steviejd5803

    Ай бұрын

    Still marvelling at this trail…going there at the end of this month, May 24

  • @iyot1020
    @iyot10203 жыл бұрын

    cant wait to take my FJ

  • @Chr72e
    @Chr72e2 жыл бұрын

    Great information was there Indian tribes in this area ?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    not in moab Many tribes are in the 4 corners and new mexico

  • @mymansawyer
    @mymansawyer3 жыл бұрын

    ATV's are allowed, correct? GREAT stuff!

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Motor cycles are. Have no idea about ATVs. Much of it is listed as a county road so if its street legal no prob.

  • @Surrfside24
    @Surrfside243 жыл бұрын

    If it's a dry condition like this, do you think I can drive a 2020 hyundai elantra down the switchback and just turn around when the road splits at white rim? (Weather permitting)

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I’ve done it in 2wd. For legal reasons I’d say you should ask a ranger before you try it. They drive it frequently and know how well it’s graded at present.

  • @Surrfside24

    @Surrfside24

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig okay thanks.

  • @Murfdigidy

    @Murfdigidy

    2 жыл бұрын

    Shafer trail maybe, Potash road NO WAY! Do not attempt that road, we did it in Aug 21 and anyone without 4 wheel drive was toast. Even that to me wasn't enough, really need 4 wheel drive high clearance. Atleast in the conditions when I was there

  • @ally473
    @ally4733 жыл бұрын

    What are the gps coordinates of the balanced boulder on Potash road?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I have no idea. its not far the mine pools- try google earth

  • @milandattawade3448
    @milandattawade34483 жыл бұрын

    Do you think I can do this in a mid-size SUV like Toyota RAV4 or Jeep Compass in mid June?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    Probably, but it depends- talk to a ranger at the Visitor Center before you try it- weather can effect the trail

  • @Murfdigidy

    @Murfdigidy

    2 жыл бұрын

    Eeehhhh it's tight Milan, I would highly suggest a higher clearance vehicle as there were spots that were really hard to get around without enough clearance. Shafer trail up and down sure, but if you're taking Potash back to Moab that's a whole different story. I'd talk to ranger as the west is big suggested

  • @galloots13
    @galloots132 жыл бұрын

    were you at arches national park today by chance?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    i wish. end of next week i might be.

  • @manooch
    @manooch Жыл бұрын

    At 11:16 those pictures are way too high on that rock , they must have been airborne when making those pictures

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    Жыл бұрын

    ahh no! the dirt was much higher in ancient times. the road construction crew removed a lot of dirt. you can see the old dirt level by the chance in rock color

  • @manooch

    @manooch

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig Thanks for your video. Don't think that I am crazy. Last night I copied screen at 11:30 and then enlarged it . WOW what a video you have, faces are all over that screen, even at the top of the mountain( in front of that white cloud).At least I saw 10 faces on that screen. It is hard to see but they are there. Easiest one to see are those two top of the mountain faces in front of that white cloud. For many years my hobby is watching videos like yours, ancient pictures and faces on mountains on arid and rainless climates. There have been videos that even the uploader was not aware of the faces that I saw on the mountains even top of the mountains, and then uploader commented back : "WOW i didn't see that, there is another one like that on Zion"s national parl"!! Btw first i copy the still picture of the screen and then enlarge it, totally different from normal screen , you will see faces that you don't see it normally.

  • @assadasghari3046
    @assadasghari30462 жыл бұрын

    I went crazy and did this trail with my Toyota Avalon.

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    What time of year? I've been told last fall it was tough for even a 4x4 pickup.

  • @assadasghari3046

    @assadasghari3046

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig it was las week of the May 2021

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    ok thanks!

  • @hingchoy1351
    @hingchoy13513 жыл бұрын

    The road is for two ways traffic? What happen when two cars meet?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    most of it is wide enough to pass

  • @MonacoMike
    @MonacoMike4 жыл бұрын

    Do you recommend driving up the trail or down the trail?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    I tried driving up once, but the route is hard to follow at the lower end and I felt i might be lost. So i turned around. going down is no problem

  • @MonacoMike

    @MonacoMike

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig Do feel there might be better , more scenic, photos ops one way or the other? I was thinking it might be easier driving up to Dead Horse but I guess it might be a flip of the coin. If you was to start at Dead Horse and drive down about what time of day do you feel would be the best time to start out from the top?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    I haven't done the other trails as I've been told you need a true off road vehicle to safely drive them- with more tourists I suppose its possible they have graded the these trails for Subi type vehicles but I would ask a ranger before attempting. Time of day wise- check with a good sun location app for the time of year you're planning on going. Lighting, and clouds etc of course will effect how good your shots are regardless of time of day.

  • @siriosstar4789
    @siriosstar47893 жыл бұрын

    i took my wife down that cliff face ONCE . the result was as follows- 😭😫🤬🥺😳🤯😱 my reaction was - 😂🤣😆😎

  • @westlos13
    @westlos133 жыл бұрын

    What car make & modle do u drive ?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    3 жыл бұрын

    I have done the trail in an Isuzu Axiom and a Forester

  • @targettony1122
    @targettony11224 жыл бұрын

    Well the video is great, but I just did this trail upon seeing your video. Sept 8th 2019 in a full size F150. The trail was not in very good shape. It's very narrow and was a complete hair raising experience. The hairpin turns were tough to make and it took me 7 hours to complete. Stop at the visitors center and get complete information about this trail BEFORE YOU GO...

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    4 жыл бұрын

    ITs good to know the condition of the trail for vehicles that big. The video does says ask the Rangers at the Vis Center about current conditions. THe video says trail conditions change and that I was surprised, how easy it was the last time I did it compared to the two other times. NOTE: for other viewers- I've always done this trail early in the season- it appears it gets worse towards the fall.

  • @ky0611
    @ky06112 жыл бұрын

    Did you have to pay for the dead horse point state park?

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes. its just a couple of dollars

  • @ky0611

    @ky0611

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@TheWestisBig o ok I thought website said 20 bucks is that the same park? Thanks

  • @TheWestisBig

    @TheWestisBig

    2 жыл бұрын

    Wow they could have raised the fee. the secret is getting there before sunrise. the gate is open and no attendant to take fee. its a great place and can be crowded. So not suprized they are using market based pricing.