Cliffhanger - Moab, UT
This trail made me want to punch myself in the face. It’s popular for hardcore keepers but is challenging for dirtbikes. I was on my Husqvarna TE 250i and not having a good time. I think on my electric bike, it would have been better. Not enjoyable, but better. I think what made it so miserable is that the rocks are so large and some of the obstacles are more ‘jeep sized’. A completely vertical boulder that a jeep with big wheels could essentially crawl up is much more annoying on a dirt bike.
Cliffhanger Trail Overview
Trail Name: Cliffhanger (also called Amasa Back)
Trail Length: ~10.1 miles round-trip
Estimated Duration for Jeeps: 4–5 hours
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Elevation Range: ~3,983 ft to ~4,978 ft
Difficulty Rating: High (considered one of Moab’s more technical trails)
Best Seasons: Spring and Fall
Activities: 4x4, dirt biking, mountain biking, hiking
Trailhead & Starting Point
Location: About 10 minutes from downtown Moab
Trailhead Access: Drive south on Kane Creek Boulevard. The trailhead is just past the Kane Creek parking area.
Starting Coordinates: 38.52397, -109.6015
First Obstacle: Steep descent with stair-step ledges immediately after the start
GPS Waypoints (Approximate)
Trailhead: 38.52397, -109.6015
Z-Turn Obstacle: ~38.5217, -109.6194
Cliffhanger Obstacle: ~38.5196, -109.6251
Jackson Hole Overlook: ~38.5164, -109.6270
Notable Trail Features
Cliffhanger Obstacle: Narrow ledge with high exposure and a major drop-off
Z-Turn: A tight switchback with ledges—requires careful tire placement
Rock & Roll Section: Bumpy, uneven slickrock and ledges
Jackson Hole Overlook: Stunning views of a horseshoe-shaped canyon
Spur Viewpoint: Views of the Colorado River toward Moab
