Potash Road, also known as Utah Scenic Byway 279 or the Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway, is a striking route that stretches approximately 17 miles along the Colorado River west of Moab, Utah, before transitioning into a dirt road that connects to the Shafer Trail in Canyonlands National Park. This road, running parallel to dramatic red rock cliffs and offering access to petroglyphs, arches, and dinosaur tracks, has a rich history tied to Native American use, industrial development, and modern recreation. Its proximity to the Shafer Trail makes it a critical segment of one of the most iconic backcountry driving routes in the American Southwest.
Native American and Early Use
Potash Road’s origins trace back to Native American pathways that followed the Colorado River through the deepening Wingate sandstone canyon. Indigenous peoples used these routes to access resources, hunt, and travel between seasonal locations. The corridor’s natural features, including the river and nearby cliffs, made it a vital passage for early inhabitants. Evidence of their presence persists in the form of petroglyphs, such as those visible along the road near the “Indian Writing” pullout, approximately 5 miles from Moab, where rock art panels adorn the cliffside.
Ranching and Early Development
In the early 20th century, the route that would become Potash Road was used by Mormon pioneer settlers and ranchers. While the nearby Shafer Trail was specifically improved by John “Sog” Shafer in 1917 to move cattle between summer pastures on the mesa top and winter grounds in the canyon, Potash Road served as a complementary route along the Colorado River, facilitating access to grazing areas and water sources. The road remained a rudimentary track during this period, suitable for livestock and limited vehicular traffic, with its path constrained by the river and towering sandstone cliffs.
Industrial Era and the Potash Mining Boom
The mid-20th century marked a significant transformation for Potash Road with the rise of potash mining in the Moab area. The road’s modern name derives from the Moab Salt Company (now Intrepid Potash, Inc.), located at the end of the paved section, approximately 17 miles from U.S. Highway 191. Established in the early 1960s, the potash mining operation extracted potassium chloride from deep underground deposits, using water from the Colorado River to dissolve the mineral, which was then pumped to vibrant blue evaporation ponds visible along the road. These man-made, rubber-lined ponds, dyed blue to speed evaporation, became a striking feature of the landscape, visible even from space.
To support the mining industry, the Atomic Energy Commission and mining companies improved Potash Road in the 1950s and early 1960s, paving the initial 15–17 miles from U.S. 191 to the potash plant. Beyond this point, the road transitions to a dirt track, historically used to transport uranium ore from mines in the Triassic Chinle Formation to processing facilities in Moab. This dirt section, which connects to the Shafer Trail, was widened and stabilized to accommodate heavy trucks, following the path of a natural rockfall that buried parts of the cliff-forming Wingate Sandstone. The construction of a single-track railway in 1964, paralleling the final six miles of the paved road and extending through Bootlegger Canyon to Moab, further supported the transport of potash and salt, reducing reliance on the road for industrial haulage.
Transition to a Scenic and Recreational Route
With the establishment of Canyonlands National Park in 1964, the region’s focus shifted from industrial activity to preservation and recreation. The dirt section of Potash Road, extending from the potash plant to the Shafer Trail, became integrated into the park’s backcountry road network. The National Park Service maintained the route for recreational use, requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles due to its rugged terrain, including ruts, sand, and slickrock sections. The road’s connection to the Shafer Trail, which ascends 1,500 feet through dramatic switchbacks to the Island in the Sky district, made it a popular route for adventurers seeking to experience Canyonlands’ rugged beauty.
Potash Road’s paved section, designated as Utah Scenic Byway 279, became a draw for its accessibility and scenic attractions. Notable sites include “Wall Street,” a cliffside area popular with rock climbers, and the trailheads for Corona Arch and Jug Handle Arch, both located along the road. The Corona Arch trail, approximately 1.2 miles each way, leads to a 140-foot-wide arch, while Jug Handle Arch is visible from the road, offering easy access for photographers. Dinosaur footprints, reachable by a short scramble near the Poison Spider Trail, and petroglyphs along the river add historical and cultural depth to the drive. The road also passes by the Gooseneck Overlook, a remote viewpoint showcasing the Colorado River’s meanders, and Thelma and Louise Point, famous for its role in the 1991 film’s final scene, often mistaken for the Grand Canyon.
Modern-Day Significance
Today, Potash Road is a multifaceted route, blending paved accessibility with rugged backcountry adventure. The paved section is suitable for most vehicles, offering a scenic drive along the Colorado River with opportunities to stop at campsites, petroglyphs, and trailheads. The dirt section, connecting to the Shafer Trail, requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and is part of a 19-mile off-road route that enters Canyonlands National Park, where a fee is required. The road is prone to closure during wet or snowy conditions, as it becomes slippery and impassable, necessitating careful planning and checks with the National Park Service for current conditions.
The road’s recreational popularity has grown, attracting drivers, cyclists, and hikers. It is part of a larger loop from Moab to Canyonlands via Potash Road and the Shafer Trail, returning via U.S. 191 and SR-313, totaling approximately 66 miles. The route is celebrated for its stunning views of red rock formations, the Colorado River, and the dramatic Shafer switchbacks, though the narrow, steep sections demand caution, especially for those wary of heights. The road’s historical significance, from Native American trails to industrial transport and modern tourism, makes it a compelling journey through time and terrain.
Conclusion
Potash Road, from its origins as a Native American pathway to its role in the potash and uranium industries, has evolved into one of Utah’s most scenic and adventurous routes. Its paved section offers accessible beauty, while its dirt extension into the Shafer Trail provides a thrilling backcountry experience within Canyonlands National Park. With cultural landmarks like petroglyphs and natural wonders like Corona Arch, Potash Road remains a vital link in the region’s history and a must-visit for those exploring the Moab area’s rugged landscapes.