Hatch Point Road ~ Canyon Rims Recreation Area

​The Canyon Rims Recreation Area is located next to Canyonlands National Park just a few miles south of Moab. There are a few dirt access roads along Highway 191 that go into this recreation area, but some of these dirt side roads can be a bit too rough for a passenger car. The main entrance to Canyon Rims is the smoothest entranceway, so this is the better choice. The paved access is about 21 miles north of Monticello, Utah on Highway 191 and the road to look for is Needles Overlook Road, which is smooth blacktop all the way to the intersection of Hatch Point Road.

Starting from the intersection of Highway 191, the total distance to the Kane Creek Anticline is a little bit more than 31 miles. Most of this route goes over Hatch Point, which is a very long dirt road that is fairly well maintained. There are plenty of dirt side roads and overlooks to explore along the way, so it is best to top off the tank in Monticello before starting the journey. This is a desolate remote area, so be sure to pack a spare tire, water and some survival food, because it can be a long wait for a rescue if the unexpected occurs.

Needles Overlook Road is paved all the way to the fork in the road, where Hatch Point Road begins. At the fork, just veer to the right and get ready for a long dirt road driving experience. From the fork in the road, it is over 16 miles to the Anticline Overlook, but the drive is not too bad because this dirt road is usually smooth. There are only a few washboard ripple sections to deal with on most days, so passenger cars with average ground clearance can do the trip. 

Hatch Point Road parallels the canyon rim and there are several scenic overlooks to check out along the way. Landmarks to keep an eye out for include the Minor Overlook, Wineglass, Canyonlands Overlook and of course, the majestic Kane Creek Anticline at the end of the line. There are many dirt side roads that go to primitive campsites on the canyon rim that are worth exploring, but a 4×4 vehicle will be needed for most of these options. The Hatch Point Campground is located near the Anticline and there are facilities on site, so this is the best option for doing an overnighter.

​For those who like to escape from it all, the Canyon Rims Recreation Area is rarely crowded, even though two very busy National Parks are located right next door. Hatch Point Road is one of the main touring routes in Canyon Rims and this road offers great views of Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point State Park and the Colorado River. Of course, knowing that the majestic Kane Creek Anticline is at the end of the line is reason enough to get up and go!