Overland To Zion Curtain Trailhead ~ McInnis Canyons NCA

The Rabbit Valley North Dispersed Camping Area often sees mild weather into late autumn and since there are no fees, this cozy primitive spot is worth keeping in mind this time of year. Rabbit Valley North is a good jumping off point for adventures in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, Colorado National Monument and the Book Cliffs of eastern Utah. The Utah Border is only a few hundred yards west of this campground and there are trails nearby that head deep into the Moab BLM.

Trail riding is what this region is all about and there are trails that are devoted to specific modes of transportation. McInnis Canyons is a vast OHV and 4x4 playground that is also a favorite of horseback riders. Some of the most famous mountain biking trails in the west are found in this region too and the Kokopelli Trail actually goes from McInnis Canyons all the way to the National Parks in Moab. Another famous mountain OHV and biking trail system is Zion Curtain, which is located in the Utah BLM just west of the big conservation area.

There are several access points for the Zion Curtain Trail system and one of the most convenient is located a short distance away from the Rabbit Valley North Campground. However, the dirt road getting there can be challenging and a high ground clearance 4x4 is recommended. From the campground, the dirt road goes over rough silty terrain to a small underpass beneath Interstate Highway 70, which definitely is a weird experience way out here in the boonies. There are also cattle gates to be open and closed before heading south of the highway. The dirt road becomes even more challenging as it goes over several steep dry wash mounds, then the sign for the BLM Zion Curtain Trailhead will come into view. One look at where the Zion Curtain trail goes in this desolate expanse is all it takes to get hooked. The initial view of the rough pathway will also confirm that Zion Curtain is only suited for mountain bikers, which is like a dream come true for those who are willing to make the great escape happen!