Have you ever wondered what it feels like to roam through a trail that combines the excitement of numerous water crossings, the mystery of a sulfur-scented air, and the awe of towering red rock canyons? If your answer is yes, buckle up and join me on an exciting journey through the Onion Creek Trail in Moab, Utah. This electric adventure through this special trail promises breathtaking scenery and an unexpected surprise along the way.
Trail Overview
The Onion Creek Trail in Moab is a 22-mile out-and-back route that winds through narrow canyons and passes towering rock formations. This trail is famous for its 27 water crossings, making you feel like you are a kid again while Overlanding it.
Overall, the trail is rated as moderate, making it suitable for various vehicles and drivers with some off-road experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, from lush creekside areas to arid desert stretches, offering a variety of scenery to enjoy.
The Onion Creek Adventure Begins
It was over 100 degrees outside as I started this adventure, heading to the Onion Creek trailhead from Moab on Highway UT-128. After spending the night at Kayenta Campground and Overlanding the Moab Chicken Corners the day before, I was pumped up to experience what the Onion Creek Trail had in store.
As I prepared to head out on the trail, the Upper Onion Creek Campground greeted me at the trailhead. The vast, open landscape with distant mesas set the tone for the journey ahead, promising both challenges and breathtaking scenery.
The initial part of the trail was relatively straightforward, allowing me to take in the vast expanse of the Utah desert. The terrain was a mix of packed dirt and scattered rocks, with occasional patches of soft sand. The Rivian R1T handled the terrain effortlessly, providing a smooth and confident ride.
Navigating Water Crossings
For me, the number one highlight of overlanding the Onion Creek Trail in Moab is its numerous water crossings—27, to be exact. The crossings were shallow, with the clear water reflecting the rocky surroundings. These crossings add an element of fun and unpredictability to the drive, requiring careful navigation and a steady hand on the wheel.
The water crossings were frequent but relatively easy. Despite this, they never lost their adventurous appeal. Each crossing provided a chance for much-needed relief from the scorching heat of the Utah desert. Navigating through these crossings while watching the water spray onto and around my Rivian R1T, I found the temporary cool breeze refreshing with each of the 27 water crossings.
The Sulfur Smell
As I continued down the trail, I noticed a strong smell of sulfur in the air. This odor likely explains why the trail is called Onion Creek. Although the scent was strong, it added to the trail’s unique character. It served as a reminder that the environment is alive with geological activity and natural processes that have shaped the landscape of Moab over thousands of years. While unexpected, the sulfur smell made me more aware of this area’s rich history and dynamic nature. It was fascinating to think about how these elements have continuously transformed the region’s geology and ecosystem.
Conquering the Canyon
As the trail progressed, the canyon walls began to close in, creating a dramatic corridor of red rock. The narrow passages and winding turns demanded attention and precision, enhancing the thrill of the journey. The smooth and silent operation of my R1T made it easy to feel connected to the natural environment.
As I roamed further, the landscape became even more captivating. The road narrowed significantly, with high rock walls on either side creating a tunnel-like effect. While the terrain was moderately challenging at best, it was still exciting to navigate through this natural maze. The sense of adventure was ever-present while Overlanding this section, allowing me to fully appreciate the majestic canyons and the unique beauty of the trail.
Capturing the Moments
Documenting the journey was a key part of this adventure. Using my GoPro Hero Black camera, I was able to snap close-up shots of the vehicle navigating rugged terrain and dash cam-style footage. Each photo tells a story of resilience and exploration, showcasing the true essence of overlanding.
I relied on my DJI Mini 3 Pro drone for the breathtaking aerial views. From drone shots capturing the vastness of the canyon to the contrast between the red rock, green vegetation, and blue sky, these images serve as memories of the trip and a testament to the beauty of the landscapes that can be witnessed on the Onion Creek trail in Moab.
A Solo Adventure on Onion Creek Trail
Roaming solo brought a new aspect to the experience. The tranquility of the trail, only interrupted by the soft sound of water and the occasional call of wildlife, created an ideal atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of nature’s wonders.
I experienced profound peace and solitude while Overlanding alone along the Onion Creek Trail in Moab. It was just me, my Rivian R1T, and the trail. This isolation allowed me to fully immerse myself in the journey, free from all of life’s distractions and completely in tune with my surroundings.
The Unexpected Detour
My adventure through Onion Creek concluded with expansive views of Moab’s diverse landscape. Each turn revealed new vistas, ranging from lush creekside vegetation to arid, rocky expanses.
Initially, I believed the trail was a straightforward out-and-back route with no other options. However, near the end of the Onion Creek Trail, I discovered a fork that led to the Moab Trail. Taking this unexpected junction added a new dimension to my adventure and extended my journey by several hours, significantly altering my plans for the day.
Although the extra time was unplanned, it was ultimately rewarding. The extended route offered even more stunning scenery and moderately challenging terrain. It is essential to be prepared for such possibilities. If you choose this route, ensure you have enough supplies and time, as the detour can add 3-4 hours to your adventure.
Final Thoughts on Onion Creek
Overlanding Onion Creek Trail in Moab from the driver’s seat of my Rivian R1T was an extraordinary adventure. The stunning landscapes and the thrill of off-roading made this adventure one of the top highlights of my time spent in Moab. The 27 water crossings, the strong sulfur smell, and the unexpected journey onto the Moab Trail all added unique elements to the journey. If you’re looking for a trail that offers excitement and serenity, Onion Creek should definitely be on your list.
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ROAM FREE, EXPLORE MORE!!
