Dome Plateau...Finishing Up

Portal RV Resort
Moab, UT
May 27, 2015

Dome Plateau is a large highland area north of the Colorado River. As mentioned in the last post, it is 34 miles of off-highway trails. What I failed to mention is that even though 32 of those miles are very easy sandy or gravel road with small rock ledges, there are a couple of spots that can be tricky...one of which is a steep, ledgy descent into Yellow Jacket Canyon and then a steep ascent on the other side. Over the years since our book was published, the wash thru the canyon has widened and the descent has gotten harder and steeper with high ledges. Even in 2008 when the guide was published, Dome Plateau was at the bottom of the moderate list making it almost a difficult trail. A more recent review by Red Rock 4-Wheelers says, "The "3" rating is a compromise between the very easy parts and one hill that may require strapping some vehicles." A new edition of Moab Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails by Charles Wells is due to be published in the spring of 2016. 

Even though we have seen jeeps and ATVs/UTVs on trails alone, it is not a good idea...always have a buddy! 

Joe is installing a new CB radio today. I took a picture of the tools we carry in Pearl when we ride trails. It is also a very good idea to carry fluids for the brakes, radiator, transmission, etc. 

So, back to fun stuff...our next stop was the overlook. And what a spectacular overlook it was!

The Colorado River

Looking down on Fischer Towers

Taking in the view...it's always amazing to see the beauty and grandeur of it all. 

Professor Valley

Professor Valley framed by the La Sal Mountains and Scenic Hwy 128

With more to see and do, we were on our way again...

The Caves Spring were our next stop.

Exploring wind caves is cool...literally, and these were no exception. Add to that the darkness, dampness, and scariness of not knowing what is in there makes for an eerie feeling. 





As I climbed over the sandy entrance, the darkness swallowed everything. Then 2 beams of light...
   

My camera shows the rest...am I face to face with two Neanderthals or is it just Dave and Richie playing games?

Our next ride on Owl Draw was very pretty and mostly smooth sailing as we climbed the plateau again. 

Our last stop along the way was the old mining camp where two cabins that were built with railroad ties have withstood the test of time and weather.

Installation added at some point, was cardboard attached to the ceiling and walls with tin can lids and nails.

Joe did a great job of holding things together while we checked it all out! 

We continued on Owl Draw until the end of trail at Hwy 128 a few miles east from where we started on the same highway. 

Dome Plateau is certainly a fun trail to do. Allow 6 to 7 hours if exploring and taking small hikes is something you enjoy. Well worth the time! 

Until next time, happy days and...

HAPPY TRAILS!