moki high way

A guide in the area advised to head north along UT 261, and if I had 4 wheel or all-wheel drive, ascend through the Moki Dugway. It’s a fairy aggressive 10-11% grade, 1200 ft climb with no pavement, no guardrails, and 180 switchbacks. A couple miles out the change of elevation begins revealing itself, with caution signs foreshadowing the next hour of adventure.

At the first vista point the last bits of asphalt melt away into red rock, becoming the many hairpin turns beckoning further and higher travel.

The second vista point reveals the many organic grooves cut into the mountain, and how conformed they are to the cliff face. The constant lefts, rights, and required focus on the sheer drop-off create a hypnotic effect on the drive.

The last set of turns crescendo to the third vista point, showcasing the total elevation gain. The section of the UT 261 coupled to warning signs have reduced to a shoestring line in the desert, with Valley of the Gods in full view. Good day high way.