Lower Courthouse Wash Trail

Route Description for Lower Courthouse Wash Trail

The Lower Courthouse Wash Trail is a great route just outside of Moab. This hike has accumulated many different trails that braid their way along the creek. There is no one “right” trail for this route so don’t worry about getting off track. Pick your own adventure, follow the creek and you won’t get lost. There are some faded pictographs along this trail that have incurred damage due to vandalism over the past few years. Please be respectful of the pictographs—do not touch, lean on, or draw over these pieces of history. Although this trail is right off the highway, as soon as you are en route, the sound of the vehicular hustle and bustle gives way to the peace and tranquility of nature.

From the trailhead on the northside of 191, follow the path north. There is another trail that shoots east from the trailhead, this path leads to the famous Courthouse Wash Rock Art Panel—if you have time for a short detour, an out-and-back walk to see these panels is worth your while. To continue on the Lower Courthouse Wash Trail, pick your way up the creek using any (and/or all) of the paths before you. The Lower trail continues for 1.4 km to a turn-around point at the swimming hole.

Go for a dip to cool off before turning around and following the creek back to the parking area.