No Lockers... No Problem! Exploring Metal Masher Trail in Moab, Utah

Moab, Utah, is an off-roader's paradise, and it's my favorite winter destination. On my recent trip, I set out to conquer the Metal Masher trail, a Jeep Badge of Honor trail known for its insane obstacles and a difficulty rating of six to ten. I took my Jeep Gladiator, which, I might add, didn't have lockers, making the adventure even more thrilling.

Table of Contents

• 🏞️ Getting to Metal Masher
• 🌄 The Off-Season Advantage
• 🧗‍♂️ The First Challenges
• 🏔️ Climbing to the Mesa
• 🗺️ A Change of Plans
• ⏳ Trail Duration and Variety
• 🔍 Navigating the Obstacles
• 🌊 Mirror Gulch: A Memorable Challenge
• 🖐️ Misty's Thumb
• 🏞️ Following the Cliff Edge
• 🚙 Options Ahead
• ❓ FAQ Section

🏞️ Getting to Metal Masher

To reach the Metal Masher trailhead, take Gemini Bridges Road just north of Moab. The trail spans eleven miles and features a mix of slick rock, waterfalls, ledges, and numerous obstacles designed to test both vehicle and driver skills. The first couple of miles are relatively easy, but I was uncertain if I could complete the full trail, especially since the Gladiator's long wheelbase isn't ideal for technical sections, even with 35-inch tires and a three-inch lift.

🌄 The Off-Season Advantage

Metal Masher is a popular trail, but during the off-season, you can enjoy almost any trail in Moab without the crowds. On this particular day, I only encountered a few riders on dirt bikes and a couple in a side-by-side. The area is managed by the BLM, but there are no official or dispersed campsites in the immediate vicinity, so plan accordingly.

🧗‍♂️ The First Challenges

While the first few miles of the trail were manageable, things got interesting past the three-mile mark. The first official obstacle appeared, a twelve-foot vertical wall with a dugout bottom for hardcore rigs, but I decided to take the medium route. However, the hitch on my Gladiator was a hindrance, and the risk of getting high-centered was too high. So, I opted for the easier route instead.

🏔️ Climbing to the Mesa

Upon completing the obstacle, I ascended to the top of the mesa, where I was rewarded with breathtaking views of the La Sal Mountains juxtaposed against the desert rocks. It was the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy the scenery, and mentally prepare for the more challenging obstacles that lay ahead.

🗺️ A Change of Plans

Originally, I had planned to tackle the Poison Spider trail, but when I arrived, the trailhead was closed for maintenance. So, sitting in my Jeep alongside the Colorado River, I had to find an alternative that would match the excitement of Poison Spider. Luckily, Metal Masher was nearby, and despite losing a few hours of precious winter daylight, I decided to give it a shot. I was not disappointed, as I have never been let down by any trails in Moab.

⏳ Trail Duration and Variety

The Metal Masher trail typically takes about six hours to complete, which felt about right. The length didn't drag on thanks to the variety of terrains. Some sections required careful tire placement, while others allowed for faster driving, showcasing stunning views and exciting obstacles like the incredible overlook I encountered later.

🔍 Navigating the Obstacles

Metal Masher is notorious for its challenging obstacles, but I found that the random dugout ledges from erosion and trail use posed more significant challenges than the official obstacles themselves. I had to stack rocks three or four times along the way to navigate effectively.

🌊 Mirror Gulch: A Memorable Challenge

One of the obstacles I faced was called Mirror Gulch, featuring a four-foot ledge with no bypass. This was one instance where having lockers would have been beneficial, but a little momentum helped me navigate the challenge successfully. I had to keep my foot on the gas and follow the spotter's guidance to get through it.

🖐️ Misty's Thumb

The next obstacle, Misty's Thumb, looked intimidating at first glance. It appeared steep, and the hard route was the first option visible. However, there was an easier route to the left, which I took. After conquering Misty's Thumb, I reached the overlook, and the view was nothing short of incredible. It was a great place to stop for lunch and take in the surroundings.

🏞️ Following the Cliff Edge

After the overlook, the trail followed the cliff's edge. Although there weren't any significant obstacles in this section, a few large ledges required caution. The height of these ledges was hard to judge while descending, so I remained vigilant.

🚙 Options Ahead

At this point in the trail, I had a few options: I could take on the Widowmaker obstacle, which was far too difficult for my build, or I could choose to leave the trail altogether. With the sun setting, I decided to exit the trail, but I was pleased with the adventure I had experienced. If you're looking for some new areas to explore, feel free to share your favorite off-roading locations in the comments!

❓ FAQ Section

What is the Metal Masher Trail known for?

The Metal Masher Trail is known for its challenging obstacles and stunning views, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts.

How long does it take to complete the Metal Masher Trail?

Typically, it takes about six hours to complete the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the scenery.

Is the Metal Masher Trail suitable for stock vehicles?

While some sections may be manageable for stock vehicles, the trail is best suited for modified vehicles with appropriate ground clearance and traction.

What equipment is recommended for the trail?

It's recommended to have larger tires, a lift kit, and lockers if possible, as well as recovery gear to navigate the more challenging obstacles.

When is the best time to visit Moab for off-roading?

The best times for off-roading in Moab are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild and the weather is typically favorable.

For those looking to dive deeper into the adventure, check out more of my experiences on my five-day solo overlanding trip through Southeast Utah!