La Sal Mountain Loop: Scenic Self-Driving App Tour

The La Sal Mountain Loop offers a captivating self-guided journey through the stunning landscapes of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. With its scenic routes, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing swim at Ken’s Lake, a picnic lunch at Oowah Lake, or a chance to discover dinosaur footprints at the Bull Canyon Overlook, the La Sal Mountain Loop has something to delight every traveler. But the real magic lies in the journey itself, as you wind through the mountains and uncover the region’s natural wonders.

Key Points

This self-driving tour takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, covering breathtaking destinations like Warner Lake and Parriott Mesa.
The tour includes activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography at iconic spots, with an approximate duration of 2 hours.
The tour can be accessed through the Shaka Guide app, providing an audio guide and accessibility for 2WD vehicles with optional 4WD side-trips.
Highlights of the tour include a refreshing swim at Ken’s Lake, a picnic stop at Oowah Lake, and sunset viewing at Bull Canyon Overlook.
The tour is priced at €8.37 per group of up to 5 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible last-minute adjustments.

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Tour Overview

Embarking on a scenic self-driving tour through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, this app-guided experience takes adventurers on a captivating journey from Moab to various breathtaking destinations within the region.

Lasting approximately two hours, the tour invites guests to explore a range of awe-inspiring landscapes, from the serene shores of Warner Lake to the majestic Parriott Mesa.

Along the way, travelers can look forward to hiking, wildlife viewing, and capturing stunning photographs at iconic spots like the Fisher Towers.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable road trip, this self-guided tour promises to deliver an unforgettable exploration of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning the tour, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim at Ken’s Lake, spending 17 minutes enjoying the tranquil waters.

Afterwards, they can venture to the Brumley Arch Trailhead for a 30-minute hike, marveling at the natural sandstone arch formation.

Further along, a 23-minute picnic stop at Oowah Lake offers a peaceful respite amidst the serene surroundings.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound at Warner Lake, where visitors can spend 30 minutes observing the local fauna.

As the day draws to a close, travelers can witness a stunning sunset at the Bull Canyon Overlook, taking in the breathtaking views for 26 minutes.

The tour offers a diverse range of activities to suit every adventurer’s taste.

Key Features

The tour offers an audio guide provided through the Shaka Guide app, allowing visitors to enjoy the captivating narratives that bring the landscape to life.

While the route is accessible for 2WD vehicles, the tour recommends 4WD for optional side-trips, ensuring a versatile and adaptable experience.

Hikers can look forward to a variety of trails, some offering welcome shade and others exposing them to the desert’s raw beauty. However, travelers should note the limited access to water during the tour, prompting the need to pack accordingly.

The tour’s key features include:

Diverse hiking opportunities, from exposed desert treks to shaded forest paths.
Dinosaur footprints that can be viewed at the Bull Canyon Overlook.
An off-road adventure at Salt Wash, adding an exciting element to the journey.

Booking and Cancellation

For those interested in experiencing the La Sal Mountain Loop, booking the self-driving tour is a straightforward process. The tour is priced at €8.37 per group of up to 5 people, allowing visitors to embark on this scenic adventure without breaking the bank.

On top of that, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those with shifting plans. This means that travelers can secure their spot now and pay later, ensuring they don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

With the convenience of booking and the ability to make last-minute adjustments, the La Sal Mountain Loop self-driving tour is an attractive option for those seeking a memorable and adaptable outdoor experience.

Swimming at Ken’s Lake

Diving into the cool, inviting waters of Ken’s Lake offers a refreshing respite during the La Sal Mountain Loop tour, as travelers escape the desert heat. This picturesque alpine lake provides the perfect opportunity to:

Take a refreshing swim and cool down after an invigorating hike.
Relax on the shore and soak in the serene mountain scenery.
Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the peaceful ambiance.

Ken’s Lake’s clear, clean waters and stunning natural surroundings make it a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to recharge and rejuvenate before continuing their journey through the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Hiking Brumley Arch Trailhead

After refreshing themselves at Ken’s Lake, adventurers move on to explore the Brumley Arch Trailhead, where they’ll be treated to stunning rock formations and panoramic vistas.

This moderate hike offers the chance to stretch their legs and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

The trail leads them up a gradual incline, with views of the iconic Brumley Arch coming into focus. As they ascend, the landscape unfolds, revealing a tapestry of towering sandstone cliffs, vibrant desert flora, and the distant peaks of the La Sal Mountains.

It’s a chance to connect with the natural wonder of this stunning region and capture breathtaking photos to remember the experience.

Picnic at Oowah Lake

Refreshed from their swim at Ken’s Lake, the adventurers make their way to the serene shores of Oowah Lake, where they eagerly unpack their picnic supplies and settle in for a leisurely mid-day respite.

The calm waters of the lake glisten under the warm sun, inviting them to dip their toes and soak in the tranquility. As they savor their delicious al fresco meal, they take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, their peaks reflecting in the still surface.

The adventurers delight in:

Spotting a family of ducks gliding across the lake.
Watching a hawk soar gracefully overhead.
Discovering a patch of wildflowers blooming near the water’s edge.

Rejuvenated, they prepare to continue their journey through the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Wildlife Viewing at Warner Lake

Leaving the peaceful shores of Oowah Lake behind, the adventurers eagerly make their way towards Warner Lake, where the promise of abundant wildlife awaits their discovery.

As they approach the secluded body of water, a sense of anticipation fills the air. Scanning the surrounding forested areas, they spot a herd of mule deer gracefully grazing, their large ears twitching as they detect the slightest movement.

Overhead, majestic eagles soar, their piercing cries echoing across the tranquil surface of the lake. The visitors pause to observe the diverse array of waterfowl – ducks, geese, and even the occasional great blue heron – finding refuge in the calm waters.

This serene setting offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and witness the harmony of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Total Driving Distance of the Tour?

The total driving distance of the tour is not explicitly stated. However, the itinerary highlights suggest the tour covers various scenic locations within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, allowing visitors to experience a range of natural wonders over approximately 2 hours.

Are There Any Opportunities to Purchase Food or Drinks Along the Route?

Along the route, there are limited opportunities to purchase food or drinks. Visitors are advised to pack their own snacks and beverages, as the tour travels through remote areas with minimal access to amenities.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Manti-La Sal National Forest?

The best time to visit the Manti-La Sal National Forest is typically late spring through early fall when temperatures are mild and wildflowers are in bloom. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and taking in the stunning mountain scenery.

Are There Any Recommended Items to Bring for the Tour?

For this scenic self-driving tour, travelers should pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and proper hiking shoes. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the breathtaking views and wildlife spotted along the way.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Accessibility Considerations for the Tour?

The tour is generally accessible for all ages, though certain hikes may have moderate difficulty. Visitors should check specific trail conditions and bring proper footwear. Disabled guests can enjoy the scenic drives and overlooks with ease.

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Recap

The La Sal Mountain Loop is a captivating self-guided tour that showcases the natural wonders of Manti-La Sal National Forest.

From refreshing swims at Ken’s Lake to sunset views at the Bull Canyon Overlook, this scenic route offers a diverse range of experiences and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, or a chance to explore hiking trails, the La Sal Mountain Loop is a must-do adventure.