Ancestral Puebloans carved shallow hand and toe holds, or Moki steps, into rock cliffs to make a near vertical climb. The Moki Dugway, also a steep climb up a hillside, was not made by Ancestral Puebloans, but by miners to transport uranium. Muley Point is the scenic view at the top.
These are not-to-be-missed panoramic views. Both are attractions on the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Drive through Bears Ears.
The Moki Dugway (also spelled Mokee or Moqui) is located on UT Highway 261, just northwest of Valley of the Gods. UT-261 connects US Highway 163 and Utah Highway 95.
The term “moki” is derived from the Spanish word “moqui,” which was used by explorers to describe the Pueblo Indians they encountered in this region, as well as the Ancestral Puebloan culture that once inhabited the area. “Dugway” is a term used to describe a roadway that has been carved into a hillside.
The Moki Dugway is a 3-mile long, unpaved road with steep switchbacks (11% grade) that was carved into the face of a cliff on Cedar Mesa. Moki Dugway has a 1,200 foot rise in elevation as it winds its way from near Valley of the Gods to the top of Cedar Mesa.
It provides stunning views of some of Utah’s most beautiful scenery, including the Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley.
Moki Dugway history goes back to the 1950’s when it was constructed as a way to haul ore from the Happy Jack Mine (uranium mine) on Cedar Mesa to the mill in Halchita, Utah, near Mexican Hat.
Passenger cars can access the Moki Dugway. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recommends that only vehicles less than 28 feet and 10,000 pounds attempt to negotiate the dugway. The remainder of US-261 is paved.
After climbing the Moki Dugway, you may wish to stop at nearby Muley Point Overlook. Sitting high above the Goosenecks of the San Juan River, this is hands-down one of the best views in the area. If traveling with children, keep an eye on them during your visit, as there are no guardrails.
To reach Muley Point: At the top of the Moki Dugway (US-261) the road levels out as you are on the top of Cedar Mesa. Take the first road on your left. Note the road is unpaved and can be bumpy in some areas. Drive 3.8 miles to Muley Point East. Continue for just over a mile (around 5 miles from turn) to the most distant viewpoint for outstanding views.
The Muley Point Overlook provides viewers with a panorama of Goosenecks State Park, Valley of the Gods, and breathtaking views of the desert valley below. Monument Valley can be seen in the distance. Mark this as a not to be missed attraction.
Muley Point is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a part of the National Park Service.
Moki Dugway and Muley Point are great additions to a fantastic scenic drive with stops at nearby Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park, and Natural Bridges National Monument.
Hours: Open year round; 24/7; If inclement weather, check conditions as roads are not paved.
Fees: None; no permits required
Services: No water, restroom or other facilities are available on Moki Dugway or at Muley Point. Be prepared to pack out all waste.
Elevation: Muley Point is 5750 feet.
Directions: Moki Dugway is approximately 28 miles from Bluff. Muley Point is 34 miles from Bluff. To reach Moki Dugway, travel west from Bluff on Highway 191. Continue on Highway 163. Turn Right on Highway 261.
To reach Muley Point, climb the Moki Dugway and turn left at the top of the dugway onto Muley Point Road (will not be marked). Viewpoint is about 5 miles past turn.