Walking Among Giants: Moab’s Fisher Towers Hike
A classic red-rock ramble through Moab’s most iconic mudstone spires—easy to reach, hard to forget.
The red rock waits for no one. By sunrise, the Fisher Towers are already awake—spires of caramel mudstone catching the first clean light, throwing long shadows toward the Colorado River. The trail noses into a maze of fins and buttresses as if invited by the desert itself. Slickrock shelves tip you toward views of the snow-dusted La Sals, while a cool breeze slips through alcoves shaped by time and storms. The towers don’t just stand—they posture, daring you to step closer and see how far the stone will let you go.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early for Shade and Parking
Hit the trail within an hour of sunrise to snag a spot at the small lot and use the towers’ morning shade to your advantage.
Mind the Ladder and Narrow Sections
A short fixed ladder and a few airy steps require focus; keep kids close and use three points of contact.
Carry Real Water, Not Just a Bottle
Plan for at least 2 liters per person in cool seasons and 3+ liters in summer—there’s no water on the route.
Stay Off Cryptobiotic Soil
Stick to the main trail and rock where possible—dark, crusty soil holds the desert together and is easily damaged.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pullouts along UT-128 for reflective river views of Castle Valley
- •Short stroll to the Fisher Towers Campground overlook at sunset
Wildlife
Desert bighorn sheep, Common ravens
Conservation Note
Stay on durable surfaces to protect cryptobiotic soil and nesting raptors. Pack out all waste and consider carpooling—parking is limited.
Fisher Towers are carved from the Permian Cutler Formation and capped by harder Moenkopi/Chinle layers; The Titan is widely cited as the tallest free-standing mudstone tower in the U.S.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower sightings, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable wind, Crowds on weekends
Cool mornings and low-angle light make spring prime. Expect breezy afternoons; start early for calm air and smaller crowds.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Vibrant golden-hour photography
Challenges: Extreme heat, Afternoon thunderstorms
Temperatures soar by midday. Hike at dawn or near sunset, watch for storms, and bring extra water and sun protection.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Shorter days, Popular travel season
Reliable conditions and warm colors on the cliffs. Morning starts and weekday outings keep it mellow.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Cool hiking temps
Challenges: Icy patches in shade, Cold winds on benches
Expect ice on north-facing ledges; microspikes can help after storms. Clear skies deliver sharp, saturated photos.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail Shoes with Sticky RubberEssential
Sand over slickrock demands reliable traction, especially near the ladder and exposed sections.
Wide-Brim Hat and High-SPF SunscreenEssential
There’s little shade; a hat and SPF 30+ protect you from relentless sun.
2–3L Hydration ReservoirEssential
Hands-free sipping helps you drink consistently in dry air and heat.
Lightweight Wind Layer
Gusts funnel through the towers; a packable shell keeps windchill in check.
Common Questions
How long is the Fisher Towers hike and how hard is it?
Plan for 4–5 miles round-trip with about 1,000 feet of cumulative gain. It’s a moderate hike with a short ladder and some exposed steps.
Is this hike suitable for kids?
Yes for kids 5+ with trail experience. Keep them close on the ladder and narrow traverses; guides can coach these spots safely.
Do I need a permit or to pay a fee?
No permit is required, but there is typically a small BLM day-use fee at the trailhead; bring cash for the self-pay station.
When is the best time of day to hike?
Early morning offers shade and cooler temps; late afternoon provides dramatic light. Avoid midday heat in summer.
Are dogs allowed on the Fisher Towers trail?
Leashed dogs are generally allowed, but the ladder and hot surfaces can be challenging; bring water and check current BLM rules.
What’s the driving time from Moab?
About 30–40 minutes via UT-128, then a short drive up Fisher Towers Road to the trailhead parking area.
What to Pack
2–3 liters of water per person (there’s no water on trail); grippy trail shoes (sand-on-slickrock is slippery); brimmed hat and SPF 30+ sunscreen (unrelenting sun); lightweight snacks with electrolytes (dry air masks dehydration).
Did You Know
The Fisher Towers are remnants of the Permian-age Cutler Formation, deposited by ancient alluvial fans off the Uncompahgre Uplift roughly 260 million years ago.
Quick Travel Tips
Drive UT-128 for river views and keep an eye out for wildlife; arrive before 8 a.m. on weekends to secure parking; bring small bills for the BLM self-pay fee; download maps—cell service is spotty beyond Castle Valley.
Local Flavor
Refuel in Moab with burgers and shakes at Milt’s Stop & Eat, craft beers at Moab Brewery, or inventive tacos at Quesadilla Mobilla. For a cultural reset, stop by the Moab Museum to trace the human story tucked between canyons.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Canyonlands Regional (CNY), 20 miles; Grand Junction (GJT) ~110 miles. Trailhead: Fisher Towers Road off UT-128, ~21 miles NE of Moab. Cell service: Limited to none at the trailhead and along the trail. Fees/Permits: Typically a small BLM day-use fee; no permit required.
Sustainability Note
This fragile desert relies on cryptobiotic soils—stay on the main path and rock to avoid crushing living crust. Pack out everything, keep noise low during raptor nesting season, and skip puddles after rain to reduce trail damage.
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