The Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway is a 44-mile route that winds through the stunning red rock country of eastern Utah. This scenic drive follows Highway 128 along the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views of towering sandstone formations, including the iconic Fisher Towers. The byway stretches from Moab to the intersection with Interstate 70 near Cisco, providing access to numerous recreational opportunities and scenic vistas along the way.
What is the Length and Route of the Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway?
The Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway spans 44 miles along Highway 128. This picturesque route follows the Colorado River upstream from Moab to its intersection with the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway near Cisco, adjacent to Interstate 70. The byway offers travelers a stunning journey through the heart of Utah’s red rock country, showcasing the region’s unique geological features and natural beauty.
Key access points along the byway include:
- Moab (southern terminus)
- Fisher Towers Recreation Area
- Dewey Suspension Bridge area
- Big Bend Recreation Site
- Cisco (northern terminus near I-70)
What Are the Must-See Scenic Overlooks Along the Byway?
The Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway boasts several notable scenic overlooks that showcase the area’s dramatic landscapes:
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Fisher Towers Recreation Area: This area is renowned for its striking rock pinnacles that soar 900 feet above the colorful canyons below. The unique geological formations and popular rock climbing routes make it a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
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Dewey Suspension Bridge Area: Although the original bridge was replaced in 1989, this location remains a scenic highlight. Visitors can enjoy a park and roadside rest area on the west side, while the east side features an abandoned gas station and the remnants of the ghost town of Dewey.
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Big Bend Recreation Site: This area offers multiple river access points for rafters and kayakers, as well as a BLM-developed campground. The site is characterized by dramatic red-rock cliffs and powerful river currents, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and scenic viewing.
What Hiking Opportunities Does the Fisher Towers Trail Offer?
The Fisher Towers Trail is a popular hiking route that allows visitors to experience the area’s unique geology up close. Here are the key details of the trail:
| Trail Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 5.2 miles round-trip |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation Gain | 650 feet |
| Estimated Time | 2-3 hours (round-trip) |
| Trail Surface | Dirt, slickrock, some steep and exposed areas |
Notable features and landmarks along the trail include:
- Ancient Art: A distinctive rock formation with a corkscrew-shaped summit, often serving as a turnaround point for shorter hikes.
- Cottontail Tower: An impressive 800-foot-high spire with a sharp west ridge, reached after about a mile of hiking.
- The Titan: The tallest of the Fisher Towers, popular among rock climbers. The trail passes beneath its sheer south face before ascending to a high ridge with panoramic views.
- Metal Ladder: A six-step ladder that hikers must navigate to descend into a canyon, adding an element of adventure to the hike.
Where Are the Best Colorado River Scenic Views Along the Byway?
The Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway offers numerous vantage points for breathtaking views of the Colorado River and surrounding landscapes:
- Fisher Towers Trail Viewpoints: The high ridge reached after 2.2 miles of hiking provides expansive views of:
- The Fisher Towers
- Colorado River Canyon to the north
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A long ridge studded with tall pinnacles, including Castleton Tower and The Priest
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Highway 128 Pullouts: Several pullouts along the byway offer scenic views of the Colorado River and the red rock formations that line its banks.
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Big Bend Recreation Site: This area provides dramatic views of the river as it makes a sweeping turn, framed by towering red cliffs.
What Are the Prime Photography Spots Along the Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway?
For photographers seeking to capture the essence of the Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway, consider these prime locations:
- Fisher Towers Formation:
- Best Times: Early morning and evening for optimal lighting
- Subjects: The unique rock pinnacles and spires, especially The Titan
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Techniques: Capture the towers from various angles, including from the base looking up and from the high ridge for panoramic views
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Colorado River Bends:
- Locations: Various pullouts along Highway 128
- Subjects: The winding river against the backdrop of red rock cliffs
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Tips: Use wide-angle lenses to capture the expansive landscapes
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Dewey Suspension Bridge Area:
- Subjects: The river, remnants of the old bridge, and the ghost town of Dewey
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Techniques: Consider both landscape and detail shots to tell the area’s story
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Big Bend Recreation Site:
- Best Times: Sunset for dramatic lighting on the cliffs
- Subjects: The river’s bend, red rock formations, and recreational activities
When photographing along the byway, remember to:
– Respect BLM regulations and the natural environment
– Be aware of your surroundings, especially near cliff edges
– Bring a tripod for low-light situations and to capture sharp landscape images
The Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. From its winding route along the Colorado River to the iconic Fisher Towers and numerous scenic overlooks, this byway provides a memorable journey through one of Utah’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or simply a lover of scenic drives, the Fisher Towers Colorado River Scenic Byway promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of red rock country.
References:
1. Highway 128 Colorado River Scenic Byway – The Armchair Explorer
2. Fisher Towers Trail In Moab | Directions & Trail Info – Visit Utah
3. Fisher Towers Trail – National Recreation Trails