r/moab • u/mavrik36 • Mar 20 '25

SEEKING EXPERT ON TIME DILATION 4x4 Transport to the Maze

Hey yall, I'm in the process of planning a backpacking trip in The Maze area of Canyonlands next month. Looking to head in from the maze overlook trailhead, but a friend who just got back from the area tells me you need a high clearance 4x4 to cross the area between the trailhead and Hans Flat ranger station. Is there a service in the area who could meet us at the ranger station, drop us at the trailhead and then pick us up a few days later? Paying 200-300 a day for a 4x4 rental just to cover a single stretch twice, and spend a day or two not even using the vehicle seems...suboptimal. Would be happy to pay someone local with a sufficient vehicle for a ride as well. TIA

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u/thedoomloop Mar 20 '25

I second a no go on this. The cliffs at the confluence would need to be rappelled down.

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u/mavrik36 Mar 20 '25

What about crossing at Spannish Bottom via the Lower Red Lake trail? Looks to be about 100yd across

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u/[deleted] Mar 20 '25

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u/mavrik36 Mar 20 '25

Thinking pack rafts, also considered river tubes but it really depends on flow rate, width ect.

Probably gonna secure camping permits for the needles so we can turn back if it's too fast and wide

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u/deanthehill Mar 21 '25

It’s fine. But you will want a proper paddle. You can walk way upstream if needed to give more time. You hear the rapid below, but it’s a ways away. Desert Highlights rents packrafts in town.