If you have driven up to Hell's Revenge or Fins and Things, you know Sand Flats Road. The Moab Times Independent reports Moab City councilors unanimously approved a letter supporting Grand County's application to improve the road and build a separated multi use pathway.

Why it is needed

Sand Flats Recreation Area Director Andrea Brand told the council the project focuses on safety, mobility, emergency access and connections between the Sand Flats corridor and the recreation area. She also shared some eye opening numbers:

  • The road was originally built for about 100 vehicle trips per day
  • It now averages about 400 trips a day, and 800 to 1,200 a day in peak season
  • She said that is three to five times what federal guidance recommends for a gravel road

The project comes out of a 2022 transportation master plan that listed Sand Flats Road among its top 10 roadway priorities.

Our take

A safer road up to Sand Flats is good for everyone, especially with Jeeps, bikes and walkers all sharing the same corridor. Until then, take it easy on the way up, watch for cyclists and be ready for a busy road on peak weekends.