Metal Masher Trailhead

Summary: Metal Masher is a difficult loop off the Gemini Bridges Trail. It takes the better part of a day to travel. Vehicle modifications, including lockers, are recommended. Although several of the obstacles (such as Widowmaker) can be legally bypassed, there is no way around Mirror Gulch, a narrow pass through solid rock. The route travels up to Arth's Rim overlooking Hwy 191. The trail has been marked by the Red Rock Four Wheelers Jeep Club, but markings can fade and/or disappear. It is advisable to carry an excellent map and/or guidebook for this route. Three miles after turning off onto the Metal Masher trail, there is a confusing area of slickrock. Watch for the paint on the rocks. About one and one half miles further on, you come to the narrow and ledgy Mirror Gulch. After climbing Mirror Gulch, you will ascend to the rim overlooking U.S. 191. The route continues along the rim for about a mile, turning to make its descent back to the Gemini Bridges road near The Widowmaker. This very challenging obstacle can be bypassed by a road to its south. The return trip is less challenging, although you are rewarded with lovely views. You will rejoin the Gemini Bridges route three miles east of Utah Highway 313. Turn west onto the main Gemini Bridges Road and follow this easy county road up to the paved highway. From there, you can either go north back to Moab or chose to tour Canyonlands National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park to the south