White Rim Trail Part 2 - Dangerous Shelf Roads & River Crossing (Canyonlands Moab)

Описание: White Rim Trail Part 2 continues our 100-mile Canyonlands adventure with the most dangerous section yet - exposed shelf roads, a real fuel crisis, and a nerve-wracking river crossing while towing a trailer. If you thought Part 1 was challenging, this section proves why White Rim deserves more respect than its 3/3 rating suggests.

WATCH PART 1 FIRST:    • White Rim Trail Complete Guide Part 1 - Sh...  

WHAT'S IN PART 2:
This section covers the middle portion of White Rim Trail, featuring the most exposed shelf roads, a critical fuel shortage situation, a three-point turn on a cliff edge with a trailer, and a river crossing with unpredictable depth. This is where the trail gets serious and mistakes have real consequences.

CRITICAL CHALLENGES COVERED:
Washed-out shelf roads with significant exposure
Fuel crisis - will we make it out with a trailer?
Three-point turn on narrow cliff edge (most stressful moment)
River crossing with changing water depth and current
Technical driving while towing in difficult conditions
Real-world risk assessment and decision making

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - Introduction and Part 1 Recap
1:15 - Fuel Situation Assessment (Critical Planning Issue)
2:30 - Entering Most Exposed Shelf Road Section
5:10 - Three-Point Turn on Cliff Edge with Trailer
8:45 - River Crossing - Scouting and Execution
12:30 - Climbing Out of Canyon
15:00 - Final Push to Highway 313 Exit
16:30 - Debrief: Lessons Learned

FUEL CRISIS REALITY:
We started with a full tank and nearly ran out before reaching the exit. Towing a trailer significantly increases fuel consumption on this trail. The combination of technical terrain, elevation changes, and 100+ miles with zero services creates real risk. Always carry 5-10 gallons of reserve fuel, especially when towing.

RIVER CROSSING CONSIDERATIONS:
The river crossing depth and current change daily based on upstream releases. What looks shallow in the morning can be deeper by afternoon. Always scout first, check depth with a stick, and have a backup plan. With a trailer, the stakes are higher - you're committed once you start.

SHELF ROAD EXPOSURE:
The shelf roads in this section are narrower and more exposed than Part 1. Recent storm damage has washed out edges in places. With a trailer, you have zero margin for error. The three-point turn we had to make on the cliff edge was the most stressful moment of the entire trip.

TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS:
Fuel: Full tank + 5-10 gallon reserve (mandatory with trailer)
Water: 1+ gallon per person per day minimum
Recovery gear: Traction boards, straps, jack, shovel
Communication: GMRS radios (no cell service)
Permits: Canyonlands backcountry permit required (recreation.gov)
Camping: Reserve campsites months in advance
Weather: Check forecast - storms make this trail dangerous
Vehicle: High clearance 4x4, full-size spare, tire repair kit

TOWING ON WHITE RIM:
Towing a trailer on White Rim adds significant difficulty and risk. Fuel consumption doubles, three-point turns become nightmares, river crossings are more complex, and you can't back out of bad situations easily. If you're planning to tow, seriously consider whether it's worth the added stress and risk.

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GEAR USED ON THIS TRIP:


Tribe Trailer: https://tribetrailers.com
Dirtbox Overland: http://dirtboxoverland.com

JEEP BUILD:
Bestop Trek Top: https://www.bestop.com/products/trekt...
Bestop Bumpers: https://bit.ly/bestopbumpers
Yukon Gears and Axles: https://www.yukongear.com/
RCV Axles: https://www.rcvperformance.com/
Baja Designs Lights: bit.ly/ttbajadesigns
Yankum Ropes & Recovery Gear (10% discount): https://bit.ly/yankumgear

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