Gemini Bridges

Date Placed: June 19, 2010
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Gemini Bridges, Grand, Utah
Distance:  15.6 miles, round trip (driving), less than a half mile walking round trip (once you reach your destination)
Status: Active

Some of the most beautiful sites around Moab aren't available for viewing from paved roads. Jump into your 4-wheel drive vehicle, and bump your way into some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

The Gemini Bridges 4-wheel drive road is suitable for beginners. There is a well-marked path to the Bridges, so it is unlikely you will become lost.

Directions: From Moab, head north on Highway 191 about 10 miles and turn left at the "Gemini Bridges" sign. You will pass a parking lot, cross railroad tracks and turn right uphill in less than a mile. Follow the brown BLM signs that clearly show the way to Gemini Bridges. Climb up the twisting shelf road as it continues south. Descend into a wide valley and continue south past the distinctive Gooney Bird Rock (just after the campground). Turn right at the "T" intersection and climb a steep, sandy hill. Stay to the right at the next road intersection, left at the next one, and left again at the final intersection before your destination. You will shortly come upon an area that is cabled off; continue up the road a short way to the main parking area.

Walk the 300 yards to the Bridges. You will see a huge hole, a bridge, then the other bridge. If you were to head south across the fatter bridge, and keep walking straight, you would come to an old dead tree. Head to the left of the tree, and walk over to the orange, lined looking rock formations (larger to the left, smaller to the right). Go visit the smaller one to the right. At the base of this formation, on the left by the juniper, find the box hidden behind a stack of small, flat rocks.

Notes: Do NOT attempt to drive on this road in a 2-wheeled vehicle!!! Even though the rock grinders have tamed this road significantly, you still need higher clearance for the rocky parts and the ability to drive up a steep hill covered in sand. Please use the restrooms before starting this journey (sometimes there is a port-a-potty in the parking area at the beginning of the road near the Highway, but not always). Remember also that this is desert country. Always bring adequate water with you whenever traveling.