PARADOX PASSAGE

From Colorado’s High Country to Utah’s Red-Rock Canyons

June 6–11, 2027 | Montrose, Colorado → Moab, Utah

Six days. Two states. A journey worth taking the long way.

Join Overlander Project for Paradox Passage, a guided overland adventure connecting the forests and mesas of western Colorado with the towering sandstone cliffs and legendary canyon country surrounding Moab, Utah.

Our journey begins in Montrose, Colorado, where we’ll leave the pavement behind and work our way west through changing landscapes, historic mining country, remote backroads, and sweeping desert vistas. Along the way, we’ll explore Paradox Valley, the Colorado landscape that gives this adventure its name.

With a planned blend of iconic trails, lesser-traveled roads, and time to enjoy the places we discover, Paradox Passage is about the whole journey: the driving, the scenery, the local stops, and the friendships that grow along the way.

A Little Dust. A Hot Shower. Another Great Day Ahead.

We’re mixing nights beneath the stars with the comfort and character of small local hotels and motels.

Our planned five-night schedule alternates between three camping nights and two motel nights, giving you the opportunity to settle into camp, enjoy an evening outdoors, then recharge with a comfortable bed and hot shower the following night.

Expect camp chairs, shared stories, local flavor, and a fresh view around every bend.

The Planned Adventure

Day 1 — Sunday, June 6

Montrose → Uncompahgre Plateau → San Miguel River Country

We’ll gather in Montrose for introductions, vehicle checks, and our opening briefing before beginning our journey west. Conditions permitting, the eastern portion of the Rimrocker Trail will lead us through the forests and open landscapes of the Uncompahgre Plateau toward Nucla and Naturita.

Our first evening brings us together for a night of camping in San Miguel River country.

Planned overnight: Camping near Naturita, Colorado.

Day 2 — Monday, June 7

Canyon Country, the Hanging Flume & Paradox Valley

Today is about slowing down and discovering western Colorado’s rugged character. We’ll explore mesa roads and canyon landscapes, visit the Hanging Flume overlook, and travel into Paradox Valley.

There will be time for photographs, scenic stops, and a look at the mining history woven into this remote corner of Colorado before we return to Naturita for the evening.

Planned overnight: Local hotel or motel in Naturita, Colorado.

Day 3 — Tuesday, June 8

Colorado → Utah | The Journey to Moab

Our biggest travel day takes us west toward Utah, following the western Rimrocker Trail where conditions allow.

We’ll trade Colorado’s mesas and wooded terrain for the expansive views and red-rock landscapes that signal our approach to Moab. This is the heart of the expedition—a full day of traveling together through a remarkable transition between two states.

We’ll finish the day by setting up camp near Moab.

Planned overnight: Camping in the Ken’s Lake area.

Day 4 — Wednesday, June 9

Onion Creek & the Colorado River Corridor

We’ll explore the spectacular Colorado River corridor along Utah Highway 128, then turn onto Onion Creek Road for a scenic four-wheel-drive adventure among colorful canyon walls and dramatic rock formations.

A visit to the Fisher Towers area adds another memorable perspective before we head back into Moab. The evening offers a chance to clean up, relax, and enjoy town.

Planned overnight: Local hotel or motel in Moab, Utah.

Day 5 — Thursday, June 10

Potash Road, Shafer Trail & Canyonlands Country

Today brings some of the adventure’s most recognizable scenery.

Our planned route follows Potash Road toward the famous Shafer Trail switchbacks, climbing into the vast canyon landscapes of the Island in the Sky area.

Expect towering cliffs, winding roads, and overlooks that invite you to stop and take it all in. We’ll end the day with our final camping night near Horsethief, sharing stories from the journey beneath the desert sky.

Planned overnight: Camping at Horsethief Campground or a nearby alternative.

Day 6 — Friday, June 11

Gemini Bridges → Moab

Our final morning takes us along Gemini Bridges Road, with an opportunity to stretch our legs and visit the remarkable twin natural bridges.

We’ll then make our way into Moab for a group photograph, farewell lunch, and the conclusion of Paradox Passage.

Planned finish: Early afternoon in Moab, Utah.

What to Expect

• Six days of guided travel from Montrose to Moab.

• A mix of forest roads, rocky two-tracks, scenic pavement, and exposed shelf roads.

• Portions of the Rimrocker Trail, conditions permitting.

• Exploration of Paradox Valley and western Colorado’s canyon country.

• Classic Moab-area routes, including Onion Creek, Potash Road, Shafer Trail, and Gemini Bridges Road.

• An alternating schedule of camping and local motel stays.

• Time for photography, short walks, historic stops, and enjoying the journey together.

WHAT'S INCLUDED-

• All camping locations
• Two Nights Motel/Lodge Stays
• Qty-2 Event decals
• Event Topo Badge
• Professional Guide Service
• Starlink Access
• Tons of Smiles

Vehicle & Participant Preparation

Paradox Passage is planned as a scenic, moderate four-wheel-drive expedition. Participants should be comfortable with uneven terrain, narrow roads, steep grades, and shelf roads with exposure.

Plan to bring:

• A dependable, high-clearance 4×4 with low range.

• Suitable all-terrain or mud-terrain tires.

• A full-size spare and the tools needed to change it.

• Appropriate recovery equipment.

• Camping gear and bedding for three nights.

• Drinking water, food, snacks, and personal supplies.

• Clothing for cool Colorado mornings and hot Utah afternoons.

A detailed preparation guide and final vehicle requirements will be provided before departure.

A Route Shaped by the Season

Early June can bring lingering snow to Colorado’s higher elevations and warm temperatures to Utah’s desert country. Our final route will reflect seasonal openings, trail conditions, weather, and group needs.

The itinerary, named trails, and overnight locations are tentative. Alternate routes and accommodations may be used to keep the adventure moving safely and responsibly. Final lodging arrangements, reservation responsibilities, and registration inclusions will be confirmed before departure.

Adventure Van?  Let's jump on a call and discuss your specific set up- Im thinking a 144wb with a small lift and larger all terrain tires, no hangy down things

Come ready for dusty roads, wide-open views, nights under the stars, and a few well-earned hot showers.

Paradox Passage
June 6–11, 2027
Colorado to Moab. Adventure all the way.