Moab's Fisher Towers, a Geological Phenomenon
Views of The Towers Are Visible From I-70. East or West
Nov 20, 2008
It would surely be possible to spend a lifetime roaming the earth in search for natural wonders, but also just as surely impossible to see them all. The Western United States has enough natural beauty to entrance hordes of individuals looking to escape their mundane lives (many come and never leave). The lucky few that have actually seen the Fisher Towers can bare Testament that nature is not one to be beckoned with.
"The mere size of the towers are enough to give you vertigo when standing at the base looking up," said Wendy Leonard, an Eastern Utah native.
According to Leonard, It is impossible to appreciate the magnitude of this place without actually experiencing it for yourself.
The towers are the result of erosion and time. According to many Moab locals, the site is an wonderful place to see the power of nature and just what it is capable of. The towers were formed over millions of years, giving a much deeper meaning to the old ketchup phrase, "good things come to those who wait".
"Every time I see the towers I can't help but wonder what will nature create in the next million years?" said Leonard. "Hopefully there will still be people around to witness it all."
Close up views of the Fisher Towers. Distant views include the Colorado River, Castle Valley, Fisher Mesa, and the Book Cliffs.
Length
2.2 miles one-way to trail's end; allow four hours round trip.
Trail-head
Off Utah Scenic Byway 128. At 21 miles east of the Utah 128/US 191 junction, turn right and go 2.2 miles on a newly improved dirt road to a parking lot. It is easy for a car to reach the area.
From the parking lot the main trailhead leads down a short set of steps and then leads left onto a slick-rock ridge. Follow the ridge away from the main cliffs until it narrows and then go left through a small crack on the left side of the ridge. From the bottom of the ravine the path heads steeply (for a short distance) up and begins to wind directly beneath the gargantuan Fisher Towers. After walking around the largest tower, The Titan, the trail ascends and finally ends on a ridge with a panoramic view of the entire valley. The hike is longer than it looks, every time you pass one tower there seems to always be another but after you get to the end you realize that the hike was worth it.
The Fisher Towers are composed of Moenkopi and Cutler sandstones, and have eroded into many fantastical shapes. There aren't many times that you will take this hike without seeing climbers scale these mud-stone giants (be cautious of hiking directly below a climber).
Note: This trail has a western exposure and can be exceptionally hot on summer afternoons. According to Leonard, the hike is good for all family members. Officials discourage straying from the path in order to protect the erosion cycle and prevent damage to microbionic crust that covers most of the areas soil.
Remember to always bring an ample amount of water and first aid supplies, just in case of an accident. You never can tell what natuer will throw or in this case meerely drop on you. Last but not least, pack out what you pack in and if you see any other litter pack that out as well.
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