Often described as a "lunar landscape on Earth," this remote vista overlooks a vast expanse of grey badlands that stretch toward Factory Butte and the colorful terrain below the Skyline Rim. With its otherworldly topography and big skies, the overlook is a favorite among photographers, campers, and stargazers.Skyline Overlook (Moonscape Overlook) near Hanksville, Utah, offers one of the most surreal and dramatic views in the American Southwest.

Scenic Beauty & Photography

Sunrise and sunset at Skyline Overlook are especially magical, as soft, low-angle light reveals the layers and textures of the cracked earth and eroded plateaus. The landscape glows in tones of blue, purple, and gold, creating a painterly quality. Golden hour and blue hour are perfect for capturing dimension and depth in your photos.

For astrophotography, the overlook offers dark skies with minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot to photograph the Milky Way, star trails, or nightscapes of the desert. A drone can provide outstanding aerial perspectives of the terrain, though it's not necessary to capture the area's dramatic beauty.

Access

• Located approximately 20 minutes north of Hanksville, Utah.

• Accessible by passenger vehicle in dry conditions. A 4WD is recommended during or after rain or snow.

• Roads in the area are unmaintained dirt routes—drive with caution and check weather conditions before setting out.

Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area surrounding the overlook on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land. This is primitive camping:

• No facilities (no water, restrooms, or services nearby).

• Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, avoid disturbing the terrain, and use existing pullouts or campsites when possible.

• The overlook is very remote—bring all necessary supplies and emergency gear.

Pet Friendly

Dogs are welcome in the area. Ensure they are under control or leashed, especially near the overlook’s steep drop-offs. Bring extra water and avoid hiking with pets during hot weather, as there is no shade or natural water source.

Nearby Highlights

• Factory Butte: One of the most iconic desert features in the region, often photographed at sunrise.

• NASA Mars Desert Research Station: Located east of the Skyline Rim, used for space mission simulation.

• Burpee Dinosaur Quarry: A paleontological site nearby for those interested in geology and fossils.

Navigation

Due to the lack of signage and remote setting, having GPS coordinates is essential.

• Coordinates:
  Decimal Degrees: 38.451611° N, 110.837944° W

Pro Tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for ideal weather and lighting. Always check road and weather conditions before heading out and make sure to download offline maps—cell service is limited in this region.