Planning a trip to Moab, Utah? Along the road, you might notice huge blue ponds that stand out against the desert landscape. These are the potash ponds, and they are part of an active mining process used to extract potash, a mineral found in many fertilizers and industrial products. While they were built for industrial purposes, the striking color of the water has made them a popular sight for travelers in the area. The best part? You can see them easily without any long hikes or special tours and they are visible right from the scenic Potash Road and from certain viewpoints in Dead Horse Point State Park. In this blog, we’ll explain what potash ponds are, share where you can see them, and give you practical tips to make the most of your visit. So if you’re a photographer chasing unique photogenic landscapes or a road tripper looking for a quick but unforgettable stop, the potash ponds are definitely worth adding to your Moab itinerary.
What are Potash Ponds?
In a region famous for its national parks and natural wonders, it might seem odd to recommend an industrial site as a must-see. But the potash ponds are unlike anything else in Utah. They showcase a fascinating mix of human engineering and the raw beauty of the desert. It’s also quick to visit, easy to reach, and completely free if you’re just driving along Potash Road. So, what exactly are these Potash Ponds? These ponds are large, bright blue pools that stand out in the middle of the red desert and are part of an active mining operation but have also become a popular sight for visitors because of their striking color and size. In Utah, potash is found deep underground and the mining process starts by pumping water from the Colorado River deep into the ground to dissolve the potash deposits. This salty water, called brine, is then pumped back to the surface and poured into large evaporation ponds. The water in the ponds is dyed a rich blue to absorb more sunlight and speed up evaporation. As the water slowly evaporates over many months, the potash is left behind and later collected for processing. The ponds change color during this time, going from deep blue to lighter shades, depending on the evaporation stage.
Visitors can see the ponds easily from Potash Road or from the high viewpoints at Dead Horse Point State Park. While the ponds are on private property and cannot be accessed directly, the roadside views are impressive and perfect for photos. These man-made ponds are a mix of industry and natural beauty, making them one of Moab’s most unusual attractions.
A Little Background
The potash ponds are part of an industrial operation that started in the 1960s. Potash is a key ingredient in fertilizers and is also used in products like glass and soap. In Utah, it’s found deep underground, left behind by an ancient inland sea that dried up millions of years ago. Mining companies pump water from the Colorado River down into these underground layers to dissolve the potash. That brine is then brought to the surface and poured into these large ponds, where the sun and dry desert air do the rest. While the process is industrial, the outcome is unexpectedly beautiful. The ponds change color as evaporation progresses, creating a patchwork of blues, greens, and even rusty tones. For travelers, it’s a rare example of an active work site also doubling as a roadside attraction.
Where and How to See the Potash Ponds
One of the best things about visiting the potash ponds is how accessible they are. The easiest way to get there is by driving along State Route 279, also known as the Potash Scenic Byway. This road starts just outside Moab and winds along the Colorado River before revealing the ponds on your right. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Moab, and the route itself is scenic enough to be worth the trip even without the ponds. And if you want a bird’s-eye view, you can head to Dead Horse Point State Park, where from the park’s overlooks, you can see the bright blue ponds far below, framed by canyons and cliffs. It’s a great spot for wide-angle shots, especially at sunrise or sunset and highly recommended for photographers.
But remember, no matter where you view them from, the ponds are on private property, and the water is not safe for swimming. So stick to marked pull-outs and viewpoints for your safety and to protect the site.
Best Time to Go
You can see the potash ponds year-round, but late spring through early fall is when the colors are most vibrant. The strong summer sun intensifies the blues and speeds up the evaporation process. And if photography is your goal, mornings and evenings offer softer light and fewer harsh shadows. Midday light can make the colors pop, but the heat can be intense, especially in summer.
Pairing Your Visit
You can easily combine your visit to the potash ponds with other local sights to make for a full day of exploration.
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You’ll pass Petroglyph panels cut into cliff sides along Potash Road, making it a convenient place to stop and view ancient Native American rock art.
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A short detour will take you to Jug Handle Arch, a natural rock formation perfect for a quick photo.
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The Corona Arch Trailhead is also located along this road for hikers. The hike offers expansive vistas of the desert and is roughly three miles round-trip.
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And of course, Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, two of Moab's most well-known attractions, are close enough to be included in a single trip.
Conclusion
All in all, the potash ponds might not have been created for tourists, but they’ve become one of the most striking sights near Moab. Their bold blues and surreal contrast with the red desert cliffs make them an unforgettable stop on any Utah road trip. So next time you find yourself in Moab, take that short detour along the Potash Scenic Byway. You’ll see firsthand why these shimmering scenic pools have earned a place on so many travelers’ must-see lists.
