Elon Musk spotted at Arches National Park
A giant Elon Musk head made an appearance at Arches National Park on July 12, complete with ‘Make America Wait Again’ messaging about DOGE cuts causing longer park lines. Photos by Nancy Charmichael.
Outdoors Stories
Whether it’s legislation that affects trail access, new rules for river runners, or efforts to restore damaged ecosystems, these stories affect how we live, work, and connect with this place.
Thanks to reader support, we’re investing in more reporting that follows land management decisions, keeps tabs on outdoor recreation impacts, and uplifts the people working to care for this landscape.
Utah oil train hub fast‑tracked under Trump Admin’s 14‑day review
Since the early 2000s, the Uinta Basin oil boom has relied on hubs like the one in Helper to connect wells with rail networks. The Helper site will help speed Uinta Basin crude onto trains bound for Gulf Coast refineries.
Sen. Mike Lee withdraws public lands sale from national budget bill
The proposal proved unpopular with the public, environmental groups and even with the senator’s Republican colleagues from Western states, some who pledged to vote against any bill including the public land sale provisions
Moab groups file lawsuit against Kane Creek development over water rights
Local advocacy groups Kane Creek Development Watch and Living Rivers have filed a lawsuit aiming to strip water rights for the proposed Echo Canyon project outside of Moab, arguing those rights are invalid under Utah law.
Mike Lee’s sweeping public lands sale blocked in Senate
Utah Senator Mike Lee’s ambitious plan to sell off vast tracts of public land has been blocked in the Senate. Learn why the Byrd Rule halted the proposal and what could happen next.
EXCLUSIVE: Moab National Parks office spared from federal lease cuts
Multiple sources confirmed to the Moab Sun News this week that the Moab lease will not be terminated after all— including Karen Henker, acting public affairs specialist for the NPS Southeast Utah Group.
Senate proposal could open some public lands to possible sale, including in Utah
Want more information on the potential sale of public lands? We’ve got the full text of the bill, our summary of the process, and multiple videos from different perspectives.
Moab’s Trail Mix committee looking for a new representative
Trail Mix is on the hunt for a passionate individual to represent Moab’s community on the committee. This is more than just a volunteer gig—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of how we get around town.
Ean Ellis ‘runs a seven’, wins state title
At 18, he’s aiming for the pros—and already giving back to the next generation in Moab.
DOJ opinion could allow monument cuts: What it means for Bears Ears, Grand Staircase, and Utah’s public lands
A new opinion from the Department of Justice revives debate over national monument protections. President Trump tried to slash Utah’s monuments in his first term – What’s next for Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears?