The La Sal Mountains rise abruptly from the desert like they were never meant to be here—an alpine afterthought in a canyon state, caught between snowfall and slickrock. Their slopes are threaded with dirt roads that don’t lead to cities but to towns the map almost forgot. You pass cattle guards, stands of aspen, maybe a fox darting across the gravel. Then suddenly, a place like Old La Sal appears—part ranch, part memory—where the mail still comes by truck and neighbors are known by their truck’s engine note before their name.
These aren’t tourist towns. They weren’t built for your camera, and they don’t try to impress. Places like Castleton, Pack Creek, and Dry Valley hold onto a slower rhythm. Front yards double as pasture. The hardware store might sell bait, bullets, or used books depending on the day. Sometimes there’s no store at all—just a bulletin board and a fence line.
The La Sal range doesn’t draw the crowds that Arches or Zion do, and that’s the point. It draws people who need more sky than structure, who measure time by thaw and frost, not weekend bookings. These ten towns—some still working, some barely inhabited—exist at the pace of weather and instinct.
To live here, or even just to linger, is to accept that solitude is not absence but a kind of presence. And in these high pockets of Utah, the quiet isn’t empty—it’s exact.
Let’s begin where the asphalt ends.
10. Moab: The Gateway to Adventure and Solitude
Moab, with a vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere, serves as an oasis for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and seclusion. Nestled near Utah’s majestic La Sal Mountains, this small town offers a serene haven surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, visit breathtaking viewpoints, or engage in stargazing under some of the clearest night skies in the region.
While known for its connection to nearby national parks, Moab’s charm also lies in its quiet streets, locally owned businesses, and welcoming community spirit. The pace of life here feels unhurried, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.
Where is Moab?
Situated in southeastern Utah, Moab lies along Highway 191, providing easy access to the La Sal Mountains and the surrounding wilderness. Its position as a gateway to both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks enhances its appeal for those in search of exploration and serenity.
A drive to Moab reveals a journey of stunning red rock formations, verdant valleys, and the captivating beauty that defines Utah’s rugged terrain. The town’s proximity to these natural treasures makes it a perfect destination for adventure and relaxation alike.
9. Wilson Mesa Area: Mountainous Seclusion
The Wilson Mesa area is a tranquil haven with a small population spread across rolling meadows and forested hills. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching, all set against the backdrop of the majestic La Sal Mountains.
With no significant industries, the community thrives on a simple, harmonious lifestyle closely tied to the land. Its seclusion results from its remote location and minimal development, preserving its pristine landscapes and providing a peaceful escape from crowded spaces.
Where is Wilson Mesa?
Situated on the western slopes of the La Sal Mountains, Wilson Mesa lies southeast of Moab, Utah. The area’s remoteness is heightened by limited access roads and its distance from urban centers.
Travelers navigate winding mountain routes to reach this secluded spot, rewarded with breathtaking scenery along the way. The combination of natural barriers and sparse population makes Wilson Mesa a perfect retreat for those seeking serenity in the mountains.
8. Dry Valley: Seclusion in the High Desert
Dry Valley is a sparsely populated area where residents enjoy expansive properties amid the serene high desert. The region offers ample opportunities for off-road adventures, hiking, and absorbing stunning views of the La Sal Mountains against the desert backdrop.
With agriculture and ranching forming the backbone of local activity, many embrace a self-sufficient lifestyle. Its seclusion is due to its remote desert location, offering privacy and unspoiled natural beauty away from the hustle of larger towns.
Where is Dry Valley?
Located northwest of the La Sal Mountains and south of Moab, Dry Valley nestles quietly in southeastern Utah. The area’s isolation is enhanced by the vast stretches of open land separating it from nearby communities and limited access via scenic byways that cross rugged terrain.
This high desert haven is ideal for those seeking solitude and wide-open spaces, far removed from the congestion of urban life.
7. Beaver Creek Meadows: Remote Mountain Hideaway
Home to a handful of residents, Beaver Creek Meadows offers unparalleled seclusion amidst lush meadows and forested areas. Nature lovers can hike, fish in nearby creeks, and observe abundant wildlife, including deer and elk roaming freely.
Without major industries, the area is characterized by small ranches and homesteads that prioritize sustainable living. Tucked away within the mountains, its secluded nature provides a peaceful environment far from crowded spaces.
Where is Beaver Creek Meadows?
Nestled in the heart of the La Sal Mountains, Beaver Creek Meadows lies east of Moab, Utah. Accessed via dirt roads that wind through dense forests and rugged terrain, the journey itself is an immersion in natural beauty.
The remoteness is accentuated by the area’s elevation and limited accessibility, ensuring a quiet retreat surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.
6. San Juan Ranches: Expansive Secluded Living
The San Juan Ranches host a small community living on sprawling properties that span the scenic landscapes near the La Sal Mountains. Residents relish in horseback riding, tending to their land, and embracing a rural lifestyle deeply rooted in agriculture and ranching.
The vast open spaces and low population density contribute to the sense of seclusion, offering privacy and a profound connection with nature.
Where are the San Juan Ranches?
Situated in San Juan County, southeast of the La Sal Mountains, these ranches spread across rugged terrain with few access points.
The area’s remoteness is enhanced by its distance from major highways and towns, making it an ideal spot for those seeking life off the beaten path. Access involves traversing rural roads weaving through picturesque countryside, guiding visitors to this peaceful enclave.
5. Buckeye Reservoir Area: Seclusion by the Water
With minimal population, the Buckeye Reservoir area offers a secluded retreat surrounded by forests and the calming presence of water. Activities abound, including fishing, camping, and kayaking on the reservoir, as well as hiking through the lush surroundings.
Lacking commercial industry, residents often own large parcels of land, living a quiet, nature-focused lifestyle. Seclusion here is a product of its deep placement within forested regions near the La Sal Mountains, far removed from bustling towns.
Where is the Buckeye Reservoir Area?
Located near the Utah-Colorado border, north of the La Sal Mountains, the Buckeye Reservoir area nestles within dense forests. Accessible via unpaved roads through mountainous terrain, its remote location is further emphasized by the surrounding wilderness and absence of nearby urban centers.
This hidden gem offers serene solitude by the water for those willing to venture off the main paths.
4. Castleton: Ghost Town Charm
Once a lively mining town, Castleton now stands as a quiet echo of the past, with only a few inhabitants maintaining its historical legacy. Visitors can explore remnants of old buildings, envisioning life during its peak, and enjoy nearby hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Without active industries, the town is enveloped in silence, adding to its mystique and seclusion. Castleton’s remote location and sparse population contribute to its allure as a ghost town set amidst natural beauty.
Where is Castleton?
Castleton is located east of Moab, nestled at the foothills of the La Sal Mountains. Accessible via a scenic route that passes through rugged terrain, the town’s seclusion is reinforced by its position off main roads.
The journey requires venturing away from populated areas, enhancing its hidden gem status. Castleton’s isolation makes it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking solitude alike.
3. Pack Creek: A Quiet Creekside Retreat
Pack Creek boasts a small community living in secluded homes along the gentle flow of the creek. Outdoor activities include fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation amid the lush forests that envelop the area.
With no significant industries, locals enjoy a peaceful existence in harmony with nature. The seclusion is heightened by dense vegetation and the soothing sounds of the creek, creating a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation.
Where is Pack Creek?
Situated on the western slopes of the La Sal Mountains, Pack Creek lies southeast of Moab, Utah. Tucked away in a forested valley, it’s accessible via a network of smaller roads winding through the mountains.
Natural barriers and limited development contribute to its isolation, making it a perfect hideaway for those seeking peace amid nature’s splendor.
2. Old La Sal: Historic Mountain Seclusion
Old La Sal is a tight-knit community with approximately 200 residents, deeply rooted in pioneer history. The area offers horseback riding, hiking, and exploration of historical sites, all set within a tranquil, mountainous environment.
Primarily revolving around ranching and agriculture, it maintains a traditional rural lifestyle. Seclusion here is courtesy of its lofty location in the La Sal Mountains, providing expansive properties and a peaceful ambiance untouched by rapid development.
Where is Old La Sal?
Located southeast of Moab within the La Sal Mountains, Old La Sal rests at an elevation offering stunning vistas. Its remoteness is due to its distance from major roads and urban centers, reached via mountain roads ascending through scenic landscapes.
This isolation provides residents and visitors with a tranquil environment steeped in history and natural beauty, far from the clamor of city life.
1. La Sal: Hidden Serenity in the Mountains
La Sal is a quaint unincorporated community with an approximate population of 350, offering a peaceful mountain lifestyle. Residents and visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby national parks like Arches and Canyonlands.
The local economy is modest, with ranching and small businesses supporting the community. La Sal’s seclusion stems from its location deep within the La Sal Mountains, surrounded by vast open spaces and enveloped by nature’s grandeur.
Where is La Sal?
Situated in southeastern Utah, about 30 miles southeast of Moab, La Sal nestles among the peaks of the La Sal Mountains. Its remote setting is accessible via Route 46, a scenic route offering breathtaking views yet minimal traffic.
The elevation and winding mountain roads enhance the sense of seclusion, making it a hidden gem away from bustling tourist areas. La Sal’s serene environment is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the mountains.
