places to visit in moab

32 Actually Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Posted on January 23, 2024

Moab, Utah is a destination built for adventure! It’s a hiker’s paradise and a nature enthusiast’s playground. There’s no shortage of things to do in Moab, and this guide covers 32 activities you’ll absolutely love.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

The town of Moab is relatively small, but packs a punch! It’s a fun desert city that truly begs to be on your bucket list. Families, singles, couples or anything in between, there’s truly something for everyone.

Perhaps the most popular attraction is visiting Arches National Park , which sees more than 1.5 million visitors a year. But there’s so much more to do in Moab!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the  best white water rafting tour and the best 4×4 off-roading tour for adventure lovers!

Map of the best things to do in Moab

Get to know your way around the area with this map of all the Moab activities on this list.

So enough chatting already…let’s dive in!

Best things to do in Moab, Utah

Whether you have a day (or two) to spend while on an Utah national parks road trip , or you’re planning to visit this amazing area for a week (or more!), there’s so many activities in Moab you’ll love!

1. Visit Arches National Park

Arches National Park is what drives many people to Moab and southeast Utah. It’s a place unlike any other in the USA!

It’s the home of the most popular arch in the world, Delicate Arch . You’ll see this arch painted on murals, artwork on souvenirs and, of course, on the Utah license plate.

If you want to hike to see the arch, it’s best to go really early as the parking lot is often full. If you’re only planning one day in Arches National Park , this is a must-see!

Delicate Arch is one of the most popular spots in the park, so expect it to be busy. (I got there just after sunrise both times I’ve hiked the trail and the parking lot was nearly full!)

It’s also one of the most challenging hikes in the park with some steep climbs, so make sure to bring water and good hiking shoes !

🎟️ Note: April through October you’ll need a timed entry reservation to enter the park between 7:00am and 4:00pm. Reservations sell out in minutes so plan ahead or go outside the main visiting hours.

While at Arches National Park, you can’t miss the Windows section of the park and Devil’s Garden, where you’ll find the famous Landscape Arch (an easy, great hike).

For a full list of the best spots to explore, check out these Arches National Park hikes .

2. Ken’s Lake

Located just 10 miles south of Moab, this lake is perfect for boating, swimming or fishing. The water is relatively clear and equally as refreshing! Head out there for a midday swim between hiking adventures.

The campground near the lake is rather large, so it’s a good spot to camp for a budget-friendly vacation. Just be sure to reserve your camping spot early if that’s your goal, as it tends to sell out quickly.

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3. Hell’s Revenge Moab

This off-road, 4×4 trail will get your heart pumping! It’s a 6.5 mile trail intended for 4×4 vehicles, and only for experienced drivers.

The most popular way to experience Hell’s Revenge is to book a tour. It’s way less stressful that way! Expect spectacular scenery and unforgettable laughs during your tour.

Pro tip: make sure to take a face mask or bandana to prevent dirt from getting in your nose or mouth.

Hell’s Revenge is a thrilling ride, and one for any adventure lover!

4. Moab Giants dinosaur park (one of the best things to do in Moab with kids)

Well if you’re visiting Moab with kids, this has got to be on your list! Moab Giants is all about dinosaurs! Based on the fact that many dinosaurs where found in southeast Utah, this adventure park is full of history and imagination.

It’s a prehistoric aquarium, interactive museum, dinosaur playground, dinosaur trail and more! You can buy a ticket for the full experience, or outdoor-only access.

Visit Moab Giants official site here .

5. Dead Horse Point State Park (one of my favorite things to do in Moab!)

This was one of the unexpected delights during my trip to Moab! Dead Horse Point State Park is nestled right outside of Canyonlands National Park (about 25 minutes from town) and it’s truly an awesome experience.

As I walked up to the lookout over the mighty Colorado River, the sight literally took my breath away! I just marveled at the views of the winding river in the vast canyon.

Dead Horse State Park has far less visitors than either of the national parks nearby , which makes for fewer lines and less packed parking lots! So if you’re wondering what to do in Moab with less crowds, this is it!

Pro tip: hiking along the rim of the canyon is relatively easy and provides expansive views round each curve. Just use caution as there’s no railing.

6. Mountain biking tour

Another fun way to explore Dead Horse Point State Park is by taking a mountain biking tour ! You’ll get unique views you can’t find from the scenic drive or overlooks.

Mountain bikers come to Moab for adventures, and this one is sure to get your heart pumping!

Go on a mountain biking tour , which includes world-class mountain biking trails. You’ll pedal and wind through a gorgeous desert landscape with amazing overlooks, all amongst the La Sal Mountains backdrop. So stunning!

7. Rafting in Moab

Let’s get back on the water! One of the top things to do in Moab is river rafting. In the spring months the water will be very cold, but in the summer and fall it’s refreshing and tolerable.

Experience panoramic views of the canyons on a Moab white water rafting tour. From calm waters to class 3 rapids, there’s a variety of adventure on the river for outdoor enthusiasts!

You can find lots of Moab river rafting tours for either 1/2 day or full day of fun! Make sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and bring a water bottle.

Pro tip: You’ll want to plan these in advance, too as they tend to sell out quickly! Book your tour now .

8. Check out the slot canyons near Moab

One of the best places in the world to explore slot canyons is in Utah! So it’s definitely making this list of the top things to do in Moab. 🙂

Created by water and wind, these canyons, like the arches in southeast Utah, are one of nature’s finest displays. And they’re super fun to explore!

There aren’t many slot canyons super close to Moab, but it would make a fun day or 1/2 day trip. Better yet, take a canyoneering tour and skip the stress of navigating the canyons themselves!

Best slot canyons near Moab:

• Entrajo Canyon – 20 minutes south of town
• Furniture Draw – Price Utah
• Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon Loop – Goblin Valley State Park

Book a tour of Entrajo Canyon here.

9. Horseback riding

See southeast Utah in it’s natural beauty on horseback! Ride the trails made famous in movies or along the Colorado River. The desert landscape is beyond impressive and what a unique way to experience it!

You’ll get to enjoy the quiet away from the traffic of the city and national parks. Most tours are 1.5 – 3 hours, and should be scheduled in advance.

Each time I take a horseback riding tour while on vacation, I find the guides to be knowledgeable and I’ve always felt very safe on the horse.

10. Moab sand hill

Well if you’re looking for unique things to do in Moab with kids, or you’re simply a kid at heart, make sure you check out the sand hill right on the outside of town. It’s right between Arches National Park and the city limits of Moab.

It’s basically a giant sand slide that can be used for sledding or rolling down. Every time I drove past, kids were crawling to the very top and sliding down to the bottom. If you truly want to slide make sure to bring a sand sled.

But it’s not needed and it’s a free activity for the kids!

11. La Sal Mountain Loop Road

Just 20 minutes from the small town of Moab are the La Sal Mountains. Easily seen from various parts of Arches NP and Canyonlands NP, they offer a little different landscape from the red slab rock of southeast Utah.

It’s like you’re stepping into another world when you visit the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The picturesque alpine views of lush forests are a breath-takingly beautiful and a fresh alternative from the traditional sights of the area. It’s actually one of the reasons Moab is one of the best places to visit in September in USA !

The La Sal mountains are the 2nd highest mountain range in Utah. The area offers lots of camping, hiking and fishing, in addition to the views!

Spend a 1/2 day taking soaking in the views on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. It’s only 60 miles but with scenic overlooks, you’ll want to make stops along the way.

By the way… if you’re planning to rent a car for your Moab vacation, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I typically save 10%-30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal at no extra price to you! Check rates now .

What to do in Moab

Only 1/3 of the way done with this epic list of things to do in Moab, Utah, and I’m sure you’re already collecting ideas for your visit. My very favorite is up next…

12. Hiking in Canyonlands National Park

It lives in the shadow of Arches National Park, yet has scenery unmatched to no other. I truly believe it’s one of the most underrated national parks in the United States, too.

With hiking trails and views more spectacular around each corner, it’s a must do when you’re in Moab!

Canyonlands National Park is huge, and the section of the park closest to Moab is called the Island in the Sky District. I’ve been lucky enough to spend several days hiking here across multiple trips to Moab, and I can’t say enough good things about it!

Overlook massive canyon walls from various hikes and scenic overlooks. With expansive views, it’s a smaller, lesser-known version of the Grand Canyon!

Here are the Canyonlands National Park highlights you can’t miss:

• Upheaval Dome
• Grand View Point (best views if you hike to the end)
• Green River Overlook

Looking for more? Check out more of my favorite hikes in this guide for the 10 best hikes in Canyonlands National Park.

Pro tip: make sure to bring plenty of water (regardless of the season) and wear hiking shoes with lots of traction. Hiking on slickrock is no joke. Here are the hiking boots I wore and they were perfect!

A good hiking backpack and trekking poles are helpful when hiking in the parks near Moab, too.

13. Shopping in downtown Moab

This area of southeast Utah is known for outdoor adventures, so you won’t find big-name shopping stores here. But there are some fun spots to shop in downtown Moab. You’ll find boutique shops full of souvenirs, clothing and sports apparel.

Visiting the shops and restaurants in downtown Moab can be a nice break from high-adventure activities.

14. Kayaking or Paddleboarding Moab

There’s plenty of places in the area for water activities, and if you love stand up paddle boarding, you’re in luck!

Catch views of red rock cliff, dunes and breathtaking views while paddleboarding Moab. You can rent paddleboards and find an adventure on your own, or take a guided tour. It’s truly one of the top outdoor activities in the area.

I personally love taking tours like this because the guides know so much about the area and I feel like I learn a lot more than going myself. Also I don’t have to worry about transporting the equipment. One of the best Moab activities on this list, in my opinion. 🙂

Rent paddleboards here. Book a paddleboarding tour here.

15. Find some fun street art

On your way into downtown Moab, it’s easy to spot the Insta-famous Moab mural. Grab a photo with it, and find other fun, artsy spots in the city. 🙂

You can find artwork throughout the streets of the town of Moab. Be on the lookout in unsurprising spots – like the side of a gas station or car wash!

Make a day of it or just keep an eye out as you make your way around town. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Moab, and is perfect, simple fun for any age.

16. See the petroglyphs near Moab

Ancient petroglyphs are just another layer of artifacts that have been found near Moab, Utah. Perhaps some of the most well-known petroglyphs are the ones located near Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.

The park has them guarded – and rightfully so – but they can be seen from a distance. It’s quite incredible to think that these stories, carved into stone are thousands of years old!

Best spots to see petroglyphs near Moab:

• Moonflower Canyon
• Potash Road (you can also see real dinosaur tracks here!)
• Birthing Scene historical landmark
• Jug Handle Arch
• Wolf Ranch (at Delicate Arch trail, Arches NP)

If you want to see multiple petroglyph locations in an off-roading adventure, try a scenic petroglyph tour . You’ll get more info about the area’s history and archeology with a tour.

Book a petroglyph tour here.

17. Arches scenic drive

The Arches scenic drive doesn’t actually show you a lot of arches, ironically! It’s actually the main road in Arches National Park. It’s a must to drive the entire thing, even if you don’t plan to hike or get out of the car much.

In Arches National Park scenic drive, you’ll see magnificent landscapes that seem truly out of this world!

Just past the visitor center, your mind will be blown with the majestic slickrock. Then the courthouse towers (pictured above), Balance Rock, and the Fiery Furnace are beyond impressive! Make sure to make it all the way to the Devil’s Garden Trailhead for the full experience.

Pro tip: time your drive right! The park often fills up before 9am during the peak season of summer, so go early. And I’d highly recommend being out of the park by sunset, unless you want to be driving bumper-to-bumper around winding roads in the pitch black.

Speaking of awesome drives, if you’re up for an adventure, try this drive from Moab to Denver with 16 gorgeous stops along the way. Past the red desert landscape of Moab to the east is the beautiful Rocky Mountains. With gorgeous scenic drives and tons of hiking opportunities across the state, it’s a phenomenal vacation for any road tripper!

18. Moab winery

You might be surprised to hear that Moab has not 1 but 2 wineries! Both are located on the outskirts of town, and are easy to snag a tour and tasting.

Closest to town is Spanish Valley Vineyard and Winery . Bonus: they also have a bed and breakfast to get the whole experience!

About 15 minutes outside of town is Castle Creek Winery . This Moab winery offers picturesque views of the Colorado River that you can’t beat!

I was lucky enough to see both wineries on my first trip to Moab, and I’d highly recommend them. So if you’re wondering what to do in Moab for adults-only or even for a girls’ trip, visiting a winery is a great option!

19. Moab Brewery

Let’s talk about another favorite: local beer! The Moab Brewery is the only microbrewery in the area , and it’s a favorite amongst locals and travelers alike.

So after your long day of adventuring around the area, grab some food and a local beer to wind down from the day. Oh, and be sure to grab a Dead Horse Ale, one of the best brews they make!

20. Eat at the food truck park

For a fabulous, inexpensive meal in town, you need to hit up the local food truck park. You’ll find Southwest flavors as well as local cuisine and simple favorites at the food trucks.

I had the best quesadilla of my life while in Moab . Seriously, writing this makes me want to go back. So obviously my favorite truck is the Quesadilla Mobilla , which happens to also be one of the top rated restaurants in town.

Pro tip: Go early! Trucks shut down for the day when they run out of food as it’s a popular destination for lunch.

21. Air tour of Arches and Canyonlands

Seeing a destination from the air is a unique perspective and a totally different experience than seeing it from the ground. It’s a thrilling new way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

There are several air tours in the area, so if you want to get your adrenaline pumping, choosing which tour is the next step. Usually you’ll need to book a small group tour, like 6 people, depending on the size of the aircraft.

Air tours near Moab:

• Arches National Park air tour
• Canyonlands National Park air tour
• Air tour of both national parks

Just a note about air tours – they can be pricey. I’d recommend putting tours like this in your vacation savings plan and budgeting accordingly. Also, be sure to book them in advance!

More things to do in Moab, Utah

With all the awesomeness that is southeast Utah, can you believe we still have 10 incredible Moab activities to get to?

Lets keep going!

22. White Rim Trail on a 4×4

In Canyonlands National Park, there’s a famous trail called Shafer Trail, or it’s larger counterpart, White Rim Trail. It’s a high adventure trail that can be driven, but isn’t for the faint of heart!

Winding roads along steep cliffs take you deep into the canyon. A vehicle with 4-wheel drive is a must for this road, and it’s suggested to only go if the conditions are dry.

If you’re feeling up to it, make the drive deep into the canyon for spectacular views of the white rim. Or, take some pressure off and go with a guide ! They’ll do the driving and you get to do the sightseeing.

By taking a 4×4 White Rim Trail tour, you’ll see parts of the park often overlooked by visitors! You can book a 4×4 tour here .

Oh, and by the way, visiting Moab in the fall will help avoid the crowds. In fact, Moab is one of the best places to visit in October in the US!

23. Cool down with an ice cream treat

I mean, I’m not sure that there’s ever a wrong time to eat ice cream. But after a long day of hiking, it sure feels like the best time! There are a few spots in town to get ice cream, all of them delicious.

I really enjoyed grabbing ice cream and walking downtown Moab. You’ll get a small-town feeling, even though you’re in a destination that sees millions of travelers each year.

Anyway, grab the ice cream. You won’t regret it. 🙂

24. Faux Falls

Located near Ken’s Lake, Faux Falls is just like it sounds – a man-made waterfall. But it’s beautiful and a fun spot to explore. When I was figuring out what to do in Moab and stumbled upon Faux Falls, I was thrilled!

The cold water is refreshing on a hot summer day in the desert after a full day of hiking. From the campground, the short hike is just a 0.5 mile trail along the stream up to the falls where there’s a small pool (about the size of a hot tub) or explore underneath the waterfall as you cool off from the day.

Faux Falls isn’t a very large waterfall and stream, so if you see a lot of other cars in the parking lot, expect it to be crowded.

Pro tip: bring water shoes for this one! The rocks are very slippery and you’ll have to cross the stream in order to get to this part of the falls.

These are the water shoes I wore and they’ve traveled all over the world with me.

25. Rock climbing Moab

Moab climbing is at the top of any experienced climber’s list! The giant red rocks that jut out of the soil create one giant playground for rock climbers.

And if you’re a newbie, guides can take you out on your first adventure. What a awesome spot to try climbing!

Perfect spots for climbing Moab:

• Fisher Towers, 30 minutes from Moab
• Indian Creek, just south of town
• Trisstin’s Tower, Lockhart Basin
• Washer Woman Tower, Canyonlands NP
• Castle Valley monoliths, Canyonlands NP

If you’re new to rock climbing, here are some tours with knowledgeable guides:

• 1/2 day rock climbing Moab adventure
• Full day rock climbing experience

26. Watch the starry night at the national parks

One of the coolest part of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park is how dark they get at night. With very limited light pollution, you’re able to see the Milky Way clearly after sundown.

Both of the national parks near Moab have been named International Dark Sky Parks , which means the nocturnal environment is protected. Not to mention the fact that the unique landscape of the parks is a stunning contrast to the lit up sky.

Pro tip: get to the parking lot of your choice by sunset. I saw tons of people setting up chairs and blankets to catch their perfect view. It’s an unbelievable night sky you’ll never forget!

27. Day trip to Goblin Valley State Park

Situated about 1.5 hours drive from Moab, this is a fun day trip! If you’re traveling to Moab and have an extra day to spare, it’s a must-see, especially if you’re on a family vacation with active kids who want to explore.

Goblin Valley State Park offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape with its unique rock formations. It actually reminds me of Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Queens Garden-Navajo Loop Trail – so stunning.

Anyway, the park has an amazing collection of mushroom-shaped hoodoos and intricately carved sandstone goblins. As you wander through the maze-like formations, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto an alien planet, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers and families.

Visiting Goblin Valley State Park is definitely one of the top activities in the Moab area, and a surprising one of natural wonders you’ll love.

28. Stay in a yurt

Alright, this one was just too fun to pass up! The Dead Horse Point State Park has a few yurts available for overnight stays. It’s a fun way to spend a night (or more) and experience Utah’s dark sky parks!

There’s only a few available, so make sure to reserve your space really early! If you’re looking to do a lot of activities on this list of the best things to do in Moab, Utah, I’d recommend not staying here the entire trip, as it’s not very conveniently located.

Check yurt availability here.

29. Scenic byway 128

Driving this road was one of the most beautiful roads I saw in Utah. Scenic byway 128 follows the winding Colorado river and then jumps off for more desert scenes. You’ll catch views of the red rock spires of the Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountain range.

Each curve and turn is a beautiful sight to see on the scenic byway. Take an hour out of your day to drive up and back, or if you’re connecting and heading east out of Moab you could take it to meet up with I-70.

Just before reaching Interstate 70, you’ll see the ghost town of Cisco. It’s eerie and creepy, yet somehow intriguing at the same time!

Just a word of warning, I would not recommend taking this at night as there are hairpin curves, and once and at some point the highway becomes a county road, if you’re heading towards I 70 and so it is less maintained. And there are no services available.

Pro tip: make sure you have plenty of gas, water and snacks as there are no services on this route.

30. Zip lining in Moab

For a high-adventure activity that’s family friendly (for older kids), check out ziplining in Moab! Ziplining is a thrilling adventure, which really just feels like a oversized slide…except with nothing underneath you. 🙂

Part of the fun of ziplining in Moab is climbing the elevation needed to get to the top of the zipline course. Most zipline tours will take you up via an ATV or off-road vehicle, which is exhilarating!

A ziplining adventure is usually a 1/2 day activity, and should be booked in advance to make sure your spot is reserved. It’s one of the most adventurous on this list of Moab activities.

31. Lions Park

Sitting right between the cit limits and Arches National Park, Lions Park is right in the Colorado River valley. It’s actually the only spot in town that I saw green grass growing in the whole area!

Lions Park is a fun spot if you’re looking for things to do in Moab with kids. It has a natural playground and a bridge that spans the Colorado River. There’s an extensive path perfect for walking and biking, too.

With plenty of shade in Lions Park, it’s a perfect place for a picnic or to escape the desert sun.

32. Rent an ATV or UTV and hit the trails

By now you’ve probably noticed that off-road vehicles are a favorite for visitors to this desert town. Well you can rent an ATV or UTV and hit many trails in the area!

White Wash Sand Dunes, Bartlett Wash Road and Monitor and Merrimac Trails are popular spots to go off-roading with an ATV rental in Moab. And of course, if driving isn’t your thing you take a tour with a friendly guide.

ATV tours in Moab:

• Hurrah Pass scenic UTV tour
• 2-hour extreme buggy ride
• Hell’s Revenge off-road UTV tour

Pro tip: be sure to bring a face mask or bandana so you’re not eating the dust!

Things to do in Moab (a recap)

Moab is truly a destination that almost any outdoor enthusiast loves to explore. Between the epic views and the amazing adventure, Moab is full of exciting possibilities waiting for you around every corner.

Here’s a recap!

Moab: things to do

• Arches National Park
• Ken’s Lake
• Hell’s Revenge
• Moab Giants dinosaur park
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Mountain biking tour
• River rafting
• Slot canyons near Moab
• Horseback riding
• Moab sand hill
• La Sal Mountain Loop Road
• Hiking in Canyonlands National Park
• Shopping in downtown Moab
• Paddleboarding Moab
• Find some fun street art
• See the petroglyphs near Moab
• Arches scenic drive
• Moab winery
• Moab Brewery
• Food truck park
• Air tour of Arches and Canyonlands
• White Rim Trail on a 4×4
• Cool down with an ice cream treat
• Rock climbing Moab
• Watch the starry night at the national parks
• Day trip to Goblin Valley State Park
• Stay in a yurt
• Scenic byway 128
• Zip lining in Moab
• Rent an ATV or UTV

Related content to read next: 10 Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park that Promise Incredible Views Arches National Park Hikes: 12 Top-rated Trails You’ll Love One Day Itinerary: Best Sights in Arches National Park Discover the Hidden Gem near Moab: Faux Falls

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Christopher

Wednesday 22nd of September 2021

NICE POST! We Never tire of going to MOAB... Countless things to DO thereANY TIME of YEAR. The local-owned Restaurants & Shops are always good on a “down day”. 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

I have a 22 year old kiddo who is special needs (cannot walk long distances) are there places for her to see and visit considering her limitations? We want to visit Moab in early/mid October. What is the weather like around that timeframe? What do you suggest?

A concerned parent, Maudy

Right on, Christopher! I agree there's so much to do, see and eat in Moab! 🤣

Sunday 4th of April 2021

Great list. Looks like the city of Moab the best place to stay to be in close proximity to some of the "big" activities like Arches, Canyonland - correct? How are the temps in June, July, Aug? cold rafting water? Hot canyons?

Monday 5th of April 2021

Yes, Arches is just a few minutes away from Moab, and Canyonlands is about 25 minutes down the road too. It's a great hub. The summer is hot since it's the desert. I went in late June/early July and it was 85+ easily each day. Wear sun protection and avoid being active from 12-4pm and you'll be fine. The water is refreshing at those temps but not super cold. The canyons are hot but the nature of them attracts the wind to cool you down. If you can find shade to rest, you'll be fine. :)

Saturday 9th of January 2021

Huge list! I'm super keen to visit Arches National Park, so it was awesome to read about that as well as all the other amazing things nearby to do. Hell's Revenge looks so cool - I'd definitely be up for that!

Right?! Both activities are amazing. Sounds like you love a good adventure!

Ashlee Fechino

Awww, I loved seeing the sand hill again! We used to live close to Moab in Grand Junction, Colorado and spent a lot of time out there. What a great memory.

Very cool, Ashlee! Glad I could help you reminisce for a bit today :)

We love Moab, but haven't done all these things! We really want to make it to slot canyon next time we go!

Seems to be an endless amount of slot canyons in Utah, with a few in the area. They're lots of fun!

32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Moab (Utah)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 10, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Moab, a city in eastern Utah, is home to some of the most beautiful natural sights in the whole country.

With state parks by the dozen, each showcasing mountain ecology, incredible geology, unique desert features, water-carved canyons, and so much more, there’s tons to see.

Additionally, the partially calm and contrastingly roaring waters of The Colorado and Green Rivers are both visible and accessible at every turn.

Also known as The Beehive State, Utah’s unique landscape is home to the many adventurous and picturesque things to do in Moab.

Besides its epic natural features, Moab has tons of history, especially Native American history.

Historic Native American artwork, culture, and customs can be found on display in many places around the town.

Furthermore, real dinosaur tracks and fossils can be found in multiple places.

Lastly, museums, ranches, breweries, and wineries, can all be enjoyed during your next visit to Moab.

Take a look at some of the awesome attractions you should add to your Moab travel plans.

Table of Contents

1. Arches National Park

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

Arches National Park in Moab is one of many gorgeous places to visit in Utah.

Lined by the Colorado River on the southeast and amazing geologic structures, the park’s natural landscape is breathtaking.

With more than 2,000 sandstone arches like the massively famous Delicate Arch, the park looks like something out of an epic sci-fi movie.

Each of the many incredible arches towers over the desert landscape of Arches National Park.

Notably, Arches National Park is a red rock wonderland of fantastic formations.

One of the top 10 sites in all of Moab, it is a must see.

The landscape, which provides recreational opportunities like hiking, horseback riding, photography, and more, has awe-inspiring rock formations, the likes of which you’ll never see anywhere else.

Other fun things to do in the park include canyoneering, auto-touring, and rock climbing.

Any trip to Arches National Park must include a stop in the park store where you can pick up maps, books, clothing, postcards, etc.

With so much stuff to do in one place, be sure to pay a visit to Arches National Park.

Address: Utah, United States

2. Island in the Sky

Dmitry Pichugin / Shutterstock

Island in the Sky is a mesa that is situated in the northern part of Canyonlands National Park.

Accessed through a scenic drive along the mesa’s edge, there are frequent lookouts from whence you can observe the beauty of Island in the Sky.

Rugged canyons, carved out by the natural movements of the Colorado River, can also be observed and photographed from lookout areas.

A perfect sightseeing adventure for travelers with only a short amount of time, Island in the Sky is one of many amazing things to see in Moab.

Furthermore, Island in the Sky is a lovely destination for auto touring, short hikes, and photography.

Some of the most popular sights to see here are Grand View Point, Mesa Arch, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome.

Conveniently, a visitors’ center along the scenic drive will help guide you along the treacherous roadway.

An amazing site to see if you’ll be visiting Utah, be sure to add Island in the Sky to your travel plans.

Address: Grand View Point Rd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

3. Canyonlands National Park

LHBLLC / Shutterstock

Southeast Utah is home to the exquisite Canyonlands National Park .

If you’re wondering what to do in Moab, this is your answer.

Known for its sweeping desert landscape with the Colorado River running along its perimeter, Canyonlands National Park is home to Island in the Sky and other noteworthy features.

Towering rock pinnacles, remote canyons, and the whitewater rapids of Cataract Canyon are all popular park features.

One of Moab’s greatest points of interest, Canyonlands National Park is a must do attraction.

Another notable attraction at the park is the Native American paintings of Horseshoe Canyon which are an amazing sight to behold.

With nearly 350,000 acres of colorful canyons, buttes, mesas, and more as well as incredible opportunities for exploration and adventure, Canyonlands National Park is one of the coolest things to see in Moab.

During your visit to the park, you’ll enjoy sightseeing, exploring a unique ecosystem, hiking, biking, boating, and much more.

Moab attractions are not hard to come by, but Canyonlands National Park should definitely top your list.

4. Klondike Bluffs Trail

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The Klondike Bluffs Trail System is a place where you can enjoy a litany of recreational and outdoor activities.

Loaded with opportunities for fun with a serene and picturesque backdrop, Klondike Bluffs Trail is one of the best tourist attractions in Moab.

Notably, there are well-maintained, diverse trails that are suitable for hiking, biking, climbing, and all-terrain vehicles.

With trail stretches of nearly 20 miles, there are clearly denoted trails suitable for motorized and non-motorized recreation.

In addition to all the fun to be had on the trails, during your visit you can camp under the stars in your RV or tent.

There are well-developed campsites, but you’re also welcome to pitch your tent wherever you wish and camp backcountry-style.

Camping is dispersed throughout the entire trail system, so you have the luxury of handpicking your site.

One of the best tourist attractions, be sure Klondike Bluffs Trails finds a place on your itinerary.

Address: Moab, Utah, United States

5. Sand Flats Recreation Area

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Sand Flats Recreation Area is a 9,000-acre recreational area that will answer the pressing question of which things to see in Moab.

One of this destination’s most popular features is the Slickrock Trail that’s open to biking, jeeping, and camping.

Situated in the heart of Utah’s Colorado Plateau, Sand Flats Recreation Area is home to domes, mesas, and peaks that are nearly 13,000 feet high.

With stunning sights at every turn, it’s no wonder visitors to Utah flock to Sand Flats Recreation Area.

Some of the park’s best recreational features include more than 30 miles of bike trails and 4×4 trails and world-renowned challenger courses with spectacular scenery.

Camping is another fun option here.

With 140 campsites to choose from, there are both RV and tent accommodations all of which have amazing scenery as the backdrop.

Sand Flats Recreation Area is a supreme destination that has lots of things to do in Utah .

Address: Sand Flats Rd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

Visiting other parts of Utah? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City ?

6. Faux Falls

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This brilliant desert waterfall answers the pressing question of what to do when visiting the area.

If you’ll be near or around the area during your upcoming trip, make sure to take the time to visit Faux Falls.

Accessible by a short and easy hike, Faux Falls makes a lovely sight to see for families looking to enjoy nature, the outdoors, and scenic beauty.

In fact, the hike to the falls can be done in just 30 minutes.

When visiting the falls, be sure to wear footwear appropriate for hiking, but also pack swimwear.

You’ll want to maximize your fun by enjoying a dip in the swimming hole located at the base of Faux Falls.

Not only will your trip to the falls be fun and scenic, but relatively attainable for all.

Locating the trailhead requires simple directions and the trail itself is quite direct.

An excellent way to spend a few hours in town and one of a few free things to do, Faux Falls is highly recommended.

Address: Flat Pass Rd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

7. Corona Arch Trail

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To say this natural sandstone arch is epic would be an understatement.

Corona Arch , situated just off a trail of the same name, is located in beautiful Moab, Utah.

Situated in a canyon near The Colorado River, Corona Arch Trail is accessible via a one-and-a-half-mile scenic hike.

Of note, Corona Arch is actually a part of two other famed arch formations: Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch.

Consisting of a 2.4-mile out and back trail, the hike to Corona Arch is considered moderate.

One of many popular vacation spots , Corona Arch Trail offers a bundle of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Camping, hiking, river recreation, scenic sights, and more are all ways to spend your time near and around the Corona Arch Trail.

Notably, along the Corona Arch Trail, you’ll cross historic railroad tracks, see the beautiful Bootlegger Canyon, and enjoy an incredible desert landscape.

With so many things to do in Moab, be sure this sightseeing mecca is on your list.

Address: Moab, UT 84532, United States

8. Lion’s Park

Situated only three miles north of Moab, Utah, Lion’s Park is one of many points of interest around the town.

Seated along The Colorado River, Lion’s Park is well-maintained and picturesque, however not very popular.

This hidden gem deserves a place on your travel itinerary.

Surrounded by other popular Moab tourist attractions, Lion’s Park is centrally located to so many fun things to do.

With direct connections to many desirable trails, you can easily see so many amazing sights from Lion’s Park.

With so many lovely paved trails and other excellent amenities, it’s no wonder visitors love Lion’s Park.

Some of the park’s amenities include a children’s playground, restrooms, a water station, and so much more.

Lion’s Park is a much-loved attraction with other fun park features like a volleyball court, baseball fields, and a horseshoe pit.

Lion’s Park is a top Moab attraction that certainly deserves a spot in your travel plans.

Address: UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, United States

9. Fisher Towers Trail

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If you’re looking for excellent places to visit in Utah, be sure to check out Fisher Towers Trail .

This riding trail is an easy course for bike riders and hikers that overlooks the gorgeous Fisher Towers, a series of rock formations that have eroded into unique and picturesque formations.

The trail offers very little shade, so be sure to dress for the weather and bright, glaring conditions.

In addition to hiking and biking, many visitors to Fisher Towers Trail use the formations for rock climbing.

Formed alongside a dangerous ridge, this is not for the untrained or the faint of heart.

Other top activities to do on Fisher Towers Trail include rafting, horseback riding, fishing, and visiting the acclaimed dinosaur park.

If you’re wondering what to do in Utah , Fisher Towers Trail is a noteworthy attraction.

Address: Moab, UT, United States

10. Red Cliffs Lodge

Red Cliffs Lodge

This scenic desert resort sits on the banks of The Colorado River with quite possibly the most captivating views.

Surrounded by Utah’s 2,000-foot red sandstone cliffs, picturesque beauty meets you at every turn.

Providing lodgements like private cabins and spacious rooms, Red Cliffs Lodge is the perfect place to rest your head after a long day of adventure and exploring.

Although its rustic sensibility pervades its aesthetic, the amenities at Red Cliffs Lodge are first-class.

During your stay at Red Cliffs Lodge, you can enjoy the modern fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, soothing hot tubs, and more.

On-property activities include a cultural museum, tennis courts, wine tastings, and other fun expeditions.

Horseback riding and whitewater rafting can also be accessed from the Red Cliffs Lodge.

With so much to do both on the property and in the surrounding area, it’s easy to see why Red Cliffs Lodge is such a hotspot with tourists.

Address: Mile Post 14 Hwy 128, Moab, UT 84532, United States

Exploring other areas of Utah? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in St. George ?

11. Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument

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This state landmark is quite a sight to see.

Essentially, the monument is a rock panel that contains the world’s largest collection of petroglyphs.

One of so many amazing attractions near Moab, Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument is the most famous rock art site in the western United States.

Carved by Native American Indians more than 2,000 years ago, the markings made in these rare ruins tell the stories of Utah, the Native Americans, and the mythologies of their lives.

Located just outside Moab, in Indian Creek, Utah, Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument is one of a few free things to do in the area.

Whether you come for the history, culture, art, or setting, this is one of many sightseeing landmarks that won’t disappoint.

When visiting the monument, you’ll enjoy historic images of forms that resemble humans and animals, tools, and abstract images.

Witnessing this 200-square foot monument is one of the lots of cool things to do in Moab.

Address: UT-211, Monticello, UT 84535, United States

12. Colorado River Rafting

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Running through parts of seven US states, The Colorado River is a 1,450-mile-long river that drains into estuaries all over the southwestern United States.

One of the most fun ways to explore the river is through rafting trips.

While some parts of the river offer high-intensity rafting opportunities perfect for thrill-seekers, others are more mild and suitable for young rafters or those looking for a more subdued experience.

One of the coolest things about rafting trips is that you can select half-day, full-day, or several days of rafting in one stint.

There are many rafting companies in town and each tailors the experience to your desires.

Many Moab attractions provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience The Colorado River.

During guided river rafting tours you’ll be directed to hidden sights along the river as well as an abundance of beautiful scenery.

If you’re wondering what to see during your trip to Utah, be sure The Colorado River is one of them.

Address: United States

13. Hell’s Revenge

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Hell’s Revenge is a four-by-four trail in Moab, Utah.

At a length of six-and-a-half miles long and rife with hazardous terrain, the trail is recommended for only experienced riders.

Of note, the trail can be picked up at the entrance of Sand Flats Recreation Area.

All trails are clearly marked and riders must observe a 15-mile-per-hour speed limit or face consequences.

There are no open play areas, however, the breathtaking views and thrilling terrain make a visit to Hell’s Revenge well worth it.

Notably, the entire course can be completed in two to three hours which makes for a fun and exciting way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Hell’s Revenge is a slick rock trail with steep climbs and descents with edges that are certainly not for the faint of heart.

With trailer parking available for your convenience and thrills by the mile, Hell’s Revenge is one of the best things to do in Moab, Utah.

14. Moab Giants

Moab Giants

This awesome dinosaur park couples fossils with life-size models of prehistoric beasts.

If you’re wondering what to do with children when visiting Moab, Utah, be sure this dinosaur park makes the cut.

With many dinosaur-fraught activities and sights to see, Moab Giants is a super fun place to visit.

Exhibits at the park include both indoor and outdoor exhibits which allow you to tour at your own pace.

Attractions at the park include a prehistoric aquarium, a dinosaur trail, and a 3D theatre.

Moreover, the park is home to other exciting activities like an interactive tracks museum, digging sites, a dinosaur playground, and more.

Moab Giants has many convenient amenities like ample parking, picnic shelters, and restrooms along the outdoor trail.

Additionally, there’s a lovely on-site cafe and darling gift shop.

Undoubtedly, Moab Giants is one of many awesome Moab attractions that are perfect for young children.

Address: 112 UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, United States

15. Moab Museum

Moab Museum

This city museum in the heart of Moab is home to collections of paleontological, geological, and archaeological exhibits.

Notably, this small museum tells big stories about this small area’s history.

Within its lodgements, the Moab Museum has collections of oral histories, photographs, and unique historic relics.

The museum’s exhibits tell the stories of the Moab’s first people, settlers, migration, spirit, land, and more.

Topics like early cowboy life, the Green River, oil/gas drilling, and other pertinent issues are all displayed in the Moab Museum.

Furthermore, the museum frequently hosts special events and educational programming.

A monthly art walk and school programs are some of the inviting regular events you may encounter at the museum.

One of the top museums in Moab, this hotspot is highly recommended.

Address: 118 E Center St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

Looking for more thrills around Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in Park City ?

16. Red River Adventures

Red River Adventures

If you’re looking for things to do that will get your adrenaline pumping, be sure to visit Red River Adventures .

With so many different ways to experience adventure in Moab, this tourist attraction makes thrills and excitement possible for all visitors.

At Red River Adventures, you can rent equipment and join tours to raft, canyoneer, rock climb, ice climb, ski, ride, and more.

If you are traveling to Utah from far distances, the convenience of being able to acquire all of your adventure needs in one place can’t be overstated.

Other fun packages include horseback riding trips, four-by-four tours, and avalanche training.

Packages and tours encompass all four seasons, so any time is a good time to book with Red River Adventures.

With experiences for children and adults as well as the experienced and inexperienced, Red River Adventures will meet all your thrill-seeking needs the next time you visit Utah.

Address: 1140 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

17. RedRock Astronomy

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This unique tour of the night sky is a wonderful experience for travelers with children or anyone interested in astronomy.

During an astronomy trip, you’ll meet with a tour guide at sunset in a designated Red Rock area.

From there, your tour guide will lead you in a convoy to a remote dark sky location far removed from the city lights.

These locations are situated just outside the beautiful Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

Of note, your knowledgeable guide will set up a telescope to share amongst the group; it will be used to take closer looks at discussed celestial features in the sky.

During your RedRock Astronomy experience, you’ll be introduced to tidbits about Moab, your guide, the equipment, and more.

This introduction is followed by a brief lecture about astronomy as well as lots of observance of the night sky and its many unique facets.

Tours last for about two hours and are an epic way to spend an evening in Utah.

Address: 2476 Spanish Valley Dr, Moab, UT 84532, United States

18. Moab Adventure Center

Moab Adventure Center

The Moab Adventure Center is your one-stop-shop for Utah adventure.

With guided area tours, boating adventures, and so much more, if you’re looking for thrills in The Beehive State, this is your place.

Providing visitors with thrills since 1961, you can depend on the professionalism and care they’ll take with you and your travel group.

With tons of experience exploring local rivers, canyons, the Red Rocks, and other area attractions, the center will take you to see exactly what you wish to see.

At Moab Adventure Center, you can book river rafting tours, Hummer tours, guided visits to Arches National Park, and more.

The center offers convenient packages that allow you to select multiple experiences during your stay.

Offering the easiest way to bundle and book the most amount of adventures in one place, it’s no wonder visitors flock to the center each year.

Address: 225 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

19. La Sal Mountain Loop

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This scenic drive is a more than 100-mile loop that weaves in and around parts of Utah, including Moab.

The trail, whose terrain is rated as difficult, offers many activity options along the way.

Additionally, the breathtaking views along the 100-mile stretch can’t be exaggerated.

Stretching from the alpine ridges of the La Sal Mountains to the Red Rock Desert, there are tons to see and do along the La Sal Mountain Loop.

Best of all, you can join guided tours or lead your tour along the loop.

With so many places to visit along one breathtaking stretch, it’s no wonder visitors come from far and wide to travel the Loop.

Along the scenic route, visitors can pick up biking/hiking trails, enjoy the scenery, and more.

For your convenience, there are public restrooms along the route as well as a helpful ranger station.

With the ability to see much of the state on one gorgeous route, you’d be remiss to skip out on the La Sal Mountain Loop .

20. Paddle Moab

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If you’re looking for extreme beauty, nature at its finest, and water sports all wrapped into one, be sure to visit Paddle Moab .

One of the best purveyors of watersports in Moab, this central business offers it all.

With all sorts of watersports and combination packages available, you can’t go wrong here if you’re into aquatic recreation with a heaping helping of nature.

At Paddle Moab, you can choose from recreational activities like stand-up paddleboarding, rafting, kayaking, canyoneering, and more.

With multi-sport adventures that combine calm water tours with the thrills of whitewater sports, you’re sure to have a blast with Paddle Moab.

Added to these experiences are options for desert hikes, mountain climbing, and rappelling.

Moreover, you’ll see parts of Moab that you’d never have the opportunity to see otherwise.

Finally, any time of year is a good time to check in with this top establishment.

Address: 354 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

21. Solfun Mountain Biking

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If you’re in the market for exciting things to do in Moab, book a trip with Soflun Mountain Biking .

Established in 2002, this biking company provides guided bike fun in the hot desert sun.

Notably, hiking and biking tours are led by a husband/wife duo with decades of experience in the Utah deserts and mountains.

With education and safety at the forefront of each of their tours, you can choose Solfun Mountain Biking with confidence.

With world-class tour guides and instructors on their roster, each mountain biking tour is led by one of the best in the business.

Group tours run daily from Dead Horse Point State Park.

Additionally, Solfun provides private tours and lessons if those are of interest and you’re welcome to bring your own bike or rent one from them.

Mountain biking is one of the best ways to see Moab so check out Solfun Mountain Biking soon.

Address: 711 N 500 W, Moab, UT 84532, United States

22. Hauer Ranch

Moab’s Hauer Ranch is the place to go if you’d like to explore the town on horseback.

Notably, the ranch is situated on the banks of the Colorado River so the gushing water serves as the soundtrack for your visit.

Popular as the setting of many movie scenes, Hauer Ranch is sort of famous.

In fact, one of the ranch’s trails allows you to visit movie settings on horseback.

During a visit to the ranch, you can tour the premises, meet the animals, and chat with the ranch hands.

If you’ve come for horseback riding, the ranch provides half-day group rides as well as reservations for private rides.

Guests to the ranch rave about the professionalism, amazing tours, and outstanding setting.

Children as young as seven years old are welcome to join the trail rides so this is an activity the whole family can do together.

If you’re planning a trip to Moab, be sure to bookmark time for Hauer Ranch.

Address: Onion Creek and Hideout Rd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

23. Goblin Valley State Park

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This amazing Utah state park features thousands of hoodoo formations that have been colloquially referred to as “goblins” for decades.

The formations are essentially mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles formed of sandstone in the Red Rock Dessert.

Astoundingly, some of them stand as tall as several yards high.

This unique and colorful valley is unlike any other in The Beehive State.

Often compared to the geology of Mars, Goblin Valley State Park is a wonderful place to explore and camp among these spooky formations.

Other unique features of the park include exposed cliffs, exposed bedrock, an incredible lack of vegetation, and other unique characteristics.

A wonderful place to partake in activities like mountain biking, hiking, disc golf, and night sky observation, Goblin Valley State Park is an astounding sight to behold.

Although Utah is fraught with amazing parks, this one with unique qualities is a must-see.

Be sure to check it out next time you’re passing through The Beehive State.

Address: Goblin Valley Rd, Green River, UT 84525, United States

24. Moab Museum of Film & Western Heritage

Moab Museum of Film & Western Heritage

Located within Moab’s Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage celebrates both local Western heritage as well as the films that were shot right on the property.

Many movies have been filmed in the Canyonlands of Moab in which the museum is set.

The history and nostalgia of those films are recounted and shared within the museum.

Some recognizable film names include “Rio Grande,” “Son of Cochise,” and “Cheyenne Autumn.”

Beyond the cool movie posters, film clippings, news articles, and props that are displayed at the museum, Western heritage is also celebrated there.

The walls of the quaint museum are lined with photographs, articles, and relics that retell the stories of the West.

If you’re looking for a lovely way to learn more about the West and spend an enjoyable hour, be sure to visit this Red Cliff’s museum.

Address: 14 UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, United States

25. Downtown Moab

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If you’re looking for things to do in Moab that are off the beaten path, be sure to check out the town’s downtown area.

It may sound surprising that there are things to do in Moab that are neither outdoors nor adventurous.

However, downtown has excellent restaurants, fun nightlife, an art scene, and more.

With diverse cuisine at every turn, microbreweries by the handful, and food choices running the gamut from world-class fare to western cuisine, your palette is sure to find a few new favorites.

Additionally, shopping in Downtown Moab is rather diversified.

A t-shirt shop, an art gallery, a gift shop, a few trading posts, a rock shop, an outdoor store, and other shops line Main Street for your retail enjoyment.

If you’re looking for a break from all the action-packed adventure that you’re surely seeking in Moab, be sure to check out Downtown’s Main Street.

26. Moab Brewery

Moab Brewery

Moab Brewery is the only one in town and is also home to its largest restaurant.

Founded in 1996, this desert oasis will quench your thirst after a long day of adventures.

With the beautiful desert landscape as its backdrop, the brewery serves up fresh, hand-crafted ales.

Some of the brewery’s specialties include a red ale, an IPA, a Hefeweizen, a lager, and others.

In addition to the tasty brews, the 25th-anniversary menu features appetizers perfect for sharing, fresh salads, juicy burgers, handheld sandwiches, dynamite entrees, excellent side dishes, and incredible desserts.

Of note, the brewery is open seven days a week and has an inviting family-friendly atmosphere.

If you’re camping in the area, the brewery is the perfect spot for packaged goods and takeout food.

Finally, the brewery has a cool gear shop perfect for grabbing unique souvenirs and apparel.

If you like a good brew and an awesome lunch/dinner, check out this local hotspot.

Address: 686 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

27. Moab Rock Shop

Moab Rock Shop

This gift/collectors’ shop screams Moab.

In a place so geology-centric, a local rock shop is only fitting.

If you’re looking to take a piece of this spectacular place home with you, this one-of-a-kind shop is the spot to visit.

With an expansive selection of Utah rocks, fossils, and minerals, you can score awesome treasure at the rock shop.

With indoor, outdoor, and clearance sections of local rocks, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Furthermore, the shop has a wonderful array of fossils from all over the world.

From specimens worth 10 cents to specimens worth thousands of dollars, there’s no telling what you’ll encounter.

Lastly, handpicked, authentic fossils are a specialty of the shop.

From fossilized fish to dinosaur bones and teeth, Moab Rock Shop is fraught with wonderful treasures.

Be sure to visit this local shop during your next stay in town.

Address: 600 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532, United States

28. Scott M. Matheson Wetlands Preserve

Scott M. Matheson Wetlands Preserve

This Utah wetlands conservancy is a lovely place to visit if interested in exploring Utah ecosystems outside of the desert.

With lush and verdant brush and foliage like bulrush and cattail, black willow, and cottonwood, nature observance is quite special at the preserve.

In addition to the unique vegetation, the preserve is home to incredible animals like 200 species of birds such as songbirds, lazuli buntings, song sparrows, great blue herons, and the list goes on.

When visiting the preserve you will walk a mile-long looping trail: a boardwalk that makes for easy traversing; the walking conditions are suitable for all ages.

At the heart of the trail are a teaching station and map station for your convenience.

The preserve suggests bringing binoculars and bird guides to optimize your experience.

One of the most beautiful places to go in the US , any time of year is a good time to visit the astounding Scott M. Matheson Wetlands Preserve .

Address: 934 Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

29. Ken’s Lake Campground

Ken’s Lake Campground

Ken’s Lake Campground is a recreational campground with outstanding camping accommodations and loads of fun to be had.

Of note, Ken’s Lake Campground has individual campsites available for tent or RV camping.

Situated adjacent to the campground’s man-made reservoir, Ken’s has tons of opportunities for water recreation like boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and more.

Moreover, hiking and horseback riding trails weave around the campground.

Your one-stop-camping shop for outdoor living and recreation, Ken’s Lake Campground is a blast!

Surrounded by red rock fins, sagebrush flats, and distant mountain views, your time at Ken’s will have Utah’s famed beauty as its backdrop.

Some of the campgrounds have lovely shaded areas while others are wide open to the bright western sun.

Finally, Ken’s Lake Campground offers wonderful recreational activities such as birding, auto touring, horse camping, paddling, picnicking, and more.

Address: Kens Lake Campground Rd, Moab, UT 84532, United States

30. ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours

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If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind way to get your adrenaline pumping while exploring the Utah desert, be sure to check in with ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours .

One of these tours will take you off the beaten path while you check out unseen southern parts of the state.

This establishment brings you to see unique and remote features that no other touring company in the area does.

You’ll have the opportunity to ride through mountain ranges, incredible valleys, and wide-open expanses of land.

One of the coolest sights you’ll see on one of these tours is the Glitter Mine, a working gypsum mine, that only this touring company has permits to see.

With twists and turns, exhilarating terrain, and fabulous scenery, you can’t beat an ATV and Jeep Adventure Tour.

If you are in the market for an adrenaline-pumping way to enjoy all of the incredible scenery in Utah, make sure to book with this company.

Address: UT, United States

31. Moab Food Truck Park

Moab Food Truck Park

Just what it sounds like, the Moab Food Truck Park is a casual outdoor area where you can survey and patronize a variety of awesome food trucks.

Open seven days a week and populated by individually operated and owned food trucks, the park is a good old time.

Some of the food trucks include a bagel truck, a Chinese truck, a shaved ice truck, a taco truck, and many other awesome four-wheeled eateries.

The casual atmosphere of the Food Truck Park is on par with the low-key, outdoorsy vibe in Moab.

One of the best ways to enjoy the eateries is by sampling and sharing from the different food trucks on site.

Grab a taco from one truck, a bagel from another, and cap it off with dessert from the shaved ice truck and you surely will not be disappointed.

If you were looking for a casual way to fill your belly after a long day of adventure, a visit to the Food Truck Park is a must.

Address: 39 W 100 N, Moab, UT 84532, United States

32. Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center

Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center

The Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.

Perfect for toddlers, children, and families, this is a great place to come for a dip in the pool or to lounge in the sun.

Notably, the center features a six-lane indoor pool, a three-lane outdoor lap pool, a massive outdoor leisure pool, and even a play structure with water slides.

Surrounding the outdoor swimming area is a grassy lounge area perfect for throwing a ball, picnicking, or hanging about.

Conveniently, the center has men’s and women’s locker rooms, family changing rooms, and even an awesome retail shop.

Other convenient amenities include a concession stand, showers, and private rental facilities.

A great place for hanging with children or winding down after a long day in the desert, the Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center is worth checking out.

Start Planning Your Trip To Moab

Moab, Utah is home to so many wonderful natural features, a diverse ecosystem, expansive deserts, amazing geological structures, and so much more.

Although most visitors come to town seeking adventure and nature observance, there’s stuff to do for everyone.

Moab is beautiful, welcoming, and fraught with loads to do.

History, art, culture, and nature all come to life in this amazing Utah town.

Be sure to check out a few of the awesome attractions outlined herein.

Happy travels.

• Arts in Moab
• Arches National Park
• Arches Reservations
• Arches Webcams
• Canyonlands National Park
• Colorado River
• Dead Horse Point
• Dinosaur Museums + Hikes
• La Sal Mountains
• Movie Sites
• Night Skies
• Sand Flats Recreation Area
• Scenic Byway U-128
• Scenic Byway U-313
• Scenic Byways Overview
• Southern Utah National Parks
• Winter in Moab
• Accessible Adventures
• ATV/UTV Riding
• Bird Watching
• City Recreation
• E-Bike Guide to Moab
• Guides + Outfitters + Services
• Horseback Riding
• Motorcycle Road Touring
• Motorcycle Trail Riding
• Mountain Biking
• Photography
• River Activities
• Road Biking
• Rock Climbing + Canyoneering
• Scenic Flights
• Winter Activities
• Bed and Breakfasts
• Campgrounds
• Campgrounds - BLM
• Campgrounds - Commercial
• Campgrounds - National, State + Forest
• Guest Houses
• Hotels + Motels
• Property Management
• Accessibility
• Be Prepared
• Calendar of Events
• Do It Like A Local
• Free Travel Guide
• Fire Restrictions
• Group Tours
• Moab Canyon Pathway

Moab Outdoor Adventure Guide

• Nature's Masterpiece
• Pet Information
• Press and Media
• School Packet
• Sun/Moon Rise/Set
• Sustainable Tourism
• Grocery Stores
• Laundry Services
• Long Term Vehicle + Trailer Parking
• Moab Info Center
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Experience Moab

Daily flights to moab.

For your next visit consider flying directly into Moab’s Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY).

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Upcoming events, desert rats 150 (long distance running event), geology of canyonlands, moab free concert series.

Our Moab Outdoor Adventure Guide is available for free at the Moab Information Center (corner of Main & Center Streets in Moab). The eBook version is available for download by clicking below. This is the most comprehensive guide to activities available on the public lands surrounding Moab that we have ever published.

Grand County Fair

Independence day celebration.

What’s New

• New Scheduled Jet Service to Phoenix – Contour Airlines begins scheduled jet service between Moab and Phoenix on February 1, 2024. Read more…

• Celebrate 100 Years of Cinematic History in Utah – Utah, a hidden gem among Hollywood’s real-world backlots, has unfurled its scenic beauty to filmmakers for a remarkable century. Read more…

• Discover the Magic of Moab in Winter! – With off-season rates making our hotels irresistibly affordable, and an array of retail shops and restaurants welcoming visitors year-round, there’s no better time to bask in the unique charm of Moab in winter. Read more…

• Bega Metzner Elected to Prestigious AFCI Board – Our local Film Commissioner is in the news! Read more…

• Arches Timed Entry Reservation System Announced for 2024 – Between April 1, 2024 and October 31, 2024 Arches National Park is implementing a Pilot Timed Entry Reservation System. Read more…

• Free Art Trails & Restaurant Pass – Discover Moab’s vibrant art and culinary scenes with our FREE Restaurant and Art Trails Pass. Unlock the best of Moab’s culture, savor exquisite cuisine, and earn prizes and exclusive discounts along the way! Learn more…

• Moab Area Transit – The Moab Area Transit (MAT) pilot program is a new, fare-free, transit service in the City of Moab. Read more…

Welcome to Moab

Welcome to Moab, Utah, where Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are just a part of the breathtaking red rock landscapes that surround this stunning destination. Combining small-town hospitality with unparalleled natural beauty and the cool waters of the Colorado River, Moab has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the American Southwest.

As you explore the unique scenery of Moab, take time to relax and enjoy the welcoming hospitality of this charming resort town. Thanks to its perfect climate, Moab attracts year-round outdoor events and festivals, while the downtown business district has responded with an array of restaurants, microbreweries, shops, and galleries. Whether you’re in the mood for regional southwestern cuisine or world-class gourmet fare, Moab’s diverse culinary scene is sure to satisfy any palate. And for those looking for a souvenir to remember their visit, the downtown shops offer a great selection of southwestern arts and jewelry, t-shirts, and much more to browse through at your leisure.

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MIC Free Lecture Series: Ecological Interactions Between Mountain Goats and American Pikas

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Discover Nature’s Masterpiece

Moab’s iconic national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, are just the beginning. Surrounding the town are diverse natural wonders—rivers, forests, and Bureau of Land Management land—all waiting to be explored. Even the smallest desert pothole in Moab is home to unique creatures vital to the ecosystem. Pause to reflect on the intricate balance of life during your exploration. Whether you’re a naturalist or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s always more to discover in Moab’s desert ecosystem. Immerse yourself in its wonders, taking a deep breath and appreciating Nature’s Masterpiece.

We invite you to check out our constantly expanding series of science and nature videos , which showcase the fragile beauty of Moab’s desert landscape and lesser-known experiences.

Moab Information Center 25 E Center St (Corner of Main and Center Streets) 7 Days/Week 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Once you arrive in Moab, your first stop should be the Moab Information Center (MIC). Conveniently located at the corner of Main and Center Street in Moab, the MIC offers information on recreational opportunities and visitor services throughout southeastern Utah. Allow some time for the interpretive displays and large gift shop featuring guide books, maps, videos, videos, postcards, and much more.

Moab to Monument Valley Film Commission

Become a part of southeastern Utah’s rich film history and choose this stunning location for your next project!

The Moab to Monument Valley Film Commission holds the title of the longest running film commission in the world. Established 1949. We are here to facilitate whatever your production needs may be!

Utah’s competitive incentive program offers a fully refundable tax credit of up to 25% on in-state spend, which helps you cut production costs without sacrificing quality.

FILMMOAB.COM | 435-260-0097

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28 Adventurous Things to Do in Moab (+ Itinerary!)

Moab is one of the best adventure hubs in the US. Here are the best things to do including hiking, biking, camping, scenic drives and more.

The town of Moab, Utah is truly an adventure hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Red rock canyons, slickrock trails, winding rivers, and panoramic views make it an amazing place for hiking, mountain biking, camping, rafting, and more.

I live just a few hours’ drive away from Moab in Salt Lake City, so Ryan and I often take trips down to the area, especially in the shoulder season to get some desert sun. We’ve explored many of the best things to do in Moab, and it remains one of my favorite destinations in Utah.

While a lot of people visit Moab for its proximity to Aches and Canyonlands National Parks (which are amazing, and I’ll cover some of my favorite things to do in each below), there are many other incredible outdoor adventures to be had outside the national parks as well.

In this post, I share my top things to do in Moab, gathered from weeks of exploring the area’s nooks and crannies.

Hiking in Moab

Hiking in Moab is what draws a lot of visitors to the area. From epic hikes to natural rock formations to scenic hikes that highlight the best views around Moab, to overnight backpacking trips in the desert, there is something for everyone. Below I share my favorite hiking trails around Moab.

1. Take a Sunset hike at Dead Horse State Park

Dead Horse State Park has expansive views of surrounding Moab and Canyonlands National Park that are impressive during the daytime — but go for the sunset and you’ll get some really jaw-dropping scenery.

I recommend hiking the 5-mile Dead Horse Rim Loop Trail  to get the best views. It’s also pet-friendly and a relatively easy trail that should be accessible for most hikers.

There is a campground at Dead Horse State Park or check out the yurt rentals for a fun glamping experience.

Fun fact: Dead Horse Point was the location for the final scene in the movie Thelma and Louise.

2. Hike to a waterfall on the Mary Jane Canyon Trail

On our recent trip to Moab, Ryan and I hiked the  Mary Jane Canyon Trail  and absolutely loved it! The 7.6-mile trail follows a wet riverbed deep into rust-colored canyons. As the canyon chokes up, the hike culminates at a cascading waterfall. I highly recommend getting all the way there, as the waterfall is stunning.

It’s a great hike in Moab for people of all skill levels since it’s not technical and relatively flat. Plus, the trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup along, too. Please make sure to pack out their poop!

Mary Jane Canyon Trailhead directions

Tip: Wear an old pair of tennis shoes or a supportive pair of water shoes, like Astrals . You’ll be in the riverbed the entire time, so your feet will get wet.

3. Do a Night Hike to Corona Arch

Arches National Park is known for its many amazing hikes to natural rock arch formations, but if you’re looking to beat the crowds, I highly recommend doing the 3-mile out-and-back hike out to Corona Arch .

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider hiking to Corona Arch at night. Many people hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park at night, but here you’re likely to find a lot more solitude.

Daytime temps in Moab can be scorching, so an evening hike in summer is more comfortable, and it’s also a great opportunity for nighttime photography.

Taking in the starry night sky and moon rising over the Corona Arch is easily one of the best hikes to do near Moab. Be sure to bring a headlamp and pay attention to the trail markers as you hike out so you don’t get lost.

Corona Arch Trailhead directions

Tips for visiting Moab’s arches

• Get an early or late afternoon start to avoid crowds and beat the heat
• Stay on the trails. It can be easy to get lost since many of the trails are simply white lines painted on the rocks. Deviating from the trails can also harm the fragile desert ecosystems .
• Bring lots of water. The hot sun and exposed terrain make it easy to get dehydrated. Bring plenty of water and use sun protection .
• Don’t climb on the arches! These natural rock formations can be very delicate. You don’t want to be that person who causes a famous arch to come tumbling down.
• Brush up on some additional desert hiking tips

4. Hike in Arches National Park

The entrance to Arches National Park sits just outside of Moab and you definitely don’t want to skip it. The park can get busy, but seeing the towering rock formations up close is by far one of the best things to do in Moab.

There are a handful of great hikes in Arches National Park including the popular treks out to Delicate Arch as well as Landscape Arch and Double Arch . For more hike recommendations and photos from my visits to Arches, head over to our post on the Best Hikes in Arches National Park .

Read next: Planning a road trip? Check out our 9-Day Utah National Parks Itinerary .

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5. Hike to Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park

Mesa Arch is one of the most popular attractions in the Island in the Sky area of Canyonlands National Park, but for good reason. Perched at the edge of a cliff, this picturesque arch offers breathtaking panoramic views of vast canyons and distant mesas

If you want to make the most of your hike out to Mesa Arch, sunrise is an epic time to visit. As the sun comes up, the rays hit the underside of the arch, turning it into a fiery orange glow. (Just don’t expect to be alone as this is a very popular sunrise vista).

The hike to Mesa Arch is a relatively easy 0.7-mile loop. The trailhead is about an hour’s drive from Moab, or you could camp at the nearby Island in the Sky campground to ensure you make it up by sunrise.

Mesa Arch Trailhead directions

Read next: Want to spend more time in Canyonlands? Check out our post on the Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park .

6. Hike the Grandstaff Canyon Trail

Grandstaff Canyon Trail is a stunning 5.7-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the impressive Morning Glory Natural Bridge. It’s a fun and engaging trail to do – there are creek crossings, some light scrambling sections, caves to explore, towering sandstone canyon walls, impressive views, and more.

The trail culminates at a thin slice of an arch set between two towering canyon walls. There’s a nice area below to relax and enjoy this beautiful place before returning back down the way you came.

When we hiked Grandstaff Canyon, we saw several people rappelling down from the top of the arc, which looked fun. You can book a rappelling tour with Moab Adventure Center .

Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead directions

Biking in Moab

Moab is the original ‘mecca’ for mountain biking and riders still travel from all over the world to experience the famous Moab slickrock trails. But you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy biking in Moab. Below are a few ways to explore the Moab area on two wheels.

7. Pedal the Moab Canyon Pathway

The Moab Canyon Pathway is a 9-mile paved recreation path that starts in town and heads north, paralleling Highway 191, out to the Moab Brand Trails network.

It’s a great way to get out and enjoy Moab’s red rock landscape by bike without needing to tackle the challenging mountain biking trails.

You could also add on 4-miles by taking a detour onto the Colorado River Bike Path.

8. E-bike the Slickrock bike trail

There is no shortage of world-class mountain biking in Moab, but one of the most famous trails is the Slickrock bike trail. Originally created for moto riders to practice their trials skills, it’s now a playground for mountain bikers.

E-bike riders listen up! The Slickrock bike trail is one of the only mountain bike trails in Moab that is e-bike-friendly . It’s actually a great trail to do with the help of a pedal-assist bike because the entire 12-mile loop is quite challenging and tiring

You can also warm up with the 2.3-mile Practice Loop which will still give you a taste of slickrock riding.

9. Mountain bike The Whole Enchilada

The Whole Enchilada is an epic shuttled route for experienced mountain bikers that starts high up in the La Sal Mountains and plunges over 7,000 ft down to the Colorado River. Along the way, the route traverses through several ecosystems from high alpine meadows to pine forests and aspen groves all the way down to the cacti-studded desert.

The Whole Enchilada is one of Becky’s, our behind-the-scenes assistant, favorite rides for its technical terrain, incredible views, and all-day adventure. Read her write-up of the Whole Enchilada to get a better idea of what it entails and whether it’s a good fit for you.

Want a guided tour? Book a mountain biking tour of Moab with a local guide.

10. Plan a biking trip on the White Rim Trail

The White Rim Trail is a 72-mile doubletrack road that traverses the northern boundary of Canyonlands National Park outside of Moab.

It’s a popular loop for high-clearance 4×4 vehicles, but it’s also an unforgettable trip that can be done by bike.

I biked the White Rim Trail as a 4-day vehicle-supported trip several years ago over Halloween weekend, and while it was challenging, it was also an incredible experience filled with jaw-dropping views and awesome remote camping. Plus with a support vehicle, you can hop in the truck if you ever get too pooped.

The White Rim Trail can also be done as a self-supported bikepacking trip or you can book a tour with several tour operators in Moab.

Paddling in Moab

The Colorado River runs just west of Moab and it offers a ton of great paddling opportunities for visitors. Whether you’re looking for an overnight rafting trip or just want to get out on the water for the day, I share the best things to do in Moab for water lovers.

11. Float the Colorado River

Grab your packraft or ducky and some friends for a river rafting float down the Colorado River. In my opinion, floating on the Colorado River is one of the best things to do in Moab. Not only is it an easy way to beat the crowds and stay cool, but you’ll also get a different perspective of the Moab red rocks from the water.

We used our  Kokopelli Rogue packrafts  on a particularly flat section and thought they were the perfect boat for this mellow paddle. We put in at the bridge along Highway 191 as you enter town and took out at Wall Street.

You can also book guided day rafting trips on the Colorado River’s Daily Section . This section has a bit more action for those who want to experience some rapids.

12. Float the Green River

The Green River is a scenic waterway that carves a path through the stunning and dramatic canyonlands west of Moab before emptying into the Colorado River. If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing multi-day trip, floating the Labyrinth Canyon is a great way to enjoy a 45-68 mile flat water stretch of the Green River all the while being rewarded with spectacular scenery.

I did Labyrinth Canyon as a 5-day canoe trip and loved the remoteness and natural beauty of the adventure.

Planning a Labyrinth Canyon river rafting or canoeing trip does require some logistical planning, but it’s worth the effort!

13. Paddleboard on Ken’s Lake

Ken’s Lake is a small lake about 10 miles south of Moab that is set against the stunning backdrop of red rock bluffs and the La Sal Mountains.

It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. Grab your paddleboard or kayak and spend a few hours floating around the lake. There’s also a campground at Ken’s Lake if you want to spend more time by the water.

If you’re looking for a short but sweet hike in the area, Faux Falls is an easy hike from Ken’s Lake and is a great place to have a picnic or watch the sunset.

Scenic Drives

Moab has a ton of great scenic drives, many of which feature impressive points of interest and natural rock formations that you can get out of the car and explore. It’s important to note, though, that many roads around Moab are only accessible by high-clearance 4×4 off-road vehicles. The scenic drives I recommend below are suitable for most cars.

14. Head out to Sand Flats Recreation Area

The Sand Flats Recreation Area is located northeast of town and offers a scenic drive up through Moab’s red desert landscape and into the foothills of the La Sal Mountains.

The road is well-maintained for about 17 miles, so it’s a great drive for most vehicles. There is an entrance fee to access Sand Flats Recreation Area, which you can pay at the entrance booth.

If you want to stretch your legs, there are lots of hiking and mountain biking trails off of Sand Flats Road. For hiking, check out the 1.8-mile Juniper Loop. For mountain bikers, Falcon Flow is a fun intermediate-friendly ride.

Sand Flats Recreation Area driving directions

15. Explore Kane Creek Road

The drive along Kane Creek Road takes you out of Moab and past the eastern banks of the Colorado River. The well-maintained dirt road then heads into the red rock walls of Hunter Canyon. Along the drive, there are several trailheads and interesting stops like the Birthing Scene Petroglyph, Hunter Arch, and remote camping areas.

The road does continue on through the canyon but soon traverses up some steep switchbacks that could be pretty scary if you aren’t accustomed to this kind of driving.

Kane Creek Road driving directions

16. Drive out to Big Spring Canyon Overlook

Big Spring Canyon Overlook is located near the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. The drive out there takes about an hour and a half one-way from Moab, but it’s super scenic and worth doing if you want to get better views of the National Park.

Along the Needles drive, there are lots of scenic overlooks, hiking trailheads, and points of interest like ruins and petroglyphs.

Once you get out to the overlook, I recommend hiking the 2.4-mile Slickrock Foot Trail to stretch your legs and get better views.

If you want to explore further, book a campsite at the nearby Needles District campground.

Big Springs Canyon Overlook driving directions

17. Drive the La Sal Mountain Loop

The 60-mile La Sal Mountain Loop offers a very different perspective of the region that contrasts sharply with the typical desert landscape.

This fully paved loop takes drivers away from the red rock canyons and plateaus and up into the alpine heights of the La Sal Mountains. As you drive, the views transition from vast desert expanses to verdant forests, meadows, and eventually, snow-capped peaks.

Along the way, there are numerous viewpoints, trailheads, and iconic landmarks to stop at like Castle Valley, the Colorado River, Oowah Lake (short detour), and more.

Due to its elevation, the La Sal Mountain Loop also offers a cooler retreat from the summer heat of the Moab Valley below. However, it’s important to know that the road is steep in places with tight switchbacks and can be slick or snow-covered in colder months.

La Sal Loop driving directions

Camping in Moab is an adventure in and of itself. Whether you book a picturesque campground by the Colorado River, a deluxe glamping tent with all the amenities, or you find a sweet dispersed spot in the desert, Moab is full of great camping opportunities for everyone.

18. Camp at Porcupine Rim Campground

For sweeping views of the mesa and valleys that make Moab so beautiful, spend a few nights camping out at the dispersed  Porcupine Rim Campground .

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The campground is an hour’s drive from Moab’s downtown and a 4WD vehicle is preferred, but not required if you have good clearance and off-road driving skills.

Keep in mind that the road may sometimes be closed if there is any flooding, so stay up to date on the current conditions before heading out.

Also for the best chance at scoring a good site at this small campground, visit mid-week.

19. Rent a yurt at Dead Horse State Park

For a unique camping experience, rent a yurt at Dead Horse State Park. I stayed i one when they were brand new the night before my White Rim Trail biking trip started, and it was a fun way to gather with friends. There are two yurt areas within the State Park: Moenkopi and Wingate Yurts.

The Wingate Yurts are closer to the trails, visitor center, and campground, but pets are not allowed.

The Moenkopi Yurts are more private and farther from Dead Horse Point, but pets are allowed.

Before you book:

• Bedding is not provided
• There is a two-night stay minimum
• Pets are only allowed in the Moenkopi yurts
• The yurts have heating, cooling, and electricity
• Cooking must be done outside the yurts (gas grills are provided)

20. Stay at Moab Under Canvas

Moab Under Canvas is a safari-style luxury glamping experience in the desert outside of Moab. The tents include plush beds, private bathrooms, wood-burning stoves, and private decks to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Prices start at $200/night, so it’s definitely not a budget-friendly place to stay, but if you want to splurge, I highly recommend it!

Pets are allowed and there is a grill area where you can cook your own meals. Moab Under Canvas also provides an adventure concierge service that will help you book your adventures.

21. Camp at a BLM Campground along the Colorado River

There are a handful of really nice BLM campgrounds along the Colorado River both north and south of Moab. They are all available on a first-come-first-serve basis and most have direct access to the river.

These campsites fill up fast, though, so it’s best to get there early in the morning to see if there is a spot available. The campgrounds do not have potable water, but there are pit toilets. Nightly fees are around $20.

Below is a list of BLM campgrounds along the Colorado River. You can learn more and see where they are located on the Moab BLM camping map .

North of Moab along Route 128

• Goose Island Campground
• Drinks Canyon Campground
• Hal Canyon Campground
• Oak Grove Campground
• Big Bend Campground
• Lower Onion Creek Campground
• Hittle Bottom Campground
• Dewey Bridge Campground

South of Moab along Kane Springs Road

• Kings Bottom Campground
• Moonflower Canyon Campground

South of Moab along Potash Road

• Jaycee Park Campground
• Williams Bottom Campground

Climbing & Canyoneering

Moab seems to cater to every outdoor enthusiast, including rock climbers and canyoneers. We don’t have as much experience with these outdoor sports as the others listed above, but here are some popular rocking climbing and canyoneering adventures in Moab.

22. Sign up for a climbing progression series

Have you always wanted to learn how to climb? This 5-day Rock Climbing Progression Series is a great way to learn the basics of rock climbing and build your confidence outside of the climbing gym.

Run by Golden Mountain Guides, you’ll learn how to safely scale and descend rock faces with a team of professional rock climbing guides and peers.

I did something similar for skiing. I wanted to learn how to be a better skier, so I signed up for a 3-day women’s ski camp at Alta and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done to improve my outdoor skills.

Just looking to climb for the day? You can hire a full-day or half-day private climbing guide as well.

23. Go canyoneering

The red rock landscape outside of Moab is full of nooks and crannies that are perfect for canyoneering expeditions. Unless you’re an experienced canyoneer, though, I don’t recommend attempting any serious routes on your own. Instead, check out the canyoneering tours offered by Red River Adventures. You can choose from easy half-day outings or test your skills and stamina with a more difficult route.

I mentioned seeing some people rappeling down Morning Glory Arch above, which is one of Red River Adventures’ tours.

Explore Town & Local Events

Moab is a bustling desert town with lots to see and do. It’s easy to get put off by all the tourist activity, but I do recommend spending at least a few hours walking around downtown Moab to check out the shops and restaurants.

24. Eat at Moab Garage

Moab Garage is an awesome local eatery to grab breakfast or lunch, including several vegan options. They serve great coffee as well as delicious donuts, breakfast fare, and filling lunch plates. They’re open 8am – 3pm Thursday through Sunday.

25. Browse Moab Made

Moab Made is a local artisan gift shop located in downtown Moab, right on the main street. Every item sold in Moab Made is locally crafted or designed. It’s a great place to browse for art, jewelry, pottery, and more. Plus, you know your money is going back to the community!

26. Eat at the Moab Food Truck Park

Located just a block away from the main street in downtown Moab, the Moab Food Truck Park features a handful of vendors serving yummy food. From authentic tacos to handmade gelato, you’re sure to find something for every palate.

Looking for vegan food? Check out the Moab Kitchen food truck . It’s parked a few blocks away from the food truck park on W. Center Street. It serves the best vegan breakfast sandwiches I’ve ever had.

27. Catch some live music at Woody’s Tavern

Woody’s Tavern is a cozy neighborhood bar and restaurant that has been a favorite Moab hangout for decades. It’s also a great place to catch live music from local bands like Stonefed and Meandercat.

You can find the updates on shows and what’s happening on the Woody’s Tavern Facebook Page .

28. Check out Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

If you like dinosaurs – and who doesn’t? – the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is a worthwhile stop to spend an hour or two, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

You’ll learn fascinating facts about these giants that once roamed around what is now Moab and the vast surrounding canyonlands.

A few of the interactive exhibits include a 5D prehistoric aquarium, fossilized dinosaur tracks, lifesized dinosaur models, and more.

The museum is located about 10 minutes outside of downtown Moab, across from the Brand Trails network. You can even ride your bike along the Moab Canyon Pathway all the way there.

4-6 Day Moab Itinerary

You could spend weeks – even months – in Moab and not fit in all the best hiking trails, bike rides, water sports, or other adventurous things to do.

To make the most of your time in Moab, here is a 4-6 day itinerary that you can customize based on your interests and how much time you have.

• Breakfast at Moab Kitchen
• Hike in Arches National Park
• Hike the Mary Jane Canyon Trail
• Drive the La Sal Loop
• Dinner at 98 Center in Moab

• Mesa Arch for sunrise
• Hike the Dead Horse Point Loop and stay for sunset
• Float the Colorado River
• Dinner at Moab Kitchen

• Mountain biking or bike tour with Rim Tours
• Hike to Corona Arch
• Moab Giants Dinosaur Park on your way out

Best Time to Visit Moab

Moab is a year-round destination, the shoulder seasons – spring and fall – are the best times to visit for cooler temps. Keep in mind, though, that spring and fall are also peak tourist seasons, so try to avoid visiting on the weekends and holidays to beat the crowds. Not only will it be more pleasant for you, but overcrowding can damage trails and the delicate surrounding environment.

Spring: March through May brings large crowds to Moab (which is like its own kind of condition), so plan to hike mid-week, early morning, or choose lesser-known trails.

Weather-wise, spring temps are typically in the 60-80 degree range. You’ll want to wear layers when hiking so you can adjust as needed to keep cool and warm as the temps change throughout the day. See our guide to what to wear hiking for specific recommendations.

Fall: Fall brings pleasant conditions and beautiful autumn hikes from late September through November. While September can still be busy, crowds tend to die down a bit in October and November. Just br ing a rain jacket  and warm layers in anticipation of the occasional fall thunderstorm. It can be cooler, especially in the evenings, than you might anticipate. See our guide to what to wear hiking in the fall for specific recommendations.

Summer: Southern Utah is known for its intense summer heat. Grand County, home to Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the surrounding area, receives the most search and rescue calls of anywhere in Utah and many of those are due to heat exhaustion.

Daytime temperatures from June into September tend to be in the 90s and even 100s. If you do plan your trip to Moab in the summer, it’s essential that you get an early morning start or wait until later in the evening to avoid being outside during the high heat of the day, which can be extremely dangerous.

Or even better, plan your activities around the Colorado River, like floating or white water rafting. Be sure to bring sun protection for all your outdoor adventures and plenty of water.

Winter: Winter can be a great time to visit Moab, but know that Moab does get snow and temperatures can drop down into the 20s or below at night and hover in the 40s or 50s during the day.

I actually love visiting Moab in the winter because the crowds are fewer and you can often get some of the more popular trails and things to do in Moab to yourself.

Pack warm winter hiking layers and a Mirocspikes for your shoes if you want to hike in Moab during the winter.

Other Tips for Visiting Moab

When planning your visit to Moab, Utah, it’s essential to understand this unique desert environment so you can be prepared for a fun and safe trip while being a responsible visitor at the same time. No matter the destination, it is essential to practice the ethics of Leave No Trace . However, the sensitive landscape of Moab requires folks to be even more mindful of their impact and to tread lightly in this naturally beautiful place. Small missteps can add up to long-term impacts, and it’s up to all of us to responsibly enjoy each destination we visit to keep it beautiful for future generations.

So, while you’re planning, use these tips for visiting Moab to get up to speed on what to look out for, how to be prepared, and how to be a responsible outdoor enthusiast when you visit this outdoor adventure hub.

Explore Beyond the National Parks

A good adventure means getting off the beaten path. While the National Parks are amazing, Arches in particular experiences overcrowding. Luckily I gave you 28 other adventurous things to do in Moab so you can seek out different adventures that are not the most obvious.

Practice Good Trail Etiquette

On Moab’s multi-use trails, it’s not unlikely that you will encounter other visitors, some on foot, two wheels, or even four. Many of the backcountry dirt roads in and around Moab are open to ATVs, and other kinds of Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) — including any vehicle with four-wheel-drive — so things can get busy. Some areas along the trail systems are also nearby neighborhoods. Be respectful to the locals by staying aware of your surroundings and keep your speed down.

If you’re hiking or mountain biking, practice good trail etiquette while sharing the trail: be courteous, know the rules (mountain bikers should always yield to hikers), and be friendly to others. Not only does this create a great experience for everyone, but you’ll be leading by example as well.

Pack it In, Pack it Out

Whether you’re hiking, camping, or vanlifing, be sure to pack out and properly dispose of everything, including your poop AND your toilet paper if bathroom facilities are not available. One of the best tips for visiting Moab is to come prepared to do this!

Due to high use, human waste is a serious issue at dispersed campsites, and in some areas (like the Canyonlands backcountry), poop must be packed out in approved waste bags or portable toilet systems . Approved waste bags can be purchased at the Moab Information Center and local outdoor retailers.

If you see a piece of trash while you’re out and about, pick it up and help leave the area even better. Pack out pet waste as well.

Tread Lightly and Stay on the Trail

There are many reasons to stay on established trails while recreating in Moab. This avoids damaging the cryptobiotic soil , which has delicate flora that’s crucial to the health of the desert ecosystem and can literally take thousands of years to grow. The soil is made up of moss, lichen, and fungi that retain moisture for other species to thrive and helps reduce erosion in desert environments. Even a single footprint can have a seriously negative impact, and in some cases, it may never recover.

Local’s even have a catchy slogan to help visitors remember, “don’t bust the crust” . When you meet a group on the trail, let them pass or politely pass them without stepping off the trail to avoid making it wider.

Leave Behind What You Find

In addition to preserving the soil, don’t pick up, move, or take home any rocks or artifacts of any kind. Moab is home to many natural cultural features, like Native American artifacts from the Navajo, Ute, and Pueblo Tribes. Here, you are able to see preserved remnants that are thousands of years old, like ancient stone dwellings, rock carvings, and former places of worship.

There are also preserved dinosaur footprints, wall drawings, and more. If you are lucky enough to stumble upon something that is a part of Moab’s heritage, treat it like a local would and leave it just as you found it for others to enjoy.

Prepare for the Heat

Moab’s heat and terrain are two things to be prepared for ahead of time. An important tip for visiting Moab is to stay fueled and hydrated while you’re out exploring the canyons and trails. I highly recommend drinking electrolytes while you are out on these adventures as well.

Sun protection and moisture-wicking clothing are a must-have, and so is good footwear. Make sure you have durable hiking shoes that provide arch and ankle support, plus enough grip for trekking around rocky desert terrain. 

Plan your route, do your research, and know where you’re going ahead of time to reduce your chances of getting lost. Since cell coverage can be spotty around Moab, let someone know your plans so they can be on the alert if they don’t hear from you when you’re supposed to return.

For remote locations, you may even want to consider bringing a satellite communication device such as a Garmin InReach so you can get a hold of someone if the unexpected happens. A great tip for visiting Moab is to avoid hiking alone unless you are very confident in your abilities, are super prepared, and have notified someone of your plan.

It’s much easier to get lost in the desert because there aren’t as many defining features as there are in the alpine. Even if you are alert and aware of your surroundings, it isn’t hard to get confused or lose your way. Always carry a map or your navigational tool, like the Garmin InReach mentioned above, and familiarize yourself with the route before you start hiking.

Read next: How to Avoid Getting Lost While Hiking

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Planning a trip to southern Utah? Check out these blog posts to make the most of your adventure:

• 9-Day Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Utah Backpacking Trips
• Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park
• Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah
• Travel Guide to Goblin Valley State Park

Have you been to Moab? What are your favorite things to do? Share your comments and questions below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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I like that you said that seeing the Moab red rocks from the Colorado River can give you a different perspective on the area you’re in. My husband and I are thinking about planning a trip to Moab because we think that it would be beautiful and that it would be fun to get outside more. I think that it would be fun to plan a river rafting trip while we’re there so that we can get a different perspective on everything and so that we can have fun while we’re doing that.

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah: A Complete Guide

When we drove from Denver to Moab on our big four month United States road trip, we had spent three months exploring Washington State, Oregon, and Colorado (among others). Towering mountains, lush greenery, and bright blue alpine lakes was our steady summer diet.

When we rolled into Moab to start our Utah National Parks road trip , it was what I imagine landing on Mars would feel like. Incredible red rock formations, towering arches, and sagebrush as far as the eye can see. We even drove by multiple tumbleweeds! Needless to say, Utah is a different world from every other place we explored that summer. And we kind of loved it.

We spent five days in Moab, which we thought was going to be too much, but as we were leaving, we decided that there are so many different and exciting things to do in Moab that we’ll have to make our way back someday.

In the guide below, you’ll find our take on what to do in Moab. We did most of the things on the list ourselves, but there are a few things that are on our list for a return trip in the future.

Don’t miss our guide to spending 4 days in Moab , which includes exploring both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, along with some other gems near Moab that are outside the boundaries of the parks.

If you’re into hiking, check out our guide to hiking in Arches National Park , with our six favorite hikes in the park and everything you need to know to tackle the trails.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, I would never recommend something to you that I don’t stand behind 100%.

What to Do in Moab: A Complete Guide to Arches, Canyonlands, and More

Moab is central to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks , but there is so much to do and see outside the national park boundaries. 

Whether you’re looking for a breathtaking sunrise hike, an exhilarating whitewater rafting or 4×4 trip, or a relaxed drive through a red rock canyon, you’ll find it below. 

Planning a trip to Moab? Don’t miss my complete guide to where to stay in Moab, Utah . In it, you’ll find the everything you need to know about camping, the best hotels and Airbnb options, and even a unique desert glamping experience.

Explore Arches National Park

On the long drive home, Alysha and I were talking about our favorites out of the “Mighty Five” Utah National Parks (Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion). For me, it was a tie between Arches National Park and Bryce Canyon.

Arches is a pretty compact area, which means it can feel PACKED. The National Park Service actually closed the entrance for a few hours on the day we were checking into our campsite at Devils Garden Campground (which is one of the best places to stay in Moab). You’ll want to enter the park early. Both to beat the crowds, but also to beat the heat. It is scorching in the summer, with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees fahrenheit on a pretty regular basis. 

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Arches National Park . 

Hike to Delicate Arch at Sunset (or Sunrise)

Sunset at Delicate Arch is high on every list of the best hikes in Arches National Park , and for good reason. The setting sun makes the arch glow a burning red as the clouds over the mountains in the background turn a faint pink color. It was spectacular. 

But what you don’t see in those guides is an acknowledgment that, during peak season from about June through October, it is a madhouse. There were hundreds of people at the top when we showed up to watch a beautiful sunset, and that’s not an exaggeration. 

We talked to a woman the next morning on a hike who said she had been there at sunrise the same day, and was one of about ten people there.

If you want the best light, sunset is the time to be there. If you want solitude, go at sunrise. Mid-morning through the afternoon, the arch is backlit, which means your pictures might not be great. 

To get to Delicate Arch, you’ll hike a mile and a half uphill, winding through the relatively level desert before starting the ascent up a steep rock slab (make sure you have hiking shoes with solid grip !). Eventually, you’ll reach a narrow part of the trail that snakes around the side of the mountain, which might be a little scary for those of us afraid of heights (me) or with small kids. Hug the right side of the trail (close to the mountain) if that sounds like you, and you’ll be fine.

You can’t actually see the arch until you’re basically on top of it. You’ll emerge onto a little bowl, with the arch on the far side. The two best spots for photos are just to the left of the arch, and from the little rocky outcropping on the far side of the bowl (up and to your right from where the trail ends) where you’ll be able to get the mountains, clouds, and arch all in one shot. 

Make sure to bring a headlamp if you’re hiking at sunrise or sunset. It gets dark quick once the sun sets, and we found ourselves needing our headlamps when we started descending the rocky slab.

If that hike sounds like too much for you, there are some viewpoints along the road that you came in on. Be warned – the views are pretty far away. If you can swing it, I’d definitely recommend doing the short hike up. 

The Best Hike in Arches: Devils Garden

This was our favorite hike in the park, and it kind of allows you to choose your own adventure and go at your own pace. The trailhead is at the far end of the scenic drive in Moab, and it’s walkable from the Devils Garden Campground if you managed to snag a spot. It has restrooms and water fill stations, so bring your reusable water bottle to fill up – always hike with plenty of water in the desert, especially on a longer hike like this one.

If you choose to do the full eight mile loop, you’ll see eight arches in total (skip the side trail to Dark Angel – it was a letdown for us). We loved hiking the primitive trail on the way back, which involves a little bit of scrambling and route finding – follow the cairns (the little stacks of rocks)! Follow the trail up past Landscape Arch, do the offshoot to Navajo and Partition Arches, and then continue out to Double O Arch before making the return journey along the primitive trail. The primitive trail isn’t marked well, and you’ll end up doing some scrambling across rock slabs, but it winds its way through some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. 

All in all, it’s a great hike, but it’s very exposed. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. 

If that sounds a little ambitious for your tastes, don’t worry. You can cut the hike short in a couple of different ways to see a few of the arches, and avoid the long route back. 

The first option would be to hike out and back to Landscape Arch , a towering arch that stretches across a valley that you’ll view from the base. On the way back, hit Pine Tree and Tunnel Arch, which are a short way away from the trailhead. If you do it this way, it ends up being a relatively flat two miles round trip. 

If you’re craving more than two miles, but less than eight, continue on past Landscape Arch to the offshoots to Navajo and Partition Arches , which are well worth the trip. Then retrace your steps and do Pine Tree and Tunnel Arches on the way back to your car. This clocks in at just under three miles round trip. 

The third option is to avoid the primitive trail, which isn’t marked well and has some spots of scrambling / easy rock climbing. Follow the full eight mile hike out to Double O Arch, then just turn around and go back the way you came rather than following the winding primitive trail. This puts you at between four and five miles round trip if you don’t go all the way out to Dark Angel. 

Sunrise at the Windows

On our last day in Arches, we got up at the crack of dawn to head out to the Windows area, which turned out to be one of our favorite spots in the park. There are four arches here – the North Window, the South Window, Double Arch (which I’m counting as one), and Turret Arch.The two windows and Turret Arch are connected by the Windows Loop Trail, which is a very short and easy walk through the desert.  

The sun rises to the east, which means you should head to the Windows first, which face out towards the rising sun. If you go through the north window and hike down the little trail, you’ll be able to get a good view of the arches as the light from the sun turns them a brilliant bright red color. 

Continue on the loop trail to Turret Arch , which looks like a castle with its rising spire. 

Across the parking lot is Double Arch , which was in our top three favorite arches. It’s a quarter mile from the parking lot, and you can climb up and into the arch where you’ll have a view to the south over the rest of the park. Fun fact: Double Arch is the tallest arch opening in the park. 

On the drive out, stop by Balanced Rock and do the short walk out to it. It’s exactly what it sounds like, a balanced rock. 

4×4 Tour of Arches National Park

There was only one thing we didn’t get to do in Arches National Park, and that was getting off the beaten path and exploring around the west side of the park, which is accessible only by high clearance, 4WD vehicles. Our Honda Odyssey just wasn’t going to cut it. 

Lucky for you, you can do a guided 4×4 tour of Arches National Park that will get you off the beaten path to see the ONLY arch in the park that we missed (that’s probably not quite true, but of the ones on the map) Tower Arch . 

It’s a guided tour, so not only will you get to see things that most people who visit Arches don’t get to see, but you’ll also get an expert guide who will weave a narrative about the park and its history and guide you through rough patches in the road. 

Explore Canyonlands National Park

Unlike Arches, where the highlights are towering rock formations that you’re looking up at and marveling over, Canyonlands National Park is quite different. Instead of looking up, you’re looking down, and often you’re not looking at a specific rock formation (except for Mesa Arch), you’re looking at the vast network of interwoven canyons and crevices carved into the landscape over millennia. 

Canyonlands is huge, and it’s made up of three areas.

First is Island in the Sky , which is the one we spent time in and is the most accessible from Moab. Here, you’ll find the famous Mesa Arch, as well as the White Rim Road (4WD ONLY). It’s the one that the majority of visitors to Canyonlands visit, but it’s not the only one. 

The Needles , which is about an hour and a half south of Moab, is the southeast corner of Canyonlands and is probably the best part of the park for hiking. But it’s FAR from Moab, and I’d recommend finding somewhere to stay closer to that area if you want to spend time there. 

The Maze is pretty inaccessible if you only have a short amount of time. It’s remote and rugged, and you need a high clearance, 4WD vehicle to even think about getting there. It’s going to take you a few days to get there and back, so if you have one or two days to devote to exploring Canyonlands, focus on the other two parts of the park. 

Mesa Arch at Sunrise

Mesa Arch is gorgeous, but don’t expect solitude if you’re there at sunrise. The sun comes up over the landscape as you’re looking through the arch, which is spectacular. As a result, about a hundred photographers were there with their tripods an hour before sunrise on the day we visited. 

That being said, I snuck in and got some pretty incredible pictures. 

If you want more solitude, plan on coming midday or at sunset, when less people are jostling to get the perfect shot. 

It’s a short hike from the parking lot, and should be your first stop on a day in Canyonlands. 

Hike to Grand View Point

You’ll find Grand View Point at the southern tip of the scenic drive through Canyonlands National Park. It’s a short and sweet two mile walk out to the edge of the mesa with incredible panoramic vistas the entire way. At the mesa’s edge, you’ll have sweeping views to the southwest, including White Rim Road and the Green River. 

It’s roughly an hour away from Moab, and a perfect day in Canyonlands takes you to Mesa Arch at sunrise, then straight out to Grand View Point before returning and stopping at the White Rim Overlook, Aztec Butte, and Shafer Canyon Overlook along the way back to the Visitors Center. 

A side trip to Upheaval Dome, a huge crater, is worth a detour if you’ve got extra time. 

If you’re looking for a longer hike that takes you down to the canyon rim, look at the Gooseberry Trail , which is the steepest trail in the Island in the Sky and takes you all the way down to the White Rim. 

Drive the White Rim Road

This is another one that, unfortunately, we had to skip because our Honda Odyssey doesn’t exactly count as a “4WD, high clearance” vehicle. Especially when it’s loaded down with all the things we need to live in it. 

But just because we didn’t get to do it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider it. It’s the best way to get off the normal tourist track and get a sense for the vast rugged terrain that makes Canyonlands the most unexplored National Park in Utah. 

The White Rim Road is 100 miles long, and is made up of sections of dirt, gravel, and rock road that wind along the rim of the canyon past countless incredible viewpoints that only a small percentage of visitors to Canyonlands ever get to see. You can either drive the road, or rent a mountain bike and do it on two wheels. NO ATV’s THOUGH. 

I loved this guide to driving the White Rim Road , which has basically all the information you’ll need to plan the perfect trip from someone who actually did it. 

Make sure you have the relevant permit if you’re planning on tackling the White Rim Road – day permits here , overnight backcountry permits here . Make reservations well in advance during the high season since, like most popular backcountry destinations these days, they often have more people who want a permit than permits available. 

Don’t feel comfortable driving this road yourself, but still want to experience it in all its glory? No worries – do a guided 4×4 tour where an expert guide will navigate the road for you and take you to all sorts of incredible spots along the way that you never even knew existed. 

Explore the Needles District

Like I mentioned before, the Needles District in Canyonlands is further from Moab itself, but it’s worth spending a day there, particularly if you’re looking for the best hiking in the park. 

The Needles, named for the colorful sandstone spires, is about an hour and a half (75 miles) south of Moab, so you’re going to want to plan on spending the full day there. Think of it more as a day trip from Moab. 

The first thing to do would be the 6.5 mile scenic drive, which culminates in Big Spring Canyon Overlook. You’ll find the best view of the Needles themselves off of Elephant Hill Road (about a mile in on the dirt road – 2WD vehicles are fine until the Elephant Hill Trailhead – past the viewpoint – then you need 4WD). 

The second thing to do is to hike one of the countless trails in this part of the park. 

Here are some easy hikes that are little more than a stroll from the parking lot.

• Cave Spring (0.6 miles RT) – short loop where you’ll find the remnants of an old campsite that cowboys used to use, along with some prehistoric rock paintings. 
• Pothole Point (0.6 miles RT) – I know, this doesn’t sound like a trail you want to drive to. But it’s right off the main road. It’s a short loop that takes you through a unique desert landscape featuring potholes that trap rainwater on the rare occasion that it rains in the desert. Signs along the way help you learn all about the ecology and ecosystem that has found a way to thrive here

If you’re looking for a longer hike, I’d choose either Chesler Park Viewpoint (6 miles RT) or Druid Arch (11 miles RT).

4×4 Tour of Canyonlands

Like Arches, the best way to get off the beaten path and see the parts of the park that most people don’t ever make it to is to do a guided 4×4 tour . 

Next time we’re in Moab, we definitely will be finding a way to explore White Rim Road, which probably means renting our own Jeep and driving it ourselves. But if you don’t feel comfortable navigating the steep switchbacks that you’ll need to tackle to get to White Rim Road, hop on a 4×4 tour to have an expert guide do the driving. 

This half day backcountry 4×4 tour takes you deep into the Island in the Sky District, where you’ll navigate the switchbacks of the Shafer Trail to get down to White Rim Road, and see a different side of the park than most people ever get to experience. 

This full day 4×4 tour of the Needles District takes you past Elephant Hill Trailhead on one of the most challenging 4×4 trails in Utah with a knowledgeable guide. Then you’ll enjoy a buffet-style lunch at a lovely viewpoint, tackle a three mile hike in the afternoon, and return back to Moab. 

Other Fun Things to Do in Moab

There are plenty of things to do outside of the two national parks near Moab. In fact, I would say that while the parks are spectacular, some of our favorite things to do in Moab are actually found outside of the National Park boundaries, where the crowds will be thinner and you’ll have more space and time to yourself. 

Whitewater Rafting Near Moab

Does floating a picturesque river through incredible red rock canyons that tower thousands of feet above you sound like your idea of fun? We love whitewater rafting, and Moab is a great place to do it with options for all levels of experience and comfort.  

Between us, we have been whitewater rafting in California, Oregon, and Washington, and I’ve actually rafted the Colorado River closer to the Grand Canyon. Unfortunately, we skipped this in the Moab area – it was one of the things that we wished we had more time for – but I did the research to figure out what we could do if we had more time.

There are essentially four whitewater rafting trips near Moab that are worth considering. 

I used to work for a whitewater rafting company in Washington State, and you should know that your experience on the river can vary wildly based on water levels. That means that in a light rain/snow year and later in the summer, the water levels are going to be lower and the rapids are going to be smaller. Not necessarily a bad thing, but something to be aware of going in to set expectations. 

( Easiest ) First is a half day trip on the Colorado River from Fisher Towers to Rocky Rapids (about 7 miles). This route features some Class II rapids, which are relatively tame, and long stretches where you can hop out of the boat and float in the river. You can also tackle this one in an inflatable kayak if you’d prefer – you’ll get instructions from your experienced guide to help you navigate the river before you get going. This is a pretty tame stretch of river with smaller rapids, so it’s probably best for people not comfortable in the water, and families with smaller children. Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability for this trip.

( Easy , Longer Trip ) Next would be doing a full day trip on the Colorado River through the Castle Valley, which is about 14 miles and covers the same stretch of river in the half day tour, plus the stretch of river below Rocky Rapids. It’s still a very mild trip, with plenty of time to splash around in the water. If you’re looking for an exhilarating trip that will get your heart racing and make you question “WHY DID I DECIDE TO DO THIS??”, this probably isn’t it. Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability for this trip.

( Medium – this is my sweet spot ) Consistently rated among the best short whitewater trips in the USA, a full day trip to Westwater Canyon is at the top of my list of things to do when we make it back to Moab. On this 8-10 hour trip, you’ll paddle through 12 different class III / IV rapids, which means there will certainly be points where you ask yourself how you got to this point in your life. Don’t worry, your guide will help you navigate them. It’s worth noting that water levels dictate the experience you’ll have – lower water levels later in the summer means smaller rapids, which you should know and ask about going in. Minimum age on this trip is 12 years old. Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability for this trip.

(Multi-day Trips) If you want to spend a few days on the river, look at a two or four day trip to Cataract Canyon, which will take you along 100 miles of river and 30+ Class III to V rapids. 

Hiking to Jeep Arch and Corona Arch

Two arches outside of Arches National Park? Sign me up! These two arches are along Highway 279, which runs northwest of Moab along the Colorado River. The two trailheads are about a quarter mile apart, so you can totally park at one and tackle both without having to worry about parking. 

These two short hikes are a must-do in Moab. 

First, tackle Corona Arch , which is the shorter journey and also the more popular of the two. We came for sunrise, which probably isn’t the best time to be there since the sun takes a long time to rise over the canyon behind the arch. Still, it’s spectacular. The hike itself is just over two miles (round trip), and there’s a bit of elevation gain that is totally manageable for most people. There are two tricky parts – an ascent up a slick rock face aided by cables, and a ladder that you have to climb – but we had absolutely no trouble making it up to the arch. Don’t miss Bowtie Arch, which you’ll come across before Corona, and the face in the rock on the far side of Corona Arch!

Next, head to Jeep Arch . On this hike, which is super exposed and doesn’t offer a whole lot of shade, we saw a total of four people midday on a Thursday. Not a whole lot of people make it to this one, but they probably should. This one is a 3.6 mile loop that takes you through a spectacular valley, up and through the arch, and then back down the other side. It’s not particularly hard, but it’s a lot of time in the blistering sun, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection like a hat. The arch itself is basically a hole in the towering rock wall. Alysha thinks it looks like a Jeep, but I’m not convinced. I’ll let you decide for yourself. 

One note : we didn’t realize that you can walk through the large drain pipe at the trailhead that takes you under the mountain, so we climbed up to the railroad tracks and then back down to the other side. Don’t do that! Just walk through the pipe (as long as conditions are dry). 

Sunset at Dead Horse State Park

We capped off our time in Moab, Utah, with a sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park. 

It’s in the direction of Canyonlands along the road that takes you into the Island in the Sky section of the park, so it’s worth adding on to your foray into that section if you have time. 

The draw here is the sweeping views over the landscape that includes a picturesque bend in the Colorado River. For the best views, I’d park at the end of the road, walk out to Dead Horse Point for some great views, and then walk back north along the western side of the road until you find a spot that looks good to you. That’s exactly what we did, and we ended up taking a seat about a quarter mile north of Dead Horse Point and watching the sunset over the Colorado. Not a bad way to end our time in Moab. 

We loved Moab, and it’s no wonder that it has a stellar reputation as a major adventure town. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, climbing, rafting, or basically any other outdoor activity, you’ll find it in Moab. I can almost guarantee you’ll leave your time in Moab wishing you had more of it. I know I did.

Like this post? Here are some other posts you might like.

More on Utah’s National Parks

• How to Plan an Incredible Utah National Parks Road Trip
• 4 Days in Moab: A Complete Moab Itinerary
• 12 Awesome Things to Do in Moab, Utah
• The Best Places to Stay in Moab, Utah
• How to Spend One Day in Arches National Park
• A Complete Guide to Hiking in Arches National Park (6 Hikes)
• How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
• 6 Amazing Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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21 Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Laid-back, charming, and full of stunning desert scenery, the small town of Moab, Utah is one of the best bases for outdoor adventure in the Southwest. The sheer variety of fun things to do in Moab is enough to fill several vacation itineraries!

Situated next door to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, not to mention other gems like Dead Horse Point State Park, visiting Moab is an unforgettable travel experience.

Planning a trip soon and looking for the best Moab activities?

Here’s what to do in Moab, Utah!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Moab

Where to stay in moab, utah, getting around moab, ut.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Hike to Delicate Arch.

Arches National Park is home to 2,000+ sandstone arches, and the rest of the area surrounding Moab is home to many, many more, but none are as iconic as the magnificent Delicate Arch, which has even been featured on the Utah license plates!

Hiking to Delicate Arch is indisputably one of the best things to do in Moab, and at only 3 miles round-trip, the hike can easily be fit into your Moab itinerary.

Not much of a hiker? No worries–there are 2 other viewpoints that you can appreciate the arch from as well, though they don’t compare to the experience of standing underneath it!

… and explore more arches in Arches National Park.

Of course, your time in Arches NP shouldn’t end with Delicate Arch!

For something stunning and easily accessible, check out Double Arch–one of our favorites in the park.

To see a wide variety of the best arches that the park has to offer, hike the incredibe Devils Garden Trail.

For more ideas, check out our guide to the best hikes in Arches NP !

Watch the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park.

Without a doubt, Dead Horse Point State Park is the most popular place to watch the sunset in Moab–and it deserves the title.

The Dead Horse Point Overlook features a gorgeous view of a bend in the Colorado River, and makes the perfect sunset perch!

The only catch? At $20/car for a 2-day ticket, it’s a bit pricey if you only stay for an hour or so.

Consider arriving at the park well before sunset and hiking along one of the Rim Trails to make the most of your ticket. The views are well worth the effort!

… and watch the sunrise at Mesa Arch.

If Dead Horse Point State Park is Moab’s undisputed most popular sunset spot, then Mesa Arch is its opposite: this is the most popular place to watch the sunrise near Moab.

Located in Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Arch is located along an easy 0.7 mile loop trail.

If you choose to set your alarm early to admire the view, you’ll undoubtedly be enjoying the view with many photographers and hikers–but the sunrises here are downright magical.

Explore Canyonlands National Park.

Wild, remote, and gigantic are a few words that come to mind when describing Canyonlands National Park: even the drive from Moab to Canyonlands NP constantly reminds you of how isolated the park is.

When you get there, though, it’s spectacular to behold. From scenic drives to hikes to viewpoints, visiting Canyonlands National Park is one of the top places to visit in Moab for a very good reason.

The national park is divided into 3 sections: Island in the Sky, the Maze, and the Needles.

Island in the Sky is by far the most accessible, both in the sense that it is closest to town (“only” a 40-minute drive outside of Moab) and that you can visit without a 4-wheel drive.

If you’d like to visit more remote areas of the park and aren’t experienced in remote backcountry explorations, consider booking a tour to help you see the best areas with limited hassle.

Keep in mind that no roads directly connect the park’s 3 districts–fully exploring Canyonlands National Park is a project in and of itself!

Moab Travel Tip: If you’re simply visiting Island in the Sky as a day trip–the most common way for travelers visiting Moab to explore the park–consider pairing your trip to Canyonlands with your trip to Dead Horse Point State Park, as they are located close to each other.

Get beyond the usual sights in Arches and Canyonlands.

Both Arches NP and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands NP have tantalizing interesting sights that lurk beyond where typical vehicles can go–and that means those sights have very few crowds.

Want to see these remote spots for yourself without worrying about renting a vehicle or driving? This well-reviewed 4×4 tour will take you there!

Book your 4×4 driving tour of Arches NP and Canyonlands NP today!

Cool off in Faux Falls.

Faux Falls may be manmade (hence the name), but that’s no reason not to appreciate this beautiful waterfall in the desert!

The hike from the Ken’s Lake Campground is fairly short, and you can shorten it even further if you happen to have a 4-wheel drive.

In return, the payoff is magnificent: you can walk right up to the falls, and if you like, swim in the small pool below.

… or Mill Creek Falls.

Featuring several small waterfalls and swimming holes along an out-and-back trail that you can complete in under 2 miles, Mill Creek Falls is the perfect place to go hiking in Moab on a hot day–the next place to cool off is always around the corner!

Go off-roading for the day.

Off-roading is one of the top things to do in Moab–the town even hosts a Jeep Week event every year!

Whether you’re an expert or a first-timer, Moab has an off-roading adventure to offer.

If you’re not familiar with the sport, consider signing up for a tour like this to see what it’s all about (and to see just how many epic views are waiting beyond where standard vehicles can reach).

Book your off-roading adventure in Moab today!

Cruise Moab’s scenic drives.

It’s no surprise that an area as scenic and remote as the one surrounding Moab is packed with gorgeous short road trips and scenic drive options!

Here are some of the best scenic drives to consider working into your Moab itinerary (excluding the ones inside the national parks, which are also well worth experiencing!).

Potash Road (U-279)

If you hike to Corona Arch, you’ll head out of Moab on Potash Road, where the towering canyon walls and beautiful Colorado River will basically ensure that you pull over for a few photo ops along the way!

La Sal Mountains Loop

Heading up into the mesmerizing La Sal Mountains, this drive is beautiful both for its mountain views and for the views of the desert below.

Be sure to check the weather before starting out–it’s much colder up in the mountains than in town!

Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (U-128)

Nicknamed the River Road, you’ll find hikes like Grandstaff Canyon, scenic areas like Castle Valley, and even filming locations from Westworld on this scenic drive!

Don’t have time to drive much of it? You can get a quick peek of the starting point at Lion’s Park!

Dead Horse Point Scenic Byway (U-313)

If you head out to Dead Horse Point State Park for sunset, you’ll drive this route automatically–and it’s gorgeous!

Hike to Corona Arch.

Located just a 20-minute drive from Moab, Corona Arch is not only magnificent to behold, it’s also a hike to an arch that, unlike those in the national parks, you can bring your dog along to!

This free-to-access arch is located along an out-and-back trail that is 3 miles in total.

Consider also detouring to visit Pinto Arch along the way!

We have all the details you need for hiking to Corona Arch here .

Go whitewater rafting.

What better way to experience the Colorado River than with an exciting whitewater rafting trip?

This popular rafting trip is fun for all skill levels, and is a great way to experience one of the most popular activities in Moab!

Book your whitewater rafting trip today!

… or enjoy a more leisurely river cruise.

Looking for something a bit more relaxing than exciting, but still want to enjoy beautiful views from the Colorado River?

If so, this sunset cruise is for you!

Book your Moab sunset cruise today!

Pay a visit to Lion’s Park.

Located on the edge of town, not far from the entrance to Arches National Park, lies Lion’s Park, a free-to-visit, beautiful public park with scenic walking routes and gorgeous views of the Colorado River.

We took Ranger for morning walks here when our hike for the day was going to take us to places that weren’t dog-friendly, and we all loved the area.

Go ziplining in Moab.

Want to get a birds-eye view of the rocky landscape surrounding Moab?

If so, ziplining is the perfect option!

Explore downtown Moab.

Packed with restaurants, coffee shops, souvenir shops, breweries, and tour companies alike, Moab’s small-but-fun downtown center is the perfect place to grab a meal or shop for a souvenir while in town.

Experience unforgettable views on a scenic flight.

There may be no better way to experience the otherworldly magnificence of the landscape surrounding Moab than to see it from above!

This incredible scenic flight will take you over both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, delivering views you’re bound to remember for a lifetime.

Book your scenic flight over Arches and Canyonlands today!

Hike the Fisher Towers trail.

This 5.2-mile, out-and-back trail is an incredibly striking destination–and unlike many of the most popular hikes near Moab, it doesn’t feature any arches!

Instead, the Fisher Towers trail features distinct tower-like formations that loom over hikers.

Curious but don’t want to commit to a full hike? No worries: this trail is beautiful even if you only complete a portion of it.

Like Corona Arch, Fisher Towers is also dog-friendly!

Try your hand at rappelling.

Moab is a popular climbing and rappelling destination, but you don’t need to be an expert–or even experienced–to try out one of the top things to do in Moab!

This rappelling tour will take you to hidden corners of the region while giving you an incredibly exciting experience hiking among waterfalls and rappelling down canyon walls.

Book your rappelling tour in Moab today!

Soak in the views at Wilson Arch.

Located about 30 minutes outside of Moab along US 191-S, Wilson Arch is absolutely gorgeous, and we highly recommend adding it to your list of what to do in Moab… if you happen to pass by on the way in or out of town.

The small loop trail up to Wilson Arch is just over half a mile in total, making this arch less of a hike than a roadside attraction.

That being said, it’s a beautiful arch with incredible views and makes an excellent first or last road trip stop when visiting Moab, Utah.

Moab has plenty of hotels and motels to choose from, but fair warning–it’s surprisingly pricey for such a casual place, so don’t expect to nab a great deal during high season!

Assuming you’re not living in a van or RV while road tripping the Southwest, though, you’ll need somewhere to stay!

Each of the hotels listed here boasts excellent reviews and a prime location in Moab.

Red Stone Inn  — Centrally located in Moab, the Red Stone Inn feels like a callback to another era of American road trips.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive slice of Americana, the Red Stone Inn is a great option–and the swimming pool and laundry services located on-site are a selling point, too.

Check rates & book your stay at the Red Stone Inn!

Comfort Suites Moab  — We stayed here during one of our more recent trips to Moab, and couldn’t have been happier with the comfortable rooms, exceptional customer service, and great location in Moab.

Check rates & book your stay at Comfort Suites Moab!

Hyatt Place Moab  — Moab isn’t exactly a destination that lends itself to luxury, but those looking for some great creature comforts during their trip will find them at the new, swanky Hyatt Place Moab, which is just a few years old!

In addition to its swimming pool, included breakfast, and great rooms, Hyatt Place Moab also boasts an exceptional location on the edge of Moab, just minutes from the entrance to Arches National Park.

Check rates & book your stay at Hyatt Place Moab!

Vacation Rental

My Place Hotel — Need access to a kitchen while exploring the best activities in Moab? Consider the studios at the brand-new My Place Hotel!

We stayed here on our most recent trip to Moab, and loved the kitchen access (though be warned, it’s not stocked, so bring your own plates/pans), the view, the extreme cleanliness, and beyond all, the location.

My Place Hotel is located on the edge of town, a short drive from Arches National Park, making it an ideal place to stay for hikers.

It’s also pet-friendly, a must for Ranger!

Check rates & book your stay at My Place Hotel!

Moab’s downtown center is fairly walkable, with more restaurants, souvenir shops, outdoor outfitters, hotels, and tour companies than you could possibly patronize in a single Moab vacation, all reachable on foot.

If you’re staying in the center of downtown, you’ll likely be able to walk to restaurants and coffee shops throughout your visit, rather than dealing with parking.

Of course, ultimately, Moab is 100% a road trip destination, and you must have a car in order to access its best sights and activities, including everything from the famous national parks to nearby hidden gems.

If you’re not planning on driving your own car, we recommend searching for rental cars through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip.

Browse rental cars  for your trip to Moab today!

As for 4-wheel drive? While there are certain things to do in Moab that require one, you can explore the majority of the best Moab activities without one.

If you would like to venture into more adventurous corners, consider renting a Jeep or off-roading vehicle locally for those days, rather than renting one for the entirety of your stay and driving it to Moab.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “21 Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah”

Wow, you have great tips

Thanks, Natalya! Moab is such a beautiful area, we’ll never run out of things to do there.

What an amazing post detailing the things to do in Moah, Utah. Hiking these gorgeous landscapes and viewing the scenic beauty of the place seems the best things to do. Mesmerized by the beautiful captures of the place. Dead Horse Point Scenic Byway looks spellbinding and the arches from Arches National Park are stunning to say the least! Beautiful post!

Thanks, Kritika! Moab (and much of Utah, really) is definitely a mesmerizing place! 🙂

If you have time, take a drive to the Needles and hike out to Chelser Park. The colorful spires and and other unique rock formations are fantastic and was one of our best loved hikes of our trip to Moab. You can 2-wheel drive to Elephant Hill trail head. Just take plenty of water.

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18 Top-Rated Things to Do in Moab, UT

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moab is a playground for hikers, bikers, climbers, campers, and anyone into water sports, ATVs, four-wheel driving, or general sightseeing. You don't have to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy Moab, but if you are, you won't be disappointed.

The scenery in this part of Utah is beyond imagination, with canyons, arches, the Colorado River, and slickrock dominating the landscape.

The number of things to do around Moab are boundless and intriguing for all ages. If you are just passing through and have limited time, take advantage of some of the incredible sightseeing opportunities. But if you have a few days or more, plan on some outdoor activities and epic adventures.

For a more detailed look at the options, see our list of the best things to do in Moab.

See also: Where to Stay in Moab

1. Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

2. bike the slickrock trail, 3. explore canyonlands, island in the sky, 4. see the view from dead horse point state park, 5. hike or 4wd in the needles division of canyonlands national park, 6. drive the potash road to thelma & louise point, 7. bike or walk at bartlett wash, 8. explore the rugged backroads in a 4wd vehicle, 9. drive an atv on the slickrock, 10. drive the shafer trail road, 11. discover the sand flats recreation area, 12. raft, kayak, or canoe on the colorado river, 13. gaze out from the needles overlook, 14. run down a sand dune, 15. see petroglyphs at newspaper rock, 16. go camping, 17. wilson arch, 18. corona arch hike, where to stay in moab, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit moab.

One of the most famous sites near Moab is Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. The park itself is spectacular, but if you only have time for one hike, make it the hike out to this spectacular, free-standing arch. If you don't have time for a hike, you can still catch a distant view of the arch from a lookout area below, but it does not give you the same sense of awe that comes with standing at the base of the arch.

This is a three-mile round-trip, out-and-back hike , with a gradual ascent to the arch. Most of the hike is over rock and in full sun, so unless you are here on a cool day, it's best to avoid doing this hike midday, and be sure to bring water.

You have to hike right to the end of the trail to see the arch, which comes into view as you round a curve. The best time to see and photograph Delicate Arch is in the late afternoon, when the sun turns the rocks a glowing orange color.

Late afternoon and early evening hikes are a popular thing to do in Arches National Park, and the parking lot tends to fill up during the high season with hikers looking to catch the sunset.

Moab is a popular destination for mountain bikers, and the Slickrock Trail is one of the reasons why. If you're a mountain biker, you've likely heard of this trail.

The Slickrock Trail is a workout and suited to advanced mountain bikers, but despite this, everyone seems to do it, regardless of ability. Intermediate mountain bikers will find it totally doable, with some walking involved on more difficult areas.

People who have not been on a bike in years also attempt this trail and can be heard in the evenings recounting their harrowing experiences, with shell-shocked looks on their faces. This is not a recommended course of action. It takes much longer to complete if you are less experienced because it will involve more time spent walking than biking, and there are equally enjoyable and less challenging trails in the area.

The full Slickrock Trail is 12 miles , but there is a three-mile test loop , which includes a portion of the main trail. This is a good place to test your skills and determine if you want to tackle the whole loop. For some people, the test loop is the best part, with fun sections and a good ride without the commitment of a longer trail.

This Slickrock Trail is a true cardio workout, with plenty of heart-pounding climbs and steep descents.

The Island in the Sky Section of Canyonlands is north of Moab, beyond Arches National Park. This park is spectacular, with views that easily rival the Grand Canyon . It's one of the best places to visit in the Moab area. Stop at the visitor center to get information on the park and learn about the geology and then head off to see the overlooks.

If you have time for only one walk, make sure it is the Mesa Arch trail . This short loop trail leads out to Mesa Arch, one of the most photographed arches in Utah. This incredible arch frames the carved landscape, with a sheer drop off the backside of the arch. The ground is flat up to the arch, and the drop-off is not visible until you are up close, so be careful as you approach if you have children.

Dead Horse Point State Park is off the road that leads up to Canyonlands National Park and offers a spectacular view over a huge bend in the Colorado River, 2,000 feet below. It may be tempting to skip this lesser known park after seeing other lookouts but that would be a mistake. Not only is the view here incredible, it's a little different than the others in the area, with the Colorado River so close.

It also offers a good look at the Potash Road that runs along the edge of another cliff far below as well as a glimpse of Thelma and Louise Point, below and to the left. If you have driven this road, the bird's eye view from Dead Horse Point State Park will give you a new perspective.

The Needles Division of Canyonlands National Park is south of Moab and feels much more remote than the Island in the Sky section. The drive into this section of the park is incredibly scenic and part of the attraction of this area.

The Needles is not known for the grand overlooks like you find at the Island in the Sky Section, but the landscape here is outstanding, with some great hiking and serious 4WD roads to explore. The majority of the hikes here are minimum half-day or full-day hikes, with few options for people looking for short nature walks.

One of the main highlights for general sightseeing or a short hike is Pothole Point , a moonscape setting with potholes in the rocks that fill with water after rains. Even if there is no water in the potholes this is still a spectacular area. A short hike takes you out into the potholes, and there are picnic shelters in the vicinity.

Nearby is the Slickrock Foot Trail , which is slightly more demanding but still an easy and scenic path with extensive views.

One of the best 4WD roads is the Colorado River Overlook , which leaves from the Needles Visitor Center and is very demanding. Check with staff to see about conditions of the road before venturing out, and be aware that you may not make it all the way to the Overlook.

Elephant Hill is reached by a dirt road and is another of the park's highlights.

Camping is available in the park on a first-come first-served basis at Squaw Flat , which has 26 campsites.

On the paved road leading into The Needles is Newspaper Rock , with a densely packed area of petroglyphs on the face of a rock wall. There is a pullout area, and it is definitely worth stopping to see.

The Potash Road is a rugged, dirt road, but passable for most vehicles. It runs through some dramatic rock scenery with views out over the Colorado.

The road ( Highway 279 ) begins about four miles north of Moab, heading west off Highway 191. About five miles from the start of this route, you can see petroglyphs, and a little further on are some dinosaur tracks, but some of the most stunning views are much further on, beyond Intrepid Potash, where the paved road turns to gravel and becomes Highway 142.

This leads to what is commonly referred to as Thelma and Louise Point , the location for the final scene in the American movie Thelma and Louise . In this scene, a convertible is driven off the edge of a cliff, portrayed in the movie as being the Grand Canyon, but the filming actually took place at this location in Utah.

The area is not well sign-posted. A few miles before the point is a very small sign indicating it is a few miles to Thelma and Louise Point, but it's easy to miss, so you should keep an eye out as you drive along. At the actual location is a flat gravel parking area and no guard rails or security barriers.

The view is incredible, but even if you miss the actual point, there are other pullouts along here that also lookout over the same scenery and they are all equally spectacular.

One of the unique aspects of this road is its position on the edge of a plateau high above the Colorado River but far below the cliff on the opposite side of the road. At one point along the drive, the Dead Horse Point State Park lookout is visible in the distance high above. The road continues on to Canyonlands National Park, but if you are not up for driving the hair-raising, cliff-hugging switchbacks of Shafer Trail Road (See #10 below), you should turn around and head back by the same route. There is absolutely nothing out here, so make sure you have plenty of gas, a spare tire, a camera, and anything else you might want for a day's outing.

Bartlett Wash is an amazing wonderland of slickrock that is often free of people. Most mountain bikers looking to ride slickrock head to the famous Slickrock Trail, but this landscape is much different than that area, with swirling layers of smooth, porous rock.

This spot is about the scenery rather than riding, which is why it is also of interest to hikers and photographers . Rather than being a trail, this is more of an area, with wide-open expanses, where you can choose your own walking route or spend time playing on your bike or testing your skills in the hills.

From the parking area, follow the trail until it veers right and comes to a steep but short incline of rock. At the top of this ascent is a small area of distinctive slickrock, but continue on beyond this rocky area across a sand trail until you come to a huge expanse of slickrock. From here, the possibilities are limitless.

The area extends along a wide ridge out to a point and around the back side. For specific bike routes in this area, check with one of the local bike shops in Moab.

There are all kinds of 4WD options around Moab, with an extensive system of backroads both in and outside the parks. Be aware that many of these roads are designed for high-clearance vehicles with true off-road capabilities.

What this means is that your AWD SUV will likely not be suitable unless it looks like a true Jeep Grand Cherokee or Rubicon. You'll find yourself partway down the 4WD trail having a great time until you come to a steep climb over rocks and ledges. You can try and tackle these extreme sections but be warned that when you get stuck or damage the undercarriage of your SUV, it's a long walk back to the visitor center. Mobile phone coverage is spotty. Extractions are very expensive.

Some of the roads take you to very remote areas and are multi-day excursions. Campgrounds are spread around the backcountry roads and in many cases reservable through the park system.

Canyonlands National Park is home to some of the best 4WD roads in Utah. If you are serious about a 4WD experience and looking to get well off the beaten path, inquire about The Maze area at Canyonlands National Park. This is not an area you want to head into unprepared, so be sure to check in with park staff first to see about conditions, reserving campsites, and to determine if this is an area you want to tackle.

If you are looking to get out in your 4WD truck or SUV for a few hours or a day of fun, there are many possibilities: The Potash Road out to Thelma and Louise Point and beyond is a good option. For a cliffside, nail-biting experience, try the Shafer Trail Road , beginning from Canyonlands, Island in the Sky division, and join up with the Potash Road.

In The Needles district of Canyonlands National Park there are a number of opportunities, but the Colorado River Overlook is an incredibly scenic, 7.2-mile one-way road that requires some serious 4WD work. Keep in mind, all of these roads are dependent upon conditions at the time.

If all of this sounds a little daunting, you can sign up for a 2.5-hour Hell's Revenge 4X4 Off-Roading Tour from Moab . The name pretty well says it all.

Taking an ATV out on the slickrock is another favorite activity in this area. Rentals are readily available in Moab and there are some great places to ride. If you are not up for hiking or mountain biking through the slickrock, an ATV is a fun way to get out and explore the scenery while the vehicle does all the hard work!

One of the top places for this type of experience is in the Sand Flats Recreation Area , but local rental shops will point you in the right direction.

The cliff-hugging, dirt-and-gravel Shafer Trail Road (Shafer Canyon Road) is a famous, fear-inducing drive that may not appeal to everyone. You can see the dramatic switchbacks from the Shafer Canyon Overlook in Canyonlands National Park, Island in the Sky division, just beyond the visitor center.

It's a good idea to have a look at it before attempting this road. After seeing it, you may change your mind. The Shafer Road joins up with the White Rim Road and the Potash Road. If you are going back to Moab via this route, the Potash Road joins up with Highway 191, just north of Moab.

The Sand Flats Recreation Area is Moab's backyard playground, with irresistible slickrock hills just perfect for mountain biking, dirt biking, and off-roading adventures of all kinds. This is also a great area for camping, with multiple campgrounds tucked between the rolling rocks.

This recreation area is home to the famous Slickrock Biking Trail and Porcupine Rim Trail , as well as just under 40 miles of jeep trails. Many people who come here to bike the Slickrock Trail never venture beyond the trailhead parking area, but there is much more beyond the trail.

At the north end of Moab, the mighty Colorado River flows peacefully by. Surrounded by the beautiful red rock canyons and sheer cliff walls that line the banks, this is a lovely section of river for kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding. If you are looking for more adventure, river rafting trips and jet boating excursions are offered by local operators in town.

One of the more popular tour options is the Fish Towers Half-Day Rafting Day Trip . This is a pretty relaxing and scenic trip, with a little action on the Class II and III rapids.

Rafting trips can range from a half day to 2.5 days, and jet boating trips are generally three-hour day trips, sunset rides, or night show tours. The river provides a cool, welcome relief from the hot and dry desert surroundings.

River access is easy with frequent areas to put in off Highway 128 east out of Moab, and there is a takeout point at the Colorado River Bridge on the edge of Moab. West of this bridge, access points to the river are very limited.

The Needles Overlook offers a stunning viewpoint that rivals any of the other overlooks in the Moab area. One of the main differences is the solitude you can find here. This overlook is much less visited and, depending on when you visit, you may even have the place all to yourself.

Views from the overlook extend out in three directions, and the late-day sun striking the canyon walls is an incredible sight.

The Needles Overlook is reached via a road off Highway 191, about 30 miles south of Moab, well before the road that leads out to The Needles District. The paved road out to the Overlook is about 22 miles. Approximately 15 miles up this road, a dirt road splits off to the right, leading out to the Anticline Overlook , where there is another jaw-dropping view if you have time for a side trip.

One of Moab's more unique and free attractions is the huge sand dune just off Highway 191. Just north of town, almost directly across from the entrance to Arches National Park, is a hillside patch of sand that is almost always busy with kids and adults.

This attraction that seems to provide no end of fun for kids who climb up the hill and run or roll down the hill and then do it all over again. Parents gather at the bottom to watch the activity and soak up the sun.

Newspaper Rock is a wall of densely packed petroglyphs that grace the side of a rock face, protected by a small, overhanging rock outcrop. The images reveal animals, shapes, and human forms, all jammed onto this one area of the rock wall.

Newspaper Rock is on the road into The Needles district of Canyonlands National Park, south of Moab, about 12 miles off US 191. If you are interested in petroglyphs and driving through this area, it is worth the detour to see this site. If you are heading into the park along this route, stopping for at least a quick look is a must.

There are some incredible camping areas around Moab, both inside and outside the national parks. Some of these can be found in Moab, along the Colorado River, or in recreation areas scattered around the town.

There's nothing quite like waking up and having your coffee at your campsite along the Colorado River or in amongst towering rock formations.

For more detailed information on both tent and RV camping see our complete article on the best campgrounds near Moab . In the spring season, especially near Easter or during the Colorado school break, be sure to reserve well in advance or you'll be out of luck.

Looking for a warm-up arch prior to visiting the national park? As you drive northwards to Moab from Monticello, look to your right and upwards off Highway 191 just before the Highway 46 La Sal turnoff to find a good one.

You'll be amazed at what you see: a giant arch that is mere steps from the highway, and the best part is that it's 100 percent free. The Bureau of Land Management has done a good job of creating an easy pull off that frames the 91-foot-long arch perfectly against the blue Utah sky. To learn more about how this Entrada Sandstone arch formed, read the informative signs nearby.

A short hiking trail takes you right up and underneath the arch, where you'll find a relatively flat area perfect for a picnic.

If Arches National Park is full, too busy, or expensive for you, consider visiting Corona Arch. A bit of a local's secret destination, this arch is absolutely stunning and just as good, if not better, than what you'll see in the park.

The setting of the arch is spectacular, as it's perched on the side of a hill, and the valley floor is visible in the area beyond. Nearby is the beautiful Bowtie Arch, so you get two arches for your hiking dollar.

The trail is three miles round trip , with a bit of elevation and a couple of steep sections that, fortunately, have chains and a ladder to make it easier. Much of the hike is on smooth slickrock, with a bit of gravel at the start. Bring lots of water – no shade is available, except under the arch, of course!

The trail head is located 10 miles down UT-279 (Potash Road) on the right side.

Hotel prices in Moab vary greatly between high season and low season, and some motels even close in winter. The best place to stay is right downtown, close to restaurants, tourist shops, and outdoor stores. Hotels are primarily mid-range and budget, and many are chain hotels.

Despite the very much middle of the road accommodation offerings, in peak season, the rates skyrocket.

Below are some highly rated hotels in central locations:

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The BEST WESTERN Plus Canyonlands Inn is set in a great location, right downtown, and features modern, renovated rooms and suites, including some with kitchenettes. This property features a seasonal pool and a year-round hot tub.
• Off the main street, but still within walking distance of the restaurants and shops in downtown, The Gonzo Inn offers an outdoor pool and retro southwestern-style rooms with microwaves and refrigerators.
• The Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab offers modern, spacious suites with fridges, stoves, dishwashers, microwaves, and kitchenware. On-site is a heated indoor pool, gym, and business center.
• If you are looking for more of a country retreat, Red Cliffs Lodge , off Highway 128, about 30 minutes from Moab, is a great option. This charming property offers outstanding views over the Colorado River and surrounding cliffs. Rooms, suites, and cabins feature wood accents and ranch-style charm.

Budget Hotels:

• At the northern edge of town, the Inca Inn provides clean, comfortable rooms; a seasonal pool; and complimentary breakfast. The location offers easy access to nearby Arches National Park.
• In the same vicinity is the pet-friendly Adventure Inn & Motel , also offering a free breakfast. The Bowen Motel is more centrally located in downtown Moab. The property has a seasonal pool and a variety of rooms, including family rooms.

The short answer is spring and fall. In spring (March to May), you'll generally find warm days and cold nights. In March, the average high is 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If it's windy, and it often is at this time of year, it can feel quite cold. In April, it warms up to an average of 72 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fall is probably the best time to visit Moab. It's less busy than the spring, when Easter and school breaks bring the crowds and costs soar. Temperatures in September are much warmer, with daytime highs of 87 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 52 degrees Fahrenheit.

October may be the best month of all. The daytime temperatures are a very pleasant 73 degrees Fahrenheit with lows of 39 degrees Fahrenheit. The added advantage of the fall is you'll get to see the aspen and oak trees in the autumn colors.

The one thing that is important to take into consideration is the wind. Moab can be a very windy place at times. Combine this with cool temperatures, and it can feel surprisingly cold - especially if you are camping or RV'ing.

Finally, remember that Moab is in the high desert, and the weather is changeable no matter the season - be prepared for anything.

More on Utah

20 Incredible Things to do in Moab

By: Author Insider's Utah

Posted on Last updated: November 28, 2022

Categories Moab

Home » 20 Incredible Things to do in Moab

Ready to discover the best things to do in Moab? These are the places you need to visit.

Ready to discover the best things to do in Moab? From exploring stunning national parks to unique activities in the city, these are the places you need to visit.

Pairing stunning natural landscapes with a laid-back vibe and the promise of outdoors adventure, it’s no wonder that Moab has fast become one of Utah ’s top destinations. Whether it’s the otherworldly red rock formations of Arches National Park, or tackling a tough trail that’s packed with jaw-dropping views, Moab isn’t short on thrills. 

Want to explore the activities in Moab you shouldn’t miss? Buckle up – this is going to be one heck of a ride.

Top Tip: If you’re looking for a great place to rest your head, we recommend staying at the Hoodoo Moab by Hilton for an unforgettable time in the city.

Top 5 Things to Do in Moab

Explore arches national park.

You can’t write a guide about Moab without talking up Arches National Park – and we’re not about to try. Living up to its name, the park has over 2,000 natural stone arches for you to explore.

While we’ve written several separate guides to exploring Arches National Park, here are the top spots you shouldn’t miss. 

Balanced Rock Trail – No more than a 30-minute walk, this 0.3-mile roundtrip takes you past towering 128-foot tall rock formations.

Delicate Arch Trail – With two trails to see this arch, it’s no wonder it’s so famous. The Lower Trail is a 200 feet roundtrip, while the Upper Trail provides unparalleled views of Delicate Arch on a 0.5-mile (45-minute) hike.

The Windows Trail – What appears to be a window in the rockface, this arch is just a short one-mile (60-minute) hike that provides exceptional photo opportunities.

Top Tip: You can see all these landmarks and more on this Arches National Park 4×4 tour .

Rafting Down the Colorado River

Over millions of years, this body of water has been shaping the picturesque landscape you see today. And whitewater rafting down the Colorado River is the best way to experience the sheer power of the river.

Travel down the river and see the Cataract Canyon or Westwater Canyon from a new perspective. You can choose between a half-day, full-day, or multi-day rafting trip to see the landscape in all its glory.

Top Tip: Join this Colorado River half-day rafting trip for a short but sweet adventure.

Hike the Fisher Towers Trail

Like fins soaring high in the sky, Fisher Towers is a truly unique landmark and one of the best things to see in Moab. Explore the towering sandstone walls along a 5.2-mile out-and-back hike.

The tallest point along this ever-changing mountainside is Titan Peak, at an impressive 900 feet. The hike takes roughly two to three hours as you zigzag through this unique landscape.

Top Tip: Kill two birds with one stone and join this Colorado River and Fisher Towers tour .

Enjoy the Sunset at Dead Horse Point

Nothing beats a sunset over Utah’s vast expanse, and seeing it at Dead Horse Point makes it extra special. Dead Horse Point National Park occupies 5,362 acres of rustic Utah desert.

You have to visit Dead Horse Point Overlook, where you’ll have mesmerizing views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Try and visit between 4 pm and 7 pm to catch the perfect sunset photo opportunities.

Top Tip: Take a journey to Dead Horse Point on this jet boat tour to the park before admiring the sunset.

Explore Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky 

Another simply majestic Moab thing to do is explore Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky. No more than a 10-mile drive from Moab, Island in the Sky provides breathtaking views of the Canyonlands’ region.

With sheer drops of over 1,000 feet throughout the region, these viewpoints do feel like islands in the sky. The top viewpoints you should visit include the Grand Viewpoint, Shafer Canyon Overlook, and the Visitor Center Overlook.

Top Tip: On this half-day Canyonlands island tour , you can explore the entire Island in the Sky region.

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Moab 

Enjoy the moab zipline.

In search of fun things to do in Moab? If so, taking to the skies on a ziplining adventure should be on your list. Nothing beats the adrenaline-inducing feeling of soaring over the sandstone canyon below.

At the Moab Adventure Center, you can join a two-hour and 30-minute ziplining masterclass over Raven’s Rim.

Explore Canyonlands Needles Division

One of the top Moab attractions is the Needles in the southeast region of the Canyonlands. These spectacular spires stretch for an impressive 527 square miles and are one of the best things to do in Canyonlands .

Made from Cedar Mesa Sandstone, some of the top formations to visit at the Needles include Tower Ruin and Confluence Overlook. Each spot offers beautiful views of the Needles Division spires. Trust us when we say they are spectacular.

Top Tip : You can explore this diverse region of Moab on this Canyonlands self-driving tour .

Take a UTV Slickrock Tour

Hold onto your hats… because one of the best things to do near Moab is heading your way. On a UTV Slickrock tour , you’ll kick up dirt as you traverse the Hell’s Revenge Trail across petrified rock and a Mars-like environment.

But the fun doesn’t end there, as you’ll stop and have the chance to admire the breathtaking La Sal Mountains off the beaten track. And if you want the perfect photo opportunity, join the afternoon session for fantastic sunset views.

Hike the Klondike Bluffs Trail

If you want a challenge in Arches National Park, the Klondike Bluffs Trail is just for you. You can hike or ride this 12.9-mile out-and-back trail. It’ll take you roughly four hours and 30 minutes on foot.

Along the hike, you can get close to dinosaur footprints, still perfectly preserved in the sandstone. And once you reach the top, the park views are worth the effort.

Drive Along the Shafer Trail

Traverse through 19.6 miles of rugged Utah terrain along the Shafer Trail. In the Island in the Sky region of the Canyonlands, this famous road descends 1,500 feet down the sandstone canyon walls.

This scenic drive will take roughly an hour to complete, but there’s no better way to experience the Canyonlands.

Top Tip : Join this full-day Canyonlands and Arches tour to experience the thrills of the Shafer Trail.

Explore the Sand Flats Recreation Area

Aside from the popular Canyonlands and Arches National Park, the Sand Flats Recreation Area is another fantastic place to explore. 

Across 9,000 acres of rugged terrain, you can journey along hikes, Slickrock trails, and majestic views of the La Sal Mountains.

Top Tip : San Flats is notorious for hosting the Hell’s Revenge and Fins N’Things 4×4 trails.

Admire Faux Falls

The outdoor activities in Moab keep on coming. After a short 200-yard walk from the Faux Falls parking area, you can take in the beauty that this waterfall beholds.

Despite what the name suggests, this is a real, man-made waterfall. Built in the 1970s during a severe drought in the area, it’s now a tiny oasis in the middle of the desert for everyone to enjoy.

Hike the Corona Arch Trail

This 2.4-mile out-and-back hiking trail takes you to a dystopian landscape in Arches National Park. After just over an hour of hiking, the iconic Corona Arch reveals itself as it stretches across and frames the Utah landscape.

This is a lovely hike, and you can admire some more arches in the area, such as Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch.

Unique Things to See & Do in Moab: Hidden Gems That Are Off The Beaten Track

Enjoy a colorado river cruise.

Who doesn’t want to sit and enjoy a lovely dinner as they wade along the Colorado River? If you’re one of those people, a Colorado River dinner cruise is right up your alley.

You can listen to beautiful live music as you cruise along the river and admire the sunset. Once darkness strikes, a breathtaking light show brings the surrounding canyons to life.

Top Tip: Discover more fantastic things to do in Utah while in the state.

Go Canyoneering at Grandstaff Canyon

Looking for another one of those thrilling things to do in Moab, UT? Head to the cliffside and go canyoneering down the Grandstaff Canyon.

Start by taking a two-mile hike to the canyoneering zone. Now you can rappel 200 feet down the narrow Medieval Chamber slot canyon and pass the Morning Glory Arch. This is an exhilarating activity that’s a must-do when in Moab.

Discover Petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock

For a dip into the history of Utah, visit Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument. At 53 miles out of Moab, it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s well worth the trip.

It is one of the most significant collections of petroglyphs in one place and holds essential insight into the life of North American Indians. Although it’s not the most exciting, it’s one of the most unique things to do in Moab.

Enjoy the Backyard Theater Bluegrass

How about a more relaxing event after you’ve done your fair share of outdoor activities? The Moab Backyard Theater is a fantastic place to experience the diverse arts and drama skills the city offers.

There are three shows weekly, so you’re more likely to catch a show. The best show to visit is Bluegrass on Wednesdays for a free event.

Walk Through Moab Giants

Experience what life was like in the days of the dinosaurs at the Moab Giants open-air museum.

With lifesize sculptures of Ceratosaurus and Diplodocus Longus – to name a few – you will never be short of stunning photo opportunities. And for a deeper dive, join the virtual underwater journey through the life of oceanic dinosaurs.

Top Tip: Learn about the ancient world with this Moab Giants entrance ticket .

Explore the Moab Museum

Discover the diverse history of this breathtaking city at the Moab Museum. The museum covers many topics, from the Ute indigenous community of the Moab area to the settler migration in the mid-19th century.

You can explore everything from dinosaur bones to early Moab settler William Grandstaff. All in all, you can easily spend hours learning about the rich history of Moab.

Take an Astronomy Tour

Last but certainly not least, look up to the starry night and admire the vast expanse of the universe. Join a Moab guided full moon hike to learn about astronomy’s history and how to use it in the Utah desert.

On this tour, you can admire the Milky Way in all its glory and explore the moonlit arches of the Moab landscape. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can’t miss.

Things to Do in Moab: Practical Tips For Your Trip

How long to visit in moab.

We recommend spending three days in this beautiful landscape. That will give you enough time to visit Canyonlands and Arches National Parks without missing anything.

Best Time to Visit Moab, Utah

As we covered in our guide to the best time to visit Utah , visiting Moab is fantastic in the shoulder seasons. This is between March and April or September and October, as the warm weather during these times is best, and accommodation is cheaper.

Where Should I Stay in Moab? 

Scenic view inn & suites moab (mid-range).

For affordable accommodation in downtown Moab, Utah, stay at the Scenic View Inn and Suites . Here you can expect complimentary breakfast, a refreshing pool after a long day, and spacious rooms with modern finishings.

Check Rates and Availability for Scenic View on Booking.com

Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton (Luxury) 

If luxury is what you want, look no further than Hoodoo Moab , a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. At Hoodoo Moab, you have pristine views of the Utah landscape, a beautiful pool, a delicious breakfast, and easy access to nearby attractions.

Check Rates and Availability for Hoodoo Moab on Booking.com

Recommended Tours in Moab

• Moab: Guided Full Moon Hike
• Moab: Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show
• From Moab: Full-Day Canyonlands and Arches 4×4 Driving Tour
• Moab: Hell’s Revenge 4WD Off-Road Tour by Kawasaki UTV
• Moab: 3-Hour Jet Boat Tour to Dead Horse Point State Park
• From Moab: Colorado River Half-Day Rafting Trip
• From Moab: Half-Day Arches National Park 4×4 Driving Tour

Things to Do in Moab: Map

Things to do in Moab: Read Next

• Unmissable Things to do in Utah

5 Absolute Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah (+Tips & Itinerary)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Utah and wondering what are the best things to do in Moab ? Or maybe you are looking for suggestions for Moab itinerary that covers all the top spots?

With a huge variety of things to do in Moab, no wonder that it’s such a popular vacation destination in Utah in the United States. If you have lots of time, you can go horse riding, mountain biking, rock climbing, walk dinosaur trails, and even visit a winery…

However, if your visit is rather short, you probably just want to see the very best Moab attractions and places nearby that are worth your time the most.

So if you are visiting for the first time, only have limited time, and want to cover all the must-see places and must-do things in Moab, this article will help you do just that.

This is in no way a complete list of things to do in Moab, only ‘the musts’. If you tick each of the items from the list, then you can be sure that you’ve seen the very best that Moab area has to offer. Find out!

TIP: You will need at least two full days to see all of these places. At the bottom of this post, I also included our suggested Moab itinerary for 2 to 3 days. It covers all the best things to do in Moab area. Read on!

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Moab

Here are the VERY BEST things to do in Moab on first visit:

1. Explore Arches National Park

One of the main reasons people come to Moab is to visit one of the most beautiful National Parks of the United States – Arches NP . So if you only have one day in Moab, the best thing to do is to explore Arches National Park.

Note that one day is a bit short for the park. So if you want to do some hiking and explore more, consider spending more time.

However, if you are short on time and want to see the best that Arches National Park has to offer, here are the main highlights: the scenic road in Arches with short stops at the Balanced Rock, Double Arch, The Windows, and Park Avenue viewpoint. The best hike in the park is the Delicate Arch trail where you can also find some rock art.

TIP: If you want to get a bit off the beaten path in Arches NP without having to walk, take a look at this highly-rated 4×4 Arches NP driving tour . It’s the most popular tour in the area and one of the best ways to see more of the backcountry of Arches National Park!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches NP

IMPORTANT! In the high season (April-October), timed entry reservations are required for visiting Arches National Park. Reservations usually open 3 months in advance. So be sure to check the official website and reserve your entry!

2. Visit Canyonlands National Park

The nearby Canyonlands National Park is one of the lesser-known national parks , but it’s well worth a short trip from Moab. Canyonlands is without a doubt, one of the best places to see near Moab.

Please note that Canyonlands NP is huge and is divided into several different areas.

Island in the Sky area is the closest and easiest to visit from Moab (30 miles, 40 minutes drive). If you have half a day in Canyonlands NP, you can drive the scenic loop and stop at various viewpoints. The landscape here is truly stunning and looks a lot like the Grand Canyon but without too many people. Don’t miss a short hike to Mesa Arch . Phenomenal scenery!

READ ALSO: Canyonlands and Arches in One Day

If you have more time, you can easily spend the whole day in this section of Canyonlands National Park as well. There are so many stunning viewpoints and lots of short easy hikes. At the Island in the Sky Visitor Centre, you can find all the information about the best hikes to do in this area.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

TIP: If you don’t feel like driving and want to experience the best of Island in the Sky area (most popular part of the Canyonlands NP), I recommend this half-day 4×4 tour of the Canyonlands from Moab . There is now also a new experience available – a helicopter flight at the edge of Canyonlands . Check it out if looking for something truly unique to do in Moab!

Good to know: The Needle District of Canyonlands is a bit further away and is more difficult to visit on your own. If you want to see that part of Canyonlands National Park as a day trip from Moab, it’s best to go there with a guided 4×4 tour . If you are planning to explore on your own, check out our guide to the best places to stay near Canyonlands National Park .

3. See the Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

There are few places as beautiful at sunset as the Dead Horse Point State Park . It’s just a short drive from Moab on the way to Canyonlands National Park and seeing the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park is definitely one of the best things you can do near Moab.

There are several viewpoints here and since it’s not really possible to be at several places at the same time, you’ll have to choose. The most known sunset view is probably at Dead Horse Point itself, but we found that the view at the very end of the road was even more impressive.

No matter which one you choose, this is such a beautiful place to end your day in Moab area. Don’t miss it!

4. Go Rafting on the Colorado River

Rafting on the Colorado River is a must-do activity if you visit Moab in summer. With a variety of choices, there is always a perfect rafting trip for everyone.

We opted for this family-friendly half-day rafting tour and had the best time! With temperatures way over 100°F in July, being on the water was a welcome relief from exploring the national parks on foot. You can even jump in the river for a short swim.

If you rather go for a bit more action, then take a look at this highly-rated rafting tour that does wilder parts of the river .

The scenery along the Colorado River near Moab is astonishing and a rafting trip is a great way to experience it. This is another experience you absolutely must do in Moab!

READ MORE: Rafting in Moab

TIP: If you are looking for something special to do in Moab, check out the Sound and Light Show with Dinner . It’s a slow-moving evening boat ride on a calm part of the Colorado River near Moab that runs the whole summer and through October.

5. Drive the Scenic Utah Byway State Route 128

Utah State Road 128 must be the best-kept secret of the Moab area. It’s an incredibly scenic road with unbelievable desert scenery. We found it just as impressive as the famous Hwy163 through Monument Valley (but probably not as impressive as the Monument Valley Scenic Drive , which offers a totally different experience).

Anyway, several sections of this road along the Colorado River and along the canyon are really beautiful too. Don’t miss this scenic drive if visiting Moab and Arches National Park.

We arrived from Colorado and left Interstate 70 at Cisco. At first, it’s just a regular road with not much to see. But it gets better and better as you drive further in the direction of Moab, and by the time you’re halfway, you find yourself stopping for way too many pictures at every curve.

Despite it being so beautiful and its proximity to Moab, you’ll hardly see any cars and even fewer tourists on this scenic Utah byway 128. The whole length of the road from Cisco to Moab is approximately 46 miles and takes about 1 hour.

We found that this was one of the most scenic roads from all our trips all over the world, so we highly recommend it to everyone as one of the absolute best things to do in Moab.

Suggested Itinerary for the Best of Moab in 2 – 3 Days

Now that you know what to do in Moab, you might be wondering how to best plan your time in the area. If you want to see all the best places in and near Moab in just two or three days, take a look at our suggested self-drive itinerary further below!

Here’s a simple Moab itinerary for 3 days that covers all the best things to do in Moab mentioned above. Further below, we have a couple of additional suggestions for what to do in Moab if you have more time. Take a look!

• Day 1 (half day/arrival): Drive the scenic road 128 and do a sunset hike in Arches National Park. We recommend hiking to the Delicate Arch.
• Day 2: Explore Arches National Park to the fullest. Drive the scenic loop and do at least one longer hike. We recommend the Landscape Arch Trail and if you are fit enough, hike further to the Double O Arch. If it’s too hot for sightseeing, spend the warmest hours of the day in the swimming pool.
• Day 3: Go rafting in Moab or choose one of the many outdoor activities available in Moab – see below. In the afternoon visit the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands National Park. End the day watching the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park.

TIP: If you are planning to visit several National Parks, get an annual America the Beautiful Pass. It is valid in all U.S. National Parks and federal recreation sites for one year from the month of purchase. If you visit more than two National Parks within the 12-month period, it’s cheaper than getting passes for each park individually.

Update: Because of all the questions we received, we have recently also published a more detailed article with sample itineraries for any trip for up to five days. Take a look below!

LEARN MORE: Moab Itinerary Suggestions for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 Days

TIP: Moab is known for its many outdoor adventures and there is a big selection of fun activities in the Moab area to choose from.

If you have more time in the Moab area, in addition to hiking and exploring the National Parks, we recommend that you do something a bit more adventurous . You can go rafting on the Colorado River , go mountain biking , join an off-road UTV tour (these are very popular!), go canyoneering , or even take a helicopter tour and see this incredible area from above.

For families , we also recommend checking out Moab Giants Dinosaur Park . It’s fun for all ages!

No matter which one you choose, these fun activities will make your trip to Moab even more memorable!

Here are some popular questions that our readers ask:

Yes, Moab is absolutely worth a trip. While the town itself is just a place to base yourself, the Moab area is simply stunning and has a lot to offer. Seeing Arches and Canyonlands National Parks is the main reason to visit Moab, but there are also many other stunning places nearby and a big variety of activities that you can do in the area.

We recommend at least 2 full days/ 3 nights for the Moab area. One day for Arches National Park and half a day to a day for Canyonlands National Park, plus the Dead Horse Point State Park. In addition, you can also take a short rafting tour, as we did. 3 days/4 nights would make your visit more relaxing. But you can easily spend a week in Moab and you won’t get bored!

Moab is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are the best times to visit Moab. March-May and October-November are the best months when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, but it’s not as busy as in the summer. Moab is one of the best American destinations for spring break !

Moab has a wide variety of accommodations for all budgets. Most hotels are located along the main street in Moab downtown, but there are also some very nice accommodations outside of town. Here you can find our hand-picked selection of the best Moab hotels and accommodations for any budget . Check it out!

TIP: Using the map below, you can also compare hotels and private accommodations in Moab . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. This map shows the best deals from all the biggest providers on the internet, saving you time and money. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Moab, Arches, Canyonlands – travel guide

More travel inspiration for the Moab area:

• Moab: Moab Excursions, Day Trips, and Tours
• Arches NP: Best things to do in Arches NP & Things to Do in Arches NP with Kids & Delicate Arch Hike & Best Viewpoints along the Arches Scenic Drive
• Canyonlands NP: Mesa Arch & Best Hotels near Canyonlands

Some other places that people often visit in combination with Moab:

• Utah: Best Things to Do in Utah
• Zion NP: Best hikes in Zion NP & Where to Stay near Zion
• Zion + Bryce: Zion to Bryce Canyon Drive & Itinerary
• Grand Canyon NP: One Day in Grand Canyon & Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon Itinerary & Grand Canyon in Winter
• Arizona: Best Places to Visit in Arizona & Phoenix – Scottsdale Itinerary
• Sedona, AZ: Things to Do in Sedona & Sedona Day Trip
• Las Vegas, NV: Best Things to Do in Las Vegas & Las Vegas Travel Tips & 1-day LasVegas Itinerary & Best Places to See near Las Vegas
• Aspen, CO: Maroon Bells and Crater Lake Hike & Best Things to Do in Aspen
• Rocky Mountains: Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary & Denver to Rocky Mountain NP Day Trip

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Mechelle Olson

Friday 24th of September 2021

I love the Arches Park, it is so beautiful! We camped just outside of Moab right next to the river.The sun heated up the clay soil so that kept us toasty warm. The sound of the river and the beautiful stars were just magical! Waking up to the sun bouncing of the red cliffs was breathtaking. I want to go back so bad! It is one of my most favorite places I have ever been❤️

Monday 27th of September 2021

Sounds like a wonderful experience, Mechelle! Hope you get to visit again! Happy travels.

Wednesday 11th of August 2021

Hey there! Just want to say Thank You for all this information! We will be visiting Moab and the information that you provided here is fantastic!

Thursday 12th of August 2021

Glad to help, Steve. Have a great trip!

Thursday 14th of January 2021

Hello. Unfortunately, we don't have a printable of this article. Advertising is what pays for our hard work running this blog so that we can continue to provide truly useful information to our readers free of charge. Most of our readers can appreciate that. Thanks for reading and enjoy your trip!

Alex Miranda

Friday 31st of July 2020

Hello, I'm preparing an itinerary for a south Utah trip in late August. Your recommendations for Moab and surroundings are excellent! I'm setting 3 days for these area. We have a week to visit Moab (Arches, Canyon lands), Zion, Bryce Capitol Reef. Wondering if you have some more tips for all these other parks? do you have an article already on it? Are we going to need more time, etc? Thank you for your time and great website.

Rebecca Hudson

Wednesday 4th of November 2020

Hi! What's Moab's biggest secret? It has the most active charitable organizations per capita than any other town in the U.S. So, I suggest visitors make time to visit WabiSabi nonprofit thrift store in order to get the authentic taste of what Moab is like at its heart. They sell items donated by natives, then donate all profits to local charities. In 2019, WabiSabi donated more than $88,000 to a dozen local charities and fed 700-800 locals at their Community Thanksgiving Celebration. You cannot claim to know Moab like a local without hunting treasure at Wabi!

Saturday 1st of August 2020

Hi Alex, glad you found this useful. 3 days is indeed a good time for a short visit to Moab and Canyonlands and you can allocate the rest of the time for the other parks. In Canyonlands, half a day is enough for the highlights of the Island in the Sky section. Get a map at the visitor's center and make sure to stop at all the lookouts next to the road. Don't miss Mesa Arch (easy short hike). You can do one other short hike if you feel like and if it's not too hot. Bryce - half a day/ one day is enough for the highlights and you can visit it on the way to Zion. I have no articles about Bryce, but have a guide with the best hikes in Zion and also where to stay near Zion NP. I think it's nice if you can spend 2 days in Zion. It's well worth it. I haven't been to Capitol Reef, but one day should be fine from everything I heard. Pick one or two really nice shorter hikes there. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Sunday 21st of June 2020

Considering Moab as a summer vacation spot for a family of 4. (2 teenage boys - age 17 and 19 -and parents ). Mid July 2020. Are most businesses and outdoor parks open? Specially the national parks and adventure tours.. How about the weather? Is it tolerable mid July? What airport would we fly into? We are coming from Ohio. Thank you!!

Hi Kim, at this moment, most places in Arches National Park are open (the roads, trails, etc). For more info and updates, please check the official website of the National Parks Service. The weather in Moab in July is hot, really hot. We visited mid-July and it was over 100°F every day. You can still do a lot, but have to try to do as much as possible in the morning, before 10-11 AM and then again in the late afternoon. During the hottest hours, you can go back to the swimming pool of your hotel (more info - Moab hotels). Rafting is another top experience in Moab in summer (more info - Moab rafting). As for the airport, Grand Junction Regional Airport (Colorado) is one of the closest (115 miles - 1h45). Otherwise, Salt Lake City, UT (230 miles - 4h). The closest local airport is Canyonlands Field Airport, but it doesn't have many flights. If I'm not mistaken, you can fly there from Salt Lake City. Hope this helps.

The Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah

A person’s tastes in adventure are as varied as Moab’s ability to fulfill them. There’s so much more to Moab than just the seeing, there’s also the doing: whitewater rafting , two National Parks , off road adventures , ziplining , rock climbing , scenic drives , museums, spas, art galleries, horseback rides , and Moab's Backyard Bash concert series . Whether you want to spend your time in Moab being civilized or rugged , you’re spoiled for choice of things to do in Moab, it’s only a matter of how much you can fit into your days.

If you're planning ahead, you may have time to reserve a multi-day (overnight) white water rafting expedition as the centerpiece of your vacation, then plan all the other day adventures, like a visit to Arches National Park , on the days before or after your life-changing adventure down these beautiful southwest canyons on display here in Utah. Let us know how you want to plan it, we love to help!

Our favorite things to do in Moab

• Go Rafting for the Day on the Colorado River
• Experience a Sunset Evening Hummer Safari
• Go Deep With a Half Day of Canyoneering
• Explore Arches National Park
• Ride the Moab Zipline
• Hike to Fisher Towers
• Drive to the Overlook at Dead Horse Point
• Drive a Rental Jeep to Somewhere Remote
• Hike to Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch
• Learn to Rock Climb
• Plan Your Next Trip to Moab to Include a Multi-Day Rafting Trip
• Mesa Arch & Grandview Point in Canyonlands National Park
• Hike to Corona Arch
• ​Shop and Eat in Downtown Moab
• Eat at Historic Sunset Grill

1. Go Rafting for the Day on the Colorado River

The most popular thing to do in Moab, Utah is river rafting on the Colorado River through the world-famous scenery of Castle Valley. There are plenty of choices from morning rafting trips , mid-day rafting trips , and even a full day of rafting with an exclusive hot BBQ lunch in the shaded lunch pavilion at the Red Cliffs Lodge. There are also other options for rafting available in Moab, Utah .

Rafting in Moab

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2. ​Experience a Sunset Evening Hummer Safari

One of the best things to do during a summer evening in Moab is a Sunset Hummer Safari on the Hell's Revenge Trail. Everything in Moab turns a deeper shade of red, pink, or orange as the sun sets in the west. As you watch this kaleidoscope of colors fall upon the slickrock, you’ll be sitting comfortably in a rock-steady Hummer, driven by expert guides, over some of the most unique terrain on planet Earth. Hell's Revenge Trail is perhaps the most world-famous 4x4 trail, and certainly one of the most popular things to do in Moab.

Hummer Safaris

3. Go Deep With a Half Day of Canyoneering

Hiking is an incredibly popular thing to do in Moab, so why not throw a few hidden grottoes, arches, and rare creekside trails into your morning or afternoon hike? Many people hike up Grandstaff Canyon for a little shade and some rare desert greenery along a babbling stream, but then hike back to the trailhead at the bottom. When canyoneering in Moab you’ll begin at the top edge of Grandstaff Canyon and you'll harness up with experienced canyoneering guides and ropes that let you rappel into Ephedra’s Grotto, and then over the massive, but hidden Morning Glory Arch. That puts you at the top end of the gorgeous Grandstaff Canyon. Now that’s an entrance for a hike in Moab!

Canyoneering in Moab

4. ​Tour Arches National Park

You can’t make a trip to Moab, Utah, and not see Arches National Park. Many of the park’s iconic features are easily explored just off the highway with a morning or evening guided van tour, or a drive on your own. Some advantages to a guided van tour include taking your hands off the wheel, allowing your eyes to scan the odd horizon-line within the park. Your guide will explain what your eyes are seeing, and direct you to some of the very best places for photos like Balanced Rock, Turret Arch, Double-O arch, and more. Exploring a little deeper on your own to the world-famous Delicate Arch is a very rewarding experience but be aware that It requires a little planning and preparation beyond the casual National Park stroll.

Arches National Park Tours

5. Ride the Moab Zip Line

Zipline tours are always a lot of fun no matter where you are, but where else can you soar like a raven from sandstone ledges, domes and fins across a wide-open desert rimmed by snow-capped mountains? That’s Moab! Even better, this super fun thing to do in Moab is easily accessible on the northern end of Main Street where a rowdy 4x4 ride up the mountainside takes you above the town of Moab and on the rim of a whole different landscape, just hidden from town. These tours happen almost all day long so you can plan it around many of the other things to do in Moab that we’ve already mentioned.

Moab Zipline

6. Hike to Fisher Towers

What could be a National Park or monument anywhere else, these titanic towers rise nearly a thousand feet above the desert floor, yet blend in almost imperceptibly from certain viewpoints among Castle Valley below. Rock Climbing is a very popular thing to do in Moab, and the Fisher Towers offer expert climbers a challenging and rewarding view. Beginner climbs are recommended elsewhere in Moab. Just hiking the undulating trail at the base of the towers is awe-inspiring; no need for ropes to get an amazing view here! The way the place glows at sunset, and the silhouette of prominent rock castles in the valley below will really make you feel like you’ve been someplace worthy of being called “The West”. There is little shade in the afternoon and evening, so take care to bring water on the trail with you. Click here for driving directions to the Fisher Towers trailhead.

Best Hikes in Moab

7. Drive to the Overlook at Dead Horse Point

Soaking up the vast view at this easily accessible overlook in the morning or evening sunlight is most definitely one of the best things to do in Moab, Utah. Even in the flat glare of mid-day, this State Park will inspire you. The goosenecks of the Colorado River flow hundreds of feet below as it approaches the deeper labyrinth of gorges in Canyonlands National Park, including Cataract Canyon. If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in this area, you might consider a guided mountain biking tour on the easy-to-moderate trails that traverse the rim of the Dead Horse Point area. The tour includes multiple jaw-dropping scenic overlooks.

Driving to Dead Horse Point

8. Drive a Rental Jeep to Somewhere Remote

Driving a Jeep in Moab just feels right. Cars will get you around just fine, but something about those oversized knobby Yokohama tires, the satellite radio, and the cooler packed with ice in the back that makes you feel like exploring. Moab is an off-road explorer’s paradise. The landscape surrounding Moab has an unusual amount of dirt roads that go everywhere while not going anywhere in particular - but there are A LOT of scenic viewpoints along the way! These “off-road” roads that go nowhere are everywhere in Moab thanks to the early Uranium mining boom of the 1950’s and ‘60’s.

Some recommendations:

• Take it Easy - Most of the very best scenic vista trails scattered around Moab do not require amazing rock-crawling skills nor overbuilt OHV side-by side machines. Jeeps are the perfect balance of comfort ON the highways, while being perfectly suited to 80% of the off-road 4x4ing you’ll need to do to get someplace remote. Jeep rentals are also far more comfortable for a day with cover from dust, wind, and weather.
• Take a Picnic - The cooler filled with ice in the back of your Canyonlands Jeep Rental knows you’ll be exploring all day. It’s ready for an order of lunch from Sweet Cravings before you head out of town.
• Take Pictures of Your Jeep like you’re driving through a commercial - You’ve seen the commercials, and now you’re living it. Take the winding switchbacks of the Shafer Trail that climbs the cliffside up to Dead Horse Point, or the Gemini Bridges Trail back to the Highway, or splash up and down Onion Creek near the Fisher Towers

Rent a Jeep

9. Hike to Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch

There are so many rock features to explore in Moab, both inside and outside of National Parks that you may be wondering why it would be worth hiking up to 3 miles from the parking lot to see yet another. It’s a good point, being that so many incredible features and overlooks require nothing more than a “window shopping” stroll. But in the case of Delicate Arch and/or Landscape Arch, you may want to plan half a day into your vacation for hiking. Prepare properly with shoes, jackets, adequate water, and a good camera. Even a bad camera will take an incredible photo of Delicate Arch. It’s got a drop-dead gorgeous stance, backdrop, and angle to the sun that makes it so iconic for license plates, Olympic Torch parades, and countless postcards. It’s such a good visual landscape it makes you wonder if it ought to be called “Landscape Arch”.

The real Landscape Arch is an easier hike, but much more difficult to size up in a camera frame, and with such a fragile, slender and, well… delicate profile it seems to defy gravity. It ought to have the name “Delicate” but we didn’t assign the names! Visually, and in person these two arches that require a bit of hiking are well worth the effort.

Learn About Arches National Park

10. Learn to Rock Climb

El Capitan and Yosemite Valley are not the only iconic areas famous among rock climbers. The crack climbs in famed Indian Creek (a tributary to Canyonlands National Park) are among the world’s most sought-after routes. A summit on one of the Fisher Towers like the Titan, or Castleton Tower is a featured moment celebrated in numerous TV commercials or gear catalogs.

Iconic Rock Climbing in Moab

11. Plan Your Next Trip to Moab to Include a Multi-Day Rafting Trip

By now you should have realized that there are A LOT of “Things To Do in Moab”. It’s hard to fit Moab into any typical vacation span. But we haven’t really even talked about more than a 30-mile radius around Moab yet!

Plan a Multi-day Rafting Trip

​ 12. Mesa Arch & Grandview Point in Canyonlands National Park

If you’re at Dead Horse Point it’s hard to not suggest you also go see Mesa Arch just beyond the Canyonlands National Park boundary - only minutes from Dead Horse Point State Park. Mesa Arch offers the same dramatic jaw-dropping view as Dead Horse Point, but from another angle looking more east, and framing the scene with a massive arch. Photographers flock to this easily accessible overlook for the iconic photo of the early light glowing under the arch, but if you happen by on a Sunday afternoon and you seem to be all alone you might feel a sense of reverence that might make you feel like removing your shoes. But you probably shouldn’t do that until you find a place to sit first.

If you are prepared to make a Sunday drive of it, you should consider driving south along Grandview Point Road to its namesake point at the end of the road. It’s quite Grand indeed. When you ponder what’s around the corner, down there in those depths, you should also ponder another very fun way to explore that wilderness of stone you see before you. Here’s a hint.

Explore Canyonlands National Park

13. Hike to Corona Arch

Corona Arch is about a mile and a half from the trailhead on Highway 279. The hike requires moderate effort, but is an astounding reward to those looking for something that seems like it ought to be in Arches National Park, but happily isn’t. They say Corona Arch is named for resembling the arc of a solar flare. It also resembles a somewhat smaller version of Rainbow Bridge near Lake Powell so it is sometimes called Little Rainbow Bridge. Nearby Bowtie arch dresses the place up, but you’ll only notice it if you look up along the rim of the cliff.

More great Moab Hikes

14. ​Shop and Eat in Downtown Moab

Moab’s downtown is unique. Plan some time between your adventures to stroll up and down Main Street and observe the charming bustle. You’ll be sure to find a memorable souvenir at one of the many shops, like “Moab Made”, “Moab Momento” or “Arches Trading Post. Find a tee shirt or last-minute outdoor gear at places like “Gear Trader”, Moab Adventure Center, or the T-Shirt Shop.

Locally-owned shops and restaurants dominate the downtown scene in Moab, which makes it easy to catch a world of flavor with distinctly Moab flair. Moab, Utah has attracted folks from all over the world to come and set up shop, or stake a claim at the food truck court, or sizzle up a great meal from their part of the world and serve it up Moab-style for the tourists. Many longtime locals have been adding their flavors to Moab’s menu for decades. Nowhere else will you find Dewey’s, Moab Brewery, Sweet Cravings, The Broken Oar, or Milt’s Stop and Eat. Zak’s Pizza, The Blu Pig BBQ and Antica Forma Pizza also come to mind. Don’t forget Miguel’s Baja Grill for dinner, or The Love Muffin for breakfast.

Shopping in Moab

15. Hike to Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch

There are so many rock features to explore in Moab, both inside and outside of National Parks that you may be wondering why it would be worth hiking up to 3 miles from the parking lot to see yet another. It’s a good point, being that so many incredible features and overlooks require nothing more than a “window shopping” stroll. But in the case of Delicate Arch and/or Landscape Arch, you may want to work a half a day into your vacation for hiking. Be sure to prepare properly with shoes, jackets, adequate water, and a good camera. Even a bad camera will take an incredible photo of Delicate Arch. It’s got a drop-dead gorgeous stance, backdrop, and angle to the sun that makes it so iconic for license plates, Olympic Torch parades, and countless postcards. It’s such a good visual landscape it makes you wonder if it ought to be called “Landscape Arch”.

The real Landscape Arch is an easier hike, but much more difficult to size up in a camera frame, and with such a fragile, slender and, well… delicate profile it seems to defy gravity. It ought to have the name “Delicate” but we didn’t assign the names. Visually, and in person these two arches that require a bit of hiking are well worth the effort.

More About Arches National Park

​17. Eat at Historic Sunset Grill (and learn about Moab’s mining history)

Besides having one of the most commanding views over the town of Moab, the Sunset Grille is three tablespoons restaurant and a few shovels full of historic Moab mining museum. The large home-turned-eatery was once the opulent 1953 mansion of the Uranium Boom’s poster boy, Charlie Steen. Charlie’s “Mi Vida” mine made more than a billion dollars over the next 30 years in a place south of town where the government geologists had already declared as absent of the radioactive rock. Steen could hardly have been happier to prove the G-men wrong. See more of our favorite places to eat in Moab.

Sunset Grill in Moab

More to Do in Moab

Best Moab Tours

You could spend three lifetimes exploring Moab and still not see all the amazingness of the region. Luckily, Moab offers a wide array of tours to help you cover as much ground as possible in your allotted time. We have a few recommendations of what we think are the best tours to help you experience the best of Moab.

Favorite Hikes

The list of Amazing hikes in Moab is endless. Choosing which hikes to fit in the itinerary is daunting. Relying on us to suggest a few will be a relief.

Top-Rated Restaurants

Small town doesn’t mean small selection when it comes to Moab and menu varieties. Moab’s top-rated restaurants range from steakhouses to pancake houses and everything in between.

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

It’s no secret Moab was a popular place for dinosaurs to roam in prehistoric times. However, what many people don’t know is that Moab is still home to dinosaurs. Moab Giants dinosaur park helps you travel back through time to learn about, and even walk amongst life-sized dinosaur replicas.

Aquatics & Rec Center

Just off Main Street, the Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (locally known as the MRAC) is available for both local and visitor use! This state of the art facility offers two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, diving boards, water slides, fitness classes, showers, and a fitness room. Whether you’re looking for a poolside day in the sun or an intense weight session; you are sure to find the perfect activity for you at the MRAC!

Entertainment

Moab has a happy, active vibe and a wealth of fun and interesting things to keep you entertained. If your timing is right you can catch "mostly local" performing artists at Moab's Backyard Bash concert series. Follow this link to see if the schedule matches up with your vacation plans!

Golfing in Moab

Golf courses can’t get much more scenic than the Moab Golf Course. Smooth vivid greens contrast against craggy red cliffs to make for a stunning 18 hole, par 72 day.

City Parks in Moab

Sometimes a perfect day is just finding a cool local park with plenty of space to lounge, sprawl, picnic, and enjoy. Moab offers several beautiful city parks, each unique with enough amenities, you could go park hopping for days.

For many people a vacation is just not complete until the luggage is stuffed full of souvenirs and great finds. Moab’s Main Street is lined with many fun and eclectic souvenir and clothing shops happy to assist visitors in achieving their ‘bags full goal’.

Health and Spa

For a small town, Moab has no shortage of professionals dedicated to making you feel better, relaxed and happier. Finding a licensed massage therapist, esthetician, chiropractor, and even rolfer, is as easy as it gets. So, there’s no excuse to feel anything less than completely at ease and blissful in Moab.

Things to do in Moab with Kids

Kids love Moab. If there is one place where it is totally acceptable for kids to run, scramble, explore, crawl, splash, and most of all, get dirty, it’s Moab. This red rock playground is teeming with things to do that will keep kids enthralled for days.

What to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Our Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.

What to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Not unlike your own personal Jiminy Cricket, (minus the worries of the little guy getting smooshed) the Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.

STOP IN AT OUR DOWTOWN LOCATION: 606 SOUTH MAIN STREET, MOAB, UTAH 84532

THINGS TO DO IN MOAB, UT

Things to do in moab.

Things to Do in Moab: A Guide to the Best Hikes in Utah’s Red Rock Wonderland

Moab is a desert paradise for outdoor lovers, with stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless adventure. Whether you want to explore the iconic arches and canyons of the national parks, or discover the hidden gems of the surrounding BLM lands, Moab has a hike for everyone. In this guide, we’ll share some of the best hikes in Moab, ranging from easy strolls to challenging scrambles, and offer some tips on how to make the most of your visit.

How to Get to Moab

Moab is located in southeastern Utah, about 230 miles from Salt Lake City and 360 miles from Denver. The closest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport, about 18 miles north of Moab, which offers daily flights from Salt Lake City and Denver. Alternatively, you can drive to Moab on scenic highways that pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.

When to Visit Moab

Moab is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and activities. Spring and fall are the most popular seasons, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. However, these are also the busiest times, so expect crowds and higher prices. Summer is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, but also offers longer days and fewer visitors. Winter is cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night, but also offers a chance to see Moab’s red rocks covered in white and enjoy some winter sports.

Where to Stay in Moab

Moab offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels and motels to campgrounds and RV parks. If you want to stay close to the action, you can choose from several hotels and motels in downtown Moab, which offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and services. If you want to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Moab, you can opt for one of the many campgrounds and RV parks in the area, which offer basic amenities and stunning views.

What to Pack for Moab

Moab is a desert environment, which means you need to be prepared for the sun, heat, wind, and dust. Here are some essential items to pack for your Moab trip:

• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun
• Water bottle, snacks, and electrolytes to stay hydrated and energized
• Hiking shoes, socks, and clothing that are comfortable, breathable, and durable
• Layers, jacket, and gloves to keep warm in the morning and evening
• Backpack, map, compass, and GPS to carry your gear and navigate the trails
• Camera, binoculars, and guidebook to capture and enjoy the sights
• First aid kit, flashlight, and whistle to handle any emergencies

The Best Hikes in Moab

Moab has hundreds of hiking trails to choose from, but here are some of the best ones that showcase the diversity and beauty of the area:

Delicate Arch Trail

Delicate Arch is the most famous and photographed landmark in Moab, and for a good reason. This spectacular natural arch stands 65 feet tall and frames the snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the background. The trail to Delicate Arch is 3.2 miles round trip and moderately difficult, with some steep and exposed sections. The trail starts at the Wolfe Ranch parking lot and follows a red rock slab to the base of the arch. The best time to visit Delicate Arch is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the crowds are smaller.

Corona and Bowtie Arch Trail

Corona and Bowtie Arch are two impressive arches that are located outside of the national parks, on BLM land. The trail to these arches is 2.3 miles round trip and easy to moderate, with some ladders and cables to assist you. The trail starts near the Gold Bar campground along Potash Road and climbs up a sandstone slope to a slickrock bench. From there, you can see the massive Corona Arch, which spans 140 feet, and the smaller but equally stunning Bowtie Arch, which hangs above a cliff. These arches are less crowded and more accessible than the ones in the national parks, and offer a great opportunity for photography and exploration.

Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail

The Windows section of Arches National Park is home to some of the largest and most scenic arches in the park, such as the North and South Windows, the Double Arch, and the Turret Arch. The Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail is 1.2 miles round trip and easy, with paved and gravel paths. The trail starts at the Windows parking lot and loops around the North and South Windows, which are also known as the Spectacles. You can also take a short spur trail to the Turret Arch, which has a smaller arch within a larger one. The Windows area is one of the most popular and accessible in the park, and offers great views of the surrounding formations.

Grand View Point Trail

Grand View Point is the highest point in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, and offers a panoramic view of the vast and rugged landscape below. The Grand View Point Trail is 2 miles round trip and easy, with a mostly flat and paved path. The trail starts at the Grand View Point parking lot and follows the rim of the mesa, offering different perspectives of the canyons, buttes, and spires that make up Canyonlands. The trail ends at a rocky outcrop, where you can see the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers in the distance. Grand View Point is one of the best places to watch the sunrise or sunset in Moab, as the colors change and illuminate the scenery.

Grandstaff Canyon Trail

Grandstaff Canyon is a lush oasis in the desert, with a perennial stream, cottonwood trees, and wildflowers. The Grandstaff Canyon Trail is 4.6 miles round trip and moderate, with several stream crossings and some rocky sections. The trail starts at the Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead along Highway 128 and follows the stream up the canyon. The highlight of the hike is the Morning Glory Natural Bridge, a 243-foot span that is the sixth longest natural rock span in the United States. The bridge is located at the end of a side canyon, where you can also see a pool and a waterfall. Grandstaff Canyon is a great hike for families, dogs, and anyone looking for a refreshing escape from the heat.

Fisher Towers Trail

Fisher Towers are a series of towering sandstone pinnacles that rise above the Colorado River, creating a dramatic and surreal landscape. The Fisher Towers Trail is 4.4 miles round trip and moderate, with some ups and downs and rocky sections. The trail starts at the Fisher Towers parking lot and follows the base of the towers, offering close-up views of their shapes and textures. You can also see some rock climbers scaling the vertical walls of the towers, which are some of the most challenging and rewarding in the world. The trail ends at a viewpoint overlooking the Titan, the largest and tallest of the towers, which stands 900 feet above the ground.

Moab is a hiker’s paradise, with endless trails to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a short and easy walk or a long and challenging adventure, you’ll find it in Moab. No matter which hike you choose, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, amazing rock formations, and unforgettable memories. Moab is a place that will make you fall in love with the desert and want to come back again and again.

If you ever get tired of all that hiking, one of the most exciting and unique ways to experience Moab is to take a 4×4 tour with the Moab Tourism Center.

They offer a variety of off-road adventures that let you drive a special 4×4 vehicle called a side by side or UTV. You can follow behind an experienced guide and experience Moab’s most popular trail called Hell’s Revenge, which is a thrilling ride up and down steep inclines across sandstone domes and slickrock ledges.

You can also choose a scenic tour along the mighty Colorado River and historic Kane Creek, where you can see ancient petroglyphs and wildlife.

If you want a more private and customized tour, you can book a private 4×4 tour of the sandstone rollercoasters of Fins N’ Things and Hell’s Revenge.

The Moab Tourism Center has over 3,100 five star reviews on TripAdvisor and has won the 2023 TripAdvisor Best of the Best Traveler’s Choice Award. You can watch a video of the Hell’s Revenge Tour here and see what the excitement is all about.

Moab is a place that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the scenery, or feel the adrenaline rush of an off-road adventure, Moab has something for everyone.

• Most Popular
• Tags 2 People Minimum
• Users Ages 3+
• Hour Glass 2.5 Hours

T-REX 4x4 TOURS YOU Get to Drive

Are you ready for adventure? Our U-drive T-Rex Hell’s Revenge Moab Tour may very well be the biggest outdoor adventure of your lifetime! Experience the thrills as you drive in this heart pounding unforgettable ride up and down steep inclines across sandstone domes and slickrock ledges in a 4×4 UTV.

• Hour Glass 3 hours

SCENIC HURRAH PASS MOAB 4×4 TOUR

Explore the beautiful scenery of the wild-west with this 3 hour adventure along the mighty Colorado River and historic Kane Creek.

Moab Private 4×4 Tour – You Get To Drive

Bring along friends and family and enjoy a private tour of the sandstone rollercoasters of the two of the most popular trails in Moab: Fins N’ Things and Hell’s Revenge!

10 Completely Free Things To Do In And Around Moab, Utah

M oab, Utah, is the gateway to the underrated Canyonlands National Park and world-famous Arches National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the US . While both destinations are a must-visit destination for all outdoor lovers, with a 7-day pass to each park running $30 a car or $15 a person , wallets can quickly start feeling the strain.

Plus, given the somewhat remote location of the city and parks, accommodation options do little to help ease the sticker shock of visiting Southern Utah. Thankfully, the city of Moab and the area around it offer plenty of free things to do to offset these spiraling costs. From free-to-enjoy natural formations to more unique indoor attractions, these fun free things to do in Moab, Utah, are sure to keep every budget on track.

Related: 10 Best Hikes In Utah's Scenic Bryce Canyon National Park

Hike The Hidden Valley Trail

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in and around Utah’s national parks, and there are many epic hikes in Arches National Park that are worth the effort , but travelers don’t have to wait for their timed entry to enjoy the red rock scenery of the area. Hiking the Hidden Valley Trail is among the free activities in Moab, Utah, and offers stunning vistas of the scenery for which the area is globally famed.

This day-use trail is on public land, although it parallels private property, so it is important to stay on the path. The 6-mile out-and-back trail is considered extremely strenuous, thanks to the steep climb to the endpoint paired with the high temperatures of the southern Utah desert.

About The Hidden Valley Trail

• Distance: 6.0 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Time to Hike: 3-3.5 hours

There are multiple turnaround points along this trail, but those willing to add a little extra climb can catch a glimpse of petroglyphs that have been preserved in the desert heat.

Check Out The Moab Information Center And Learn About The Area

Both a fun place to explore and a practical first stop for those heading to the national parks, the Moab Information Center is a wealth of tips and tricks for having fun in Moab. Moab has a variety of guides that cover the surrounding area, including Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

In addition to numerous helpful resources, Moab Information Center is a great free thing to do in Moab as it has a variety of interactive displays that teach visitors about the area in a fun and engaging way.

About The Moab Information Center

• Address: 25 E Center Street Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (7 days a week)

Experience Western Movies In-Person At The Moab Museum Of Film And Western Heritage

Museums are one of the best ways to learn about the lesser-known side of an area, and the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage is no exception. With five national parks and millions of visitors annually, there’s no doubt that southern Utah is one of the most beautiful parts of the southwestern United States. This beauty has led multiple films to travel into the desert for the perfect natural backdrop.

America’s early westerns, in particular, loved filming against the red rocks around Moab, and the free-to-visit Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage has taken great care to preserve this part of the region’s history.

About The Moab Museum Of Film And Western Heritage

• Address: Milepost 14 Highway 128, Moab, UT (inside the main lodge at Red Cliffs Lodge )
• Hours: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm (7 days a week)

Hike To The Corona And Bowtie Arches

Arches National Park may be famous for the highest concentration of naturally occurring arches in the world , but even it cannot contain all the unique formations in southern Utah. Not far from Moab, public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hiding some of the prettiest natural arches in Utah.

Some of these structures are easier to reach than others, and fortunately for travelers, the Corona and Bowtie Arches are less than a 3-mile hike (round trip) to visit. With leashed dogs, drones, and groups of all sizes permitted, this free hike in Moab is a great alternative to the national park trails.

About The Corona And Bowtie Arch Trail

• Distance: 2.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
• Time to Hike: ~2 hours

This is a challenging desert hike. Start early in the morning to avoid peak temperatures, and wear appropriate hiking shoes to maneuver the rugged rock. One portion of the hike uses chains and a ladder due to the steepness of the trail.

Related: Moab's Rock Formations: Exploring The Unique Geology Of Utah's Red Rock Country

Tour The Scott And Norma Matheson Wetlands Preserve And Watch For Wildlife

Moab may be best known for its harsh red rock formations, but the Matheson Wetlands Preserve, another place that visitors can enjoy near Moab for free, proves that there’s more than meets the eye.

Located along the Colorado River, the preserve protects over 200 species of birds, as well as a number of reptiles and amphibians. The preserve offers handicap-accessible boardwalk loops, self-guided tours, and wildlife viewing blinds to ensure that everyone can make the most of this unique free Moab activity.

About The Matheson Wetlands Preserve

• Address: 934 Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk (7 days a week)

The Matheson Wetlands Preserve was extensively damaged by flooding and is temporarily closed for repairs. Check the website for updates on re-opening.

Go Biking And Hiking In The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area

Another stretch of land near Moab, controlled by the BLM, the Colorado Riverway Recreation Area, offers dramatic canyon views and river access without the big price tag of guided tours and national park entrance fees.

The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area is a great place to cool off in the Colorado River or explore even more free hiking or biking trails near Moab, Utah.

About The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area

• Address: 82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT 84532
• Permitted Activities: Hiking, Biking, Fishing, Rock Climbing, Hunting, Camping, Four-Wheeling

Related: The Ultimate Way To Explore The Moab Desert Is With A Multi-Day Rafting Adventure

Stroll Down The Streets Of Downtown Moab

Considering it's Downtown Moab, a free activity may be a bit questionable, as the wide variety of shops and restaurants could quickly add up. Fortunately, simply exploring the unique downtown is completely free and a fun way to enjoy a different kind of scenery in southern Utah.

While a car is definitely needed to make the most of the sprawling landscape, Moab’s downtown area is fairly walkable, making it a fun, free way to spend the afternoon in Moab itself.

About Downtown Moab

• Things to Do in Downtown Moab : Shopping, Dining, Moab Made, High-End Dining, Nightlife Activities

Enjoy Stargazing In Designated Dark Sky Areas In Moab

Those wondering where and how to go stargazing in Moab are in luck; both of Moab’s national parks are designated dark sky areas, making them ideal for even the most novice stargazers to enjoy. But visitors don’t have to be in the parks to enjoy these exceptional views of the Milky Way, with several other areas near Moab providing the same one-of-a-kind dark skies without commanding an entrance fee.

The same BLM lands that are free to hike and explore during the day are free to stargaze at night. Two of the most popular free places to stargaze near Moab are Behind the Rocks Wilderness Area and the Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Area.

About Stargazing In Moab

• Best Places in Moab to Stargaze: Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Area, Behind the Rocks Wilderness Area, Castle Valley, Colorado Riverway
• Best Time of Year for Stargazing in Moab: June-November

Related: Under Canvas Has A New Glamping Experience So You Can Sleep Under The Stars In Moab

Hike To Grandstaff Canyon

Grandstaff Canyon may not be the Grand Canyon or even one of the deepest canyons in the US besides the Grand Canyon , but it still manages to create a very dramatic formation that is perfect for those looking for something free to do near Moab, Utah. Aside from the canyon itself, Grandstaff Canyon is just one more area near Moab, where travelers can visit free natural arches.

Like much of the area around Moab, Grandstaff Canyon is perfect for hiking, especially in the mornings before the heat reaches its peak. The steep cliffs also make it ideal for rock climbers looking for a free area in Moab to explore.

About The Grandstaff Canyon Trail

• Distance: 5.7 miles
• Time to Hike: 2.5-3 hours

As a free hike, this trail is not well maintained, and markings are few and far between. Use a print map to stay on the trail, be prepared to scramble at several points, and keep a careful eye out for poison ivy, which hikers note is plentiful in the area.

Trek The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail And Walk In The Footsteps Of Moab's Dinosaurs

Wondering where to find dinosaur footprints in Moab? Some of Moab's trails are the answer. While thousands of visitors flock to Moab, Utah, every week, it can be hard to remember that giants once called this place home. The desert has carefully preserved the fossils and footprints of these giants, and there are several areas where people can enjoy these reminders free of charge.

The first stretch of the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail has a variety of dinosaur bones and footprints frozen in stone, as well as informational signs to add to the depth of the experience. While the area can be a bit rough to maneuver, both mountain bikes and foot traffic are welcome to explore the area, making it one of the best free things to do in Moab.

About The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail

• Distance: 1.8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time to Hike: ~1 hour

Check in with the Moab Field Office of the BLM for full details on how to reach and enjoy the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail.

Best Off-Road Trails in Moab 

Moab, UT is one of the most off-road friendly areas in the U.S. with open-use trails for all experience levels. Surrounded by almost 2 million acres of public land and thousands of off-road trails, Moab is one of Utah’s adventure capitals. Due to the sheer amount of options, it can be overwhelming to know which trails to hit. Check out this list we compiled of our top recommended trails (in order by difficulty) that you should explore when you’re in Moab.

HURRAH PASS 

Take a weekend to explore this route that features beautiful lakes, Potash Plants, and Native American petroglyphs at Birthing Rock. Along Kane Creek road you’ll find well-maintained BLM campgrounds on a first-come-first-serve basis. They are popular, so plan ahead. OHVs are allowed in this area, but please stay on the marked route. See the trail map and route for Hurrah Pass here .

Easy. High-clearance 2-wheel drive adequate when dry. Can be rougher on the west side of the pass. Kane Creek is usually dry, but can be impassable for brief periods during flash flooding.

Technical Rating = 2

CHICKEN CORNERS 

The scenery on this route is phenomenal–it primarily winds along the Colorado River and you can stop to explore some catacomb caves along the way. Chicken Corners travels along a high, steep cliff overlooking the Colorado River. You will likely run into dirt bikers and mountain bikers, so please be respectful. This ride has the option to connect to Lockhart Basin. See the trail map and route for Chicken Corners here .

Moderate. We are tempted to call this trail easy, but there are just enough small ledges and rough spots to give it a moderate rating overall. Suitable for stock, high-clearance, 4×4 SUVs. You might not use your 4WD.

Explore more Moab off road trails

Plus Open Trails, Difficulty Ratings, Public Land Boundaries, Campsites, Tracking, Share Waypoints, and More

BUTTES AND TOWERS

Enjoy a variety of terrain on this scenic intermediate trail. Visit Courthouse Pasture and take in views of the red Entrada rocks and La Sal’s snowy peaks. Once off the highway, off-roaders can expect bumpy roads, rocky sections, slickrock, sidehills, sandy washes and some small shelves. Bring your camera because the views are worth the trip! See the trail map and route for Buttes and Towers here .

Technical Rating = 3

HELL ROARING 

This is an easy to moderate off-roading trail, great for sight-seers looking to see a maze of canyons with creeks draining into the Green River. The views are spectacular. While relatively easy, stock vehicles may have trouble driving over large rocks. Trail conditions include sand, rocks, shale, sandstone and some ledges. See the trail map and route for Hell Roaring here .

FINS N’ THINGS 

Fins & Things is a great example of the famous “slickrock” sandstone of Moab. It is located in the Sand Flats Recreation Area, which requires a fee. Prepare for steep climbs and descents, deep sand, and loose rocks. Follow the one-way travel signs. See the trail map and route for Fins N’ Things here .

Some steep slickrock climbs and descents. Few big ledges to get hung up on. Easier in short wheel-based vehicle. Compact, aggressive, stock SUVs can do it with skilled driver.

Technical Rating = 4

ELEPHANT HILL 

This is a favorite trail among off-roaders. It requires a National Park fee as well as a day-use permit for the stunning Needles District. There are many fantastic hiking trails in this area, and even non-hikers will love the Joint Trail. Dogs are not allowed, and vehicles and drivers must be licensed. See the trail map and route for Elephant Hill here .

Difficult. Very steep and narrow in places. Extremely tight switchbacks require backing up. Rock ledges require high ground clearance and 4-wheel drive. Skid plates highly recommended. Not recommended for stock sport utility vehicles

WHITE RIM 

You’ll need to obtain a free day-use permit to access this amazing trail. There is a 50 per day limit. If you want to camp, you’ll need to pay for an additional permit. This is a popular destination, and permits for White Crack and Murphy Hogback Campgrounds sell out quickly. No services are available so bring water and fuel. Licensed dirt bikes are allowed, but ATVs and UTVs are not. No pets or fires. See the trail map and route for White Rim here .

Moderate. Most of the route is easy; however, a few spots are steep and rocky. The most challenging spot is a narrow shelf road that climbs the Murphy Hogback. We once encountered a rock slide here that completely blocked the road and we had to turn back. Always call ahead for conditions or check at visitor center. Suitable for stock, high-clearance 4×4 SUVs.

Technical Rating = 5

PORCUPINE RIM 

This high-elevation trail offers varied terrain and outstanding views. The trail begins with a descent to a narrow ledge overlooking Grandstaff Canyon, which then drops to a drainage. The climb up to the rim is rocky and worth it for the incredible views. There are small sections of slickrock but, because of the elevation, most of this trail is rough mountain bedrock. You may encounter snow or mud in spring and fall. See the trail map and route for Porcupine Rim here .

HELLS REVENGE 

Difficult, long, but very scenic and exciting, this is one of the most popular trails near Moab. Hell’s Revenge intertwines with the Slickrock Bike Trail, so be very careful at crosspoints. Bikers have the right of way. Sand Flat Recreation Area has a small fee. See the trail map and route for Hells Revenge here .

Difficult. The main trail features several large ledges that can’t be bypassed, but most of the difficulty comes from numerous narrow steep sections along slickrock fins. Optional extreme obstacles–Hell’s Gate, Mickey’s Hot Tub, the Escalator and Tip-Over Challenge–are dangerous and should only be attempted by expert drivers using an experienced spotter. For these obstacles, front and rear lockers are required. Major vehicle damage is not unusual. It is extremely dangerous to ride an ATV on this trail without a helmet. Stay on marked route at all times.

Technical Rating = 6

TOP OF THE WORLD 

Top of the World is a very popular trail located outside Moab. It’s relatively easy as far as Moab is concerned, and the scenery factor is very high. Its also easily done in a half day making it a good shorter option. You end on the brink of a huge cliff. See the trail map and route for Top of the World here .

POISON SPIDER 

This route has it all: fun obstacles and great scenery. It’s common to drive the first portion heading to Golden Spike, but be sure to take the loop, as it offers slickrocks, a sandy hill to play on and an overlook you won’t want to miss. Play with caution and be aware of mountain bikers in the area. If you want to get sidetracked for a bit, check out Barney’s Overlook. See the trail map and route for Poison Spider here .

Difficult. Large awkward ledges with tippy spots. Many (not all) have bypasses. Modified vehicles with bigger tires, lockers, and high ground clearance are best suited, but some drivers of newer aggressive stock SUVs are getting through with careful tire placement and the help of a good spotter.

MOAB RIM 

You’ll see the town of Moab from the overlooks on this route. Bring your camera and capture breathtaking views and fun obstacles. Stretch your legs by taking a fun hike to Hidden Valley. A study area borders the south so please stay on the route. See the trail map and route for Moab Rim here .

Difficult and dangerous. The first mile scares the wits out of most people. You follow a narrow, tippy shelf road along a high cliff. Not for novice drivers. First-timers should go with someone who knows the right line over the obstacles, especially the Z-Turn. Not for stock SUVs. Very challenging for UTVs. Insane for ATVs.

Technical Rating = 7

METAL MASHER 

If you want fun and a lot of variety, you’ll love this trail and the obstacles it offers. Metal Masher has become increasingly difficult over the years, and it is recommended you bring a team and have at least one rig take a bypass to the top. That way you’ll have a winch point; otherwise you may be out of luck. It is a difficult trail for ATVs and is closed to OHVs. See the trail map and route for Metal Masher here .

Difficult. Lifts, bigger tires and lockers recommended. Not for stock vehicles. Optional Rock Chucker is extreme and for big rigs only. Lots of barren slickrock makes route-finding challenging. Possible large new roads for drilling activity may be confusing. Fortunately, the trail is well-marked with MM signs, white dashes and black tire marks. Backtrack if necessary.

CLIFF HANGER 

This trail winds up and around high jagged cliffs and provides plenty of difficult obstacles along the way. The backdrop is phenomenal, and mountain bikers often ride in this area as well. Be courteous and careful. Helmets recommended.

Difficult. Strictly hard-core. No stock SUVs. Huge ledge along cliff edge at 2.6 miles is not for the faint of heart. At Wpt. 03, if you’re not careful, it is easy to slide sideways and roll over. See the trail map and route for Cliff Hanger here .

Technical Rating = 8

PRITCHETT CANYON

One of the most famous trails in Moab, Pritchett Canyon tests the most experienced riders and toughest rigs. Be prepared to winch and damage your vehicle. Expect off-camber turns, huge ledges and long, difficult climbs. The trail only gets harder as you go on. Flash floods are possible. See the trail map and route for Pritchett Canyon here .

Extremely difficult. For big, customized, hard-core rigs only. Huge, off-camber ledges lie in wait for drivers too proud to winch (winch points on Chewy Hill, Rocker Knocker, Axle Hill and Yellow Hill). We left our modified 2-door Rubicon at home and wisely rode with Moab Friends for Wheelin’. Study YouTube(r) videos before you go.

Technical Rating = 9

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