Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Hiking Adventures

Moab offers hiking trails for every skill level, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Popular hikes include the Delicate Arch Trail (3 miles, strenuous), Devils Garden Loop (7.2 miles), Corona Arch (3 miles, moderate), and Negro Bill Canyon (4 miles, easy).

The best hiking season is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable. Summer hikes require early morning starts to avoid extreme heat. Always carry plenty of water—at least one gallon per person per day.

Mountain Biking

Moab is considered the mountain biking capital of the world. The legendary Slickrock Trail challenges experienced riders with 10.5 miles of technical riding on petrified sand dunes. Other popular trails include Porcupine Rim, The Whole Enchilada, and Klondike Bluffs.

Beginners can enjoy easier trails like the Moab Brand Trails or Bar M Loop. Bike rentals and guided tours are available throughout town. Spring and fall offer the best riding conditions, though trails are rideable year-round.

River Rafting & Water Sports

The Colorado River offers everything from peaceful scenic floats to heart-pounding whitewater adventures. Calm water sections near Moab are perfect for families, while Cataract Canyon downstream features Class III-V rapids for thrill-seekers.

Popular options include half-day scenic floats, full-day combination trips with hiking, and multi-day expeditions. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular on calmer sections. The river season runs from April through September.

Off-Roading & 4x4 Adventures

Moab's famous 4x4 trails attract off-road enthusiasts from around the world. Hell's Revenge offers thrilling slickrock driving with steep climbs and descents. Poison Spider Mesa provides technical challenges with spectacular views. Fins and Things features dramatic rock formations and exciting terrain.

Jeep rentals are widely available, or join guided tours for expert navigation and local knowledge. Many trails require high-clearance 4WD vehicles and experienced drivers. Always stay on designated trails to protect the fragile desert environment.

Rock Climbing & Canyoneering

Moab's unique desert sandstone offers world-class climbing opportunities. Wall Street features classic crack climbs, while Potash Road provides sport climbing routes. Indian Creek, just south of Moab, is legendary for its perfect splitter cracks.

Canyoneering combines hiking, rappelling, and problem-solving through slot canyons. Popular routes include the Fiery Furnace in Arches (permit required) and various technical canyons in the surrounding area. Guided trips are highly recommended for beginners.

Fishing

The Colorado River offers excellent fishing for catfish, bass, and carp. Nearby Ken's Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and provides a peaceful fishing experience with mountain views. The La Sal Mountain streams offer high-elevation trout fishing in summer.

A Utah fishing license is required and can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores. Spring and fall provide the best fishing conditions on the river, while mountain streams are best in summer.

Scenic Flights & Air Tours

See Moab's vast landscapes from above on a scenic flight or helicopter tour. Aerial perspectives reveal the true scale and beauty of the canyons, arches, and mesas. Tours range from 30-minute overviews to extended flights covering multiple national parks.

This is an excellent option for those with limited mobility or time who want to experience the area's grandeur. Sunrise and sunset flights offer the most dramatic lighting and photo opportunities.

Best Sunrise & Sunset Viewpoints

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

Walk among life-size dinosaur replicas on a 1.5-mile outdoor trail featuring over 100 prehistoric creatures. The indoor museum includes real fossils, interactive exhibits, and a 5D paleontology experience that brings the Jurassic period to life.

Kids can dig for fossils in the excavation area and learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed this region. The combination of outdoor exploration and hands-on learning makes this a hit with children of all ages. Allow 2-3 hours for the full experience.

Family River Trips

Gentle Colorado River floats are perfect for families with young children. Half-day scenic trips offer calm water, beautiful scenery, and opportunities to spot wildlife like blue herons and beavers. Most outfitters welcome children as young as 4-5 years old.

Combination trips include stops for short hikes to petroglyphs or swimming beaches. Guides share stories about the area's geology and history while keeping everyone safe and entertained. Life jackets are provided for all ages.

Visitor Centers & Museums

The Arches and Canyonlands visitor centers offer junior ranger programs where kids complete activity books and earn badges. Interactive exhibits explain the area's geology, ecology, and human history in engaging ways.

The Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage showcases the area's Hollywood history with movie props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes stories. Kids enjoy seeing locations from famous films they might recognize.

Scenic Drives

When kids need a break from hiking, scenic drives offer spectacular views from the comfort of your vehicle. The Colorado River Scenic Byway (Highway 128) features numerous pullouts for photos and short walks.

The Arches National Park scenic drive stops at major viewpoints accessible by short walks from parking areas. Dead Horse Point's paved road leads directly to the overlook with minimal walking required.

Kid-Friendly Dining

Downtown Moab offers numerous family-friendly restaurants with kids' menus and casual atmospheres. Popular choices include pizza places, burger joints, and ice cream shops. Many restaurants have outdoor patios where kids can move around between courses.

Recreation & Play Areas

Swanny City Park in downtown Moab features playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for kids to burn off energy. The park includes basketball courts, a skate park, and shaded areas for relaxing.

Several hotels and campgrounds have swimming pools—a welcome relief after hot days exploring the desert. Some properties also offer mini golf and other family activities.

Scenic Drives for Two

The Colorado River Scenic Byway (Highway 128) offers 44 miles of breathtaking scenery perfect for a leisurely drive together. Stop at Castle Valley for views of the La Sal Mountains framed by red rock towers.

The La Sal Mountain Loop Road climbs from desert to alpine forest, offering dramatic elevation changes and diverse landscapes. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the mountain viewpoints overlooking the red rock country below.

Private River Experiences

Book a private sunset river float for an intimate experience on the Colorado River. Drift peacefully through red rock canyons as the evening light creates magical reflections on the water. Some outfitters offer champagne and appetizers.

Stand-up paddleboarding together on calm sections of the river provides a peaceful way to explore while enjoying each other's company. Rent boards and find a quiet stretch away from the crowds.

Romantic Hikes

Corona Arch offers a moderately challenging hike with a spectacular reward. The 3-mile round-trip trail includes some scrambling with cables and ladders, creating a shared adventure. The massive arch provides a dramatic setting for photos together.

Fisher Towers Trail winds through otherworldly rock formations with stunning views at every turn. The 4.4-mile round-trip hike offers solitude and dramatic scenery perfect for couples seeking adventure together.

Romantic Dining

Desert Bistro offers upscale dining in an intimate setting with creative Southwestern cuisine. The restaurant features an extensive wine list and outdoor patio dining under the stars.

Sunset Grill, perched on a hillside overlooking Moab, provides panoramic views with your meal. Request a window table at sunset for the most romantic experience.

For a casual but romantic option, grab takeout and drive to a scenic overlook for a private dinner with million-dollar views. Many hotels also offer in-room dining with patio seating.

Stargazing

Moab's dark skies offer incredible stargazing opportunities. Dead Horse Point State Park hosts astronomy programs with telescopes during summer months. The park's remote location provides minimal light pollution.

Bring blankets and lie under the stars at any remote viewpoint. The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights, creating a romantic atmosphere. Download a stargazing app to identify constellations together.

Scenic Flights

Splurge on a private scenic flight or helicopter tour for a truly unforgettable experience. Soar over Arches, Canyonlands, and the Colorado River while enjoying bird's-eye views of the dramatic landscape. Sunset flights offer the most romantic lighting and photo opportunities.

Romantic Accommodations

Choose accommodations with private hot tubs, fireplaces, or balconies overlooking red rock views. Several boutique hotels and vacation rentals cater specifically to couples seeking romantic getaways.

Consider staying at Red Cliffs Lodge along the Colorado River for a resort experience with stunning views, or book a secluded cabin in Castle Valley for complete privacy surrounded by dramatic rock formations.

Evening Dining Scene

Downtown Moab comes alive in the evening with numerous restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Desert Bistro provides upscale dining with creative Southwestern dishes, while Sunset Grill offers panoramic views from its hillside location.

For casual dining, try Moab Brewery for craft beers and pub fare, or Quesadilla Mobilla for creative Mexican fusion. Many restaurants feature outdoor patios perfect for enjoying pleasant evening temperatures after hot desert days.

Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak season (March-May and September-October). Most dining establishments are concentrated along Main Street, making it easy to walk between options.

Breweries & Bars

Moab Brewery, the town's original craft brewery, offers a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating and live music on weekends. Sample their award-winning beers including the popular Dead Horse Amber Ale.

Other local favorites include Moab Distillery for craft cocktails and spirits, and various bars along Main Street offering everything from dive bar vibes to upscale lounges. The nightlife scene is laid-back and friendly, reflecting Moab's outdoor adventure culture.

Live Music & Entertainment

Several venues host live music throughout the week, especially during peak tourist season. Check local listings for performances at Moab Brewery, Woody's Tavern, and other downtown establishments.

The music scene leans toward folk, rock, and Americana, with both local musicians and touring acts. Summer months bring more frequent performances and occasional outdoor concerts in city parks.

Evening Strolls

Walk along Main Street to browse art galleries, outdoor gear shops, and souvenir stores that stay open into the evening. The downtown area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with interesting shops and people-watching opportunities.

The Moab Arts and Recreation Center sometimes hosts evening events, workshops, and community gatherings. Check their schedule for activities during your visit.

Campfire Experiences

If you're camping, evening campfires provide the perfect end to adventure-filled days. Many campgrounds in the area allow campfires (when fire restrictions aren't in effect). Gather around the fire to share stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the desert night.

Some guided tours and outfitters offer evening campfire experiences with storytelling about the area's geology, history, and Native American heritage. These programs provide educational entertainment under the stars.

Relaxation & Recovery

After long days of hiking and adventure, many visitors prefer quiet evenings at their accommodations. Soak in a hot tub, enjoy a private balcony with red rock views, or simply rest up for the next day's adventures.

Several hotels offer evening amenities like fire pits, outdoor lounges, and pool areas that stay open after dark. These provide relaxing spaces to unwind while still enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.

Seasonal Events

Moab hosts various evening events throughout the year, including the Moab Music Festival (September), outdoor movie screenings in summer, and holiday celebrations. Check the Discover Moab events calendar for happenings during your visit.

Downtown Moab Hotels

Staying in downtown Moab puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and services. Main Street hotels offer convenience and easy access to everything the town has to offer.

Advantages: Walk to dining and entertainment, no need to drive after dinner, central location for day trips to both national parks, plenty of amenities nearby.

Considerations: Can be noisy, especially on weekends. Limited parking at some properties. Higher prices during peak season. Less scenic views compared to outlying areas.

Resorts & Lodges

Several upscale resorts and lodges offer full-service amenities with stunning red rock views. Red Cliffs Lodge, located along the Colorado River, provides a resort experience with on-site dining, horseback riding, and river access.

Sorrel River Ranch offers luxury accommodations with spa services, fine dining, and dramatic views of the river and surrounding cliffs. These properties cater to travelers seeking comfort and amenities after days of adventure.

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and travelers who want upscale accommodations with resort amenities. Expect higher prices but exceptional service and settings.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation homes and condos provide space and privacy, especially valuable for families or groups. Many rentals feature full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor spaces with hot tubs or fire pits.

Castle Valley, located 20 minutes from Moab, offers secluded rentals surrounded by dramatic rock formations. This area provides a quieter alternative to staying in town while still being close to attractions.

Advantages: More space, kitchen facilities for preparing meals, often better value for groups, unique properties with character, private outdoor spaces.

Campgrounds

Camping puts you closest to nature and offers the most budget-friendly option. Several excellent campgrounds serve the Moab area, from developed sites with hookups to primitive backcountry camping.

Location Considerations

Budget Considerations

Moab accommodation prices vary dramatically by season. Peak season (April-May, September-October) sees the highest rates, often 2-3 times higher than winter prices.

Budget Options: Camping ($15-40/night), budget motels ($80-120/night off-season), hostels (limited availability).

Mid-Range: Chain hotels and local inns ($150-250/night peak season), vacation rentals for groups.

Luxury: Resorts and upscale lodges ($300-600+/night), private vacation homes with premium amenities.

La Sal Mountain Loop Road

This 60-mile scenic drive climbs from desert to alpine forest, offering dramatic elevation changes and diverse landscapes. The route provides spectacular views of red rock country from mountain viewpoints.

Stop at Warner Lake for a short hike or picnic surrounded by aspen groves and mountain peaks. The loop takes 2-3 hours without stops, but allow a full day to enjoy the scenery and hiking opportunities. Best in late September-early October for fall colors.

Goblin Valley State Park (90 miles, 1.5 hours)

Thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations create an otherworldly landscape perfect for exploration and photography. Unlike most parks, you can walk among and climb on the formations.

Kids especially love scrambling through the "goblins." The Valley of Goblins trail is an easy 1.5-mile loop. Combine with a visit to Little Wild Horse Canyon, a family-friendly slot canyon nearby. Plan 3-4 hours for the round trip from Moab.

Capitol Reef National Park (145 miles, 2.5 hours)

This underrated national park features a 100-mile wrinkle in the earth's crust called the Waterpocket Fold. The scenic drive passes colorful cliffs, pioneer orchards, and historic buildings.

Highlights include the Fruita Historic District, Hickman Bridge Trail, and Capitol Gorge. This makes a long but rewarding day trip, or consider staying overnight in Torrey. The park sees far fewer visitors than Arches or Canyonlands.

Sego Canyon Rock Art (45 miles, 45 minutes)

View exceptional rock art panels from three different cultures spanning thousands of years. The Barrier Canyon, Fremont, and Ute styles are all represented in this easily accessible site.

The short walk from the parking area leads to well-preserved pictographs and petroglyphs. Combine with a visit to the ghost town of Sego for a half-day trip. Best photographed in morning or late afternoon light.

Manti-La Sal National Forest

Escape desert heat with a trip into the La Sal Mountains. The forest offers hiking trails, mountain lakes, and cool temperatures even in summer. Warner Lake and Oowah Lake are popular destinations.

The area provides a complete contrast to the desert below, with aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and mountain streams. Excellent for hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking. Access via La Sal Mountain Loop Road.

Scenic Byway 279 (Potash Road)

This 17-mile paved road follows the Colorado River through dramatic canyon scenery. The route passes numerous rock art panels, dinosaur tracks, and climbing areas.

Stop at the petroglyphs near mile marker 11 and look for dinosaur tracks at mile 15. The road ends at the potash evaporation ponds, which create colorful blue pools. Popular with rock climbers accessing Wall Street and other climbing areas.

Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument (50 miles, 1 hour)

View one of the largest known collections of petroglyphs in the Southwest. Over 650 rock art designs cover a single cliff face, representing 2,000 years of human history. Free to visit with a short walk from the parking area. Combine with a trip to The Needles district of Canyonlands.

Getting Around Moab

A personal vehicle is necessary for visiting national parks and most attractions. Downtown Moab is walkable, but everything else requires driving. Parking at Arches National Park fills early during peak season—arrive before 7 AM or after 4 PM.

Gas stations are plentiful in Moab but scarce elsewhere. Fill up before heading to parks or remote areas. The nearest gas between Moab and many attractions can be 50+ miles away.

Bike rentals are available for exploring town and nearby trails. Some hotels offer shuttle services to trailheads. Guided tours provide transportation for specific activities like river rafting and off-roading.

Water & Hydration

Critical: Carry at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for hiking. The desert climate causes rapid dehydration, especially during physical activity. Drink water before you feel thirsty.

Bring more water than you think you'll need. Many trails have no water sources. Electrolyte supplements help replace minerals lost through sweating. Avoid alcohol and caffeine before strenuous activities as they increase dehydration.

Keep extra water in your vehicle for emergencies. If hiking in summer, consider starting before sunrise to avoid peak heat and reduce water needs.

Sun Protection

Moab's high elevation (4,000+ feet) and desert environment create intense sun exposure. Sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes, even on cloudy days.

• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours
• Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses
• Choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Seek shade during midday hours (11 AM - 3 PM)
• Use lip balm with SPF protection

UV exposure is strongest in summer but remains significant year-round. Don't underestimate sun intensity in cooler months.

What to Pack

Check our comprehensive travel packing list for more detailed recommendations.

Safety Considerations

Read our detailed travel safety guide for comprehensive safety information.

Cell Service & Connectivity

Cell service is reliable in downtown Moab but limited or nonexistent in national parks and remote areas. Download offline maps, trail information, and any needed resources before leaving town.

Visitor centers offer free Wi-Fi. Many hotels and restaurants in Moab provide internet access. Don't rely on your phone for navigation in backcountry areas—carry physical maps and know how to use them.

Leave No Trace Principles

Moab's desert environment is fragile and slow to recover from damage. Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect this landscape for future generations:

• Stay on designated trails—shortcuts cause erosion
• Pack out all trash, including toilet paper
• Don't disturb rock art or archaeological sites
• Avoid stepping on cryptobiotic soil (dark, crusty ground)
• Use existing campsites rather than creating new ones
• Keep noise levels down to preserve the wilderness experience
• Don't stack rocks or create cairns (except on designated routes)

Budget & Costs

Park Entrance Fees: Arches ($30/vehicle for 7 days), Canyonlands ($30/vehicle for 7 days), Dead Horse Point ($20/vehicle). Consider an America the Beautiful Pass ($80/year) if visiting multiple national parks.

Accommodations: Budget $80-120/night for basic motels off-season, $150-300/night for mid-range hotels during peak season, $300+/night for luxury resorts.

Food: Expect $15-25 per person for casual meals, $30-50 for nicer restaurants. Grocery stores in Moab allow you to prepare your own meals and save money.

Use our cost calculator to estimate your total trip expenses including transportation, lodging, food, and activities.

Services & Amenities

Moab has full services including grocery stores, pharmacies, medical clinic, gas stations, and outdoor gear shops. Stock up on supplies in town before heading to remote areas.

The nearest hospital is Moab Regional Hospital. For emergencies, call 911. Rangers in national parks can provide assistance. Outdoor gear shops offer equipment rentals, repairs, and expert advice.