Welcome to Moab, a desert gem nestled in the heart of Utah that promises a blend of jaw-dropping landscapes, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and a unique small-town charm. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Moab has something magical for you. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your Moab adventure unforgettable!
I’ve included my 4-day trip itinerary at the end of this post.
The Feel of Moab
Moab exudes a laid-back, adventurous vibe that will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. The town is a gateway to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the United States, with friendly locals who are passionate about the great outdoors. Whether you’re strolling through the quaint downtown area, grabbing a bite at a local café, or gearing up for a hike, you’ll find the spirit of adventure and discovery everywhere you go.
My Experience: The first time I laid eyes on Moab’s stunning red rock landscapes, I felt a surge of excitement and a deep sense of adventure. The scenery is so otherworldly that it feels like stepping into a different realm, one where every turn reveals a new, awe-inspiring view.
Areas To Visit
The Town of Moab: Moab is a charming town with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Browse through unique shops, enjoy a meal at one of the many local eateries, and soak in the vibrant, outdoor-focused culture.
Arches National Park: Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park is a playground for hikers and photographers. Don’t miss the iconic Delicate Arch and the awe-inspiring Landscape Arch. The park’s striking red rock formations and expansive vistas will leave you in awe.
Canyonlands National Park: Divided into four districts, this park offers dramatic landscapes, endless canyons, and thrilling off-road trails. The Island in the Sky district provides stunning panoramic views that are perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
Adventures in Moab
Moab is synonymous with adventure. Here are some must-do activities:
Speed Boat Ride: Kick off your adventure with a thrilling speed boat ride on the Colorado River. https://www.moabjett.com
Group Jeep Tour: Experience the excitement of exploring Moab’s rugged terrain in a Jeep that seats 7 passengers, plus a tour guide. Plenty of stops for picture opportunities. https://www.moabadventurecenter.com
Rent a 4×4: Drive a 4×4 through Canyonlands with a tour guide, experiencing the thrills of off-roading. https://www.moabreservationcenter.com/
Private Jeep Tour through Arches National Park: Enjoy a 6-hour private tour that includes lunch and access to areas off-limits to regular cars. https://navtec.com
Canyoneering and Repelling Tour: Hike to and rappel from three arches, a challenging and exhilarating experience for those without a fear of heights. https://www.moabadventurecenter.com
Hike to Delicate Arch: A rewarding trek with stunning views, perfect for capturing the beauty of Moab.
My Experience: You’ll definitely want to visit both National Parks during your stay in Moab. Renting a 4×4 and driving it through Canyonlands and doing a private tour through Arches National Park was definitely a great way to intimately visit both parks. The canyoneering and repelling tour was definitely a highlight of the trip. We hiked to and rappelled from three arches—an exhilarating experience that tested our limits. Finally, we hiked to the iconic Delicate Arch, a must-do rewarding trek with stunning views.
Other Things To Do in Moab
- Mountain Biking: Known as a mountain biking mecca, Moab boasts world-renowned trails like the Slickrock Bike Trail and Porcupine Rim.
- Rafting on the Colorado River: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting or enjoy a peaceful float trip surrounded by towering red rock canyons.
- Visit Dead Horse Point State Park: Offering breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands, this park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
- Moab Giants Dinosaur Park: A fun and educational stop for families, featuring life-sized dinosaur replicas and interactive exhibits.
- Moab Museum: Learn about the area’s rich history, from ancient Native American cultures to the development of the uranium mining industry.
How To Get to Moab
Getting to Moab is an adventure in itself! The closest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is about a 4-hour drive away. For those coming from Denver, the drive is roughly 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), which is just a 1.5-hour drive from Moab. Renting a car is the best way to reach Moab and explore its stunning surroundings at your own pace.
My Experience: We flew into Salt Lake City, spent a delightful day exploring the city, and then rented a car for the scenic drive to Moab. The road trip was filled with breathtaking views and a growing sense of anticipation for the adventures that awaited us.
Where to Stay in Moab
Finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for an enjoyable trip to Moab. Here are some great options to consider:
- Homewood Suites by Hilton: This comfortable and modern hotel is located on the northern edge of Moab, just a short drive from downtown. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a bit of distance from the bustling town center but still want easy access to all the attractions. The suites are spacious and equipped with kitchens, making it ideal for longer stays.
- Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn: Situated right in the heart of downtown Moab, this hotel offers convenience and comfort. You’ll be within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, and the outdoor pool is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- Red Cliffs Lodge: Located about 14 miles from downtown Moab along the scenic Highway 128, this lodge offers a unique, rustic experience. Nestled along the banks of the Colorado River, it provides stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The lodge features spacious suites and cabins, a winery, and horseback riding tours, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.
- Moab Springs Ranch: This resort is located just a mile north of downtown Moab, providing a peaceful oasis close to the action. The property features private bungalows and townhouses surrounded by lush gardens and natural springs. Guests can enjoy a relaxing swim in the spring-fed pond or take advantage of the outdoor lounge areas and fire pits.
Each of these accommodations offers a unique experience, ensuring you’ll find the perfect spot to rest and recharge during your Moab adventure. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of town or in a more secluded setting, there’s something for everyone in Moab.
My Experience: We stayed at Homewood Suites by Hilton, and it was a comfortable and pleasant experience. Although it wasn’t quite walkable to the town center, having a rental car made it easy to get around. The amenities and friendly staff added to the overall positive stay.
How to Get Around Moab
- Rent a Car: The most convenient way to get around Moab and its surrounding attractions is by renting a car. This allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and visit even the most remote areas with ease.
- Bikes: Moab is a bike-friendly town with many rental shops offering mountain bikes, road bikes, and e-bikes. Biking is a great way to explore the town and nearby trails, especially for those who love outdoor activities.
- Public Transportation: While Moab does have a public transit system, it’s limited compared to larger cities. The Moab Area Transit (MAT) service offers some local routes, but schedules can be infrequent. For those relying on public transportation, planning ahead is essential.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Moab, but they may not be as readily accessible as in larger urban areas. It’s a good idea to book rides in advance when possible.
- Walking: For getting around the town center, walking is a pleasant and practical option. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions are within a short stroll of each other, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere.
My Experience: We used a rental car for our entire stay in Moab and found it incredibly convenient. Driving around was straightforward, and we never encountered any issues with parking. The freedom to explore at our own pace made our adventure even more enjoyable.
Best Time of Year to Visit Moab
The best time to visit Moab is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, while winters are cooler and less crowded but can still be enjoyable with the right gear.
My Experience: We visited Moab in late August. While the daytime temperatures were quite high, the mornings and evenings were perfect for exploring. With proper planning and plenty of water, we managed to enjoy every moment of our adventure.
What to Pack for Your Moab Adventure
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the rugged terrain.
- Layers: Temperatures can vary widely, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the intense desert sun.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
- Camera: Capture the stunning landscapes and unforgettable moments.
- Daypack: Perfect for carrying your essentials on hikes and excursions.
My Experience: Hiking boots and layers were lifesavers during our trip. A small backpack was essential for carrying water, snacks, and other essentials, especially since we were out all day exploring.
Where to Eat in Moab
- 98 Center: A fantastic spot with a diverse, Vietnamese-inspired menu and great atmosphere.
- Canyon Steak and Waffle: Perfect for a hearty breakfast to start your day.
- Moab Food Truck Park: A variety of delicious options in a casual setting.
- Cowboy Grill: Offering a taste of the Wild West with its flavorful dishes.
- Dewey’s Moab: A wonderful place for a relaxed dinner with beautiful views.
- Gloria’s Corner Café: Great for a cozy meal with a friendly vibe.
- Crystal’s Cakes and Cones: Ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Antica Forma: Delicious Italian cuisine with a rustic touch.
My Experience: We had some fantastic meals in Moab. My personal favorites were 98 Center, a cozy place with great food, and Dewey’s, which was a modern style brew pub and restaurant with fantastic views. We took a walk on the grounds after dinner and found some perfect picture spots.
My 4-Day Itinerary for Moab
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration
- Morning: Arrived in Moab, checked into our accommodation.
- Late morning: Took a speed boat ride with Moab Jett on the Colorado River.
- Noon: Ate lunch at Cowboy Grill
- Early Evening: Joined a group ATV tour with Moab Adventure Center.
- Dinner: Enjoyed a relaxing dinner at 98 Center.
Day 2: Canyonlands Adventure
- Morning: Rented a 4×4 from Moab Reservation Center for a half-day group tour through Canyonlands starting at 8am.
- Afternoon: Had lunch at Gloria’s Corner Café. Explored more the town of Moab and did some souvenir shopping.
- Dinner: Savored a meal at The Bridge and relaxed, enjoying the views after a day of adventure. Had a sweet treat at Crystal’s Cakes and Cones.
Day 3: Arches National Park
- Breakfast: Started our day with a hearty meal at Canyon Steak and Waffle.
- Late Morning: Took a 6-hour private jeep tour through Arches National Park starting at 10am, including a delicious lunch.
- Dinner: Unwound with dinner at Antica Forma.
Day 4: Canyoneering and Departure
- Early Morning: Started a 5-hour canyoneering tour with Moab Adventure Center at 7am.
- Midday: Hiked to Delicate Arch.
- Afternoon: Headed back to Salt Lake City for our return flight, grabbing a quick bite at Moab Food Truck Park.
Moab is a destination that will captivate your heart and soul, offering an endless array of adventures and experiences. Whether you’re hiking through iconic national parks, exploring the vast backcountry, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Moab is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, set your sights on this desert paradise, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
