You know Moab as the gateway to some of Utah’s most spectacular national parks, but do you know the other ways in which this little town with a big heart wows? Take this fun quiz to discover how well you know Moab.
In Eastern Utah, Moab is a place filled with passionate people, energised by their love of their community, art, and the outdoor adventures on their doorstep.
It’s no surprise the region is a source of creative inspiration. Surrounded by dramatic red-rock landscapes with the Colorado River, which sweeps alongside the town, picturesque, stunning, and jaw-dropping are just some of the adjectives used to describe the town’s beauty.
Whether you’re a Moab noob or a been-there, done-that US road tripping pro, we’ve got the ultimate quiz to see how well you know the Adventure Capital of the West.
What national parks surround Moab?
- a) Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon
- b) Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park & Dead Horse Point State Park
- c) Yellowstone National Park
If you said B, ding, ding, ding!
Moab is the launch pad for thrilling adventures in Arches National Park and Canyonlands, respectively, 10 and 30 minutes by car from town. A 30-minute drive, Dead Horse State Park affords access to the picture-perfect panoramic views of the Colorado River’s horseshoe bend.
Psst: while Zion, Bryce, and Yellowstone are not the correct answer, Moab offers a great midway stop for travellers on a big US national park road trip.
What other natural sights are there?
- a) Only Arches & Canyonlands National Parks
- b) The Colorado River is nice
- c) Corona Arch, Sand Flats & La Sal Mountains
C! If you think the scenery peaks at the national park gates, think again. Corona Arch is a must for hikers seeking that wow-factor (and #humblebrag Insta pics), while Sand Flats Recreation Area is a heavy-hitter with its slickrock landscapes, outdoor adventures, and camping.
You’ll also want to take a scenic drive alongside the Colorado River with the rugged La Sal Mountains’ peaks in the distance.
How long should you stay?
- a) One night
- b) Three nights
- c) One week
Look, if you’re short on time, you could spend only a night in town, but you will regret it. Not wanting to leave is one of the most common complaints from those passing through. Instead, it’s B, three nights (at least). Discover Moab even has a whole three-day itinerary to prove it.
If you have more time, stay four or five nights to explore some of the lesser-known national park trails.
What adventure activities can you do?
- a) Hiking & biking
- b) Rock climbing, canyoning & scenic flights
- c) Off-roading, white-water rafting & horseback riding
The better question is what can’t you do? The answer is A, B, and C – all the above – and then some!
Moab is world-famous for its hiking trails, mountain biking, off-roading, and white-water rafting.
There’s also rock climbing, canyoneering, base jumping. horseback riding, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet boating, and hot airballooning. You can even skydive over the region’s red-rock landscapes for the ultimate high!
What’s dining like?
- a) American diner fare
- b) Cafés & bakeries
- c) Multicultural cuisine
It’s C. For a town with only 6,000-ish residents that’s two hours from larger metropolitan areas, Moab locals and visitors eat absurdly well. From Southwestern dishes to Mexican, Thai, Italian, and more, there’s something for everyone.
Red Rock Bakery, Mas Café, and Birdy’s Finer Diner have affordable eats, and the Vietnamese-inspired dishes at 98 Center always hit the spot. As does Dewey’s laid-back American meals.
Trailhead Public House & Eatery has seasonal pub-style fare, or splurge at Desert Bistro.
What dark sky activities can you do?
- a) None
- b) A little stargazing, if you’re lucky
- c) It’s a certified Dark Sky Community surrounded by three certified Dark Sky Parks
Obviously, C! Enjoy astronomy tours, star parties, night hikes, or DIY stargazing under spectacular night skies.
In Arches National Park, head to prime viewing spots like Balanced Rock, The Windows, Garden of Eden, and Panorama Point.
In Canyonlands, Grand View Point Overlook and Mesa Arch are ideal for unobstructed night sky views. The ranger-hosted star parties at Dead Horse State Park are also not to be missed.
What accommodation is there?
- a) Over 100 hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts & more
- b) Camp & caravan parks only
- c) Budget accommodation only
It’s A, because there are over 100 ways to stay in Moab. RV at a holiday park, camp under the stars, enjoy boutique lodging close to town, or find a budget motel to spend more on attractions.
How to connect to the community?
- a) It’s just a place to sleep between national park visits
- b) An annual festival?
- c) Moab has a large, welcoming art community
It’s C. Enrich your visit by connecting to the community’s creative soul. As big on art as heart, Moab has murals, sculpture, live music, and community art spaces to impress.
Check out Back of Beyond Books, Moab Made for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and Radium Alley for upcycled clothing. Recently opened, The Press offers homemade food and locally produced art.
Annually, Red Rock Arts Festival and the Moab Folk Festival are standout events.
Learn more
How many did you get right? To fill in your gaps and find everything you need to plan your trip, visit discovermoab.com, then speak to your preferred travel agent to book.
This article is brought to you by Discover Moab.
