Have you ever travelled somewhere and regretted how short your stay was or cancelled other plans to stay longer? Moab is like that; it’s a destination in its own right and a place you won’t want to leave. Get ahead of regret and discover why it’s worth more than just a quick stop on your Utah road trip itinerary!
If you’re craving the kind of outdoor adventure where epic scenery, wow-worthy landmarks, and plenty of treats leave you with memories to last a lifetime, Moab is where it’s at.
Many travellers consider Moab a whistle-stop destination on a longer journey. But with two iconic national parks right on its doorstep – Arches and Canyonlands – plus Dead Horse Point State Park, dinosaur tracks, scenic drives, and incredible dark skies and countless adventures, it has much to offer than you expect.
With so much to see and do, Moab is the destination!
8 epic reasons why Moab rocks
Moab is world-famous for its proximity to two of the most iconic National Parks in the United States – Arches and Canyonlands. That’s not all you can do there, though. The adventures run as deep as the canyons, and the dramatic red landscape makes the perfect playground for outdoor lovers the world over.
Here are our top 8 experiences to enjoy, proving Moab is the destination, not the stop:
- Hike the red-rock wonderlands: Exploring the natural arches, dramatic desert landscapes, and awe-inspiring canyon views on foot is a Moab must-do. Popular hiking trails include Delicate Arch, Corona Arch, and Grandstaff Canyon Trail. In Dead Horse Point State Park, the West Rim Trail and East Rim Trail have jaw-dropping views.
- Chase the sunset: Dead Horse Point State Park is one of the best places in Utah to watch the spectacular orange, pink, and purple hues of sunset. Delicate Arch and the Windows Section in Arches National Park also offer picture-perfect positions to catch the last rays of the day.
- Ride the rapids: The Colorado River has thrilling activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking, plus gentler rapids the whole family can enjoy. The ‘Moab Daily’ is a 20-kilometre section with class I-III rapids. Or take on the Westwater Canyon, a ride National Geographic called “the world’s best short whitewater rafting trip”. Book your rafting trip with local guides for the best experience!
- Tackle the trails: Moab has a stellar reputation with mountain bikers for its sublime single-track trails, like Slickrock, Whole Enchilada, and Porcupine Rim. Find a guide or rent a bike in town, then match the trails to your abilities.
- Go off-road: Experience the famous rock crawling trails for an adrenaline rush like no other when you book an ATV adventure. While you can’t ride in the national park areas, the back-country trails are yours to explore!
- Find hidden swimming holes: Did you expect Moab to offer secret desert oases to soak in after a day of exploration? Us neither! Mill Creek is a local favourite.
- Soar over the ochre landscape: Gain a whole new perspective over mesmerising Moab from a hot air balloon ride. Too tame? Skydiving and scenic flights over the dramatic sandstone formations are also an option!
- Climb & go canyoneering: The sandstone towers and slot canyons around Moab are dream destinations for fans of canyoneering and rock climbers. Whether you’re new to these sports or a seasoned pro, there’s plenty to suit, and experienced guides can introduce you to both.
Moab: spectacular by day; star-tacular by night
As if the adventure opportunities by day weren’t enough, Moab also wows at night. To be fair, ‘wows’ is an understatement; it’s one of the best places in the world for stargazing!
Recognised as an International Dark Sky destination, Moab – and its two neighbouring national parks – reveal some of the clearest night skies you’ll ever see. Whether you’re keen to camp under the glory of the Milky Way, hang out at a high point after sunset, or enjoy a ranger-led guided stargazing tour, expect to be dazzled.
Top places to stargaze include Balanced Rock picnic area, Garden of Eden viewpoint, and Panorama Point – a dedicated stargazing area – within Arches National Park. The night sky programmes at Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky and Needle districts also impress.
Where to stay
Whether you want a campground under the stars, the amenities of an RV park, to rent an Airbnb, or to stay in a local motel or hotel, there’s lodging to suit every traveller.
Luxury standouts include the Sage Creek Resort and the Hoodoo Moab by Hilton. The woodsy bungalows at Moab Springs Ranch are popular, too.
For travellers who prefer to spend their travel savings on adventures over accommodation, the rustic Big Horn Lodge in the heart of historic downtown holds appeal, as well as the charming Apache Motel.
Discover more
Don’t live with regret: you can now understand why Moab is worthy as the centrepiece of your Utah adventure! Find everything you need to plan your trip at discovermoab.com, then speak to your preferred travel agent to book.
This article is brought to you by Discover Moab
