Moab, Utah, is one of the best bases in the American Southwest for exploring desert landscapes, with easy access to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Within a short drive, you can stand beneath massive sandstone arches, look out over deep canyon systems carved by the Colorado River, and hike across slickrock terrain that feels completely different from most other parts of the U.S.
But Moab isn’t just about national parks. The surrounding area also includes scenic drives along the river, trails on BLM land, and a wide range of outdoor activities, from mountain biking to off-road driving.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Moab, from must-see parks and viewpoints to scenic drives and outdoor experiences, to help you plan your visit and prioritize your time.
Moab Highlights – At a Glance
Compact base with access to major parks – Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park are all within about 45 minutes of town.
One of the best destinations for desert landscapes in the U.S. – Features arches, canyons, slickrock terrain, and river corridors in a relatively small area.
Great mix of easy viewpoints and more demanding hikes – Options range from short walks to longer trails across exposed slickrock and canyon rims.
Strong variety beyond hiking – Includes scenic drives, off-road trails, rafting, and cycling.
Best explored over 3–4 days (or more) – Enough time to visit both national parks, explore local hikes, and drive at least one scenic route.
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Moab: Location, Map, and How to Get There
Moab is located in eastern Utah, along U.S. Highway 191, near the Colorado River. The town sits at the center of one of the most scenic regions in the American Southwest and serves as the main gateway for visitors exploring Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and several nearby desert hiking areas.
Because Moab lies directly along a major north–south highway, it is relatively easy to reach by car. Most visitors arrive via U.S. Highway 191, which connects Moab with Interstate 70 to the north and with Monument Valley and Arizona destinations to the south.
From Moab, the entrance to Arches National Park is just 5 miles (8 km) north of town, while the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park can be reached in about 40 minutes via UT-313.
Despite its remote desert setting, Moab fits naturally into many Utah road trip itineraries, especially when combined with destinations such as Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, or Zion National Park.
Driving times to Moab
- Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky District): 50 km / 30 mi – about 40 minutes
- Capitol Reef National Park: 230 km / 145 mi – about 2.5 hours
- Zion National Park: 500 km / 310 mi – about 5 hours
- Salt Lake City: 740 km / 460 mi – about 6.5–7 hours
- Las Vegas: 430 km / 270 mi – about 4.5 hours
These times assume clear weather and normal traffic conditions.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.
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1. Visit Arches National Park
Arches National Park is the main reason most people visit Moab. Located just a few minutes from town, the park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, along with dramatic rock formations, fins, and open desert landscapes.
The park is easy to explore thanks to a single scenic drive that connects most major viewpoints and trailheads. This makes it possible to see a lot in a short amount of time, while still offering enough hiking options to fill several days. For additional details and tips, see our full guide to visiting Arches National Park.
Best viewpoints in Arches
La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
One of the best roadside viewpoints in Arches National Park, offering a wide view across the park’s sandstone formations with the La Sal Mountains rising in the distance.
Garden of Eden
A short detour from the main road leads to this open desert area filled with towering fins and formations. It’s a quieter stop with fewer crowds than nearby viewpoints.
Park Avenue Viewpoint
A dramatic overlook near the park entrance, where towering sandstone fins create a corridor that resembles a city skyline.
Balanced Rock
One of the park’s most recognizable formations. A short walk around the base offers different perspectives of the massive rock balanced on a narrow pedestal.
Signature hikes in Arches
Delicate Arch Trail
Delicate Arch is the park’s most iconic formation and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the American Southwest. It’s a moderately strenuous hike that climbs steadily across open slickrock before reaching the freestanding arch perched dramatically above a vast desert basin.
For trail tips and what to expect, see our Delicate Arch Hiking Guide.
Devils Garden Trail
The longest and most varied hike in the park. Devil’s Garden is unique within the park because it links multiple arches along a single extended trail. The first portion of the hike, up to Landscape Arch, is considered easy and relatively flat. Beyond Landscape Arch, the trail becomes more rugged and adventurous as it continues toward Double O Arch.
For full route breakdowns and extension options, see our Devils Garden Hiking Guide.
Windows & Double Arch Trails
This area delivers dramatic scenery without a demanding climb, making it ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone short on time. A short, mostly flat walk leads to massive arch openings that feel surprisingly close and accessible. Double Arch, in particular, is one of the most visually impressive formations in the park.
For route details and trail tips, see our Windows & Double Arch Hiking Guide.
2. Explore Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky)
Canyonlands National Park offers a very different experience from Arches. Instead of focusing on individual rock formations, the Island in the Sky district is all about scale: vast canyon systems carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, with viewpoints that stretch for miles in every direction.
The main scenic drive follows the edge of a high mesa, with frequent overlooks and several short hikes branching off along the way. Compared to Arches, the experience here feels more expansive and less concentrated around specific landmarks.
Best viewpoints
Green River Overlook
One of the most expansive viewpoints in the park, looking out over the broad canyon carved by the Green River. The layered landscape stretches to the horizon, especially striking in early morning or late afternoon light.
Buck Canyon Overlook
A quieter stop offering a more focused view into a deep, narrow canyon. From here, you can clearly see the vertical drop and the detailed layering of the rock walls below.
Shafer Canyon Overlook
One of the most distinctive viewpoints in the park, where the famous Shafer Trail switchbacks descend dramatically from the mesa down to the White Rim. It’s one of the few places where you can clearly see how the terrain connects from the rim to the canyon floor.
Best hikes
Mesa Arch Trail
A short loop leading to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park, a natural arch perched directly on the canyon rim. The arch frames the canyon below and is especially well known for its sunrise glow.
For trail conditions, sunrise tips, and a detailed breakdown of the route, see our full Mesa Arch Hiking Guide.
Grand View Point Trail
The Grand View Point Trail follows the canyon rim to one of the most expansive viewpoints in the park. It offers wide panoramic views in all directions, with sheer drop-offs and layered canyon scenery stretching far into the distance.
For trail details, viewpoints along the route, and the best times to visit, see our full Grand View Point Trail Hiking Guide.
White Rim Overlook Trail
A quieter hike that leads to a more focused viewpoint looking down onto the White Rim and the canyon below. The trail offers one of the best opportunities to appreciate Canyonlands’ layered geology and the immense depth of its canyons. The trail follows the edge of the mesa before reaching a viewpoint overlooking the White Rim sandstone layer and the winding Green River canyon below.
For detailed route information and tips on when to visit, see our complete White Rim Overlook Trail Hiking Guide.
3. Visit Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park offers one of the most accessible and dramatic viewpoints in the Moab area, overlooking a sweeping bend of the Colorado River far below.
Located along the same road that leads to Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky), it’s easy to combine with a visit to the park or include as a shorter standalone stop. While many visitors come just for the main overlook near the visitor center, the park also features several short trails that follow the canyon rim and connect additional viewpoints.
Best Viewpoints in Dead Horse Point
Dead Horse Point Overlook
The main viewpoint is one of the most iconic in the region. From here, the Colorado River wraps around a narrow plateau nearly 2,000 feet below, creating a dramatic and easily recognizable scene.
Meander Overlook
A quieter alternative with a slightly different angle on the river bend, offering a more relaxed experience away from the main crowds.
Best Short Hikes
Dead Horse Point Rim Trail
An easy trail that follows the edge of the plateau, connecting multiple viewpoints with continuous canyon scenery.
For more details and tips, see our full guide to visiting Deadhorse State Park.
4. Hike Outside the National Parks (Best Local Trails)
Some of the best hikes around Moab aren’t inside national parks at all. On surrounding BLM land, you’ll find trails that are often just as scenic, with fewer restrictions, no entrance fees, and a more relaxed feel.
These hikes tend to be less structured than those in Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, but they offer a great mix of arches, canyon views, and slickrock terrain.
Best Hikes Near Moab (BLM Land)
Corona Arch Trail
One of the most popular hikes outside the parks leads to a massive freestanding arch along the Colorado River. The route includes a short ladder-and-cable section, adding a bit of fun variety to the hike.
For more detailed trail descriptions and route options, see our Corona Arch & Pinto Arch Hiking Guide.
Pinto Arch
A quieter detour from the Corona Arch trail that leads to a smaller arch with wide views over the river corridor. It’s often overlooked, but definitely worth the short extra effort.
Stairmaster Trail (Moab Rim)
A short but steep climb that gains elevation quickly and delivers expansive views over Moab and the Colorado River. One of the more physically demanding short hikes in the area.
For more detailed trail descriptions and route options, see our Stairmaster Hiking Guide.
5. Drive Moab’s Scenic Roads
Even if you’re not planning long hikes, Moab is one of the best places in the Southwest for scenic driving. Several routes offer continuous views of red rock cliffs, river corridors, and canyon landscapes.
Some of the best drives are inside the national parks, while others run along the Colorado River or across open desert, making them easy to combine with hikes and viewpoints.
Scenic Drives Inside the National Parks
Arches Scenic Drive
The main road through Arches National Park connects many of the park’s most famous viewpoints and trailheads.
- Distance: ~18 miles (29 km) one way
- Drive time: ~30–40 minutes (non-stop)
The drive runs from the park entrance to Devil’s Garden, with frequent pull-offs along the way. In practice, you’ll want to allow several hours to stop at viewpoints and short trails.
Canyonlands Scenic Drive (Island in the Sky)
This road runs along the top of a high mesa in Canyonlands National Park, ending at Grand View Point.
- Distance: ~22 miles (35 km) one way
- Drive time: ~40–50 minutes (non-stop)
Along the way, multiple overlooks provide expansive views into the canyon system below, making this one of the most scenic drives in the region.
Scenic Drives Outside the Parks
Potash Road (UT-279)
A scenic drive along the Colorado River just outside Moab.
Early in the drive, you’ll get excellent views of the La Sal Mountains before the road veers into a canyon to continue following the river. Along the way, you’ll pass rock climbers scaling the canyon walls, as well as several roadside stops, including dinosaur tracks and petroglyph panels.
The paved road continues for about 17 miles (27 km) from Moab until reaching the potash mining area, where it transitions into a rough dirt track. With a suitable vehicle, you can continue beyond this point, eventually passing beneath Dead Horse Point State Park and connecting to the Shafer Trail.
Utah State Route 128 (Colorado River Drive)
One of the most scenic drives in the region follows the Colorado River through a canyon lined with red rock cliffs.
The most dramatic section runs for about 15 miles (24 km) within the canyon, closely following the river. Beyond that, the landscape opens up into desert terrain with large rock formations and mesas, including the striking Fisher Towers.
This is a great drive to do in the morning or late afternoon when the light brings out the color of the canyon walls.
Utah State Route 313
The access road to Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky) and Dead Horse Point State Park.
While often treated as a simple connector, the drive itself offers wide open desert views. The area is also used for cattle grazing, and it’s not uncommon to see cowboys moving cattle along the roadside, a reminder that this landscape is still actively used beyond tourism.
6. Experience Moab’s Off-Road Culture (4×4 & UTV)
Moab is one of the most well-known off-roading destinations in the U.S., attracting drivers from around the world. The surrounding desert is crisscrossed with rugged trails that range from beginner-friendly routes to steep slickrock climbs and technical obstacles.
Even if you’re not planning to drive yourself, this is still a big part of the local culture and something you’ll likely see while exploring the area.
Popular 4×4 Trails
Hell’s Revenge
One of the most famous off-road trails in Moab is known for its steep slickrock domes and dramatic terrain. Even from a distance, you’ll often see vehicles climbing what look like near-vertical rock surfaces.
Moab Rim Trail
A challenging route that climbs steeply above the Colorado River, offering wide views over Moab and the surrounding canyon landscape. Sections of this trail are shared with hikers, including the Stairmaster route.
Guided UTV & Jeep Tours
If you don’t have experience driving off-road, guided tours are an easy way to experience this side of Moab.
Tours range from short scenic rides to more adventurous routes across slickrock and desert terrain, often including commentary about the landscape and local history. These are some of the best tours available in Moab:
7. Outdoor Activities Beyond Hiking
Beyond hiking and scenic drives, Moab offers a wide range of outdoor activities, making it one of the most versatile adventure destinations in the Southwest.
Mountain Biking
Moab is considered one of the top mountain biking destinations in the U.S., with trails ranging from beginner-friendly routes to highly technical slickrock terrain. The riding here is very different from forested regions, with open desert landscapes and grippy rock surfaces.
Road Cycling
For road cycling, routes along the Colorado River (particularly the bike path that runs along Utah State Route 128) offer long, scenic rides through canyon landscapes.
Moab is also home to the Moab Canyon Pathway, a paved multi-use path that follows US-191 north out of town. It connects Moab to the entrance of Arches National Park and continues all the way toward the junction with UT-313, making it one of the best options for a longer, uninterrupted ride in the area.
For either path, you can just park at Lions Park (link to Google Maps) and ride for miles from there.
Water activities on the Colorado River
The Colorado River runs directly past Moab, offering everything from calm scenic floats to sections with mild rapids. Half-day and full-day trips are widely available and easy to book:
8. Other Things to Do in Moab
In between hikes and drives, Moab also has a few lower-key activities that are worth fitting into your itinerary.
Downtown Moab
The town itself is compact and easy to explore, with a mix of restaurants, outdoor shops, and tour operators. It’s a good place to relax in the evening or stock up on supplies between outings.
Mill Creek Parkway
A pleasant walking and cycling path that runs through town, offering a quieter break from the surrounding desert terrain.
Wineries in Spanish Valley
Just south of town, places like Spanish Valley Vineyard & Winery provide a more relaxed experience, with tastings set against a red rock backdrop.
How Many Days Do You Need in Moab?
Most visitors will want 2 to 4 days in Moab to cover the main highlights without rushing.
- 1 day is enough to see one park (usually Arches National Park)
- 2 days allow you to visit both Arches and Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky)
- 3–4 days gives you time to add scenic drives, hikes on BLM land, and activities like rafting or biking
Suggested Moab Itinerary
1 Day in Moab
Focus on Arches National Park
- Drive the scenic road with stops at viewpoints
- One longer hike (Delicate Arch or Devil’s Garden)
- One shorter hike at Windows / Double Arch or Park Avenue
2 Days in Moab
Day 1 – Arches National Park
- Scenic drive + key viewpoints
- One longer hike (Delicate Arch or Devil’s Garden)
- One shorter hike at Windows / Double Arch or Park Avenue
Day 2 – Canyonlands + Dead Horse Point
- Visit Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky)
- Stop at key viewpoints + short hikes (Mesa Arch, Grand View)
- Add Dead Horse Point State Park on the way back
3 Days in Moab
Day 1 – Arches National Park
Day 2 – Canyonlands + Dead Horse Point
Day 3 – Moab Area
- Hike Corona Arch or Stairmaster Trail
- Drive Potash Road or Utah State Route 128
- Optional rafting, biking, or off-road tour
4 Days in Moab
Adds flexibility:
- Split Arches across two days
- Add more hikes or viewpoints in Canyonlands
- Include multiple scenic drives
- Fit in a half-day activity (rafting, biking, UTV)
Planning Tips for Visiting Moab
Moab packs a lot into a small area, but attractions are spread across Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the surrounding BLM land. A bit of planning can help you avoid crowds, reduce driving time, and make the most of your visit.
Start Early for the Parks
Both Arches and Canyonlands are best visited in the morning. Temperatures are cooler, lighting is better, and you’re more likely to find parking at popular trailheads.
Arches NP in particular gets busy quickly, especially at Delicate Arch, the Windows Section, and Devil’s Garden.
Combine Parks Efficiently
If you only have one full day in Moab, a good strategy is to do:
- Morning in Arches National Park
- Afternoon in Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky)
Arches tends to get busier as the day goes on, so it’s best to go there first.
Save Afternoons for Scenic Drives or Local Hikes
Midday is typically the busiest time at the national parks. So if you have multiple days in Moab, this is a good time to:
- Drive Potash Road or Utah State Route 128
- Visit Dead Horse Point State Park
- Explore hikes on BLM land like Corona Arch when temperatures allow for it
Plan Around Heat (Especially in Summer)
Moab’s desert climate means very little shade on most trails. In summer, temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C), making midday hiking uncomfortable.
The best approach is to hike early in the morning and again in the late afternoon.
Plan at Least One Sunset
Sunset is one of the best times to experience the landscape. Locations like Delicate Arch or canyon overlooks in Canyonlands take on deeper colors as the light softens.
Best Time to Visit Moab
Moab can be visited year-round, but conditions vary significantly depending on the season. The region sits in a high desert environment, where temperatures fluctuate widely, and most outdoor activities take place in exposed terrain.
Choosing the right time to visit can make a big difference in both comfort and overall experience.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Moab. Temperatures are generally mild, and conditions are ideal for hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor activities.
This is also a peak travel season, especially during spring break and holiday weekends. Popular areas like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park can get busy, so starting early in the day is often the best strategy.
Summer (June–August)
Summer brings very hot temperatures, with daytime highs frequently exceeding 100°F (38°C). Because most activities around Moab take place in exposed desert terrain, heat becomes the main challenge.
If visiting in summer, plan activities early in the morning or later in the evening. Midday is better reserved for scenic drives, short stops, or time in town.
Fall (September–November)
Fall is widely considered the best overall season to visit Moab. Temperatures become more comfortable, and conditions are well-suited for both hiking and longer days exploring the parks.
Crowds are still present but tend to be more manageable than in spring, especially later in the season.
Winter (December–February)
Winter is the quietest time of year in Moab. Daytime temperatures are cooler but often still suitable for outdoor activities.
Snow occasionally dusts the red rock landscape, creating a different look than in other seasons. Some trails may have icy sections, but overall, this can be a good time to visit if you’re looking to avoid crowds.
Quick Summary – When to Visit
Spring and fall offer the best overall conditions for most visitors, with comfortable temperatures and good access to all activities. Summer requires more careful planning due to the heat, while winter offers fewer crowds and a quieter experience.
Where to Go Next from Moab
Moab is often part of a larger Southwest road trip, and there are several excellent routes connecting it to other major destinations in Utah and northern Arizona.
If you’re continuing your trip, we’ve put together detailed guides to help you plan the most scenic stops along the way:
- Moab to Monument Valley – A route through desert landscapes with viewpoints, rock formations, and several worthwhile roadside stops
- Moab to Bryce Canyon National Park – A longer drive with options to detour through Capitol Reef and other scenic areas
These guides highlight the best places to stop along the way so you can turn the drive into part of the experience, rather than just a transfer between destinations.
Where to Stay in Moab
Moab offers a wide range of accommodations: from national hotel chains to boutique adventure lodges. Staying in town makes it easy to:
- Enter Arches early for sunrise hikes
- Return midday to escape the heat
- Explore Canyonlands or Dead Horse Point without relocating
- Enjoy restaurants and services in the evening
Below are three well-located, reliable options at different mid-range price points and styles.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moab
Best for: Comfortable, reliable mid-range stay with strong value
La Quinta offers a familiar, dependable experience with spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s located along the main highway entering Moab, about 10 minutes from the Arches entrance.
Why it works well:
- Good value relative to other Moab hotels
- Large parking area (useful for larger vehicles or road trips)
- Easy access in and out of town
This is a solid choice for families, road trippers, or anyone prioritizing comfort and practicality.
Best for: Modern amenities close to Arches
Wingate is one of the newer properties in Moab and is located slightly north of town, near the entrance to Arches. Rooms are modern and well-appointed, and amenities include a pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Why it stands out:
- Shorter drive to Arches (ideal for early starts)
- Newer build with a contemporary feel
- Reliable comfort without boutique pricing
If your priority is minimizing drive time into the park, this is one of the most convenient options.
Best for: Outdoor-focused travelers and an adventure vibe
Field Station blends hotel comfort with a gear-friendly, adventure-oriented design. The property includes communal gathering spaces, bike storage, and a laid-back atmosphere that caters to hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers.
Why people love it:
- Clean, minimalist rooms
- Social outdoor areas
- Feels aligned with the Moab adventure culture
It’s ideal if you want something more distinctive than a traditional chain hotel without sacrificing comfort.
A Quick Planning Tip
Moab fills quickly during spring and fall, especially March through May and October, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. Summer availability is often easier, but rates can still be high during peak travel periods.
Moab – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moab worth visiting?
Yes. Moab offers a unique combination of arches, canyon landscapes, scenic drives, and outdoor activities, all within a short distance. It’s one of the most accessible destinations for exploring desert landscapes in the U.S.
What is the best time to visit Moab?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be very hot, while winter is quieter but cooler.
Can you visit Arches and Canyonlands in one day?
Technically, yes, but it will be a very full day, with lots of driving involved, and you’ll have to skip sights in each park. A common approach is to visit Arches in the morning and Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) in the afternoon.
Do you need a car in Moab?
Yes. Most attractions are spread out, and having a car is essential for visiting parks, trailheads, and scenic drives.
Are there things to do in Moab besides hiking?
Yes. In addition to hiking, you can explore scenic drives, go rafting on the Colorado River, mountain bike, or take guided off-road tours.
Explore More Utah National & State Park Guides
Continue exploring Utah with these detailed guides:
Zion National Park Guide
Capitol Reef National Park Guide
Goblin Valley State Park Guide
Monument Valley Guide
Bryce Canyon National Park
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
Travel Insurance
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Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Best Things to Do in Moab guide and that it will prove useful for planning your trip.
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