The best things to do in Moab, Utah

With sandy plains and great, protruding rocks, Moab is the Wild West of America. Desert plants fill the scrubland and desert critters adapt to life in this harsh environment. The images are like those straight out of an old western film. 

Fast-forward to today, and you won’t find gun-yielding cowboys or old country taverns. Instead, a wealth of exciting opportunities present themselves to those who know where to look. In the Eastern part of Utah, in Central western USA, Moab is a grownups playground. Adrenaline-inducing activities, from mountain biking to rock climbing, can all be enjoyed here. However, you certainly don’t need to be an adrenaline junky to get the enjoyment from Moab. 

The natural scenery is breathtaking and unlike anywhere else on Earth. Mighty rivers, looming canyons, and slick rocks dominate the landscape. With such a plethora of activities on offer, catering to the needs of all ages and experience levels, one could spend many days in the region of Moab. However, for those with limited time, some of the very best things to do in Moab are outlined below. Read on to discover more.

Mountain biking 

Moab is world-renowned within the mountain bike community. With world-class trails, the landscape puts to test users’ knowledge and experience of terrain types and durability. 

One of the most famous trails is Slickrock Trail. Whilst famous, the trail is designed to put bikers to the limit. It is a strenuous trial, and a good degree of experience is required to successfully complete this trail. Despite the full trail is 12 miles long, there are drop-ins throughout and offer tester loops of around 3 miles. These tester loops introduce bikers to the fun and adrenaline of mountain biking. 

Although Slickrock Trail is one of the most famous in the region, Moab is inundated with mountain bike trails throughout. Many of the local campsites lead directly onto trails, making them perfect places to set up camp. A popular campsite is Horsethief Campground. Here, multiple trails lead into the scrubland and provide brilliant accessibility for younger adventurous. Some trails extend for 9 miles, passing over multiple terrain types. 

Rock Climbing 

Around the region of Moab, a multitude of climbing trails lead the way on secure, high-quality sandstone. The topography of the area allows for climbing of all experience levels – from incredible rock formations to soaring cliff faces. For avid climbers with a niche specialty, be it splitter cracks, clipping bolts, or desert towers, Moab can deliver something for just about anyone. Discover the Chinle Formation and Fisher Towers. 

If rock climbing isn’t for you, try canyoneering through some of the many water-carved channels. Many companies offer experienced guides to help teach the basic skills required, meaning no previous climbing experience is needed. 

The Arches National Park 

Unlike anything in the world, The Arches National Park is a sprawling landscape filled with contrasting texture, color, and geological formations. Incredibly, some 2000 natural stone arches have been recorded within the park. 

65million years ago, the region was a dry seabed. Over the years, the landscape went through dramatic changes. One of the most intense changes was the elevation rise; from sea level to many thousands of feet. The forces of erosion shaped the high rising sandstone. Water and wind are the driving forces behind some of the park’s most spectacular scenery, such as Delicate Arch. 

The park itself is vast, stretching over 76000 acres. If you only have limited time in the park, Delicate Arch is one of the top places to visit. This 3-mile round trip hike takes you to a free-standing arch. Perfect for sunset. If you don’t have time to hike, drive along the paved road to Balanced Rock to marvel at the wonders of nature. 

Canyonlands National Park 

Similar to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park encompasses an area of diverse beauty – from vibrant red rocks, deep gorges, canyons, mesas, and buttes, all caused by the flow of the mighty Colorado and Green River. 

The park is separated into 3 distinct districts: The Islands in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. While these districts share the same desert, they are defined by different characteristics. One of the most popular places to visit is The Islands in the Sky. Often referred to as “The Grand Canyon of the region”, the many hikes in this region reveal awe-inspiring views and mesmerizing geological formations.

Here, people can indulge in many activities. Some of the most popular include hiking, ATV driving, and stargazing. You can find out more information about all the activities on offer at the visitor center near the entrance of the National Park. There is also a wealth of wildlife to be found in the park, including many species of raptors and cat species. 

If you’re looking for somewhere more remote, discover the endless lookouts of The Needles.

Water Activities on the Colorado River

Towards the Northern end of Moab, the graceful Colorado River flows. With its origins starting high in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the River proceeds to flow through 7 U.S States and into Mexico. The river is of cultural and economical importance. In recent years, the tourist industry associated with the river has exploded, with many companies offering kayaking and paddleboarding excursions on calm stretches. For the adventurous among us, try a spot of river rafting along the bumpier sections of the river. 

Other recreational activities include fishing and sunset trips, offering a refreshing respite from the relentless desert sun. with the high rising canyon walls, the scenic river spot is one you certainly cannot miss. 

Sand Dunes 

To end your Moab adventure, have a little child-like euphoria rush through your body. Just North of the town, near the entrance of The Arches National Park, a hillside of sand stands proud. Often accompanied by a cluster of children and adults alike, this is a free and quick activity to leave you with a huge smile spread across your face. Climb up the hill and simply run or roll down the pile of sand. Simple, but highly effective for spreading joy. 

Moab truly is a place like no other. The list of activities here is endless, so be sure to discover this area of outstanding beauty for yourself.