Discover the Red Rock Adventure

🧭 Getting Started in Moab

Welcome to Moab, Utah – your gateway to red rock deserts, towering arches, and endless adventure. Whether you're here to hike, bike, raft, off road, or simply soak in the scenery, this guide keeps all the essentials in one place so you can make the most of your stay.

✈️ Getting Here & Around

Nearest Airports:

• Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) – Regional airport ~18 miles north of town (≈30 minutes) with service to/from Denver.
• Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – ~113 miles (≈2 hours) east with major city connections.
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – ~234 miles (≈4 hours) northwest.
• Denver International Airport (DEN) – ~276 miles (≈6 hours); you can also connect by air to CNY.

Driving & Rentals:

• Moab sits on U.S. 191, about 30 miles south of I-70. From Salt Lake City or Denver, expect 4–6 hours of scenic highway driving.
• A standard vehicle works for in town and park visits; high clearance or 4×4 is recommended for off road routes.
• Local companies rent Jeeps, Broncos, 4×4s, bikes, and offer airport shuttles.

🌤️ When to Visit

• March–early May & September–October: Prime weather, busiest crowds – book lodging, tours, and permits early.
• February & November: Cooler, quieter, great for hiking and sightseeing.
• June–August: Very hot (often 100°F+). Start at sunrise, rest midday, focus on water activities.
• December–January: Cold, peaceful, possible snow/ice – check road and trail conditions.

🏞️ Must See Parks & Public Lands

Arches National Park

• Just 5 miles from Moab with the world's highest concentration of natural sandstone arches. Highlights: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Double Arch, Balanced Rock.
• Timed entry reservations are required seasonally (check recreation.gov). Go early or late for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
• Stay on marked trails and rock; protect fragile biological soil crust.

Canyonlands National Park

• Vast canyons and mesas carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
• Island in the Sky (closest to Moab): Short hikes and dramatic overlooks.
• The Needles: Longer hikes and backpacking. Carry detailed maps and ample water.
• White Rim Road: Iconic 100 mile 4×4/bike route (permits required).

Dead Horse Point State Park

• Jaw dropping overlooks 2,000 feet above the Colorado River.
• Easy trails, a visitor center, and world class sunrise/sunset photography.
• International Dark Sky Park – excellent stargazing.

Sand Flats Recreation Area

• Home to the famous Slickrock Bike Trail and classic 4×4 routes like Hell's Revenge and Fins & Things.
• Day use/entry fees apply. Stay on signed routes only.

Other Nearby Highlights

• Corona Arch – Moderate 3 mile round trip to a massive free standing arch.
• Grandstaff Canyon / Morning Glory Bridge – Scenic canyon hike with stream crossings.
• Mill Creek – Short hike to pools and waterfalls (watch for flash flood risk).
• Moab Giants Dinosaur Park – Life size dinosaurs and interactive exhibits for families.

🚵 Outdoor Adventures

Water & River Adventures

• Colorado River rafting: Half day to multi day trips with local outfitters; great for families and beginners.
• Paddleboarding & kayaking: Ken's Lake and calm river sections; rentals available in town.

Off Roading & OHV Etiquette

• Incredible networks for Jeeps, UTVs, ATVs, and dirt bikes. Use only designated roads and trails.
• Pack out all trash and human waste; many areas lack facilities.
• Respect wildlife, private property, and noise limits.
• Street legal OHVs are allowed in Moab; obey posted speed limits and local ordinances. Non Utah riders need OHV education and permits.

Mountain Biking

• Slickrock Trail – Iconic, strenuous; for experienced riders.
• Klondike Bluffs – Mix of beginner to advanced loops.
• Amasa Back / Captain Ahab – Technical, scenic.
• Bar M & Navajo Rocks / Falcon Flow – Great for families and flowing intermediate rides.
• Local bike shops offer rentals, repairs, and shuttles.

🚗 Scenic Drives

• Potash Road (UT 279): Rivers, cliffs, petroglyphs, and arches.
• Scenic Byway U-128: Follows the Colorado River past towering canyon walls and Fisher Towers.
• La Sal Mountain Loop: Cooler alpine air and big views above the desert.
• Shafer Trail / White Rim Road: High clearance adventure with permits required.

🌌 Stargazing

• Moab is surrounded by International Dark Sky Parks. On clear nights, expect brilliant views of the Milky Way.
• Top spots: Balanced Rock, The Windows, Garden of Eden, Panorama Point, Dead Horse Point.
• Use red lights, protect night vision, and keep noise low.

⚠️ Safety Essentials & Leave No Trace

Desert Safety

• Water: Minimum 2–3 liters per person for short outings; more for long or hot hikes.
• Heat: Plan activities early/late; rest midday.
• Weather: Watch for storms and flash floods; never cross flooded washes.
• Navigation: Cell service is limited – carry offline maps and paper backups.
• Wildlife: Observe from a distance; never feed animals.
• Know your limits and be prepared to self rescue.

Leave No Trace

• Plan ahead: Know regulations, permits, and seasonal restrictions.
• Travel & camp on durable surfaces: Use established trails, rock, or sand; avoid cryptobiotic soil.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash and use restrooms or WAG bags.
• Leave what you find: Don't disturb rocks, artifacts, or cairns.
• Minimize campfire impacts: Use established fire rings; extinguish completely.
• Respect wildlife: Control pets and give animals space.
• Be considerate of others: Keep noise down; drones are restricted or prohibited in many areas.

🍽️ Dining & Local Favorites

Breakfast:

• Love Muffin Café – Hearty breakfasts, good coffee.
• Moab Garage Co. – Creative options, smoothies.

Lunch & Dinner:

• Zax Restaurant – Pizza, burgers, family friendly.
• Arches Thai – Authentic Thai with vegetarian options.
• Miguel's Baja Grill – Mexican inspired, local flavors.
• The Spoke on Center – Burgers, salads, shakes.
• Pasta Jay's – Classic Italian comfort food.
• Milt's Stop & Eat – Retro burger and shake stand.
• Dewey's Restaurant & Bar – American fare & bar.
• Antica Forma – Wood fired pizza.
• Moab Brewery – Craft beer and hearty plates.
• Moab Food Truck Park – Rotating casual options.

🧰 Gear, Guides & Rentals

• Moab Cyclery – Bike rentals, tours, and shuttles.
• Moab Gear Trader – Outdoor gear, rentals, and consignment.
• Canyon Voyages Adventure Co. – River trips and watercraft.
• Local Jeep/UTV rentals – Reserve ahead for peak seasons.

🚑 Emergency Information

• Emergency: 911
• Moab Regional Hospital – 450 W Williams Way, (435) 719-5500.
• Arches NP Visitor Center – (435) 719-2299.
• Canyonlands NP Visitor Centers – Island in the Sky: (435) 719-2313; Needles: (435) 259-4711.
• Backcountry permits & info – recreation.gov or local visitor centers.

✨ Final Thoughts

Moab is a rare mix of adventure, solitude, and surreal landscapes. Plan ahead, tread lightly, and you'll help keep this desert wild and welcoming for everyone who follows.