Moab is unlike any other place. There may be additional rules & guidelines for recreating here that you aren't familiar with. Please take some time to read up on local regulations for any activity that you are planning. Many areas require permits or day passes, and permits are required for off-road vehicles. The 'Discover Moab' website linked here is great place to get started while planning your activities.
Many areas surrounding Moab do not have reliable cell service. Download off-road & trail maps ahead of time. Pro tip: You can select an area in Google Maps to download for offline use - see the article linked for instructions. Other apps offer options to download maps for offline use including AllTrails, OnX, etc.
This popular 3-mile trail features Bowtie and Corona Arches. One section of the hike involves using a safety cables with steps cut into the rocks and may be difficult or impassable for some hikers or dogs. Getting there: From Moab head north out of town on U.S. Highway 191. Cross the bridge over the Colorado River. After crossing the bridge continue north for 1.3 miles to the signed "Potash" road, which is State Road 279. Turn west (left) and follow State Road 279 for 10.1 miles to the signed Corona Arch trailhead. The trailhead is located on the north (right) side of the road. The trailhead consists of a large gravel parking lot, an information kiosk and pit toilets.
Arches National Park contains the world’s largest concentration of natural sandstone arches. A paved scenic drive takes visitors to many of the major viewpoints within the park. Hikers can choose from a wide variety of trails, from short twenty minute walks leading right up to many of the largest arches in the park, to more adventurous hikes into lesser seen areas. Park Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle (good for 7 days) or a National Parks Pass. If you're also planning to visit Canyonlands, you can purchase the Southeast Utah Parks Pass for $55.00 for entry to both parks (valid for 1 year).
The view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the overlook provides a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes. Hiking, biking and camping are available within the park. We recommend catching a sunrise or sunset here! Park Entrance Fees: $20 per vehicle (valid for 2 consecutive days, up to 8 passengers). Keep in mind, this is a UT state park so you cannot use a National Parks Pass for entry!
Sand Flats is popular for its mountain biking (AKA the famous Slickrock Bike Trail) and off-roading trails over the slickrock. Not for the faint of heart! Hiking is also available if you'd prefer to be a spectator of these activities. Park Entrance Fees: $5 per vehicle + $5 per trailer. State and National Parks Passes are NOT valid here.
Fall temps are ideal for biking in Moab! Moab offers a huge variety of trails for mountain bikers of any experience level, from beginners looking for a scenic ride through beautiful canyons and mesa tops, to seasoned bikers looking for a challenge. Click the link for more details! Visitors flock specifically for the mountain biking trails but there are also many city bike paths around town. A city biking map can also be found at this link.
Off-roading is the activity of choice for many in Moab. BYO toys or check out a guided tour, but either way, read on to learn about requirements for this activity. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, Utah will require all OHV operators to complete the Utah Off-Highway Vehicle Education Course. The once-in-a-lifetime course should take less than 30 minutes to complete and is available at the link provided. You can also purchase your non-resident permit at this link or at the Moab Visitors Center.
This natural tunnel is a short walk from the trailhead, but requires some large steps up the rocks. Generally an easy off-road route, but road conditions to the tunnel can vary greatly depending on recent weather. 4WD vehicle recommended. You can search for "Tusher Tunnel Trailhead" on Google Maps, but keep in mind you will likely lose service as you drive so plan your route ahead of time. There is some signage along the route. See the linked article for more detailed directions.
If you'd like someone to show you around or if needing to rent gear - start here!
There are 3 scenic byways to check out in the surrounding Moab area.
Let us know if you are planning to camp during your trip and we can help provide some recommendations!
Grab a souvenir from Moab Made & stop by GearHeads for all things outdoors.