I still remember the first time I drove into Moab—the red rock cliffs glowing in the afternoon light, the Colorado River snaking through the canyon, and that wild, open-sky feeling that makes your heart beat a little faster. Whether you’re into rugged hikes, scenic drives, or just chasing sunsets, Moab is a place that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
I spent several days exploring this iconic desert town, and every moment offered something new—whether it was squeezing through the narrow walls of a slot canyon or eating the best quesadilla of my life at a food truck with a view. If you’re planning a visit, here are my favorite things to do in Moab that made the trip unforgettable.
🌄 Arches National Park: Sunrise, Hikes, and Otherworldly Views
This is Moab’s crown jewel, and for good reason. Watching the sun rise through Delicate Arch was a core memory—I started the hike before dawn and reached the arch just as the sky lit up in soft purples and oranges. If you’re up for more adventure, Devils Garden offers a longer trail past multiple arches and towering fins that feel like a natural sculpture park.
Travel tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to beat the heat and the crowds.
🏜️ Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky
While Arches gets most of the attention, Canyonlands gave me that sense of awe you feel when the world suddenly feels huge. I headed to the Island in the Sky district and stood at Mesa Arch, watching the sun spill through the stone. But the real magic was in the scenic drive—every overlook felt like I was peering into a vast, painted canyon with layers of orange, red, and gold.
🚙 Drive the Scenic Byway 128
This road surprised me. I took it almost by accident while heading to Castle Valley, and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever done. The road hugs the Colorado River, framed by towering red cliffs and dotted with spots to pull over, have a snack, and just soak it all in.
🥾 Hike to Corona Arch (Without the Crowds)
If you want an iconic arch without the Arches National Park crowds, this is your trail. The Corona Arch hike is about 3 miles round trip and gave me some of the best views of the trip—plus, there’s a little cable to climb and a ladder that made me feel like I was on a mini adventure course. It’s a lesser-known gem I’d absolutely do again.
🚲 Mountain Biking the Slickrock Trail
I’ll be honest: this trail humbled me. Moab is a mountain biking mecca, and Slickrock is legendary. Even if you’re a beginner, you can ride the practice loop and still get that feeling of carving across the grippy sandstone. I met folks from all over the world here, swapping trail tips while catching my breath between climbs.
🌌 Stargazing at Dead Horse Point
After dinner, I drove up to Dead Horse Point State Park for some night photography, and the stars were insane. No city lights, no distractions—just pure Milky Way magic. If you’ve never stargazed in the desert before, trust me, you’ll never forget it.
🍴 Where to Eat in Moab
Between hikes and drives, I fueled up at these favorites:
- Quesadilla Mobilla: A food truck with the best black bean and sweet potato quesadilla I’ve ever had. No exaggeration.
- Moab Garage Co.: Great for breakfast sandwiches and cold brew before hitting the trails.
- 98 Center: A local spot with delicious Vietnamese-inspired dishes. The pho hit the spot after a long day hiking.
🛍️ Shopping and Local Finds
Downtown Moab has a chill, artsy vibe. I wandered into Back of Beyond Books and found a few local nature guides, then picked up a handmade ceramic mug from a gallery across the street. It’s a great spot to take it slow and chat with locals.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visiting Moab
- Best time to visit: Spring (April–May) and Fall (Sept–Oct) have perfect weather.
- What to pack: Layers, lots of water, sturdy hiking shoes, and a hat—sun protection is key.
- Stay hydrated: It’s the desert. Even if you’re not hiking, the dry air will sneak up on you.
- Book early: Hotels and campsites fill up fast, especially around holidays.
- Respect the land: Moab’s beauty is fragile. Stick to trails and pack out what you pack in.
FAQs About Moab
What is Moab best known for?
Moab is famous for its red rock landscapes, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and world-class hiking and biking.
Is one day enough for Moab?
You can see highlights like Delicate Arch and drive Scenic Byway 128 in a day, but 2–3 days lets you explore more deeply.
Where should I stay in Moab?
Options range from upscale desert lodges to budget motels and campgrounds. I stayed near downtown for easy access to restaurants.
Can you visit Moab without hiking?
Absolutely. Scenic drives, stargazing, local shops, and viewpoints make it enjoyable even without hitting the trails.
Is Moab family-friendly?
Yes! There are kid-friendly trails, river activities, and lots of space to roam. It’s a great destination for adventurous families.
Final Thoughts: Why Moab Stole My Heart
Moab felt like a mix of wild freedom and peaceful moments—the kind of place that makes you slow down, look around, and really take it all in. If you’re planning your next adventure, Moab is one of those rare spots that truly delivers—quiet mornings, wide-open skies, and experiences you’ll be thinking about long after the dust settles.