- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
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Why Visit Moab
Moab began as a Ute trading post, later settled by Mormon missionaries in the 1850s. Its modern identity was forged in the 1950s Uranium Boom led by Charlie Steen, whose hilltop mansion is a key landmark. This legacy explains the functional, mid-century buildings you still see downtown today.
Moab is the gateway to two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, but don't overlook the La Sal Mountains. Rising over 8,000 feet above the desert, they offer alpine lakes and cooler summer hikes. Beyond 4x4 trails, consider exploring petroglyph panels along Potash Road. Visiting Moab means you can experience two distinct ecosystems in one day.
The food scene reflects our adventurous spirit. Beyond classic diner fare, look for food trucks serving everything from Thai to BBQ. A local secret is the prickly pear margarita, made from native cactus fruit. Many restaurants source greens from nearby Castle Valley, offering fresh salads in an unlikely desert setting.
- MoabUnited States
- MoabUnited States
- MoabUnited States
- MoabUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Mar-Maymild, wildflowers bloom
- Jun-Aughot, crowded with tourists
- Sep-Octcomfortable, fewer visitors
- Nov-Febcool, possible snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #HydrationPack
- #LightJacket
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 for side trips
- US Dollar ($)
- English
- English is the official language here
- #ArchesNationalPark
- #CanyonlandsNationalPark
- #DeadHorsePointStatePark
- #MoabGiant
- #MuseumofMoab
- #SandDuneArch
- Hiking in Arches
- Stargazing at Dead Horse Point
- Mountain biking on Slickrock Trail
- Rafting the Colorado River
- Visiting local art galleries
Recommended Hotels in Moab by Experience
Things to do in Moab
Discover
Exploring Moab reveals a landscape of stunning natural wonders. Discover the iconic formations of Arches National Park, the vast canyons of Canyonlands National Park, and the dramatic overlooks of Dead Horse Point State Park-all defining the region.
Experience
Hike to Delicate Arch, mountain bike the Slickrock Trail, or raft the Colorado River. For a cultural touch, visit the Moab Museum, browse local art galleries, or attend the annual Moab Music Festival for concerts in scenic canyons.
Arches National Park
Natural park with over 2,000 iconic sandstone arches.
Canyonlands National Park
Vast park with canyons carved by the Colorado River.
Dead Horse Point State Park
State park offering dramatic views of the Colorado River.
Slickrock Bike Trail
A challenging 10.5-mile loop for mountain bikers.
Colorado River Rafting
Guided whitewater rafting trips through stunning canyons.
Delicate Arch Trail
Famous hiking trail leading to Utah's iconic stone arch.
Moab Museum
Museum showcasing the region's human and geologic history.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), 18 miles north. Daily flights connect from Denver (DEN) and Salt Lake City (SLC). A Moab shuttle bus offers service from the Moab airport to city center. Grand Junction (GJT) is another popular airport option.
Getting Around
The town of Moab is walkable, but a vehicle is best for exploring the parks. Securing a car rental in Moab provides the most freedom. While there's limited public transport in Moab, shuttles are available for specific trailheads and river trips.
Local Essentials
Crucial Moab travel tips for first-timers: book lodging and vehicles months ahead. Driving in Moab requires patience at park entrances; Arches often requires a timed entry permit. Always carry extra water and be aware of flash flood warnings in canyons.
Where to Stay in Moab
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Moab's hearty cuisine, where post-adventure meals are a ritual. Taste local craft beers from Moab Brewery and savor a juicy bison burger. The dining scene is casual, focused on refueling after a day on the trails.
Enjoy
For where to eat in Moab, hit The Blu Pig for smoky BBQ in a lively setting, arrive early. Moab Brewery is a bustling hub, try samplers. Grab a coffee at Love Muffin Cafe's cozy spot, expect lines for their famous muffins.
Desert Bistro
Upscale American fare in an intimate, rustic setting.
The Blu Pig
Famous for slow-cooked BBQ and live blues music nightly.
Quesadilla Mobilla
Gourmet quesadillas from a popular, stationary food truck.
Pasta Jay's
Casual spot for large portions of classic Italian dishes.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Moab's heritage through events reflecting its Old West and pioneer history. Things to do include local rodeos and community parades that celebrate the area's deep ranching traditions and rugged, exploratory spirit.
Enjoy
Explore modern creativity at the Moab Music Festival, featuring classical concerts in nature. The Moab Arts Festival is a must-see for visual arts, showcasing regional painters and sculptors each spring.
Easter Jeep Safari
A nine-day spring event of trail rides and off-roading.
Moab Music Festival
Chamber, jazz, and Latin music in stunning outdoor venues.
Moab Arts Festival
Memorial Day weekend event with visual art, music, and food.
April Action Car Show
Classic and custom cars on display in the City Park in April.
Moab Folk Festival
November gathering with folk music workshops and performances.
Canyonlands Half Marathon
Scenic March race along the Colorado River near Arches Park.
Truly a special place
Moab is an incredible base for exploring the area. The town has everything you need but still feels small and connected to the landscape. The red rock views are everywhere, even just walking down Main Street. Great food options after a long day too.
The parks are unbelievable
Came for Arches National Park and it was just mind-blowing. The scale of everything is hard to describe. We got up early for the sunrise at Delicate Arch, which was worth the early start. Town gets busy, but the natural beauty is the real reason to be here.
Biker's Paradise
The mountain biking is world-class. Did a few trails and the scenery is just unreal while you're riding. The Slickrock Trail is as challenging and iconic as they say. The whole town is set up for outdoor adventures. Plenty of good spots for a burger afterward.
Views for days!
Moab is the perfect spot for seeing some of America's best landscapes. We spent a lot of time exploring Canyonlands, and the views from Island in the Sky are just endless. It's so quiet and peaceful out there. The night sky is amazing without city lights.
Great base for off-roading
If you're into 4x4s, this is the place. We rented a Jeep and explored some of the backroads and the experience was incredible. The landscape changes so much once you get off the paved roads. It felt like we were on another planet some of the time.
Peaceful Winter Trip
Visiting in the off-season was a great choice. The parks were so much less crowded, and the town was quiet. The view from Dead Horse Point State Park at sunset was stunning with the snow-dusted mountains in the distance. A totally different experience.