Moab is a destination built for adventure, a hiker's paradise and a nature enthusiasts' wonderland. For an ultimate discovery of Moab, combine your adventure with Rocky Mountaineer's newest rail route, Rockies to the Red Rocks, showcasing the breathtaking views of the southwest United States. This epic two-day rail route travels between Moab (Utah) and Denver (Colorado) with the option to start the journey in either destination. Extend your stay in Moab and see the best of the unseen west as we list you the best things to do in Moab. A desert city, it is famously home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, the mighty Colorado River and some of the world’s most incredible natural red sandstone landscapes.
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Hike Arches National Park
A park that drives many people to Moab and southeast Utah, it is a place unlike any other. Nestled inside are a collection of natural sandstone arches including the famous arch in the world, Delicate Arch, and an array of hiking trails. You can't miss The Windows and Devil's Garden. For a backroad experience into this desert landscape see our Utah's Arches and Canyonlands Fully Guided Walk that will be sure to get you walking the best sections of the park in a week. When visiting, aim for early mornings or evenings to catch the best light over the red rock formations and skip the crowds.
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Hike and Bike Canyonlands National Park
It lives in the shadow of Arches National Park, yet the scenery unmatched to no other. Canyonlands is the largest National Park in Utah over 330,000 acres, and its diversity staggers the imagination. So expansive it is divided into four sections with the closest section to Moab is the 'Island in the Sky Distirct'. With hiking trails and views more spectacular around each bend, it is a must do when in Moab! It delivers a quintessential desert experience of deep canyons, prehistoric rock art, rivers and sweeping overlooks. Highlights you can't miss: Mesa Arch, Upheaval Dome, Grand View Point and Green River Overlook. Mountain bikers can tackle challneging dirt roads that lead through the heart of the park.
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Dead Horse Point State Park
Nestled right outside Canyonlands National Park (about 25 minutes from town), escape the crowds to the less visited Dead Horse State Park. A great location to catch an epic desert sunset and boasts of an array of lookouts over enormous canyon walls. It gives dramatic panoramic vistas of Cnayonlands National Park and the Colorado River. Enjoy incredible overlooks, picnic areas, visitor centre and a 14km (9 mile) loop hiking trail.
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Uncover Petroglyphs
For the historical enthusiasts, ancient petroglyphs are found around Moab including some of the largest known collections. Native American Indians have been engraving messages into this rock for more than 2000 years porviding a long history of their stories. An intriguing experience that will take you back in time of deciphering ancient messages and meaning. Best spots to see petroglyphs near Moab: Moonflower Canyon, Potash Road, Birthing Scene Historical Landmark, Jug Handle Arch and Wold Ranch at Delicate Arch Trail.
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Drive The Scenic Utah Byway 128
Monolithic Majesty! Scenie Byway 128, known by locals as River Road, is one of the most interesting and breathtaking drives. On this 71km (44 mile) one way drive traverse canyons carved by the Colorado River as you make your way through red rock country with spectacular mesas, natural springs and enough red rock to truly overwhelm your senses. For a short hike along the drive, the Grandstaff Canyon is just 5km (3 miles) outside of Moab and is a little over 3km (2 miles) one way leading you to the morning Glory Natural Bridge.
Moab Wine Tasting & Moab Brewery
You might be surprised to hear that Moab has a winery. Located on the outskirts of town, it is easy to drop in for a tour and tasting at the Spanish Valley Vineyard and Winery. It has a Bed & Breakfast to get the whole experience. The Moab Brewery on the other hand is the only microbrewery in the area and a favourite for locals and visitors alike. It makes a perfect pit stop after a long day of adventure for food, award winning beer and distilled spirits to wind down. Make sure you down The Dead Horse Ale, one of the best brews!
