Nestled in eastern Utah is the city of Moab—a place that is home to spectacular red rock formations in the Arches National Park. With a population of just over 5,200 people, it is considered a historic landmark, featuring many archeological artifacts and traces of dinosaurs in the Bull Canyon Overlook and Copper Ridge. If this is your first time, here is a crash course of 9 exciting things to do when you visit Moab.
1. Arches National Park
Top of the list, it's on the Utah license place, one of the most popular attractions in the state is Arches National Park. Over thousands of years, water has carved a perfect arch in the red rock to form Delicate Arch. See it for yourself! When visiting, you can either hike or drive through the park. If you drive, you will get to see the highlights with brief stops, including Balanced Rock, and Double Arch. If you choose to hike, be sure to go on the Arch trail as it offers beautiful rock formations and scenery. The fees to access this park are:• $30 for one private vehicle
• $25 for motorcycles
• $15 for individuals with no car
2. Canyonlands National Park
Another amazing place to explore is Canyonlands National Park. Divided into four districts due to the rivers, you can visit: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers that complete the park. They offer their own experiences but do share that same wild desert atmosphere. The fees to this park are the same as the Arches National Park. Plan ahead as this is Utah’s largest National Park spanning 337,598 acres.Tip! Bring plenty of water—there are very few places to get water in the park, and getting dehydrated turns an awesome experience into something pretty terrible.
3. Moab Giants
Have you ever wanted to walk with dinosaurs? Now is your chance at the Moab Dinosaur Museum! With all-inclusive passes starting at $22, you can experience the roaring giants in 3D or opt for just the outdoor dinosaur display starting at $16 per person. The trail is ½ a mile and is equipped with over 100 full-size replicas of various species placed against the beautiful backdrop of the Moab desert. There's something about seeing these massive creatures in nature that makes it all so real. With dinosaur trails, dig-out-sites, prehistoric aquarium, theaters, cafes, and a dino playground, there is fun for all ages here.
4. Raft the Colorado River
There is so much exploration to be done on a river. Open from April to October; you can enjoy the rapids of the Colorado River with the choice of Cataract Canyon or Castle Valley for your excursion. Depending on your choice of trip, you can also choose between half-day or 3-day trips. Booking the trip through Mild to Wild, you will also get the experience through trained professionals.5. Dead Horse Point State Park
If you are looking for breathtaking views of a canyon set against the western sunset, Dead Horse Point State Park hits the spot. Years of meticulous carving from wind, ice, and water have slowly formed the steep walls that overlook the ever-winding Colorado River. The picturesque views stand at 2,000 feet at Dead Horse Point. Enjoy beautiful hikes and wildlife viewing here. The park is open year-round from 6 am–10 pm, so there's no excuse if you miss the sunrise or sunset.6. Hell’s Revenge 4X4 Tour
If hiking just isn’t your thing but you still want to see enchanting views of Moab, with its pristine red rocks through Negro Bill Canyon, Abyss Canyon, La Sal Mountains, and the Colorado River; then head over to Hell’s Revenge Off-Road Adventures. Starting at only $113, you will have the option to choose from a morning, afternoon, or sunset ride in a 4-person Kawasaki Teryx 4. Cruise with experienced guides that will lead you over sandstones, slick rocks, and rough terrain. The ride lasts roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes but is filled with endless sights and adventure.
7. Corona Arch
There are a few different arch formations to see, but this one is a must! If you wonder to yourself “how is this thing still standing?” you aren't the first. It is truly amazing to see and worth the 1.5-mile hike. It is located off Utah State Route 279 in a side canyon of the Colorado River. When you first approach the sandstone formations, you will see Bowtie Arch. Just beyond that is Corona Arch. If you venture a little further, you can capture an image of both arches.8. Slickrock Trail Mountain Biking
This is not a trail for the faint of heart. Slickrock Trail was made for mountain bikers who wish to challenge their skill and strength to the utmost. The trail is a 12-mile loop that takes roughly around 4 hours to complete. Visitors say that you will barely use your easiest gears during this ride. This is a very famous mountain biking trails.9. Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage
One surprising fact you may want to know about Moab is that it is a popular destination for Hollywood movies, including Indiana Jones, The Lone Ranger, Transformers: Age of Extinction, and Need for Speed—to name a few. Located around Red Cliffs Lodge, the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage pays homage to its rich history of film.The perfect getaway awaits you in Moab—especially if you are in search of serene beauty. From tall red rock Arches and canyons to dinosaur tracks, Moab will give you that adventure fix you've been craving. Feel free to comment on these 9 things to do in Moab. Adventure is waiting!