Moab

Moab, Utah, is a small city of about 5,000 residents surrounded by red rock formations, deep canyons, and winding rivers. You can hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, pedal along the Slickrock Bike Trail, or navigate rapids on the Colorado River. The unique geology and variety of activities in Moab draw visitors from around the world.

Exploring Arches National Park

Just 4 miles north of Moab, Arches National Park contains over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park's most recognizable formation, Delicate Arch, stands 52 feet tall and appears on Utah license plates. You can view it from a distance or take a 3-mile round-trip hike for a close-up look. Other interesting features include the Windows Section, with its large arch openings, and the tall spires of the Courthouse Towers. Set aside at least half a day to see the park's main sights.

Mountain Biking in Moab

Moab has numerous mountain biking trails for various skill levels. The Slickrock Bike Trail is a popular choice, with 10.5 miles of riding on petrified sand dunes. If you're a beginner, try the Bar M Loop, an easier 8-mile ride with views of the surrounding landscape. The Magnificent 7 trail system gives you a full day of riding with trails of varying difficulty. Bring plenty of water, as the desert heat can be intense even in cooler months.

Canyonlands National Park

About 30 miles southwest of Moab, Canyonlands National Park is split into four districts by the Green and Colorado Rivers. The Island in the Sky district is easiest to access, with wide views of the canyons below. For a more secluded experience, visit the Needles district, where you can hike among colorful rock spires. The Maze district is the most remote and requires advanced backcountry skills to explore. Canyonlands typically has fewer visitors than Arches, allowing for a quieter desert experience.

Rafting the Colorado River

On the Colorado River, you can choose between calm float trips and fast-paced whitewater adventures. For a relaxed experience, try the calm water stretch known as "The Daily," which runs from Moab to Potash. If you want more excitement, the Westwater Canyon section has Class III and IV rapids. Local outfitters run guided trips lasting from a few hours to several days. The rafting season typically runs from March to October, with the highest water levels in May and June.

Moab's Climate and When to Visit

Moab has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often go above 100°F (38°C), which can make outdoor activities difficult. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) have more comfortable temperatures, usually between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). These seasons work well for hiking, biking, and exploring the national parks. Winter can be cold, with nighttime temperatures below freezing, but you'll find fewer crowds during this time.

Local Events and Festivals

Moab hosts several annual events that highlight its landscape and culture. The Moab Music Festival in September brings classical and chamber music performances to outdoor locations. In March, the Skinny Tire Festival gathers road cyclists for a ride that raises money for cancer research. The Moab Folk Festival in November features folk musicians from across the country. For off-road driving fans, the Easter Jeep Safari in April includes organized trail rides and a vehicle show lasting a week.

Getting to Moab

The closest major airport is Salt Lake City International, about a 4-hour drive from Moab. For a shorter trip, you can fly into Canyonlands Field Airport, 18 miles north of Moab, which has daily flights to Denver. If you're driving, you can reach Moab via US Highway 191. Having a car in Moab helps for exploring the surrounding areas, but you can walk or bike around the small town itself.