First Time in Moab?
Everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Utah's red rock adventure capital
Getting to Moab
Moab is located in southeastern Utah, tucked between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks along the Colorado River. The most common way to reach Moab is by driving. From Salt Lake City, it's about a 3.5 to 4 hour drive south on I-15, then southeast on US-191. From Denver, plan on roughly 5.5 hours heading west on I-70 through the stunning scenery of western Colorado before dropping south into Moab. From Las Vegas, it's about a 6.5 hour drive northeast through St. George and across southern Utah.
The nearest commercial airport is Canyonlands Field (CNY), located about 16 miles north of town. It has limited service - primarily seasonal flights from Denver and a few other hubs. Most visitors fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and rent a car for the drive down. The drive itself is beautiful, passing through Price, Helper, and the San Rafael Swell, so consider it part of the adventure rather than just transit time.
There is no public transportation to or within Moab, so a car is essential. If you plan to explore backcountry roads like Shafer Trail or White Rim Road, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended, but a standard car will handle all paved roads and most popular trailheads without any issues.
How Many Days Should You Plan?
We recommend 3 to 5 days for a first visit to Moab. With 3 days you can hit the highlights: a day in Arches National Park, a day exploring Canyonlands (Island in the Sky district), and a day for a signature hike or mountain bike ride plus exploring the town. With 4-5 days you can add Dead Horse Point State Park, a river rafting trip on the Colorado, and have time to explore some of the lesser-known trails without feeling rushed.
If you only have a long weekend (2 days), prioritize Arches National Park and one big hike like Corona Arch or the Delicate Arch trail. But honestly, two days will leave you wanting more - most visitors who come once start planning their next trip before they even leave town.
Hit the highlights: Arches NP, one signature hike, and a scenic drive
The sweet spot: both parks, multiple hikes, rafting, and time to relax
Deep dive: backcountry adventures, Needles district, mountain biking, and off-roading
Top Must-See Spots
Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this is the park that put Moab on the map. Don't miss Delicate Arch (the iconic Utah arch seen on license plates), Landscape Arch (one of the longest natural arches in the world), and the Windows section. A timed entry reservation is required during peak season - book early!
Canyonlands National Park - Island in the Sky
The Island in the Sky district offers jaw-dropping panoramic views from a mesa top perched 1,000 feet above the surrounding canyons. Grand View Point, Green River Overlook, and Mesa Arch (best at sunrise) are absolute must-sees. It's only about 30 minutes from Moab.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Often described as a "mini Grand Canyon," Dead Horse Point offers one of the most photographed overlooks in Utah - a dramatic 2,000-foot drop to a gooseneck bend in the Colorado River. It's located right near Island in the Sky, so you can visit both in the same day.
Corona Arch Trail
A moderate 3-mile round trip hike that rewards you with one of the most impressive free-standing arches in the area - and it's outside the national park, so no entry fee or reservation needed. The trail crosses slickrock and has a short cable-assisted section that adds a sense of adventure.
The Colorado River
The Colorado River runs right through Moab and offers rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic jet boat tours. A half-day rafting trip through the daily section is perfect for families and first-timers, while the Fisher Towers section offers more exciting rapids.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
Hydration is Critical
The desert air is extremely dry and you'll lose moisture faster than you realize. Plan to drink at least one gallon of water per person per day when active outdoors. Start hydrating the day before any big hike. Bring more water than you think you need - it's better to carry extra than to run short.
Sun Protection
At 4,000 feet elevation with minimal shade, the sun in Moab is intense. Wear SPF 50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. The reflected light off sandstone can cause sunburn even in shaded areas.
Start Early
Whether it's to beat the heat in summer, catch sunrise at Mesa Arch, or snag a parking spot at popular trailheads, early mornings are your friend in Moab. Arches parking lots can fill by 8-9am during peak season. The light at dawn and dusk is also the best for photography.
Cell Service
You'll have decent cell service in town, but expect little to no signal once you're out on trails or in the parks. Download offline maps before you head out. Let someone know your plans if you're going to remote areas. Carry a paper map as backup.
Respect the Cryptobiotic Soil
The dark, crusty soil you see between rocks is a living biological crust that takes decades to grow. It prevents erosion and supports the desert ecosystem. Stay on marked trails and slickrock - a single footprint can destroy years of growth. "Don't bust the crust!"
Weather Changes Fast
Desert weather is unpredictable. Summer afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly, and flash floods are a real danger in slot canyons and dry washes - even if the rain is miles away. Check the forecast daily, especially during monsoon season (July-September), and never camp in dry washes.
Where to Stay & Where to Eat
Moab has a range of accommodation options from vacation rentals and condos to hotels and campgrounds. The town is compact, so wherever you stay you'll be within a short drive of both national parks and all the major trailheads. Book early during spring and fall peak seasons - popular properties fill up months in advance.
For dining, Moab punches above its weight for a small town. You'll find everything from brewpubs and burger joints to Thai food and wood-fired pizza. After a long day on the trails, there's nothing better than a cold drink and a great meal on a patio with views of the red cliffs.
Ready to Start Planning?
Use our trip planner to build your perfect Moab itinerary, or explore activities to find your next adventure.