Top 34 Must-Do Activities in Moab for 2025

There are so many awe-inspiring things to do in Moab, Utah. The town serves as both a gateway to nature’s wonders and a great base for mountain bikers and off-roaders. With its signature red desert landscape, rock formations, sprawling canyons, and a tapestry of trails, Moab is a dreamland for adventurers.

It’s a place where mountain bikers challenge their prowess at the Slickrock Trail, where hikers find solace in the shadow of Delicate Arch, and where every sunset paints a masterpiece on the vast canvas of the sky. From the rumble of jeeps on off-the-beaten tracks to the tranquil ripples of the Colorado River, Moab is a symphony of experiences waiting to be savored. Dive into this guide and let the best of Moab unveil itself, one adventure at a time.

Top Things To Do in Moab, Utah

Moab is deep in Utah’s Canyon country, and while the city is relatively quiet, its spectacular scenery speaks volumes on its behalf. We love the selection of geological, cultural, adventurous, and historical attractions Moab offers. Let’s check out the best Moab attractions to help you plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip To Moab Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Moab. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Moab, Utah!

Top Activities and Tours in Moab:

• Canyonlands and Arches National Park Airplane Tour (Best Scenic Views)
• Hell’s Revenge Jeep Tour (Highly Rated)
• Canyoneering Adventure – (Likely to Sell Out)
• Arches 4X4 Adventure (Most Popular)

1. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is the city’s closest destination, and visiting is one of the best things to do in Moab. There are many incredible hikes in the Arches, most of which incorporate impressive rock features.

Nestled just five miles north of Moab, Arches National Park stands as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess. With over 2,000 natural stone arches and myriad other geological wonders, the park offers an otherworldly experience. Millions of years of erosion have sculpted this stunning landscape.

Allow at least a day, if not two or three, to dedicate to exploring Arches National Park. The park has numerous routes and attractions to visit – on a bike, on horseback, on foot, or by car.

Website: www.nps.gov / Phone: +1 435-719-2299

2. Delicate Arch Hike

One hike not to miss is Delicate Arch. Delicate Arch is the most iconic arch of them all, becoming the unofficial symbol of Utah, gracing license plates and travel guides. The Delicate Arch hike is a three-mile round trip and of moderate difficulty.

The hike requires a reasonable fitness level, so ensure to bring plenty of water and sturdy hiking boots. Aim to hike before or after the midday sun. We suggest going early in the morning to beat the rush and secure a parking space.

• Address: Delicate Arch Rd, Moab, UT Google Maps

3. Landscape Arch

Landscape Arch Trail is part of the greater Devil’s Garden Trail system in Arches and provides a relatively easy and family-friendly hiking experience. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail, with only a slight elevation gain, leads hikers to the Landscape Arch – a remarkable geological formation reputed as one of the longest natural rock arches in the world.

The trail meanders through a juniper-pinyon woodland, offering glimpses of sandstone fins, before revealing the majestic Landscape Arch. Spanning an impressive 306 feet, the arch is an exceptional testament to nature’s creative force, illustrating the power of erosion in shaping the environment.

The path to Landscape Arch is well-trodden and relatively flat, making it accessible to hikers of varying skill levels. But don’t let the easy trek fool you; the stunning view of the slender arch delicately balanced amidst a backdrop of rugged sandstone formations makes this hike one of the most popular in Arches National Park.

• Address: U.S. 191, Moab, UT 84532 / Website: www.nps.gov / Phone +1 435-719-2299

4. Arches Scenic Drive

Arches Scenic Drive is the main thoroughfare that transports visitors deep into the heart of the iconic Arches National Park. The journey along this paved road unveils an ever-evolving tableau of some of the park’s most renowned landmarks.

Starting at the park’s entrance, the scenic drive stretches for 18 miles one-way, culminating at the Devils Garden area. As you embark on this journey, within minutes, you’ll be greeted with views of the Courthouse Towers.

5. Courthouse Towers

Courthouse Towers is only four miles from the Park Visitors Center. You can view them from the road, but if you want a closer look, take the Park Avenue Trail that descends 1 mile into the canyon. These are another famed attraction of Arches National Park, nicknamed due to the likeness of the canyon walls to city buildings.

Further ahead, the road leads to viewpoints for the famous Balanced Rock, a geological wonder where a massive boulder precariously balances atop a slender pedestal.

Midway, you’ll find pull-offs for Windows Section, offering a closer look at a series of large arches set in a picturesque setting. North and South Windows, Turret Arch, and Double Arch are all easily accessible from the parking areas and are some of the most photographed spots in the park. Google Maps

6. Explore Canyonlands National Park

You may recognize Canyonlands National Park from photos showcasing a snaking river canyon. The mighty Colorado River splits by the Confluence Overlook, with half the river continuing its winding path while the other half flows into the Green River.

Encompassing a vast area filled with countless canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries, Canyonlands National Park is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky District, The Needles, The Maze, and The Rivers themselves. Each offers a unique experience, from panoramic overlooks at Island in the Sky to the remote canyons of The Maze.

Website: www.nps.gov / Phone +1 435-719-2313

Canyonland NP Tours

The best way to see Canyonlands is on an airplane tour. This 1hr 20-minute scenic flight takes you over both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks to see Upheaval Dome, Island in the Sky, Green River Overlook, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, and more.

If you’d prefer to drive, download this self-drive scenic drive tour. You can stop at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center for information and pick up a free map or get route advice from the rangers. This self-drive tour is a great way to see the extraordinary rock formations, arches, and scenic views at your own pace.

7. Watch the Sunset From Grand View Point

Grand View Point is located at The Island in the Sky district and stands as one of the most expansive and breathtaking viewpoints in the American Southwest. Overlooking a sprawling vista of deep canyons, mesas, and distant mountain ranges, this vantage point offers an unparalleled display of nature’s grandeur.

Watching the sunset from Grand View Point is akin to witnessing a master painter at work. As the sun begins its descent, the deep reds and oranges of the rock formations become more pronounced, while the intricate labyrinth of canyons below gradually descends into deep shadows. The La Sal Mountains, visible in the distance, take on a deep blue hue, providing a striking contrast to the warm tones of the foreground.

8. Ancient Petroglyphs of Horseshoe Canyon

One of the best hikes in Canyonlands is Horseshoe Canyon. Horseshoe Canyon Trail is not only interesting but moderately challenging as well. The trail’s endpoint is the Great Gallery, where you can admire ancient petroglyphs.

Allow four hours to complete the entire hike. It is 11.3 km long with an elevation gain of 423 meters.

Address: Moab, UT 84532 / Website: www.nps.gov / Google Maps

9. Go Mountain Biking

Moab is a Mecca for mountain bikers, offering plenty of biking trails. You can head to the Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, or stay close to Moab at the iconic Slickrock Trail. Klondike Bluffs Trail is ideal for intermediate riders. If you lack experience, consider joining a guided tour. Moreover, if you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one at one of the many bike rental shops in town.

This highly rated mountain bike tour takes you on a half-day trip through the gorgeous terrain of Arches National Park, where you follow your guide on a 7-10 mile journey. It’s perfect for beginners and families.

10. Sand Flats Recreation Area

The Sand Flats Recreation Area is a diverse, multi-use area renowned for its unique combination of scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Be prepared to stay awhile; the area covers 9,000 acres, with bike trails, hiking trails, 4WD tracks, and natural formations. Sand Flats Recreation Area is a haven for biking, off-roading, and stargazing.

11. Slickrock Mountain Bike Trail

Mountain biking enthusiasts regard Moab as a pilgrimage site, and the crown jewel in its offering is the Slick Rock Trail. As the name suggests, the trail meanders through vast expanses of “slick” Navajo Sandstone, a surface that, despite its name, offers incredible traction. Spanning 10.5 miles, the trail isn’t particularly long, but its undulating terrain, with steep inclines and declines, poses a delightful challenge even for seasoned bikers.

While the Slickrock Trail is celebrated for its biking experience, its views are equally beautiful. As bikers navigate its loops, they’re treated to panoramic vistas of the La Sal Mountains and the sandstone domes of the region.

Address: Slickrock Trail Parking, Utah 84532 / View in Google Maps

12. Hell’s Revenge

Hell’s Revenge and Fins and Things are the most popular 4WD routes in the Sand Flats Recreation Area. Jeep rentals are available, or you can experience Hell’s Revenge as a passenger on an off-roading tour. Just don’t attempt it in a 2WD!

Combine a sunset with an adrenaline-pumping 4WD adventure. The desert is even more impressive at sunset when the natural glow emphasizes the existing redness of the rocks. Forget driving a scenic byway – hop in a jeep and get off the beaten path as you watch the desert sun go down. As far as outdoor adventures go, a hummer safari is an exhilarating blend of entertainment and nature. Or drive your own ATV.

Hell’s Revenge can be driven independently as well, and if you don’t have your own 4WD, you can rent one. This 4WD safari takes you on a two or four-hour drive through the Hell’s Revenge Trail with gorgeous views of Arches National Park and the La Sal Mountains. This adrenaline-filled tour is led by a professional guide in fully equipped 4X4 vehicles.

13. Night Sky Stargazing

Moab’s remote location in the Utah Desert, far from the glaring lights of major cities, makes it a haven for stargazers. The night skies here are among the darkest in the U.S., revealing a celestial tapestry of stars, planets, and the Milky Way. The clarity of the skies allows for perfect viewing of meteor showers, constellations, and distant planets.

Several local organizations offer guided astronomy tours equipped with high-powered telescopes and laser pointers. These guides unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, sharing tales of Greek mythology, scientific facts about distant galaxies, and tips on astrophotography.

Camping overnight in the desert, beneath this sprawling canvas of stars, is an ethereal experience, making one feel both infinitesimal and intricately connected to the cosmos.

14. Visit Dead Horse State Park

Perched 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park provides one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Legend has it that the park’s name is derived from its use as a natural corral by cowboys in the 19th century, where, tragically, a band of horses was left to die from exposure. Today, Dead Horse State Park stands as a poignant reminder of the Old West, with its dramatic overlook providing a panoramic view of the winding river below.

Beyond its iconic viewpoint, Dead Horse Point State Park offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Its network of trails, available for hiking and mountain biking, offers varying degrees of difficulty. For those looking to immerse themselves in the park’s tranquility, camping under its star-studded sky is an experience like no other. The Intrepid Trail System, particularly, is a must-visit, offering 16.6 miles of non-motorized trails that cater to both hikers and bikers.

Dead Horse Point State Park is only a forty-minute drive from Moab and is located between Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

15. The La Sal Mountains

Spend a day in the La Sal Mountains. Take advantage of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails before treating yourself to a meal at a café in La Sal afterward.

Bull Canyon Overlook offers sweeping mountain views and hiking trails of varying lengths if you want to experience the area within a time constraint. Alternatively, dare yourself to tackle one of the most physically challenging activities in Moab and climb one of the mountains. Mt Waas, Mt Tomasaki, Mt Peale, Mt Tukuhnikivatz, and Manns Peak are all popular summits.

16. Castle Valley Towers

Castle Valley lies between the Colorado River to the southwest and the imposing La Sal Mountains to the east. It is essentially a high desert valley surrounded by stunning rock formations. Over millions of years, erosion by wind and water has sculpted the valley’s signature red rock features, creating a landscape that’s both stark and captivating.

Castleton Tower is arguably the most iconic feature of Castle Valley. This 400-foot Wingate Sandstone dominates the landscape, making it a popular destination for rock climbers, offering a variety of routes of different difficulty levels.

The Rectory and The Priest: These are two other significant rock formations near Castleton Tower. From certain angles, The Priest appears to be in a praying posture, hence its name.

Parriott Mesa: Another prominent feature of Castle Valley, Parriott Mesa is a massive sandstone formation that offers climbing opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

17. Rock Climbing

With mountains, canyons, and world-famous rock features, it is no wonder that rock climbing is considered one of the best things to do in Moab. You can visit the Moab Adventure Center to organize a rock climbing tour with a pick-up service or head out independently if you are experienced. If you forgot your climbing gear, Pagan Mountaineering is a climbing shop located on Moab’s main street, making it the perfect place to stock up on all your equipment and supplies.

Address: 225 S Main Street, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone: +1 435-259-7019 / View in Google Maps

18. Fisher Towers

Fisher Towers is a series of stone pinnacles and buttresses that stand as silent sentinels. These iconic sandstone sentries were sculpted by eons of erosion, creating a sight that is both surreal and magnificent. The main tower, known as the Titan, is among the most recognized and climbed towers in the world. The rich red hue of the towers, contrasted with the deep blue sky, makes it a photographer’s dream, especially during the golden hours.

The 4.4-mile round trip Fisher Towers Trail takes hikers on a journey through some of Moab’s most dramatic landscapes. As the trail weaves its way around the base of these towering formations, it offers numerous vantage points to admire their grandeur. For rock climbers, Fisher Towers provides several technical routes, each promising a challenging ascent and rewarding summit views.

Address: Fisher Towers Rd, Moab, UT 84532 / View in Google Maps

19. Stop by Wilson Arch

Wilson Arch is a natural sandstone arch named after a 19th-century pioneer named Joe Wilson. This stunning natural feature is enormous and red-tinted, surrounded by desert – creating a dramatic picture.

Unlike many attractions, the Wilson Arch is completely free to access. Visitors can pull straight off Route 191, park at the Wilson Arch Scenic View Area, and take a short hike up to the rock feature. Wilson Arch is only half an hour’s drive from Moab and located just after the turn-off for La Sal. If you visit the mountains, it’s worth the detour.

20. Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

Jurassic Park fans will love Moab Giants Dinosaur Park. Step back millions of years to an era when colossal creatures ruled the Earth at Moab Giants Dinosaur Park. This theme park and outdoor museum hybrid captivates both young and old with life-sized replicas of over 100 dinosaurs.

These replicas, inspired by real fossil footprints found in the region, provide a tangible glimpse into prehistoric life. Interactive exhibits and a state-of-the-art 3D cinema augment the experience, blending education with entertainment.

Address: 112 UT-313, Moab, UT 84532 / Website

Engage and Explore

The Dinosaur Tracks Museum showcases actual footprints preserved in stone, complemented by engaging multimedia displays. Children, in particular, are enthralled by the Paleoaquarium, which offers a peek into ancient marine life.

If you are interested in history and archaeology, skip the Moab Giants for real dinosaur tracks and skeletons. The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail is a short two-mile return hike with fossilized dinosaur tracks and preserved skeletal remains!

21. Go Horseback Riding

With several National Parks surrounding Moab, horseback riding is a fun way to experience nature in Utah. Many horseback riding trips offer a pick-up service from Moab, but you can also easily drive out to nearby ranches.

Experience Moab as the early settlers and Native Americans did. Guided tours offer an authentic and serene way to traverse the varied landscapes in the Moab backcountry, from sweeping valleys to narrow canyons. The rhythmic pace of a horse allows riders to truly soak in their surroundings.

Hauer Ranch offers horseback riding and mule rides and is only half an hour from Moab. There are rides out to old movie sets and classic desert loops. Experienced riders can also book a private ride for faster paces and explore more technical terrain.

22. Go River Rafting

You can’t stay right next to the mighty Colorado River without experiencing its power firsthand! River rafting is one of the best things to do in Moab, and numerous rafting trips are available for you to embark on.

If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can choose from multi-day rafting trips and venture even further along the winding Colorado River. The best option for rafting Moab is to book a whitewater rafting tour. This guided tour takes you through class II/III rapids at Fisher Towers on a 6-person paddle raft on the Colorado River.

Cataract Canyon is one of the most renowned whitewater rafting spots. If you are experienced, this 14-mile section features challenging rapids of up to Class 5. Even if you can’t tackle them firsthand, watching others from the vantage point on the Colorado River Bridge is worthwhile!

23. Head to Hole ‘N’ The Rock

Hole ‘N’ The Rock is wacky. As far as eccentric things to do in Moab go, it rates very highly.

Visitors will soon spot the home carved into a boulder, signposted with emblazoned white letters painted onto the sandstone. There is a zoo, graffitied disused vehicles, mining equipment, vintage signs, sculptures, and guided tours of the boulder house. Locally crafted Native American souvenirs can also be purchased in the tourist gift shop.

24. Visit Goblin Valley State Park

If the Arches and Canyonlands national parks seem dauntingly large to visit in just one day, Goblin Valley is the perfect state park alternative.

The Three Sisters are an impressive sandstone rock formation. We recommend combining a visit here with a trip to Goblin Overlook, which has a covered picnic area and free toilet facilities available.

Goblin Valley is an hour and forty-minute drive from Moab, making it feasible as a day trip. Alternatively, you could use the Goblin Valley Campground for an overnight stay.

25. Hike to Corona Arch

Tucked away a few miles from Moab is the splendid Corona Arch. It often gets overshadowed by its counterparts in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park but is equally magnificent.

The trail to the arch is about 3 miles round-trip, and hikers navigate slick rock, sandy paths, and even a few ladders. Along the way, before reaching the pièce de résistance, the Corona Arch, hikers are treated to the sight of Bowtie Arch, with its keyhole-like appearance, serving as a delightful precursor to the grandeur that awaits.

The Corona Arch itself stands as a testament to nature’s artistry—a monumental sandstone arch with an awe-inspiring opening measuring 140 feet by 105 feet. It’s a sight that has become emblematic of the Moab region’s unparalleled beauty.

26. Spend a Day Hiking Moab’s Nearby Trails

Moab Information Center serves as an excellent starting point on Moab’s main street for inquiring about the best seasonal hikes based on your fitness level and ability. Additionally, just five miles north of the city center, you can also visit the Arches National Park Visitor Center, where the rangers can provide you with trail maps and specialist guidance on seeing specific natural landmarks.

27. Slot Canyons

While Moab is more famously known for its vast red rock landscapes, arches, and mesa views, it also houses several slot canyons. These beautiful canyons offer incredible views. However, you should book a tour or possess experience, as slot canyons can be extremely dangerous during rain, even if miles away. Some of the best slot canyons near Moab include:

• Little Wild Horse Canyon & Bell Canyon: Though located about 90 minutes west of Moab near Goblin Valley State Park, these two slot canyons are among the most popular in Utah, combined into an 8-mile loop hike that offers a diverse slot canyon experience.
• Entrajo Canyon: Located closer to Moab, Entrajo is a tighter slot canyon that presents some technical challenges, including a few rappels.
• Culvert Canyon: This is a short, easy-to-access slot near Moab, suitable for beginners or those wanting a brief experience without venturing too far from town.

28. Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway

Meandering alongside the Colorado River, the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway (often referred to as “Potash Road”) offers an accessible scenic drive. Spanning 17 miles, this scenic route treats travelers to breathtaking views of sheer red rock cliffs, ancient petroglyph panels, and natural arches.

Interestingly, the byway culminates at the Potash Evaporation Ponds, where vibrant blue colors starkly contrast with the red surroundings. Used for potash mining, these ponds are both an industrial marvel and a vivid visual spectacle, especially from higher vantage points. Along the route, travelers can also glimpse the famed Wall Street, a popular rock-climbing spot, and Jug Handle Arch, a testament to nature’s artistry.

29. Visit the Ancient Rock Art

Ancient rock art can be found at various sites around the city, with one of the most famous sites located a fifteen-minute drive away on Kane Springs Road. Nicknamed the Birthing Scene Petroglyph, this site features ancient etchings on a huge sandstone boulder.

The best thing about this site is how accessible it is. Standing face-to-face with etchings in the middle of the desert offers an immersive experience in ancient art.

30. Stop by the Moab Rock Shop

After experiencing so many archaeological and geographical wonders, you can stop by the Moab Rock Shop to take something home. The Rock Shop sells fossils, rocks, and minerals, allowing you to keep a piece of Moab as a souvenir. Dinosaur enthusiasts can remember the Moab Giants with a tooth or bone fossil.

31. Grab a Bite to Eat at the Food Truck Park

Forget fussy, pretentious dining, and head to Moab’s Food Truck Park to fill your stomach. The seating and serving process is street-food style, and the prices are budget-friendly! If you want an affordable meal in Moab, the Food Truck Park is the place to go.

The park offers a variety of international cuisines, including Chinese, Mexican, American, Hawaiian, and Italian, served from food trucks. The Hokulia shaved ice is particularly appealing after arriving back from a long day hiking.

The Food Truck Park is open from 6:30 am until 8:00 pm, so you can choose from breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Address: 39 W 100 N, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / +1 435-319-0251

32. Have a Quiet Morning at Moab Museum

A morning wander around Moab Museum is one of the city’s most relaxing attractions. The Moab Museum may be small, but it covers many historical topics! Recap what you’ve learned about Moab’s dinosaurs, learn about the Indigenous People’s history, and discover the lives of the early pioneers. The museum showcases many original artifacts, providing a unique, capsule-like, and slightly eclectic insight into Moab’s history.

Before tackling all the outdoor recreation we’ve mentioned, visit the Moab Museum in your first few days; it will help you appreciate the rest of Moab’s attractions.

Address: 118 E Center St, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone +1 435-259-7985 / View in Google Maps

33. Try a Local Beer at the Moab Brewery

Where better to relax with a well-deserved beer than at a brewery? Moab Brewery is a microbrewery that has been producing ales and IPAs since 1996.

Visitors can dine at the restaurant and pair on-site brewed beverages with American cuisine. Sample a Moab Pilsner and tuck into some desert chicken drummies.

For those heading on overnight trips to enjoy camping in remote areas, you can also stop by Moab Brewery to purchase a crate of evening refreshments.

Address: 686 S Main Street, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone +1 435-259-6333 / View in Google Maps

34. Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center

If you desire some water sports in a more controlled environment, the Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center is worth checking out. The Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (MRAC) provides both residents and visitors with a refreshing break from the hot desert sun and intense outdoor adventures.

Moab’s desert climate can get incredibly hot, especially in the summer months. The aquatic center offers an excellent way to cool off and relax after a day of hiking, biking, or off-roading. Plus, compared to other recreational activities and entertainment venues in tourist destinations, a visit to an aquatic center can offer relative budget-friendliness, allowing you to interact with the Moab locals.

Important Information

We’ve covered all the best things to do in Moab, Utah. But there are a few extra details you should know before you visit.

How to get to Moab, Utah?

Moab does not have an airport, so you’ll have to fly into Canyonlands Field Airport or Walker Field Airport in Grand Junction, Colorado. A car is highly recommended, and you can rent a vehicle on-site after you land.

Canyonlands Field Airport is just a twenty-minute drive from Moab. Although the airport has daily flights between Denver and Salt Lake City, it is small, with limited facilities—so don’t expect lots of entertainment while you wait for your flight.

Getting Around Moab

Moab lacks public transport, so you’ll rely on tours that can be expensive to explore without a car. You can compare car rental prices here for your Moab vacation.

Renting a car will allow more freedom and help save money. The beauty of visiting Moab lies in the freedom to drive along whichever scenic byway you wish and stop at roadside attractions of your choice. We suggest renting a car, especially if you want to visit the nearby National Parks.

When is the best time to visit Moab?

We suggest visiting in February, a shoulder month just before the busy Spring season.

In February, the weather is cooler for outdoor activities, and you’ll find ample accommodation choices. If you wait until the November shoulder month, it might get a little too chilly!

About Moab, Utah

Let’s take a quick overview of how Moab is laid out.

Downtown Moab

Downtown Moab is where hip meets hospitality. We suggest heading downtown for a night out, dining, or souvenir hunting. Most of Moab’s cultural attractions are here, including the city’s galleries and breweries.

If you want to stay somewhere full of attractions, hospitality, and an inviting atmosphere, Downtown Moab is for you. You can choose from many one to three-star accommodation options. Downtown Moab offers hostels, inns, classic hotels, and campgrounds.

Uptown Moab

Uptown Moab is just north of the city center. This district is quieter, with fewer attractions than in Downtown Moab; however, these attractions are mostly only a half-hour walk away. Instead, you’ll benefit from a more relaxed, residential atmosphere than downtown. Uptown Moab is also closer to Arches National Park, often providing better views from your accommodation. Springhill Suites and Fairfield Inn & Suites are particularly renowned for their poolside views.

Surrounding Towns of Moab

Staying in Moab is great, but do not overlook your options for accommodation in the surrounding towns.

Spanish Valley is less than a fifteen-minute drive south and provides numerous campgrounds and remote cabins. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere than Uptown Moab, Spanish Valley is a good choice.

La Sal is a thirty-five-minute drive and is scenically located at the foot of the La Sal Mountains. La Sal’s accommodation choices are limited, primarily offering cabins and a retreat accommodation experience at Shaman on the Mountain. However, La Sal is ideal for those wanting proximity to the mountains.

Now that the layout of the city is covered, let’s delve into the best things to do in Moab.

Where to Stay in Moab?

Budget

The best budget accommodation in Moab is at campgrounds and hostels, though RV camping is particularly recommended if you have a suitable vehicle.

If you are renting a vehicle anyway, it might be worth considering an RV rental – you’ll save fuel and avoid repeated trips to attractions, combining accommodation and transport conveniently.

Mid-range

Red Cliffs Lodge is an excellent mid-range hotel, with many tours departing from its lobby. Thanks to the sandstone cliffs backing the property, the pool views are stunning. Guests can also visit the film museum, tennis courts, and on-site restaurants.

Luxury

Hoodoo Moab is a four-star luxury property and part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. You can enjoy the outdoor pool, fully-equipped fitness suite, spa, or dine at the on-property steakhouse.

Final Thoughts

There are so many wonderful things to do in Moab. Whether you crave State Parks or National Parks, canyon rafting, or dinosaur tracks, you’ll find plenty of attractions and unforgettable experiences.

Plan Your Next Trip in Utah With These Resources

• Utah National Parks: How to Visit The Mighty 5
• The Very Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah
• 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah
• 14 Best Hikes in Arches National Park
• 12 Bryce Canyon Hikes That Will Blow You Away