4 FREE Hikes in Moab, Utah

Moab is known for Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, but did you know it is also surrounded by a large amount of BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land? Recreating on BLM land seldom requires a fee (unlike national parks), and in Moab, the hikes are just as amazing! These free hikes are also dog friendly, unlike the National Parks. (Most of Utah’s state parks do allow dogs, though). For those who love to hike, Moab offers an extensive network of trails that reveal jaw-dropping rock formations, natural arches, and secluded canyons, perfect for those seeking scenic adventures without crowds or fees.

Moab is a fantastic place for seasoned and beginner hikers alike. It is also an easy weekend drive from Salt Lake City, making it ideal for the weekend warrior who wants to get out into the nature of southern Utah. Moab’s BLM land presents a unique opportunity for hikers to experience the region’s stunning landscape while avoiding the entrance fees and pet restrictions common in national parks. With more flexibility and access to less-trafficked trails, BLM land hikes in Moab provide an ideal mix of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty. If you’re looking to make it a budget getaway all around, consider camping at one of the BLM campgrounds along one of the scenic byways, UT-128 (River Road) or UT-279 (Potash Road). 

Below are four popular hikes I’ve done numerous times that are sure to please all varieties of hikers. Please be aware when hiking in Moab to always bring water with you! It never ceases to amaze me when I see folks out without water. Our high desert climate here can dehydrate quickly, making water a must even on a shorter hike. Additionally, with that high desert sun, you should make sure to have sunscreen on. Nothing ruins the weekend more than a nasty sunburn!

Read on to learn about these free hikes in Moab!

1. Corona Arch

If you want to see an impressive arch up close without going to Arches National Park, look no further than this hike. At 3 miles round trip, this free hike in Moab is similar to the trek to Delicate Arch. 

The Corona Arch Trail starts across from the Gold Bar campground on UT-279. It winds a mile and a half gradually uphill (250 ft elevation gain) to get to the arch. The trail is relatively easy to follow, but look to the cairns for guidance on the slickrock sections. 

There are some cables for balance before you arrive at a ladder. If you have unsure footing or a fear of heights, consider viewing the arch from before the ladder.  The final approach to Corona Arch is across slickrock that slopes away from you. This sloping part of the trail could be mildly unnerving if you or anyone in your group is uneasy with heights. I have not done this with my dog because of the ladders, but I have seen many hiking with their dogs here. While you’re here, catch a glimpse of Bow-Tie Arch to the left of Corona Arch as you approach. 

This trail can be accessed at any time of year; however, as in most places in Moab, it can be quite hot in the summer (no shade), and in the winter, I highly recommend traction devices for your shoes to prevent slipping!

2. Fisher Towers

Fisher Towers is probably my favorite free hike in Moab. It is a moderate hike of 5.2 miles round trip, with an expansive view the entire way. The trailhead is located 21 miles northeast of Moab as you drive out scenic byway UT-128. If you haven’t driven UT-128, you’re in for a treat just getting to the trail! It is a gorgeous drive along the Colorado River with mesas on all sides.

The Fisher Towers trail follows the base of the towers made of dark red Cutler sandstone topped by the harder Moenkopi sandstone and winds its way uphill about 650 ft in elevation over the hikes. There is a ladder, and some drop-offs along the way, so while dogs are allowed, you may need to carry or help them around the ladder. I have also noticed that those afraid of heights may be uneasy in some spots. 

This hike is enjoyable year-round as well. However, the wall of Fisher Towers is west-facing, so in the hotter months, go early! I have also done this trail in January and didn’t think to bring microspikes for my shoes (as there is no scrambling over slickrock); however, I would recommend them as the shady spots can get quite snow-packed and slick. The low-angle winter sun made for gorgeous photos – I would do this in the afternoon on a winter day to get the most sun and the best photos.

3. Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley is a great spot that is still much less used than other trails in Moab. It reminds me a bit of Chesler Park in the Needles District, but much easier to get to! The trailhead for Hidden Valley is just south of town (3 miles) on the right side of the road. I suggest using Google Maps to plot it, as the turn-off can be easily missed even if you are looking for it! 

The first half mile of the Hidden Valley trail climbs steeply uphill, about 600 ft. If you’re a weekend warrior, make sure to pace yourself. I also liked having hiking poles, though more for the climb down than up. As someone with an old leg injury, I want to keep my footing as sure as possible.

Once you make the climb above the valley floor, you’ll wind your way into the “valley” suspended behind the rim. Tucked back here, you can’t see or hear Moab, and there are red cliffs to both sides as you wander through the grassland. The rest of the trail up here is 1.5 miles (so 2 mi total, 4mi R/T), and relatively flat. At the ‘pass’ at the end of the valley, there is a cliff face up to the right with petroglyphs (who doesn’t love some petroglyphs!). If you start to go downhill, turn around. The trail does intersect with the Behind the Rocks recreation area and will end up on Kane Creek Road. This hike can be done at all times of the year, but in winter, I recommend going mid-day, as the sun will have a chance to melt the snow. The main climb up is on an east-facing cliff, making summer mornings toasty. Later afternoon (after the climb is in the shade) can be better in the warmer months.

4. Grandstaff Canyon/Morning Glory Natural Bridge

The final hike on our list is Grandstaff Canyon, which ends at Morning Glory Natural Bridge. This is a very popular one due to its proximity to town and the ease of the hike. To get there, head north from town and up UT-128. About 3 miles in, you will see the Grandstaff Trailhead on the right. The trail is 2 miles one way to the bridge (4mi R/T) and relatively flat the entire way as it follows the stream. This trail is popular with kids and dogs due to the water and ease of hike; however, be aware if anyone in your group is allergic to poison ivy, as it likes the water too and grows profusely along this trail. At the end of the hike, you will be rewarded with views of Morning Glory Natural Bridge. Often, canyoneering groups will be rappelling off of the bridge. I did that once, and 10/10 recommend it if you’re interested in adventure! This trail is mostly shaded due to the narrowness of the canyon, so it is an ideal hike when it is hotter out.

I hope this post has whetted your appetite for all the amazing trails in Moab. If you are traveling on a budget or just coming back to see more after visiting Arches and Canyonlands, these free hikes in Moab are a great way to get outside!