15 Things To Do in Moab, Utah

Moab, Utah, is the ultimate adventure destination with endless things to do. Located in southeastern Utah, it has become known as a mecca for mountain biking as well as Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The parks have put Moab on the map as part of Utah’s Mighty 5, but there is so much more to Moab! I first visited this town in 2007 and have watched it grow into the tourist destination it is today. I held a destination wedding there and owned a vacation rental for several years, so I definitely have established favorites. However, I also love to try new things in Moab each time I am there. I have spent time in Moab in every month of the year, and I can safely say it is amazing in every season, but activities vary. 

Everything listed here costs some money (for park fees, tours, or food), but if you’re interested in free things to do in Moab, check out my post about free hikes in Moab on BLM land.

1. Spend a day in Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of Utah’s iconic parks. Delicate Arch is on our license plates and is one of Utah’s most popular hikes. If you only spend one day there, I recommend:

• Hike Courthouse Towers/Park Avenue (2mi)
  • I suggest hiking this trail from the far end, the Courthouse Towers parking area, as that will take you uphill first and downhill on the way back. 

• Walk around Balanced Rock

• Climb around the Windows and Double Arch 

• Hike to Delicate Arch (3mi)
  • The Delicate Arch trail is 1.5 miles uphill across slickrock. In the warmer months, there is no shade, and it can be quite hot. In the winter, the slickrock can be more slippery with packed snow or ice, so traction devices are recommended. Delicate Arch is best viewed at sunset; however, expect to share it with some crowds! 

These can all be done in a [busy] day and give you an authentic taste of what Arches has to offer. However there are many more hikes (Landscape Arch, Devil’s Garden, the Fiery Furnace, and more) that I will cover in another blog post if you have more time in Arches.

2. Spend half a day in Island in the Sky

Island in the Sky is just one of Canyonlands’ 3 districts, but it is the most accessible and easily done on a trip to Moab. Island in the Sky is about ~50 minutes from Moab, while the Needles District is 1.5 hours, and the Maze District is many hours as it is completely inaccessible to passenger vehicles and entirely backcountry. Each district deserves its own post. 

Island in the Sky has a beautiful scenic drive. Take the road out to the Grand View Point Overlook (12 miles from the visitor center). Do the Grand View Point trail (1.8 miR/T) if you want a walk. Level and with great views. If you want to add more hiking here, The White Rim Overlook trail (another 1.8mi R/T) is close by and a great option. Both are relatively level. 

Hot tip – bring a picnic lunch and eat at the picnic area near the start of the White Rim Overlook trail. Is it a BEAUTIFUL spot.  

Next, stop at Mesa Arch on your way back out of the park. It is only a 0.5-mile loop trail but another extremely iconic spot to visit. Do be prepared for crowds. 

There are many more trails that you could spend several days here, but that is for another blog post 😀

3. Spend half a day at Dead Horse Point State Park

Despite its name, Dead Horse Point is one of Utah’s gems. The story stems from cowboys rounding up the horses on the point and leaving the ones they did not want to die of thirst on the high plateau.

We here in Utah are lucky to have some fantastic state parks (that in many places would be National Parks) DHP is the neighbor to Island in the Sky and just as gorgeous – combine with a trip to Island in the Sky for a full day of views! 

There are miles of trail along both rims of the park – all views, all the time. They are relatively level and a great walk to stretch your legs. Starting from the visitor center, walk to the overlook or loop around on the west rim. One nice thing here is that they have nice, clean restrooms and a great campground. For a unique experience, stay in the Yurts (heated and air-conditioned!). A true glamping experience. 

I am somewhat biased towards this park, as I held a destination wedding here. The facilities were perfect, as were the views. This park deserves its own post! (stay tuned).

4. Mountain Biking 

As I mentioned, Moab is known for its mountain biking. If you’re a seasoned biker, you’re probably already familiar with many of the famous trails, such as the Slickrock Trail. However, if you’re new to mountain biking and want to give it a try, rent some bikes and head over to the Moab Brand Trails just north of town. They are great beginner terrain. If you like it, head to Dead Horse Point to try the Intrepid Trail System. 

5. Road Cycling 

Moab isn’t just for mountain bikers! There are some gorgeous scenic byways that make for excellent road cycling and memorable rides. Popular routes include:

• Scenic Byway UT-128 (River Road) – you can ride for miles along the Colorado River surrounded by mesas and scenic views.

• Scenic Byway UT-279 (Potash Road) – ride along sandstone cliffs (past the famous Wall Street) and the Colorado River. 

Spring and Fall are the best times for cycling. Summer can get a bit toasty (although the wind from cycling does help!) – go early or late to beat the heat. If you are coming in from out of town via plane and need to rent a bicycle, the Chile Pepper Bike shop can set you up.  If you’re really up for a challenge, check out the Moab Skinny Tire Festival that happens in the spring!

6. Rock Climbing

You don’t have to be a seasoned climber to try climbing in Moab (but there are many options if you are!). I recently got into gym climbing and wanted to take it up a level by trying climbing in Moab. We got to try climbing along a scenic stretch of the Colorado River one fall morning, and it was absolutely amazing! If you’re up for an adventure, I highly recommend trying this. 

7. Try Canyoneering

Canyoneering is a mix of hiking and climbing and/or rappelling. It is very popular in southern Utah. Many canyoneering adventures take you through narrow slot canyons, scrambling over rock formations and potentially wading through pools. The options for canyoneering in Moab range from beginner friendly half day tours to full day adventures for the more experienced. Guided tours provide expert knowledge of the area, permits, and equipment and provide a safe experience of this unique desert activity. For a taste of it, try a half day trip with two fun rappells and a hike. 

8. Go Horseback Riding

See Moab in Wild West style! Horseback riding is the best way to see the west in my opinion. With red rock vistas and river views, this is a way to experience the desert trails that will take you back to the Old West. Riding horseback brings a sense of peace and connection to nature and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Moab landscape. Saddle up for a full or half-day trail ride from Red Cliffs Lodge – no experience necessary. Side note – don’t do this the day after biking or cycling if you’re not used to being in a saddle all day! Be sure to wear long pants and close-toed shoes – and don’t forget the sunscreen! 

9. Go Off-Roading

While I’m all about self-propelled activity, sometimes covering some ground in an ATV (or a Jeep) is really nice. You can get to places that aren’t easily accessible any other way and have an adventure in the process! Many places in town rent ATVs, and I highly recommend heading up to the Sand Flats recreation area (fee required – not part of the state or national park systems) and checking out Fins N Things and Hell’s Revenge. Previous off-road experience is recommended! (Also note, in Utah, you need to go through a one-time OHV – Off Highway Vehicle – operator course).

If you’re uncomfortable driving an ATV, Moab Adventure Center offers Hummer Safaris, a great way to ride and enjoy the view. If you like off-roading in your Jeep, check out the Shafer and White Rim trails in Canyonlands. OHVs are not allowed in the park. 

10. Hot Air Balloon ride 

Okay, hands down, this was the most unique experience I’ve had in Moab. If you like a good view from a high place, it is a very cool experience! When I went, they had to land in a remote area of Canyonlands, where we ended up with a black diamond off-road adventure getting back to town!  

11. Take the kids to see Dinosaur Tracks 

You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy these (but what kid doesn’t love seeing REAL dinosaur tracks?).  As the daughter of a paleontologist, this was a must for me. The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite is the easiest to access, with a boardwalk and interpretive trail. It is located just north of the turnoff to Dead Horse Point and Island in the Sky.

The Copper Ridge Dinosaur Tracks and Stomping Grounds are also pretty amazing but more of a walk. As this is pretty far north of town, I recommend stopping here on the way out of Moab if you are headed to I-70. 

Lastly, the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park has life-size dinosaur models and a half-mile walk. It is great fun for kids (and adults with a dinosaur interest!). 

12. Get lunch at Quesadilla Mobilla 

The Quesadilla Mobilla is a local favorite in Moab. This vibrant yellow food truck parks in the heart of downtown Moab with picnic tables nearby to sit, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal between adventures. They offer creative, flavor-packed quesadillas such as the  “Enchanted Chicken” (with marinated chicken, green chilies, black beans, and cheese) or the “Southern Belle” (BBQ chicken, caramelized onions, and cheese). They also have several vegetarian options to please everyone in your group.  I had them cater a wedding, which was a hit with everyone. Their menu accommodates everyone from simple to complex palates, with hearty portions and reasonable prices.

13. Grab a doughnut at Doughbird

Doughbird is a newer(ish) restaurant in Moab. They specialize in delicious doughnuts and fried chicken. This unexpected combination has made them a favorite with locals and visitors alike, appealing to those with both sweet and savory cravings. Their doughnuts come in unique and delicious flavors, such as maple bacon or chocolate sea salt. If you’re looking for a quick snack on your way out to adventure, grab a doughnut (go early for the best selection!).

Their fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. If you’re looking for a lunch to put you in a food coma after hiking, come back after 11 am for some fried chicken. You will not be disappointed! 

14. Have dinner at Sabaku Sushi 

Sabaku Sushi is a surprising gem in this desert town. I discovered Sabaku in 2013, and it is my favorite restaurant anywhere, ever. I know what you’re thinking – sushi in the desert?! But these guys are legit. The fish is fresh, and the rolls are creative and well balanced. They are dedicated to sourcing the freshest fish possible, and their commitment to quality ingredients sets them apart, ensuring a top-notch sushi experience even far from the coast. Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to make recommendations for newcomers to sushi.

Pro tip – order the Surf N Turf freestyle roll that is topped with Elk tataki. Give them a little inspiration about what you like, and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!  

If you’re looking for more Asian inspired flavors, their sister restaurant, 98 Center, does Vietnamese and has some killer Pho!

15. Grab an Affogato at Moab Garage Company

Lastly, a trip to Moab would not be complete without a stop at Moab Garage Co. They are in a historic old building on Main Street (hence their name) and have the best coffee and ice cream in town. Moab Garage Co. is housed in a building with deep local roots. Originally established as a mechanic’s garage in the 1950s, it served Moab’s early automotive needs, back when the town was much smaller and primarily known for mining and agriculture. This historical backdrop gives the café a nostalgic, industrial feel that appeals to both locals and visitors. 

In recent years, the space was renovated and transformed from an old garage into the charming, hip café it is today. The owners kept the building’s original industrial character while adding modern touches, like trendy decor and comfortable seating, that make it warm and inviting. They make their own “cryo cream” ice cream with cream and liquid nitrogen made to order. An affogato (ice cream with espresso poured over top) really hits the spot after a hot afternoon in the desert!! 

If you’re still looking for ideas or just not sure what to put on your itinerary, let me help you! As a custom travel planner, I can save you time and stress by building your Moab vacation. Visit my Services Page to learn more!

Note: Photos my emilie inc. used with permission