Exploring Moab: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
- Written by
- On Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park
State: Utah
Year Established: 1929 and 1964
Acres: 334,320 combined
Annual Visitors: Over 3.1 Million
Entrance Fee: $15 - $30
Commonly misunderstood, Moab is not actually a national park but the gateway to Arches National Park, known for its impressive rock formations. Located in eastern Utah, Moab is also located just northeast of Canyonlands National Park, carved out by the Colorado and Green rivers into stunning mesas and buttes.
Moab is one of the most iconic locations in the American Southwest and undeniably one of the most beautiful. Travelers from all over the world visit Moab to explore the two national parks, white water raft, off-road, zipline, rock climb, take in the views, and experience all of the culture by visiting local art galleries, restaurants, and shops.
Things to do in Moab
The city of Moab is a colorful destination to explore, with dozens of different adventures to enjoy while you’re there. One of the most popular attractions is rafting down the Colorado River. Taking you through the world famous scenery of Castle Valley, you can opt for a morning, mid-day trip or full day trip on the river.
There are also tons of off-roading trails and scenic drives to enjoy around Moab. As far as drives go, we recommend the drive to the overlook at Dead Horse Point just outside Canyonlands for a morning sunrise or evening sunset view.
And if off-roading is more your speed, Hells Revenge Trail is one of the most famous 4x4 trails in the world, and also happens to be one of the top things to do in Moab.
Another local treasure - perfect for families - is Giants Dinosaur Park. Many dinosaur remains were actually found in southwest Utah and this adventure park is full of history and imagination with a museum, playground, dinosaur trail, and prehistoric aquarium.
Hiking in Moab
Delicate Arches Trail located in Arches National Park is the quintessential Moab hike and an absolute must see while you're there. Take in the red rocks and sweeping views, as well as the petroglyphs. Guarded, but still visible from a distance, they’re literally ancient stories carved into stone thousands of years old.
Cave Spring Trail in Canyonlands National Park is another great hike in Moab. The 0.6 mile loop is open year-round and always beautiful to visit with stunning views and more petroglyphs! Listed as moderate, the hike is easy enough and even has two vertical wooden ladders to climb along the way.
Outside of the National Parks, Fisher Towers Trail is another phenomenal hike to consider. Located 30 minutes outside of Moab, Fisher Towers twists through towers, dipping to sharp canyons and sheer cliff sides. Forming a 5.2 mile round trip hike, we think it’s a great addition to your tour of Moab.
Recommended Read: This Gear Will Help You Crush Your Next Big Hiking Adventure
Camping in Moab
When deciding where to camp in Moab, you have tons of great options to choose from. Campgrounds in the area include nearby Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, recreation sites, campsites operated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and private parks. If you’d rather enjoy a few more creature comforts, we suggest booking a stay with Under Canvas at their award winning Moab glamping location.
Devils Garden Campground is the only campground in Arches and it’s absolutely beautiful. Situated among large rock formations, as well as juniper and pinyon pines, you get shade, mountain views, a blanket of stars and cool nights. Be sure to book in advance!
Canyonlands National Park has a few campgrounds to choose from, and if you can’t get a reservation during your planned visit, we suggest Willow Flats, which is first-come, first-served. Located near Green River Overlook, you’re just a short trek from the lookout over the canyon.
If you’re interested in camping along the Colorado River, these campgrounds are all operated by BLM and are also first-come, first-served. And if you’re primarily visiting for water adventures like kayaking, canoeing, boating, or rafting, these sites are the most convenient!
Best Time to Visit Moab
Springtime between March and May is traditionally the best time to visit Moab, Utah. Trails come alive with desert wildflowers, the red rocks warm up, and you can comfortably visit all of the most popular hikes in the area. Fall is also one of the best times to visit because the daytime temperatures tend to be quite perfect - between 60 and 80 degrees - and the river is still a bit warm.
Summer is the best time to raft down the Colorado River, however, be warned - temperatures can reach over 100 degrees so it’s best to start activities early and come prepared with water and a hat to cover your head.
Winter in Moab is a great time to avoid the crowds and enjoy the splendor of the snow covered red rocks. If you want to see the most popular landmarks without stragglers in your photos, December through February is the best time to visit. Another benefit of visiting during the colder months is that the campsites in Arches National Park change to first-come, first served.
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