Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that looks like another planet? Well, I think Moab is exactly that spot. It is a small town in Utah with red rocks and huge arches. Personally, I believe it is the best place for a family trip.
In this guide, I will show you the best things to do. We will look at parks, trails, and cool hidden spots. Trust me, you do not want to miss these ideas. Let’s dive in and see why this town is so famous.
1. Explore Arches National Park
This is the main reason many people visit Moab. The park has over 2000 natural stone arches. It is pretty much like a giant outdoor museum. You can see the famous Delicate Arch here.
I suggest you go early in the morning. The sun makes the rocks look bright orange. It is a great way to start your day. Plus, it is not too hot then.
2. Visit Canyonlands National Park
This park is very big and has many deep canyons. People often say it looks like the Grand Canyon but with fewer crowds. I feel like the Island in the Sky area is the best for kids.
You can drive to different spots and look down at the river. The view is actually amazing. You will see how the water carved the land over a long time.
3. Walk to the Famous Delicate Arch
You have probably seen this arch on a Utah license plate. The hike is a bit long but totally worth it. I’d recommend wearing good shoes because the rock can be slippery.
When you get to the top, the arch stands all alone. It is a great spot to sit and rest. Just imagine how long it took for wind to make that hole.
4. See the Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park
This park has a funny name, but the views are serious. You can see a big curve in the Colorado River from high up. Personally, I think it is the best place for a sunset.
The sky turns purple and pink over the red cliffs. You might want to bring a snack and sit on the rocks and many people find it to be their favorite spot in Moab.
5. Hike the Trails at Corona Arch
If you want to see an arch without the big crowds, this is it. This arch is outside the national parks. You even get to cross a railroad track on the way.
The trail is sort of easy and fun for kids. You can walk right under the giant stone bridge. It feels very big when you are standing there. Believe it or not, some people even swing from it.
6. Take a Guided Jeep Tour
Moab is famous for off-road driving. You can jump into a big jeep and go over bumpy rocks. It is like a slow roller coaster in the desert. You will go up steep hills that look scary but are safe.
I suggest hiring a guide if you do not have a big truck. They know all the secrets of the trails. It is a really fast way to see a lot of the desert.
7. Go Rafting on the Colorado River
The river is a great way to cool off when it is hot. You can go on a calm boat ride or find some splashes. Most tours are very safe for families and children.
You get to see the tall red walls from the bottom of the canyon. It is a different view than from the top. Plus, you might see some birds or turtles.
8. Find Ancient Dinosaur Tracks
Did you know that dinosaurs used to walk around Moab?
You can actually see their footprints in the stone. There are special trails like the Copper Ridge site. It is like going back in time. You can put your hand next to a footprint to see how big they were.
9. See the Rock Art at Potash Road
Long ago, people lived here and drew pictures on the rocks. These are called petroglyphs. You can see them right from the side of the road.
It makes me wonder what life was like back then. The drawings are thousands of years old. It is a bit like a history book on a wall. Make sure to look up high to find them all.
10. Visit the Moab Museum
If you want to learn more about the town, stop here. The museum has rocks, fossils, and old tools. It is a nice break from the sun. You can see how the miners lived a long time ago.
They also have stories about the native people. I think it is important to know the history of the land. It is a small place but has many cool things to see. You can spend an hour here easily.
11. Ride a Bike on the Slickrock Trail
Moab is the bike capital of the world. The Slickrock Trail is very famous. The rock is not actually slick, it feels like sandpaper. This makes it easy for tires to grip.
If you are a beginner, there are easier trails nearby and you can rent a bike in town. Riding over the smooth humps of rock is a unique feeling.
12. Splash in Mill Creek
When the desert gets too hot, head to the water. Mill Creek is a stream with small waterfalls and pools. You can walk in the water and get your feet wet.
It is a short walk from a parking lot. Many locals go here to hang out. It is a nice spot to have a picnic under the trees.
13. Walk Through Park Avenue Trail
This trail is in Arches National Park. It does not have arches, but it has huge rock walls. It feels like you are walking between giant skyscrapers. That is why it has its name.
The path is flat and easy for everyone. You will feel very small next to the tall stones. I recommend going here late in the afternoon.
14. Check Out the Hole N The Rock
This is a very strange and fun house. It is a home carved into a huge rock. You can take a tour to see the rooms inside. It even has a fireplace and a bathtub in the stone.
There is also a small zoo and a gift shop. It is a bit of a silly stop, but kids usually love it. You can see how creative people can be. It is right on the main highway.
15. Stand Under Wilson Arch
This arch is right by the road south of town. You do not even have to pay to see it. You can hike a short, steep path to stand inside it.
The view through the arch is pretty much perfect. It is a great spot for a quick break on a road trip. Plus, you can see for miles from the top. It is a hidden gem that is easy to reach.
16. Stargaze at Night
Moab has some of the darkest skies in the country. At night, you can see thousands of stars. You might even see the Milky Way look like a cloud of light.
I suggest driving a little way out of town. Find a dark spot and just look up. It is a great time to talk about space. You will realize how big the universe really is.
17. Visit the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park
This is a fun outdoor park with life-size dinosaur statues. You can walk along a trail and see how big they really were and they also have a 5D cinema that shows the ocean long ago.
It is a great place for kids to run around. There is a playground and a place to dig for bones. Honestly, it is one of the best family spots in the area. You will learn a lot while playing.
18. Relax at the Lions Park and Bike Bridge
Lions Park is a hidden gem right at the entrance of town. It has a beautiful bridge that crosses the big river. Personally, I believe it is the best place to watch the water flow.
Make sure to walk out onto the bridge to feel the breeze. You will love the view of the canyon walls from there.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit Moab?
A. The best times are spring and fall. The weather is cool and nice for hiking. Summer can get very hot, so be careful if you go then. Winter is quiet but can be cold and snowy.
2. Do I need a permit for the parks?
A. Yes, Arches National Park often needs a timed entry ticket. You should check their website months before you go. It helps keep the park from getting too crowded. Canyonlands usually does not need a special ticket.
3. Is Moab good for young kids?
A. Absolutely. Many trails are short and flat. There are dinosaur parks and water spots that kids love. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and hats for the sun.
4. How many days should I stay in Moab?
A. I think three to five days is perfect. This gives you time to see both national parks and do a fun activity like rafting. You won’t feel rushed and can see the best spots.
5. Can I see arches without hiking?
A. Yes, you can. Many arches in Arches National Park can be seen from your car or a short walk. Windows Section has arches very close to the parking lot. It is great if you are tired.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, Moab is a place full of magic and red rocks. You can see dinosaurs, arches, and stars all in one trip. It is a town that you will remember for a long time. Personally, I think every family should visit at least once.
I hope this guide helps you plan your big adventure. There is so much to explore and enjoy. Just remember to pack your water and stay safe. Have you ever seen a real arch before?