Attractions and Places To See around Moab - Top 20

Moab is renowned for its natural arches. You can hike to the magnificent Corona Arch, a 105-foot tall natural arch, which also passes Bowtie Arch. Arches National Park, a short drive away, features over 2,000 arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and The Windows. Another impressive pair, the Gemini Bridges, are accessible via a short hike west of Moab, and Wilson Arch is visible from a roadside pull-off.

For spectacular canyon vistas, visit Canyonlands National Park, particularly the Island in the Sky district, which offers panoramic views from spots like Grand View Point and Green River Overlook. Dead Horse Point State Park is also famous for its glorious canyon views, especially stunning at sunset. The La Sal Mountain Loop Road provides diverse views, transitioning from desert to forests and snow-capped peaks, with the canyons as a dramatic backdrop.

Yes, Moab offers several family-friendly options. The Mill Creek Trailhead and Parking provides access to Mill Creek Canyon, which has side trails leading to swimming holes and a main trail suitable for families. The Moab Giants Dinosaur Park and Tracks Museum is a popular attraction with life-size dinosaur replicas and hands-on activities. Many petroglyph sites, such as those on Potash Road, are also accessible for families to explore ancient rock art.

Moab has a rich cultural history. Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument features one of the largest and best-preserved collections of Native American petroglyphs, some over 2,000 years old. The Moab Museum offers a fascinating journey through the region's history, covering Native American heritage, geology, and paleontology. You can also find numerous other petroglyph and rock art sites along Potash Road, Kane Creek Road, and in the Mill Creek area.

Moab is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. You can explore world-class mountain biking trails, including the famous Slickrock Trailhead. Hiking is popular, with trails ranging from easy to challenging, such as the hike to Corona Arch or the scenic Grandstaff Canyon Trail. Other activities include 4x4 off-roading, rafting on the Colorado River, canyoneering, and rock climbing. For more specific routes, check out the MTB Trails around Moab, Easy hikes around Moab, and Running Trails around Moab guides.

Beyond the numerous arches, Moab boasts other unique rock formations. The Fisher Towers are titanic structures rising nearly a thousand feet, popular with rock climbers and photographers. Castle Valley is home to iconic formations like Castle Tower. You'll also encounter various spires and unique geological features throughout Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, showcasing the region's dramatic geology.

On a hot day, the Mill Creek Waterfall and its pool are a popular spot for locals and visitors to cool off. The Mill Creek Trailhead provides access to multiple side trails leading to various swimming holes along Mill Creek. Grandstaff Canyon Trail leads to the Morning Glory Natural Bridge and features a year-round stream, offering a pleasant desert oasis experience.

Moab offers several stunning scenic drives. The Potash Road (Highway 279) parallels the Colorado River, providing views of sandstone cliffs, petroglyphs, and dinosaur tracks. The Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway 128 winds through a spectacular red rock canyon to the spires of Fisher Towers. For a diverse landscape, the 62-mile La Sal Mountain Loop Road offers cooler temperatures and transitions from desert to forests and snow-capped peaks.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the diverse outdoor activities. The unique geological formations, especially the arches and canyons, are a major draw. Many enjoy the challenge and scenery of trails like the Slickrock Trail and the rewarding hike to Corona Arch. The opportunity to explore ancient rock art and cool off in places like the Mill Creek Waterfall also receives high marks.

For those seeking quieter natural experiences, consider Mary Jane Canyon, a stunning slot canyon with towering red rock walls and a flowing stream leading to a picturesque waterfall. Hunter Canyon offers a hidden oasis with a scenic hike along a small creek. Moonflower Canyon provides an easy escape with petroglyphs and shaded picnic areas, while Onion Creek Narrows features winding slot canyons accessible by a short hike.

The best times to visit Moab for outdoor activities are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are mild and pleasant for hiking, biking, and exploring the parks. Summers can be extremely hot, making early mornings or late afternoons the only comfortable times for strenuous activities. Winters are cooler, with occasional snow, but many trails remain accessible.

Moab is rich in ancient rock art. Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument is a must-see for its extensive collection of petroglyphs. Other sites include those found along Potash Road, Kane Creek Road, and in the Mill Creek area. Within Arches National Park, the Wolfe Ranch also features Ute rock art. The Hidden Valley Trail leads to a secluded area with panoramic views and ancient rock art panels.