Things to Do in Moab, Utah: What Not to Miss
Utah has been our neighbor for more than 25 years, but all of my visits have been during the summer. Moab is one place where I’d think twice about the timing. The red rock scenery is worth seeing, but summer temperatures can make hiking and exploring a lot more challenging, especially on exposed trails with little shade.
If you’re planning a weekend in Moab, Utah, you’ll find plenty to do, from exploring Arches National Park to driving scenic desert roads and discovering the canyons that make this area so distinctive. I’d love to return in spring or fall when cooler temperatures make it easier to spend more time outdoors. In the meantime, here’s what to know as you plan your visit.
As part of a road tip we drove from Phoenix to Moab. It took us about seven and half hours. If you’re planning on flying, Moab does have a small airport. In addition there is an airport in Grand Junction, which is about 100 miles from Moab and one in Salt Lake City, which is about 230 miles away.
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Wilson Arch
If you’re driving from Phoenix to Moab the first arch you’ll see is Wilson Arch. This is about 20 minutes outside of Moab and just off the road. Easy access and totally worth stopping to stretch your legs and view this pretty sandstone arch. You can step right out of your car to take a photo or hike a short ways to get closer to the arch.
If you’re short on time, it isn’t something I would prioritize but as part of your road trip it just takes a few minutes to pull over and take a photo.
Hole-in-the-Rock
After Wilson’s Arch you’ll spot a massive white sign painted on red rock that says “Hole N” The Rock.” It’s one of those weird roadside stops.
So what is Hole N” The Rock? It’s a 5,000-square-foot home that’s been carved inside a giant sandstone rock. A full-on 14-room house, blasted and chiseled straight into the cliffside. You can tour the inside. We didn’t because we had our dog with us. But it looks pretty interesting.
But the house isn’t all there is. The place has really leaned into its eccentric charm over the years, so now it’s kind of like a funky desert compound. Outside the rock house, there’s a gift shop full of kitschy souvenirs.
There’s also a mini cactus garden, a metal art installation, and all kinds of oddball statues scattered around. Whether you’re road-tripping or just need to stretch your legs and grab a photo or two it’s a fun place to stop.
Downtown Moab
Downtown Moab is an easy place to spend an hour or two between outdoor activities, but I wouldn’t prioritize it over the national parks if your time is limited. It’s a small town with the typical touristy stores.
Traveling with a dog? Plan ahead. Dogs aren’t allowed on any trails in National Parks such as Arches or Canyonlands, so you’ll need a boarding/daycare plan if hiking is on your itinerary.
Arches National Park
If I could only visit one national park in Moab, I would choose Arches National Park. I purchased timed tickets for the park, but since we happen to get up pretty early that day we decided to head over to the park before 7 am and we didn’t need the timed ticket.
If you plan on hiking at Arches National Park I recommend a full day or two at the park. If you’re driving through the park to see the sites then 3-4 hours is sufficient.
Tip: To find out best stops visit → Arches National Park.
Canyonland National Park
There are two entrances and parts of Canyonland National Park: Island in the Sky and The Needles. Island in the Sky is closests to Moab and has some of the prettiest spots. Just 30 minutes northwest of Moab,
If you plan on hiking at Canyonlands National Park I recommend a full day at the park. If you’re driving through the park to see the sites then 2-3 hours is sufficient.
Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway
Slated as one of the most beautiful drives in Moab, the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic byway is very pretty. The drive starts out not that impressive, but once you see the water you’re driving along a steep canyon wall and it is very striking.
Jug Handle Arch
Places to Eat
The Spoke in downtown Moab has a dog-friendly outdoor patio and a great burger. We chose this spot primarily because it was dog-friendly and the menu looked good. It didn’t disappoint. If you like fruity beers the Blueberry Heff was good.
Dog Boarding Options
Arches and Canyonland National Park doesn’t allow dogs on trails. If you have your four-legged friend with you and would like to hike, there are several dog boarding places in Moab.
Moab Tours
Adventurer At Heart
Amber is the writer behind Adventurer At Heart, sharing practical travel advice based on more than 25 years of exploring Arizona and traveling beyond it. She looks for places with a story, from desert trails and historic sites to scenic drives and towns worth your limited vacation time. When she’s not traveling, she’s gardening.
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