Moab is a giant outdoor playground.
Famous for its stunning landscapes, landmarks, geographical features, and formations, it’s a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to this iconic area prepare to be busy as there is no shortage of things to do.
Moab is one of my favorite places in the world. I love it, which is why I’ve been visiting it for over 20 years, bringing family and friends to share the experience. What keeps me returning to Moab is there’s always something new to discover – it never gets boring.
Read on for some of the amazing things to do in Moab that have kept me returning year after year. This list is by no means comprehensive and is in no particular order.
One of the most amazing things to do in Moab is visiting Arches National Park.
Arches is a geographical wonderland of arches, rock features, spires, and sandstone features and is home to the famous Delicate Arch. Located five (5) miles north of Moab on Highway 191 it’s easily identified by the line of cars at the entrance gates.
Arches is a scenic 18-mile out-and-back road with spur roads to various attractions. The narrow two-lane road starts with crazy switchback climbs then settles into a rolling and winding drive.
Some of the sights you’ll see are Balanced Rock, The Windows, Fiery Furnace, Devil’s Garden, and of course Delicate Arch.
Read 15 Things You CAN’T MISS On Your First Trip to Arches National Park for everything you need to know about touring Arches.
This place checks all the boxes for an amazing thing to do in Moab. Incredible views, playful single-track trails, scenic hikes, premier stargazing, and an interesting history.
The first time visiting Dead Horse State Park I was convinced we were lost. The landscape on the drive into the park was flat, bland, uninspiring, desert scrub brush – and there were cows. Then we drove into the visitor center parking lot and wow! Just Wow! It opens to vast breathtaking canyon views.
Several easy to moderate pet-friendly hikes ranging in distance from 0.25 to 3 miles direct you to overlooks, through juniper forests and to desert potholes.
The Intrepid trails, located in the park, are my favorite for mountain biking and trail running. These swoopy single-tracks are relatively flat and non-technical (there are some hike-a-bike spots) with a mix of sand and rock. This is the perfect place for beginner and novice mountain bikers.
Dead Horse State Park is a stargazer’s paradise. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, its high elevation, and low light pollution, provides full sky viewing. Sky programming is available as is all the information needed for a memorable viewing. Stay in one of the campgrounds or Yurts to add to your night-time experience.
Mountain biking led me to Moab so it’s at the top of my amazing things to do in Moab list.
Biking in Moab is epic as it has some of the best biking trails and routes in the world.
The town is bike-friendly and well set up to support safe, accessible cycling for all ages and abilities. Biking in Moab is a great way to experience and enjoy the canyon landscape.
The easiest bike trails are on paved pathways.
The Canyon Pathway follows Highway 191 north, ending at the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park on Highway 313. This trail has a significant 7% grade climb (slow up, fast down). The easiest access is from Lion’s Park. The pathway is 9 miles point-to-point.
The Colorado Riverway parallels Scenic Byway 128 along the Colorado River through the canyon. The path is flat and shady. It starts at Lions Park and goes out about two miles, just past Goose Island Campgrounds.
The Mill Creek Parkway is for slow riding and is popular with dog walkers and runners. It snakes through town and is accessible from various points. I like to access it at the end of 100 S. (near the additional parking for Zaks restaurant)
Those looking for an introduction to Moab’s single-track trails can find giggle rides at the Klondike Bluffs, Konzo, and Moab Brand trail systems, as well as the Intrepid trails at Dead Horse Point State Park.
For more thrilling, technical riding check out Falcon Flow in the Sand Flats area, and the Gemini Bridges, and the Navajo Rocks trails along Highway 313.
Trails that require advanced technical skills and fitness are Slickrock, Porcupine Rim, the Whole Enchilada upper trails, Amasa Back, and the Poison Spider trails.
E-bikes are allowed on bike trails designated for motorized use and paved pathways. Dead Horse Point allows Class 1 e-bikes on some trails. For safety, ensure you ride at the appropriate skill level on non-paved trails.
The best way to get plugged in and prepare for biking in Moab is to connect with one of the bike shops. Moab Cyclery, Poison Spider Bicycles, Chile Pepper Bike Shop, and Rim Cyclery are all top-notch. I’ve used them all for bike repairs, rentals, clothing, and equipment needs. They’re all great and will set you up with anything you need bike related including tours and shuttles.
HOT TIP: My go-to bike shuttle service is Coyote Shuttle which operates from the Chile Pepper Bike shop. The service is as fun and colorful as their vehicles.
Experiencing Hell’s Revenge is not only an amazing thing to do in Moab, it’s also thrilling, and heart racing.
Hell’s Revenge is an iconic 4 x 4 trail in Moab famous for its extremely hazardous terrain like Mickey’s Hot Tub, and Hell’s Gate. The trail is comprised of sandstone dunes and slickrock and is located in the Sand Flats recreation area.
Hell’s Revenge 4 x 4 tours are available as driver-provided or U-drive tours. There’s also a choice of different off-road vehicles like the traditional Jeep, RZR, UTV, Hummers, and a few original creative builds I don’t know the name of.
As a family, we did a Hell’s Revenge tour as a U-drive. Everyone loved it, I white-knuckled it. I was out of my comfort zone so I opted to exit the vehicle in places and enjoyed watching the machines manouever through sketchy crevices and over obstacles.
If you don’t want to drive yourself, Matt and Cheryl used Dan Mick’s Moab Jeep Tours. This company helped establish the trails in Moab and took us on an adventurous (yet safe) ride. Use the code “ROCKIES” for a discount when you book.
TIP: Anyone driving an OHV in Utah is required to complete the OHV education course before operating on public lands.
If you’re not up for Hell’s Revenge there are more sedate off-road adventures that will let you access and explore this extraordinary landscape and scenery.
Moab Giants is an amazing thing to do in Moab with kids (and adults). I went with my teenage daughter after avoiding it for years, because it looks so cheesy. We were surprised at how much fun we had.
The highlight was the 5D paleoaquarium (this is super cool tech). The dinosaur walk is longer than it looks and we loved that the dinosaurs were life-size. The museum has interesting interactive exhibits and games (which I failed at miserably).
There are entrance fee options so you can tailor your experience to your budget (it is on the pricey side). I’d pass on the 3-D movie – I thought dinosaurs would jump from the screen but it was more of a science lesson.
Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is located on Highway 191. Look for the giant T-rex looming near the highway.
TIP: Parents, take note of the admission times. The last entry is 5:00 PM even though it closes at 6:00 PM. Arrive no later than 4:15 PM to catch the last shows, and avoid parking lot tantrums.
| Scenic Drive | Distance |
| Potash Road, Hwy 279 | 17 miles |
| La Sal Mountain Loop Road | 62 miles |
| Scenic Byway 128 | 24+ miles |
| Dinosaur Diamond Byway | 512 miles |
One of the easiest amazing things to do in Moab is take a scenic drive. Moab is perfectly situated around several that offer a splendid way to explore the area.
Potash Road, Hwy 279 (17 miles). Parallels the Colorado River to an old Potash plant. It has amazing views and is my favorite place to road bike. The road goes past a popular climbing area, the Poison Spider trails, and several hikes. It’s accessed from Highway 191 about 3 miles north of Moab. You can read more about things to do along Potash Road in our article.
The La Sal Mountain Loop Road (62 miles, 2-3 hours). This mountain road climbs to 10,147 feet into the La Sal Mountain forests. It offers a view of the Moab Valley and Canyonlands National Park. The road is paved but narrow and bumpy in places. Tight switchbacks make it unsuitable for large RVs or trailers. The loop goes from south to north starting from Highway 191, 8 miles south of Moab. Turn left at the sign for Ken’s Lake and La Sal Mtn. Loop road. At the next stop sign, take a right towards the mountain. There are no services on this loop so bring everything you’ll need.
Upper Colorado River, Scenic Byway 128 (24+ miles). Parallels the Colorado River, winding through spectacular red rock canyon to the spires of Fischer Towers. It connects to the I-70. It’s accessed from Highway 191 at the traffic light beside Lions Park. Read more about it in our article Scenic Byway 128 in Moab: Things to See and Do.
Dinosaur Diamond Byway (512 miles) – I’ve never driven this route but was curious about the blue Dinosaur Diamond road signs. This route is shaped like a diamond and travels through towns with anything related to dinosaurs (fossils, tracks, museums). Moab is the southern point and Vernal is the northern point of the diamond.
| Hike | Location | Distance | Difficulty |
| Grandstaff Canyon Trail | 3 miles east on Hwy 128 | 5.7 miles out and back | Moderate |
| Corona Arch | Potash Road/Hwy 279 | 2.3 miles out and back | Moderate |
| Moonflower Canyon | 3.5 miles down Kane Creek Road | 0.6 miles out and back | Easy |
| Moab Rim Trail | 9 miles down Kane Creek Road | 1.4 miles to the rim | Hard |
| Hidden Valley Trail | 3 miles south of Moab on Highway 191 | 6 miles out and back | Moderate |
| Ken Lake Trails | 10 miles south of Moab on Highway 191 | 3.4 miles loop | Easy |
Hiking in Moab is unlike hiking anywhere else making it an amazing thing to do.
Moab has hiking for all ages, abilities, and pets. The hikes are scenic, short (which is good because it gets really hot), and inevitably end in a fantastic feature. Remember to bring a lot of water, sunscreen, and shoes that will keep the sand out. Check out our gear page for our favorite hiking must-haves. Below is a sampling of the hikes I return to.
Grandstaff Canyon Trail (2 miles one way) – A delightful hike that follows a stream through greenery, set against sandstone cliffs. A variety of rock step-ups and downs to keep it interesting. At the end is the spectacular Morning Glory Natural Bridge. This is a pet-friendly hike.
Location: 3 miles east on Hwy 128.
Corona Arch (3 miles round trip) – This is a fun, supposedly pet-friendly, hike we did with our small dog. We didn’t realize it involved climbing ladders and using safety cables; luckily our dog is light. This hike can be hot, so bring lots of water. It ends at the Corona Arch plus there are a few other arches along the way.
Location: Potash Road/Hwy 279
Moonflower Canyon (0.6 miles). A campground with a short but sweet out-and-back hike along a canyon stream bed to a shaded oasis. A perfect hike for kids with a great climbing tree. There are petroglyphs near the rock crevice by the parking lot but they’re not in good condition. We stop here a lot because it’s so pretty.
Location: 3.5 miles down Kane Creek Road
Moab Rim Trail (1.4 miles to Rim)– There’s nothing spectacular about this 4 x 4 trail but I like hiking it to watch the Jeeps and it has a superb view of Moab. It’s a climb straight up and down. It’s great for stargazing but remember a flashlight for the trip down.
Location: 9 miles down Kane Creek Road, pet-friendly
Hidden Valley Trail (3 miles one way) – This hike has an aggressive stair-master start with a steep climb stepping up rocks, which becomes a quad-burning rock hop on the way down, with 2 km of easy valley hiking. A spur trail at the top leads to petroglyphs. Beware of flying tumbleweeds.
Location: 3 miles south of Moab on Highway 191, pet friendly but impossible for small dogs.
Ken Lake Trails (3 miles) – The highlight of this hike is Faux Falls, a man-made waterfall you can way-find to the top. There’s a trail around the reservoir as well as a nature trail. I recommend doing this on a calm day as there are open exposed areas.
Location: 10 miles south of Moab (watch for sign) on Highway 191.
Canyoneering is a spectacularly amazing thing to do in Moab with its myriad of canyons, crevices, and crags.
To me, canyoneering felt like hiking on steroids. In reality, it’s exploring canyons using simple climbing skills and ropes. This is a perfect activity for those seeking more excitement or with kids whining about doing another hike. We did canyoneering as a family when my children were 10 and 12 and loved it. We explored cool places we would otherwise not have seen, and portaged through cold canyon water which I would never do on my own.
No special skills are required but there is rappelling down drops and cliffs. We had one nervous participant (me) who was successfully coaxed through a descent. Canyoneering has enough thrill to be exhilarating without being scary.
We did our half-day trip through Cliffs and Canyons but there are several other tour companies who offer canyoneering.
If drinking from a freshwater stream coming from a crack in a canyon wall isn’t an amazing thing to do it’s definitely unique and pretty cool.
For decades residents and tourists have been filling water containers from Matrimony Springs. At one time the water flowed through a spring box and pipe but these were removed in 2009 and never replaced so the water streams directly through the rock.
There’s no consensus on where or when the Matrimony Springs got its name although several theories abound. Some say the water has magical qualities and if a girl could get a boy to drink from the spring they would be sweethearts forever. Others say anyone who drinks the water is married to the area and will return to live.
Matrimony Spring is located on Scenic Byway 191 about 100 yards east of Lions Park. There’s a small gravel pullout that will accommodate 4 vehicles. It’s hard to miss because people really do bring their gallon water jugs to fill.
Staring at the night sky anywhere in Moab is an amazing thing to do, as it has a breathtaking night sky. On a clear night in Moab, you only have to step outside to have a great view of the stars. The dry air and higher elevation mean more stars can be seen and the low light pollution allows them to shine brighter creating the perfect conditions for the best star gazing in the country.
If you want a beyond amazing experience check out the locations below on a clear night (even better during a new moon). Make yourself extra comfy by bringing a chair, blanket, binoculars, drinks and snacks, and a flashlight (remember it’s going to be really dark).
Dead Horse State Park. This state park is THE place for star gazing. It’s the first Utah state park to be recognized as an International Dark-Sky Park (this means 15,000 stars or more can be viewed). The park overlooks a canyon in the middle of nowhere so it gets very dark.
Arches National Park. Arches is also recognized as an International Dark-Sky Park. Once the sun starts to set there’s a stream of car lights climbing the switchbacks into the Park. Panorama Point has a dedicated stargazing area.
I’ve been able to successfully stargaze from the top of the Moab Rim Trail (you hike down in the dark which adds to the adventure) and the Sand Flats Recreation area.
Horseback riding has to be an amazing thing to do in Moab because I’ve done it three times and I don’t even like horses.
I used a different horse outfitter each time and received three equally enjoyable and unique experiences. Outfitters offer rides on varying trails and terrains. In my experience, all of the guides take you to areas that the public typically would not be able to access.
Rides last about 3 hours, and no experience is necessary. There can be age requirements for children as well as weight limits. Everything is provided, although we used our own bike helmets.
Bookings can be made through the larger tour companies like the Moab Adventure Centre or directly with the company. Some of the more well known outfitters include: The Red Cliffs Lodge, Sorrell River Ranch, and Hauer Ranch (Moab Horses).
Everyone loves the Moab sand dune! This is the number one amazing thing to do in Moab for kids and adults to burn off energy and go crazy. Easy to access, super workout, free, and fun!
Located across from Arches National Park at the side of Highway 191 not many can drive past without taking up the challenge (and urge) to climb to the top and run or roll down.
The dune is best experienced later in the day or evening when it’s shaded from the sun.
Watch for rocks hidden under the sand and be prepared to get full of sand.
Walking in the steps of dinosaurs would be an amazing thing to do. Guess, what? Moab is full of dinosaur tracks with two special locations perfect for wanna-be paleontologists and dinosaur lovers.
The Bone Trail is an easy self-guided walk that takes you past fossils embedded in the rocks beside the trail. It’s beyond cool to see fossils in their original form and location and fun to find them. Signs provide a map of where the fossils are located.
The Dinosaur Tracksite is a collection of incredible dinosaur tracks of several different species, which is what makes it so special. The site is easily recognizable by the boardwalks in the middle of a flat land expanse.
FUN FACT: My family and I had just finished biking Merrimac and Monitor when an excited gentleman hustled us to the middle of nowhere to see dinosaur tracks discovered the day before. The site is now the Mill Canyon Tracksite.
The Dinosaur Track site and Bone Trail are located in the same location about half a mile apart. On Highway 191 North of Moab turn onto Mill Canyon Road (just north of milepost 141). Cross the railroad tracks and continue for two miles to the dinosaur track trailhead. Continue further down the road to get to the Bone Trail. This is a dirt 4 x 4 road so it’s bumpy and dusty; when it’s wet it’s impassable.
Both sites can easily be seen in 60 mins.
TIP: Stop and visit the remains of the historic Halfway Stage Station located east of the trail and at the start of the Merrimac and Monitor trail.
Other dinosaur track locations:
Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks/Poison Spider tracks are six miles along Hwy 279 (Potash Road) at the Poison Spider Trailhead (there’s a sign). From the trailhead follow the dinosaur track trail sign (next to the pit toilet). The trail zig-zags up the ledges to some flat rocks with the tracks. Explore the area rocks for other tracks.
TIP: Follow the trail north to the petroglyph panels located at the cliff base. To the west of the panels, is a boulder with more tracks.
Dinosaur Stomping Grounds is a megatrack site at Klondike Bluffs which means there are hundreds of dino tracks. Some are marked and some are not – happy hunting! Hiking to the tracks is a 1.5-mile gradual climb over varying terrain of sand and rock. The trail starts at the Mega Steps bike trailhead. Bring lots of water. Plan for 1.5 hours.
Take Highway 191 north from Moab for 23 miles to the north Klondike Bluffs parking lot (just past milepost 148). Follow the main road (dirt and bumpy), and stay right when the road forks, then continue another half mile.
Strolling Main Street (and the side ones) in MOAB is an amazing thing to do.
With its quaint, American small-town feel Main Street is lined with everything; art galleries, restaurants, souvenir shops, funky fashions, food trucks, hotels, tour guide operations, cafes, bike shops, and sport outfitters. Most businesses are locally owned, making the absence of designer brands and box stores refreshing.
Main Street is a hive of activity well into the night with vehicles of all shapes, sizes, and noise levels. Add to that a constant stream of cyclists and it adds up to one busy place.
TIP: Avoid parking on Main Street and opt for the side roads. With the volume of traffic and size of vehicles opening the driver’s side door and exiting onto Main Street is a hazard.
Moab streets are full of artwork that regularly changes. It’s always a delight every year to see the new sculptures and displays decorating the streets.
Visiting two unique and cool parks is an amazing thing to do in Moab with kids and adults too.
Along the Mill Creek Parkway is a Freenotes Harmony Park. Recycled materials and objects are turned into large musical structures and kids (and adults) are given free rein to play the instruments ranging from drums, chimes, and pipes. This was a big hit with the kids and a treat to see their reactions when they realized what it was.
Harmony Park is part of the Rotary Park located at 680 S Mill Creek Drive.
Lions Park is home to a Bouldering Climbing Park. These custom-made rock structures are designed for climbers to test their skills before hitting the local cliffs but are open to anyone to use. The rocks are designed to blend into the scenery and are surrounded by a unique rubber surface to pad falls. This park is another big hit with kids.
Lions Park is located off Highway 191 north of Moab.
When I’m hot, tired, thirsty, and sweaty after a day’s activity or preparing to get hot, tired, and sweaty the most amazing thing to do in Moab is to feast! Below are my go-to spots to satiate my appetite.
Sweet Cravings is to die for! This cozy bakery and cafe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dessert (to stay or go) and to stock up on trail food. My favorite mountain bike treats are the Cowboy cookies.
Milt’s Stop and Eat’s famous burgers, fries, and thick homemade milkshakes hit the spot after a long day on the trails. This place is popular so prepare for a wait if you hit the post-activity crowd.
The Moab Food Truck Park has a variety of tasty offerings for everyone complete with live entertainment. The smoothie bowl from Rain Bowl was a favorite with my daughter.
The Jailhouse Cafe is the place to go for savory breakfasts or a huge tasty buckwheat pancake that you want to share with your pet on their pet-friendly patio.
Moab Diner has classic food amid classic decor. Good value, huge portions, and oh, those banana splits!
Sunset Grill provides the perfect canyon top setting for a relaxing fine-dining meal. The dining playlist spans every genre from the 1920s to the present day. End the evening with a thrilling drive back to town.
Moab Brewery offers a relaxed atmosphere and brews after a long day on the trails.
The title doesn’t sound like it’s something amazing to do in Moab but names can be deceiving.
This gem was a recent discovery (I admit, I avoided it because of the boring name). Aptly located at the Red Cliffs Lodge – a popular location for big Western films – it showcases all the movies, TV shows, commercials, and music videos that have been filmed in and around Moab. Filled with props, production photos, heritage displays, etc. it’s very comprehensive and would be of interest to any movie buff. Did I mention it’s free?
If you’re driving the Scenic Byway 128 add this to your stop.
A riverboat cruise is an amazing thing to do in Moab if you are not into or able to do traditional water activities, and want to experience the Colorado River or enjoy the canyons from a different perspective.
I’ve done three river cruises through Canyonlands by Night & Day and enjoyed them all (full disclosure, I did not have high expectations when I first tried this but I really wanted to get on the river).
The Canyonlands by Night Sound and Light Dinner Show goes down the Colorado River along the Scenic Byway 128. I expected this to be lame, but it was entertaining. I took it again with my elderly parents who loved it.
As a family, we did the Sunset Jet Boat and dinner tour which follows the Colorado River along Potash Road. The kids got antsy once the initial excitement of being in a boat wore off, but I found it relaxing.
The dinners included with the tour reminded me of rural barn dances and wedding banquets.
Cooling down on the Colorado River is an amazing thing to do in Moab when the temperatures start to rise.
White water rafting, stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and powerboat tours are all activities done on the Colorado. Experiences range from relaxing, scenic floats to speedy, rollicking rapids for thrill seekers.
The majority of river activities take place on the ‘The Daily’, a 13-mile stretch of river that features seven rapids mixed with calm sections located along Scenic Byway 128. This section of the river is perfect for ‘newbies’ and families. The rapids are large enough to feel like you’re on a roller-coaster (expect to get wet) but not big enough that you feel like you’ll be tossed from the boat when you’re hanging on.
Several tour operators in Moab offer 1/2 to multi-day trips for multiple activities at different levels of excitement: Paddle Moab, Wild West Voyages, and NAVTEC Expeditions.
If you want to do your own adventure, they will have everything you need to rent and the best place to put into the river for the most up-to-date water depth, flow, and current. This is a good idea even if you have your own equipment. River shuttles are available.
TIP: Remember there is a strong undertow even if the water looks calm. Always wear a certified personal flotation device.
Have fun!
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