How to Visit Moab, Utah
With soaring sandstone cliffs, the Colorado river, stunning arches and a lively downtown, Moab, Utah is a great getaway. Located in southeastern Utah, Moab is close to many national and state parks. It is also home to art festivals, events, museums and art galleries.
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Instructions
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Plan your visit. Moab's lower elevations have mild winters and hot summers, which makes it a great place to go in the cooler months for a warm-weather getaway. In the winter, the occasional dusting of snow on the surrounding red-rock formations creates a nice backdrop. In the heat of the summer, visit Moab's higher elevations to cool off.
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Arrange transportation. Moab is on Highway 191, about 30 minutes south of I-70. If you're traveling by air, Moab has a small airport with service to Denver, Colo. The closest large airport is Grand Junction, Colo.--about 120 miles away. Visitors can also take an Amtrak train into Green River, Utah, about 50 miles from Moab, and take a van shuttle into Moab.
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Book lodging accommodations. There are plenty of lodging options in and around Moab. Whether you're looking for a vacation resort or if you would like to rough it outdoors, you'll find something to suit your needs. The Aarchway Inn downtown is just two miles from Arches National Park. Check Aarchway's package deals. Sunflower Hill is an award-winning luxury Inn. There are also many campgrounds in the area, including Devils Garden, in Arches National Park. Book early as sites fill up fast.
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Stop at the Moab Information Center, on the corner of Main and Center streets, to pick up brochures and get information about the area. Staff members can answer questions and help plan your visit.
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Explore Arches National Park. Five miles north of Moab, Arches includes more than 2,000 sandstone arches, as well as giant fins, spires, and other geologically fascinating features. A visitor center at the base of the park allows guests to view exhibits and visit the gift shop. Arches offers great hiking, biking and 4-wheeling trails. The sandstone rock is also great to climb on.
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Visit Canyonlands National Park. Canyonlands is divided by the Colorado and Green Rivers into three districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles and The Maze. Visitors can take a drive and enjoy the panoramic views. You can also go hiking or biking on one of the many trails. For a different vantage point, try going for a ride on the Colorado or Green rivers.
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Visit Dead Horse Point State Park. Just a short drive from Moab, Dead Horse State park soars 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. At the sheltered overlook, visitors can get a good view of Canyonlands. There is also a visitor center, as well as a museum. A campground is also available.
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Stroll through downtown Moab and its many shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries. The Dan O' Laurie Museum of Moab showcases many artifacts and photos from early life in the area. There are also hands-on exhibits, a rock and mineral display and dinosaur bones. For a real western experience after a day of site seeing, try the Bar-M Chuckwagon, seven miles north of Moab. See an Old West Music and Comedy Show while you eat a barbecue dinner.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with your hotel or travel agent for special touring packages.
Avoid hiking in the slot canyons if there is a possibility of thunderstorms. Flash flooding can occur quickly.
Resources
- Photo Credit James Cawley
