Moab is one of those places that captures the imagination the moment you arrive. Surrounded by towering red rock cliffs, winding rivers, and some of the most unique landscapes in the world, it is no wonder travelers put this small desert town on their bucket list. If you are planning your first trip to Moab, you might feel overwhelmed by all there is to see and do. To help you plan your adventure, here are the top 10 things to do in Moab that will make your visit unforgettable.
Arches National Park is often the first stop for new visitors, and for good reason. The park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, as well as fins, spires, and balanced rocks that seem almost otherworldly. Hike the short trail to Delicate Arch at sunset, or take a scenic drive to see Landscape Arch and Double Arch. With trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes, Arches offers something for everyone.
Canyonlands is just as breathtaking as Arches but offers a different perspective. The park is divided into four districts, with Island in the Sky being the most accessible for first-time visitors. Stand at Grand View Point and look out over canyons carved by the Colorado River, or take the short walk to Mesa Arch for one of the most famous sunrise views in the Southwest.
One of the best ways to experience Moab’s rugged terrain is by Jeep. Outlaw Adventure Tours specializes in guided Jeep experiences that take you off the beaten path and into landscapes most visitors never see. From thrilling climbs up sandstone fins to scenic routes overlooking the Colorado River, Jeep tours combine adrenaline with unforgettable scenery. If you are new to Moab, this is one activity you should not miss, since a local guide can point out hidden gems and share fascinating stories about the land.
Dead Horse Point is known for its sweeping views of the Colorado River as it winds through canyons far below. Many visitors compare the views here to the Grand Canyon, only on a smaller scale. Sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning as the desert landscape glows in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park, making it a perfect place for stargazing after the sun goes down.
Moab is not just about rocks and trails. The Colorado River flows right through town and offers a refreshing way to explore the desert. Guided rafting trips range from family-friendly floats to whitewater adventures through rapids like those in Westwater Canyon. Even a half-day trip gives you a completely new perspective of Moab’s dramatic cliffs and desert scenery.
Families will love Moab Giants, an interactive dinosaur-themed attraction just outside of town. Walk along a trail filled with life-sized dinosaur replicas, explore exhibits about paleontology, and step into a 3D theater that brings prehistoric creatures to life. It is a fun way to combine education and entertainment, especially for kids who might not be ready for long hikes.
Moab is known worldwide as a mountain biking mecca. The Slickrock Trail is the most famous, offering a challenging ride across smooth sandstone with incredible views. For beginners, there are easier trails like the Moab Brand Trails that still deliver beautiful scenery without the intensity of Slickrock. If you are new to mountain biking, consider renting a bike and trying one of the beginner-friendly routes before tackling the advanced rides.
If you want to take in Moab’s beauty without lacing up your hiking boots, consider a scenic drive. Highway 128 follows the Colorado River and offers striking canyon views around every bend. Potash Road is another option, featuring petroglyphs, roadside arches, and access to popular trailheads. These drives are perfect for sunset or when you simply want to relax and take in the views.
Moab is one of the best places in the United States for stargazing. With minimal light pollution and several nearby parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks, you will be amazed at how clearly you can see the Milky Way. Join a stargazing program at Dead Horse Point or Canyonlands, or simply step outside town and look up. Outlaw Adventure Tours also offers evening Jeep experiences where the night sky becomes part of the adventure.
After days of exploring trails and parks, take some time to enjoy the laid-back vibe of downtown Moab. Browse art galleries filled with Southwest-inspired pieces, shop for outdoor gear, and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. Whether you are craving a hearty burger after a day on the trail or a locally brewed craft beer, Moab’s food scene has plenty of options. It is the perfect way to end a day of adventure.
Moab is a destination that truly has it all. From national parks and world-class trails to thrilling Jeep tours and peaceful river trips, there is no shortage of things to do. For first-time visitors, the variety can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning you can experience the best of the region in just a few days.
Outlaw Adventure Tours is proud to help travelers experience the side of Moab that makes it unforgettable. Whether you are looking for a heart-pumping Jeep climb or a scenic ride through red rock country, our guides are here to make your first visit to Moab one you will never forget.
Ready to plan your adventure? Book your Jeep tour today and see Moab like never before.
