The Town
Moab is only 5 square miles, with about 5,000 residents. Stay at a hotel on North Main Street so that you can walk to cafes, restaurants and shops. The town is dwarfed by red rocks and the La Sur Mountains and is perfect for anyone seeking adventure in the middle of nowhere USA.
The Grub
Not exactly “out of this world” but the food in Moab is generally pretty good. Moab Coffee Roasters is the better version of Starbucks and Gloria’s Corner Cafe has A+ smoothies. Sweet Cravings is a good spot for sandwiches on-the-go or pack as picnic to take with you to one of the parks. Back in town, Jax is an easy going sports bar with unexpectedly delicious pizza. The happening restaurant is Moab Brewery. Woody’s is the local haunt for a beer after. Though several restaurants shut down during the winter, these are reliable.
The National Parks
Moab is the ideal stomping ground for visiting Arches and Canyonlands. The parks are open year round, though they will close if there is too much snow or ice so check the websites and twitter accounts for up to date information.
The entrance to Arches National Park is a 10 minute drive from town. Recommended trails include the Devils Garden which can be a full 8 mile loop, or shorter out and back trail, or Windows Road where you can walk to several attractions including The Windows and Turret Arch, as well as Double Arch. Finally, Delicate Arch is a 3 mile trail and the iconic landmark of the park. Go at sunset to see the sun cast a beautiful glow on the arch and steep bowl surrounding it.
Canyonlands is on the other side of the highway, about 35 minutes from town. It is a short 1.5 mile roundtrip hike to the Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, one of the most esteemed sunrise locations in Utah. From there, Green River Overlook and Shafer Trail Viewpoint are two other worthy views.
Double check the National Parks website before planning your day. Snow or icy conditions can cause road or trail closures. Traction devices are highly recommended! For more winter packing essentials, click here.
Other Attractions
Dead Horse Point is a state park located just before the entrance to Canyonlands. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the overlook offer a panorama view of Canyonlands’ unique pinnacles and buttes. Nearby at Potash Dinosaur Tracks you can search for real dinosaur footprints. Take a park tour to the more remote National Parks areas with a 4W tour with a local guide. Climbing, canyoning and mountain biking are all readily available in the winter. Check out Moab Adventure Center for more info.
Click here for a 10 day itinerary that includes 3 nights in Moab!
