Updated: September 17th, 2024
Moab, Utah, is a mecca for landscape lover’s, rock climbers, and adventure seekers. Nestled in the heart of red rock country, this small town is famous for its stunning landscapes and thrilling activities in and out of the nearby national parks. From towering sandstone arches to adrenaline-pumping adventures, Moab has something for everyone. Here are five must-do adventures in Moab:
1. Explore Arches National Park:
Moab is home to one of the most iconic national parks in the United States - Arches National Park. With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, towering rock formations, and unique geological features, exploring the park is an adventure in itself. Hike to famous arches like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Balanced Rock, or take a scenic drive through the park for breathtaking views.
This park gained major notoriety after Edward Abbey published his novel Desert Solitaire which recaps his time as a park ranger in the soon to be Arches National Park. If you haven’t already read this book, I suggest picking up a copy before heading to the park.
Five Tips When Visiting Arches National Park:
1. Arrive Early or Late: Arches National Park is a popular destination, and the parking lots at key viewpoints and trailheads can fill up quickly. To avoid crowds and secure a parking spot, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Early risers can also enjoy cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. The late afternoon or early evening provides beautiful lighting for capturing the park’s iconic arches and rock formations as the sun sets.
2. Stay Hydrated and Be Prepared for Heat: The desert climate of Arches National Park can be extremely hot, especially in the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your visit. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Be mindful of heat exhaustion and take breaks in the shade if needed.
3. Wear Proper Footwear: The terrain in Arches National Park varies from paved paths to rocky and uneven trails. Wear sturdy, supportive hiking boots or shoes with good traction to navigate the park’s trails safely. Proper footwear will provide better grip and comfort, especially on rugged trails or when scrambling over rocks.
4. Plan Your Itinerary and Trails: Arches National Park has a variety of trails and viewpoints, so it’s helpful to plan your itinerary based on your interests and time available. Popular hikes include Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and The Windows Section. For shorter, easier walks, consider the Balanced Rock or Park Avenue trails. Be sure to check the park’s website or visitor center for trail conditions and any alerts. If you’re interested in stargazing, plan to stay late into the evening to enjoy the park’s dark skies.
5. Follow Park Guidelines and Leave No Trace: Respect the park’s guidelines and regulations to help preserve its natural beauty. Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile desert environment and avoid trampling on vegetation. Do not climb on or touch the arches, as this can cause damage to these delicate formations. Pack out all trash, and use the park’s restroom facilities. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures that future visitors can enjoy the park as much as you did.
Related Read: Here's What You Should Do On Your First Visit to Arches National Park
2. Raft the Colorado River:
The Colorado River is a prominent feature of Moab's landscape, meandering through dramatic canyons and creating a stunning backdrop for kayakers and water fanatics. Rafting the Colorado River is a quintessential way to experience the natural beauty and thrilling excitement of this iconic waterway.
Guided Rafting Trips: For those new to rafting or looking to ensure a safe and informative experience, guided trips are an excellent choice. Local outfitters offer a range of options tailored to different skill levels and preferences. Guides provide invaluable insights into the area's geology, ecology, and history while navigating the river’s twists and turns. These trips often include necessary equipment, safety briefings, and tips for a smooth adventure, ensuring that even first-time rafters can enjoy the journey with confidence.
Scenic Float Trips: If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, a scenic float trip might be just what you need. These gentler excursions allow you to take in the awe-inspiring views of the canyon walls, the flora and fauna, and the serene beauty of the river. Float trips are perfect for families, casual adventurers, and those who prefer a more laid-back experience on the water.
White-Water Rapids: For thrill-seekers, the Colorado River offers an exhilarating array of white-water rapids. These trips cater to more adventurous spirits who crave the adrenaline rush of navigating turbulent waters. Rapids range from mild to intense, providing an exciting challenge for those seeking an action-packed adventure. Experienced guides ensure that participants are well-prepared for the excitement and help navigate the rapids safely.
Rock Climbing on Wall Street in Moab, UT. Photo by Dalton Johnson
3. Climb at Wall Street:
Moab is renowned for its exceptional rock climbing opportunities, and Wall Street stands out as one of its premier climbing destinations. Nestled in a picturesque setting, Wall Street offers climbers a blend of accessible routes and thrilling challenges, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about rock climbing.
Diverse Routes for All Skill Levels: Wall Street’s climbing routes cater to a wide range of abilities. Beginners will find numerous routes that are perfect for honing their skills and building confidence. These routes often feature easier grades and more manageable holds, providing a solid foundation for new climbers. For those with more experience, Wall Street presents an array of challenging climbs with complex moves and steeper grades. Advanced climbers can test their mettle on routes that push their limits, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst Moab’s stunning scenery.
Stunning Sandstone Cliffs: The climbing at Wall Street is set against the backdrop of striking sandstone cliffs, which add a dramatic and picturesque element to the climbing experience. The colorful rock formations and intricate textures of the sandstone create a visually stunning environment. The cliffs are not only visually captivating but also provide excellent grip and variety for climbers seeking different types of routes, from crack climbs to face climbs.
Scenic Surroundings: Beyond the climbing itself, Wall Street’s location offers beautiful surroundings that enhance the overall experience. The area is surrounded by red rock canyons and desert landscapes, creating a breathtaking backdrop as you scale the cliffs. The view from the top of the routes often reveals expansive vistas of Moab’s rugged terrain, making the climb even more rewarding.
Accessibility and Amenities: Wall Street is conveniently located just a short drive from Moab, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The area is well-loved for its accessibility and the variety of climbing routes available, which means you can spend a day or even multiple days exploring different climbs. Many climbers also appreciate the presence of established trails and approach paths that lead to the climbing areas, making it straightforward to reach the routes.
Ten Must Try Routes:
1. The Great White – 5.9: A classic route on Wall Street, The Great White features a series of engaging moves on a stunning white sandstone face. This climb is well-regarded for its enjoyable, moderate difficulty and excellent holds.
2. The Crimson Crux – 5.11a: Known for its challenging moves and striking red rock, The Crimson Crux is a favorite among more experienced climbers. It combines powerful moves with technical footwork, making it a rewarding climb.
3. Orange Sunshine – 5.10b: This climb offers a fun, varied experience with its mix of cracks and face climbing. The vibrant orange hue of the sandstone adds to the aesthetic appeal of this well-loved route.
4. The Snakeskin – 5.8: A fantastic choice for beginners, The Snakeskin features a moderate grade and straightforward climbing. It’s a great route for those looking to build confidence and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
5. Desert Storm – 5.12a: For those seeking a challenge, Desert Storm provides a demanding climb with powerful moves and technical difficulty. The impressive overhangs and dynamic sequences make this route a standout.
6. The Apex – 5.10d: This route offers a mix of technical and physical challenges, with a combination of crack and face climbing. The Apex is known for its engaging moves and striking position on the cliff.
7. Moab Slab – 5.7: A great option for novice climbers, Moab Slab features a gentle, sloping face that provides a solid introduction to climbing. It’s a good choice for those looking to experience climbing in a less intimidating setting.
8. Fallen Angel – 5.11c: Fallen Angel is a well-rounded climb known for its technical demands and rewarding finish. The route offers a combination of cracks and face holds, with a challenging crux section.
9. The White Light – 5.10c: This climb stands out for its clean lines and excellent rock quality. The White Light is a popular choice for climbers looking to test their skills on a classic, moderate route.
10. Redemption – 5.12b: A challenging and rewarding climb, Redemption features powerful moves and a crux section that requires both strength and technique. It’s ideal for experienced climbers looking for a high-quality route.
Related Read: BEST ROCK CLIMBING PLACES AROUND MOAB, UT
4. Go Off-Roading on the Slickrock Trail:
For adventure enthusiasts craving an off-road thrill, the Slickrock Trail in Moab is an iconic destination that promises an exhilarating experience. Renowned for its distinctive terrain and breathtaking views, the Slickrock Trail is a premier location for mountain biking and off-roading.
Unique Terrain: The Slickrock Trail is famed for its striking slickrock sandstone surfaces, which offer a unique and challenging riding experience. Unlike traditional trails with dirt or gravel, the slickrock is a naturally occurring, smooth rock that provides an otherworldly feel. This terrain requires a different set of skills and techniques, as the rock surface offers little traction compared to standard trails. Riders and drivers must adapt to the slippery, uneven surfaces, making each maneuver an exciting challenge.
Mountain Biking: The Slickrock Trail is a dream destination for mountain bikers. It features a variety of technical sections, steep climbs, and thrilling descents. The trail is renowned for its difficulty, with several sections requiring advanced bike handling skills and physical endurance. Riders are rewarded with adrenaline-pumping rides and stunning views that make the effort worthwhile. The trail is divided into several loops, allowing bikers to choose routes based on their skill level and the amount of time they wish to spend on the trail.
ATVs and 4x4 Vehicles: Off-road enthusiasts with ATVs and 4x4 vehicles will also find the Slickrock Trail to be a premier destination. The trail’s rugged terrain provides an ideal setting for testing the capabilities of off-road vehicles. The combination of steep inclines, challenging rock features, and narrow passages offers an exciting driving experience. While the trail is suitable for experienced drivers, it’s essential to have a vehicle equipped for off-road conditions and to be prepared for sudden changes in terrain.
Panoramic Vistas: One of the most rewarding aspects of the Slickrock Trail is the breathtaking panoramic views. As you ascend the trail, you’re treated to expansive vistas of the surrounding Moab landscape. The contrasting colors of the red rock formations and the vast desert scenery create a striking visual experience. The trail’s high points offer excellent vantage points for photography and soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
Trail Tips: The Slickrock Trail is known for its challenging terrain, so it’s important to be well-prepared. Ensure that your bike or vehicle is in good condition and equipped for off-road adventures. Bring plenty of water, wear appropriate safety gear, and consider using a GPS or trail map to navigate. It’s also a good idea to check weather conditions before heading out, as rain can make the slickrock surfaces even more treacherous.
5. Canyoneering in the Slot Canyons:
Moab is renowned for its dramatic slot canyons, which provide an exhilarating and unique adventure known as canyoneering. This outdoor activity involves navigating through narrow, winding canyons carved into the sandstone, offering a mix of rappelling, scrambling, and exploration that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.
Exploring Slot Canyons: Slot canyons are characterized by their tight, winding passages and towering walls of sandstone that create a sense of adventure and discovery. As you navigate these canyons, you’ll encounter a variety of terrain features, including smooth rock walls, narrow squeezes, and hidden alcoves. The intricate shapes and patterns formed by the erosion of the sandstone create a visually stunning environment, making canyoneering a captivating experience.
Popular Slot Canyons:
Negro Bill Canyon: Also known as the Morning Glory Arch, Negro Bill Canyon is one of Moab’s most popular slot canyons. The canyon features a beautiful arch and offers a relatively accessible canyoneering experience. The hike through Negro Bill Canyon leads to impressive rock formations and picturesque views, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned adventurers.
Ephedra's Grotto: Ephedra's Grotto is another well-known slot canyon in the Moab area. This canyon offers a mix of scrambling and rappelling, with a series of fascinating rock features and hidden chambers. The canyon’s narrow passages and unique geological formations make it an exciting destination for those looking to explore the intricate beauty of Moab’s slot canyons.
Rappelling and Scrambling: One of the key aspects of canyoneering is rappelling, which involves descending vertical or near-vertical rock faces using ropes and harnesses. This technique is essential for navigating the various drops and obstacles found in slot canyons. Scrambling, which involves climbing over rock features and navigating uneven terrain, is also a significant part of the experience. Both rappelling and scrambling require skill and careful technique, adding to the adventure and challenge of canyoneering.
Preparing for the Adventure:
Gear and Equipment: Make sure you have appropriate gear for canyoneering, including a sturdy harness, helmet, rappelling devices, and climbing shoes. Many guided tours provide all necessary equipment, but if you’re planning a self-guided adventure, ensure you have the right gear and know how to use it properly.
Physical Readiness: Canyoneering can be physically demanding, involving climbing, hiking, and rappelling. Ensure that you are in good physical condition and prepared for the physical challenges of the canyon.
Weather Considerations: Check the weather conditions before heading out, as heavy rain or flash floods can make slot canyons dangerous. The narrow nature of slot canyons makes them prone to sudden and dangerous flooding, so it’s important to be aware of weather conditions and potential flood risks.
In Moab, adventure is around every corner. Whether you're hiking, biking, rafting, climbing, or canyoneering, you'll be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes that make Moab a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Make the most of your Moab adventure and embark on these five must-do activities for an unforgettable experience in Utah's red rock country.