Moab’s trails lead explorers across some of Utah’s most iconic red rock formations and panoramic desert vistas. Whether you’re after a challenging climb or a leisurely rim walk, Moab offers reliable routes with unforgettable views and practical challenges to match.
Adventure Tips
Hydrate Early and Often
The desert air quickly saps moisture—carry at least 2 liters, refill where possible, and drink before you feel thirsty to maintain energy and avoid heat-related illness.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails often combine dirt, slickrock, and loose gravel; hiking boots with good traction provide grip and ankle support on uneven terrain.
Plan for Sun Exposure
Most trails have limited shade; wear sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses, and schedule hikes for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Respect Trail Etiquette
Stay on marked paths to protect fragile desert ecosystems and reduce erosion, especially near arches and ruins where the soil is thinner.
Best Hiking Trails and Scenic Views Around Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah stands as a gateway to some of the most striking red rock landscapes in the American Southwest, where rugged canyons, towering arches, and cliff-hugging trails challenge and reward the avid hiker. Here, every path has a story—whether it’s the steady climb up to panoramic viewpoints or the winding footsteps through ancient sandstone formations. The Fisher Towers Trail offers a solid introduction: 4.4 miles round-trip with 845 feet of elevation gain through desert scrub and jagged spires that seem to grow from the earth itself, daring you to explore their heights. Expect a mix of well-worn dirt paths and loose rock sections that require sure footing.
Another must-see is the Delicate Arch Trail in Arches National Park. It’s a moderately strenuous 3-mile round trip that climbs 480 feet. The terrain is exposed slickrock, with only some patches of shade, so timing your hike early morning or late afternoon can spare you the intense desert sun. Arriving at the arch is an unmistakable thrill—the rock frames endless stretches of canyon below, gently pushing the traveler to pause and take it all in.
For a longer outing, the Dead Horse Point State Park offers trails that track along some of the most dramatic overlooks in the region. The scenic Rim Trail can stretch from 5 to 8 miles depending on your route, with minimal climbs but frequent views of the Colorado River daring you to lean over the edge. The tops of mesas here are more open, with winds that feel purposeful and alive.
Preparation is key: solid hiking boots with good tread handle the rocky, uneven local surfaces better than trail runners. Carry plenty of water, at least 2 liters per person, as the dry air and the sun push your body harder than you might expect. Early spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and a reasonable window for full-day hikes, while summer demands shorter, shaded treks or starting well before dawn.
In Moab, these trails aren’t just linear walks; they are active conversations with a landscape fiercely itself—raw, weathered, and ever-changing. Approach with respect and curiosity; the rewards aren’t just in the views but in meeting the land on its own terms.
Adventures near Moab
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Moab special.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on Moab hiking trails?
Many trails in and around Moab allow dogs but require leashes to protect wildlife and other hikers. Check specific trail regulations, especially in national parks where restrictions may apply.
What wildlife might I see during hikes around Moab?
Common sightings include mule deer, desert cottontails, and a variety of lizards. Raptors such as red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons patrol the skies, while coyotes occasionally call out at dawn or dusk.
Is there cellphone reception on Moab hiking trails?
Reception is spotty on many trails due to remote canyons and high rock walls. It’s wise to prepare for limited connectivity and share your hiking plans before heading out.
Can I hike to Delicate Arch year-round?
Yes, but winter conditions can introduce ice on slickrock, making the trail slippery. Summer heat often restricts daytime hikes. Spring and fall provide the safest and most comfortable conditions.
Are permits required for hiking in Moab’s national parks?
For most day hikes, no permit is needed. However, permits are required for camping, backcountry access, and certain activities, so check the current regulations from park services before planning multi-day trips.
What’s a lesser-known viewpoint worth exploring near Moab?
The Klondike Bluffs area offers solitude and impressive views with fewer crowds. Its rolling red rock hills and occasional slickrock domes provide rewarding perspectives off the standard trail routes.
Recommended Gear
Hiking Boots
Provides essential traction and ankle support on uneven and loose rocky surfaces found on most Moab trails.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protects skin and eyes from intense desert sun where shade is scarce.
Hydration System (Water Bottle or Bladder)
Ensures adequate fluid intake vital for desert hiking, especially in hot and dry conditions.
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to temperature fluctuations and wind exposure common in desert environments.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Klondike Bluffs for quiet, off-the-path vistas"
- "Gemini Bridges Trail for rock formations rarely crowded"
- "Tower Arch in Arches National Park for a distant but dramatic arch experience"
- "Dead Horse Point’s lesser-used scenic loops"
Wildlife
- "Desert bighorn sheep spotted on cliff faces"
- "Greater roadrunner darting through scrub"
- "Sidewinder rattlesnake active in warmer months"
History
"Moab’s area was inhabited by Ancestral Puebloans whose footprints remain in rock art panels and ancient dwellings. The mining history and early settler trails add a human chapter to the landscape."