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    Hiking around Moab

    Hikes in Moab and Arches National Park

    Region in Utah, United States

    The area around the small town of Moab in Utah really packs a punch when it comes to epic hiking! This otherworldly landscape is like no other, with red sandstone that glows warmly under the hot sun, strange rock formations that tower over the trails, and plunging gorges, created by the incessant flow of the Colorado River. Hiking in Moab and Arches National Park is an experience you’ll never forget.

    Moab is bordered by two of Utah’s most incredible national parks: Arches and Canyonlands, both of which boast some of the finest and most dramatic scenery in the United States. The vibrant color of the red sandstone of this region contrasts starkly with the blue sky and green desert vegetation, creating a visual spectacle that will take your breath away. With rocks carved by the elements into dazzling arches and precariously balanced pinnacles, hiking here is a rare delight.

    As the name suggests, Arches National Park is known for its fabulous stone arches. The entire park is situated over a salt bed lying in the earth’s rock, created 300 million years ago when the region was part of an inland sea. As this layer was compressed by debris collected over millions of years, the salt bed became fluid, pushing upwards to create huge domes and ridges. With the help of erosion, these domes were eventually shaped into the colossal arches that we see today across the park. This natural phenomenon is truly staggering, and hiking in this landscape is a unique experience that you’ll treasure forever.

    Moab is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets, but increasingly, more and more visitors are coming to appreciate the beauty of this wild place, and to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy some epic outdoor adventures! Get ahead of the trend and start planning your trip today, with our guide to hiking in Moab and Arches National Park.

    Types Of Hiking In Moab and Arches National Park

    Hiking in Moab and Arches National Park is an ideal activity for families, or for hikers who are looking for easy trails in truly awe-inspiring landscapes. Many of the hikes in Moab and Arches National Park are short, not too steep, and pass along well-maintained paths, so it’s a good option if you’re a beginner hiker. Kids will love gazing upon the strange rock formations and towering arches, and this is a fabulous spot for photos and a leisurely hiking experience.

    However, if you’re looking for something a little more strenuous, there are many challenging hikes in Moab, particularly if you decide to combine some of the shorter hikes into a full day trek. However, beware – in the hot summer months the blazing sun can make even easy trails a challenge, so you’ll need to be fit and well prepared to take on a full day hike. If you’re really adventurous, try your hand at trail running – in recent years the popularity of this activity has exploded in Moab, and you’ll find plenty of ways to push your limits and test your fitness.

    Easy Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park

    Grandstaff Trail Hike: This is a classic Moab trail suitable for hikers of all ages! The path leads through a narrow valley with high cliffs, before arriving at the Morning Glory Bridge. This natural arch spans 75m, and is a perfect spot to take some impressive photos. The trail is shaded and relatively flat for most of the way, making it one of the best easy hikes in Moab and Arches National Park.

    Family Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park

    Mill Creek Hike: This relatively easy hike follows Mill Creek through a picturesque gorge, passing a number of gushing waterfalls. It’s a wonderful spot for kids, especially older children who will love splashing in the cool waters! There are lots of possibilities to extend the hike by heading further up the valley, or you can simply relax with a picnic next to the tranquil pool that sits next to the final waterfall.

    Day Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park

    Portal Overlook Hike: This stunning, slightly challenging route is one of the best day hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. You’ll climb up a well-graded path and until you see the Le Sal Mountains come into view, a looming presence over the entire region. Come early in the season to catch a glimpse of these striking hills covered in snow.

    Challenging Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park

    Fisher Towers Hike: This popular route is one of the most popular challenging hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. The trail ascends slowly but surely to the majestic Fisher Towers, two monumental sandstone towers that make an excellent spot for climbing. You’ll have a panoramic view over this colorful region, taking in the glowing sandstone rocks, the brown Colorado River, and the steep cliffs of the valley.

    Best Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park

    Dead Horse Loop Point Hike: This fantastic hike offers a tremendous variety of scenery, passing by the ominously named Dead Horse Loop Point. This natural corral was once used as a home for the horses of local cowboys, many of which sadly died of exposure and lack of water. The views from here are unparalleled, with a panorama that extends over the colorful rocks, deep canyons, towering pinnacles, and the Colorado River.

    Park Avenue Hike: This short hike is filled with incredible sights, characteristic of the region around Moab! The path runs down a picturesque narrow canyon with views of the sheer sandstone cliffs and desert towers along the way. Make sure to come with plenty of layers, as this narrow gorge acts as a wind tunnel, and it can become very chilly!

    Devil’s Garden Hike: This beautiful route through the so-called ‘Devil’s Garden’ is a wonderful way to see some of incredible stone arches that the Moab region is famous for. In particular, don’t miss the stunning Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch, just a short detour from the main trail. The final part of the hike is dominated by the delicate Landscape Arch, a staggering natural wonder that looms large over the trail.

    Delicate Arch Hike: This popular route is one of the best hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. Take care on hot days, as the uphill sections are steep and can become a bit of a struggle. The trail climbs steeply, but the rewards are incredible: a perfect view of Delicate Arch, the largest in Arches National Park. Sit in the natural amphitheater underneath the arch, relax and enjoy the view!

    Double Arch Hike: As the name suggests, this hike takes you to not one, but two incredible arches in Moab. The trail is easy, straightforward, and not too strenuous, making it perfect for families with young children or anyone looking for an easy hike. This magnificent natural monument was used as a filming location for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, so this hike is a must for movie buffs!

    Balanced Rock Hike: Moab and Arches National Park are famous for their arches and towering rock pinnacles, and Balanced Rock is one of the most famous natural stone monuments in the park. This looming tower stands 39m high, and is set against a dramatic, otherworldly landscape covered in strange rock formations and steep gorges. This short hike is the best way to experience Balanced Rock, and it’s a wonderful family expedition.

    When Is The Best Time To Hike In Moab and Arches National Park?

    Moab and Arches National Park is a year-round destination, and it’s possible to visit at almost any time. However, the extremes of desert weather mean that the winters can be very cold, with snow on higher ground, and the summers are extremely hot, hitting temperatures in the high 30s Celsius. As a result, we think that the best time to hike in Moab and Arches National Park is in spring and autumn. September and October are very popular times to visit the park, with perfect temperatures and a number of cultural events, including the Red Rocks Art Festival. However, the trails can be as busy as the peak summer months, so it’s not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Comparatively, spring is less crowded, and you’ll enjoy mild temperatures, gorgeous sunsets, and plenty of family-friendly activities such as free guided day walks in Arches National Park. While many visitors overlook the winter months, due to the freezing temperatures and inclement weather, this can be a wonderful time to experience Moab, exploring the strange beauty of this region in peace and solitude.

    Other Outdoor Activities In Moab and Arches National Park

    This incredible region has emerged as a hub for adventure seekers in recent years, and in addition to hiking you’ll find plenty of other outdoor activities in Moab and Arches National Park! The strange carved rocks that make up this delicate landscape are a real draw for rock climbers, and you’ll find a wide array of routes all around Moab and within Arches National Park. In addition to this, the region has recently become a popular destination for trail running, backpacking, and camping, and it’s a wonderful place to observe the night sky in all its starry brilliance. Finally, if you’re keen to test the waters of the mighty Colorado River, you can always go rafting, canoeing or kayaking.

    How To Plan A Trip To Moab and Arches National Park

    The region around Moab and Arches National Park is a fabulous place for a hiking trip! If you’re thinking of heading here for some outdoor adventuring, don’t forget to check out our guide to planning a trip to Moab and Arches National Park. If you’re looking for ideas for awesome hikes in this region, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 hikes in Moab and Arches National Park, or look further afield and check out our list of the best hikes in Utah. We’ve got all the information you’ll need, plenty of recommendations on where to visit, stay and eat, and insider tips that will make your trip run smoothly.

    Frequently-Asked-Questions About Moab and Arches National Park

    How many days do you need in Moab?
    The area around Moab is pack full of incredible sights and places to hike, and you could easily spend weeks (or even months!) exploring all the corners of this spectacular region. However, most people visit for 3-5 days. This will allow you to hike in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and drive to some of the most popular viewpoints.

    What is the closest airport to Moab?
    The closest major airport to Moab can be found in Salt Lake City, which is 236 miles, or a four-hour drive from Moab.

    Can you visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in one day?
    Moab is located next to two incredible national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and during your trip you’ll definitely want to see them both. In the summer, when the days are longer, it’s possible to visit both parks in the same day, with a short hike in each of them. However, we’d recommend that you take a little more time to enjoy all that these two remarkable parks have to offer.

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    Best Hikes in Moab and Arches National Park

    Showing 61 to 77 of 77
      Open details for Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch Loop

      Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch Loop

      Easy
      4.5 km
      98 m
      1-1.5h

      The Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch Loop is a great hike just outside the Devils Campground in Arches National Park. This hike passes by three arches in the area: Sand Dune Arch, Broken Arch (Spoiler alert: not actually broken), and Tapestry Arch. This hike is especially beautiful in the early morning as the desert begins to awaken under the radiance of the rising sun.

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      Open details for The Tunnel

      The Tunnel

      Moderate
      5.1 km
      63 m
      1-1.5h

      The Tunnel is a short, out-and-back route to a unique geological formation in Arches National Park: a 16 m-long tunnel through a sandstone buttress. This hike doesn’t see a lot of traffic and the trail can be difficult to navigate. Good map-reading skills, a GPS unit, and/or an incredible sense of direction is essential for this hike.

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      Open details for Lower Tower Arch Trail

      Lower Tower Arch Trail

      Easy
      1.0 km
      33 m
      0.5h

      The Lower Tower Arch Trail is a short and rugged trail to Tower Arch in Arches National Park. This trail is shared by mountain bikers, day-hikers, and OHV drivers. The Lower Tower Arch trail sees relatively low traffic, even in the peak of tourist season, so it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some peace and quiet in the beautiful Utah desert.

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      Open details for Mount Peale and Tukuhnikivatz Loop

      Mount Peale and Tukuhnikivatz Loop

      Very Hard
      13.2 km
      1,064 m
      5.5-7.5h

      The Mount Peale and Mount Tukuhnikivatz Loop is a challenging route for experienced hikers. This trail leads you up to two summits, each with fantastic views of the surrounding area. From the top, you’ll be able to look out over the La Sal Mountain Range, the City of Moab, Canyonlands National Park, and beyond.

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      Open details for Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail

      Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail

      Moderate
      9.0 km
      292 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail is a lovely hike just south of the city of Moab. This trail is used by both hikers and OHV/ATV drivers. The Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail leads to two stunning arches that get few visitors compared to the sandstone structures in Arches National Park. Dogs are also allowed on this trail, but must be kept on leash for the duration of their hike.

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      Open details for Squaw Spring Trail

      Squaw Spring Trail

      Moderate
      12.9 km
      512 m
      3.5-5h

      The Squaw Spring Trail is a moderately challenging hike through the beautiful and enchanting Manti-La Sal National Forest. This hike is used by horseback riders, mountain bikers, and day hikers alike. Dogs are also allowed to join you on this trail but they must be kept on leash for the duration of their hike.

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      Open details for Brumley Arch Trail

      Brumley Arch Trail

      Moderate
      2.9 km
      179 m
      1-1.5h

      The Brumley Arch trail is a short but steep, dog-friendly trail in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. This hike leads you not only to a spectacular arch but to a secret slot canyon, a babbling brook, and a tumbling waterfall. This hike is also a great way to spend time enjoying the outdoors with your four-legged friend—just be sure that your pup is kept on leash for the duration of your hike.

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      Open details for Clark Lake Loop

      Clark Lake Loop

      Moderate
      4.5 km
      216 m
      1.5-2h

      The Clark Lake Loop is a beautiful forest hike that connects Clark lake with Oowah Lake in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. This hike is dog-friendly as long as your pup is kept on leash for the duration of your adventure. The Clark Lake Loop is a great place to see the flora and fauna of the Manti-La Sal.

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      Open details for Onion Bench Creek

      Onion Bench Creek

      Moderate
      6.1 km
      113 m
      1.5-2h

      The Onion Bench Creek Trail is a moderately challenging hike in Professor Valley northeast of the city of Moab. This trail is shared by hikers and horseback riders and offers stunning views of the La Sal Range and Fisher Towers. Dogs are allowed to join you on the Onion Bench Creek Trail as well.

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      Open details for Sylvester Trail

      Sylvester Trail

      Moderate
      11.1 km
      297 m
      3-4h

      The Sylvester Trail is a moderately challenging route with beautiful views of the Utah desert. This hike gets relatively low traffic, so it’s a great place to go to escape the crowds of Arches National Park and still see some incredible rock formations.

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      Open details for Klondike Bluff Outer Loop

      Klondike Bluff Outer Loop

      Hard
      18.7 km
      418 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Klondike Bluffs Outer Loop is a great low-traffic trail just outside of Arches National Park. This route is primarily a mountain biking trail, so be sure to let bikes zip past you as you hike along. This trail is dog-friendly and a great way to explore the beauty of the desert with your four-legged friends. If you are looking for a great opportunity for exploration—The Klondike Bluffs Outer loop passes by the Dinosaur Stomping Grounds: a 2 acre expanse with over 2000 well-preserved dinosaur footprints!

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      Open details for Jewell Tibbets Arch

      Jewell Tibbets Arch

      Easy
      2.4 km
      32 m
      0.5h

      The Jewell Tibbets Arch Trail is a short, relatively flat hike to an impressive sandstone formation. This trail can be done as an out-and-back or as a loop. The Jewell Tibbets Arch sits on BLM land, so there is no Park fee required to access this beautiful trail.

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      Open details for Mustang Loop Trail

      Mustang Loop Trail

      Easy
      5.8 km
      132 m
      1.5-2h

      The Mustang Loop is a fantastic, little-hiked trail nestled between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. This trail is shared by hikers and mountain bikers, and features fantastic overlooks with sweeping desert vistas. The Mustang Loop is a dog-friendly trail, however, pups must be kept on leash for the duration of their hike.

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      Open details for Dead Horse Rim Loop and Big Horn Overlook Trail

      Dead Horse Rim Loop and Big Horn Overlook Trail

      Moderate
      12.9 km
      358 m
      3.5-4.5h

      The Dead Horse Rim Loop and Big Horn Overlook Trail is a fantastic day-hike in the southern section of Dead Horse Point State Park. This hike gets relatively low traffic and offers hikers some incredible views along a well-maintained trail. This hike is dog-friendly, but pups must be kept on a maximum of 2 m-long leash for the duration of their hike.

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      Open details for Colorado River Overlook Trail

      Colorado River Overlook Trail

      Easy
      1.9 km
      41 m
      0.5h

      The Colorado River Overlook Trail is a short and easy route that affords hikers stunning views of the Utah desert. This hike is relatively flat and a great option for families with young children who want to get out and explore in Dead Horse Point State Park. This trail is also dog-friendly, however, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

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      Open details for Dead Horse Visitors Center Loop

      Dead Horse Visitors Center Loop

      Very Easy
      0.3 km
      18 m
      0.5h

      The Dead Horse Visitor Center Loop is a great way to stretch your legs and see some incredible views of the Utah desert. This hike is fun for all ages and all members of the family, including the pup. The Dead Horse Visitor Center Loop takes you past three overlooks where you’ll be able to look out at the Solar Evaporation Ponds and the canyon below.

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      Open details for Big Horn Overlook Trail

      Big Horn Overlook Trail

      Easy
      4.8 km
      70 m
      1-1.5h

      The Big Horn Overlook Trail is a family-friendly hike in Dead Horse Point State Park. This trail takes you to a fantastic viewpoint overlooking Shafer Canyon. Dogs are allowed on the Big Horn Overlook Trail as well as any trail within Dead Horse Point State Park, however, they must be kept on leash for the duration of their visit.

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