Should you’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it mistaken. This desert city is a mecca for out of doors journey, dwelling to among the most unbelievable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not you’re chasing iconic arches, hidden canyons, or epic rim views, one of the best hikes in Moab ship all of it.
We’ve hiked them. We’ve sweated by them. And now we’re sharing the 12 greatest Moab hikes, from beginner-friendly trails to backcountry routes that’ll blow your mountaineering boots off. That is your go-to path information for Arches Nationwide Park, Canyonlands Nationwide Park, Lifeless Horse Level, and secret native favorites that don’t make each listing.
Let’s dive in.
Soar to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Evaluate the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Quick Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers appears like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This quick path winds round towering pink spires which have been carved by centuries of wind and water, and so they’re as weird as they’re lovely.
We tackled this one mid-morning and regretted not going earlier—it will get sizzling. However the payoff? Unimaginable views during. The ultimate overlook offers you a panoramic shot of the whole formation, and it’s a photographer’s dream. There’s even a picnic space again on the trailhead for a well-earned break.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)Problem: ModerateElevation Achieve: 448 feetTrailhead: Fisher Towers Picnic Space
2. Hidden Valley Path: Moab’s Most Underrated Viewpoint
This one’s for the hikers who like incomes their solitude. Hidden Valley isn’t on most Moab bucket lists, nevertheless it ought to be. You’ll begin with a steep, no-nonsense climb that’ll get your coronary heart pounding, after which abruptly… it opens up into a large, quiet basin ringed by cliffs.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)Problem: ModerateElevation Achieve: 1469 ft (448 m)Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
Should you solely do one hike in Moab, make it this one. Delicate Arch is the celebrity of Arches Nationwide Park—and simply top-of-the-line hikes in Moab. The three-mile path climbs slick rock and hugs the sting of a rock face earlier than revealing the 52-foot freestanding arch in all its glory.
We hit the path at 6 AM, half-asleep however decided to beat the crowds. By the point the solar broke over the horizon, the arch was glowing orange, and we had it virtually completely to ourselves. Price each pre-dawn grumble.
Professional tip: Carry a headlamp if you happen to go early or late. There’s no shade, no water, and no forgiveness for unprepared hikers.
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)Problem: ModerateElevation Achieve: 629 ft (192 m)Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Straightforward Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you’re taking if you’re drained, hungry, or touring with youngsters who simply have to see an arch already. It’s a fast loop that serves up among the largest, most accessible arches in Arches Nationwide Park, no sweat required.
We hit it simply earlier than sundown, and the entire space lit up prefer it was on fireplace. The gravel path is easy, and you may get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s an excellent “rest day” hike or the proper first cease if you happen to’re quick on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)Problem: EasyElevation Achieve: 98 ft (30 m)Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the large one. Should you’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is among the greatest hikes in Moab. You’ll hit a number of arches—together with Panorama Arch (longer than a soccer area), Double O Arch, and the secluded Personal Arch. There’s a primitive path and the principle path, so the selection is yours.
The path isn’t technically exhausting, nevertheless it calls for stamina and confidence. Some components are unmarked and require just a little scrambling. We acquired circled as soon as, stood on a ledge questioning if we had been mountain goats, after which high-fived after we discovered our manner.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)Problem: DifficultElevation Achieve: ~500 feetTrailhead: Devils Backyard Trailhead
6. Grand View Level Path: High Sundown Hike in Canyonlands
Grand View Level lives as much as the identify. This path, positioned within the Island within the Sky district of Canyonlands Nationwide Park, is brief, simple, and ridiculously scenic. You’ll stroll alongside the sting of a cliffside mesa with panoramic views that stretch all the way in which to the La Sal Mountains and past.
We introduced snacks, parked ourselves on the last overlook, and watched the whole desert ground flip gold. Should you’re selecting one simple hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)Problem: EasyElevation Achieve: 160 ft (49 m)Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For a fair higher view of this space, you may need to soar on this tremendous fashionable Helicopter flight which provides you an excellent have a look at this panorama from the sky.
7. Morning Glory Bridge Hike by way of Grandstaff Canyon
If you wish to combine issues up, that is the hike. Morning Glory Bridge sits hidden in Grandstaff Canyon, a lush slice of inexperienced in the midst of pink rock nation. The path winds by willows and cottonwoods, and also you’ll hop throughout a stream greater than as soon as. (Carry water sneakers—you’ll thank us later.)
On the finish, you’re rewarded with a jaw-dropping 243-foot pure bridge. We stayed there for almost an hour, simply watching the sunshine shift and echoing our voices by the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)Problem: ModerateElevation Achieve: ~300 feetTrailhead: Grandstaff Canyon Parking Lot
8. Lifeless Horse Level Rim Loop: Canyon Views With out Crowds
Think about standing on a cliff 2,000 ft above the Colorado River with nobody else round. That’s Lifeless Horse Level. Whereas the overlook pulls within the crowds, the Rim Loop Path stays surprisingly quiet, regardless of providing nonstop views that rival the Grand Canyon.
We looped this path in simply over two hours and barely handed one other soul. The dramatic drop-offs and sweeping bends within the river under made it one in every of our favourite hikes in Moab for images. Simply don’t neglect your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)Problem: ModerateElevation Achieve: 908 ft (277 m)Trailhead: Basin Overlook Parking Space (Lifeless Horse Level State Park)
9. Double Arch Path: Best Hike in Arches Nationwide Park
Double Arch is perhaps the simplest hike in Arches Nationwide Park—nevertheless it’s removed from boring. This quick path leads you to an enormous twin arch that’s as tall as a four-story constructing and ideal for scrambling underneath.
We did this one at excessive midday (not advisable!) and nonetheless cherished it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two large stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. Should you’re quick on time or touring with youngsters, that is the proper “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)Problem: EasyElevation Achieve: 95 ft (29 m)Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
Should you’re chasing that excellent Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This quick, well-marked path results in one of the vital well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines by the arch, lighting up the pink canyon under prefer it’s been set on fireplace.
We arrived at Canyonlands Nationwide Park at midnight with headlamps and joined a quiet line of sleepy hikers ready for the present. And when it hit? Absolute magic. Even if you happen to’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is well worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)Problem: EasyElevation Achieve: 88 ft (27 m)Trailhead: Mesa Arch Parking Lot (Island within the Sky, Canyonlands)
11. Mill Creek Path: Swim and Hike Simply Minutes from Moab
Want a break from pink rock and dry warmth? Mill Creek is your oasis. This simple path follows a shallow creek previous small waterfalls, shady groves, and secret swimming spots simply minutes from downtown Moab. Sure—actual water within the desert.
We did this one in flip-flops and bathing fits, and it felt like we’d stumbled into an area secret. It’s a brief hike however tremendous rewarding, particularly if you happen to’re touring in summer time and want a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 milesDifficulty: EasyElevation Achieve: 66 ft (20 m)Trailhead: Mill Creek Trailhead (East of Moab)
12. Fiery Furnace Path: The Most Complicated Hike in Moab
This one’s not likely a path, it’s a labyrinth. Fiery Furnace is a sandstone maze of tight slot canyons, tunnels, and arches that may check your navigation abilities. It’s quick in distance, however don’t let that idiot you. You’ll get misplaced, and that’s half the enjoyable.
We joined a ranger-guided hike (extremely advisable), and nonetheless discovered ourselves doing the previous “wait, have we been here already?” routine. However between the echoing canyons and otherworldly formations, this is among the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Be aware: You want a allow or to guide a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 milesDifficulty: Reasonable (Navigation-heavy)Elevation Achieve: ~300 feetTrailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Regularly Requested Questions About Mountaineering in Moab
So, now you’ve acquired some mountaineering path inspiration, what else ought to ? We’ve ready some essential solutions to widespread questions on Moab hikes.
What’s it like mountaineering in Moab?
Mountaineering in Moab is adventurous, dry, and filled with dramatic pink rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s top-of-the-line mountaineering locations within the U.S. Be ready for excessive climate, restricted shade, and occasional flash floods—particularly in slot canyons.
What ought to I pack for mountaineering in Moab?
Necessities for mountaineering in Moab embrace a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first assist equipment, sturdy mountaineering boots, and water sneakers for creek trails. Flashlights or headlamps are additionally helpful for dawn and sundown hikes.
What’s the best hike in Moab?
Double Arch Path is the simplest hike in Moab. It’s simply 0.6 miles (1 km) round-trip with 95 ft of elevation acquire and results in one of many park’s most spectacular arches. Home windows Loop is one other beginner-friendly possibility with nice views and easy accessibility.
When is one of the best time to hike in Moab?
Spring (March to Could) and fall (September to November) are one of the best occasions to hike in Moab. These seasons supply cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path circumstances in comparison with the intense warmth of summer time or snow in winter.
The place ought to I keep when mountaineering in Moab?
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Funds choices embrace campgrounds and RV websites. Purple Cliffs Lodge is a superb mid-range lodge with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab presents a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and easy accessibility to city.
And if you happen to’ve acquired quite a lot of days to spare, don’t cease at Moab. Utah is full of jaw-dropping parks simply ready to blow your mountaineering boots off—Zion Nationwide Park, Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park, Capitol Reef Nationwide Park, Goblin Valley… and doubtless just a few hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the highway, and pleased mountaineering.
