In the event 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, house to among the most unimaginable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not you’re chasing iconic arches, hidden canyons, or epic rim views, the most effective hikes in Moab ship all of it.
We’ve hiked them. We’ve sweated via them. And now we’re sharing the 12 finest Moab hikes, from beginner-friendly trails to backcountry routes that’ll blow your mountain climbing boots off. That is your go-to path information for Arches Nationwide Park, Canyonlands Nationwide Park, Useless Horse Level, and secret native favorites that don’t make each checklist.
Let’s dive in.
Bounce to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Examine the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Brief Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers seems to be like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This quick path winds round towering crimson spires which were 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 scorching. However the payoff? Unimaginable views during. The ultimate overlook offers you a panoramic shot of your complete 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: Average
Elevation Acquire: 448 ft
Trailhead: 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, however it ought to be. You’ll begin with a steep, no-nonsense climb that’ll get your coronary heart pounding, after which all of the sudden… it opens up into a large, quiet basin ringed by cliffs.
It’s referred to as “Hidden Valley” for a cause. We noticed deer, heard nothing however the wind, and had the entire place to ourselves. Observe the correct fork close to the top to see historical petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Problem: Average
Elevation Acquire: 1469 ft (448 m)
Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
In the event 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. Value each pre-dawn grumble.
Professional tip: Convey a headlamp in the event you go early or late. There’s no shade, no water, and no forgiveness for unprepared hikers.
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Problem: Average
Elevation Acquire: 629 ft (192 m)
Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Straightforward Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you are taking once you’re drained, hungry, or touring with children who simply must 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 hearth. The gravel path is easy, and you will get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s a fantastic “relaxation day” hike or the proper first cease in the event you’re quick on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Problem: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 98 ft (30 m)
Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the massive one. In the event you’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is likely one of the finest hikes in Moab. You’ll hit a number of arches—together with Panorama Arch (longer than a soccer discipline), Double O Arch, and the secluded Non-public Arch. There’s a primitive path and the primary path, so the selection is yours.
The path isn’t technically arduous, however it calls for stamina and confidence. Some components are unmarked and require somewhat scrambling. We acquired circled as soon as, stood on a ledge questioning if we have been mountain goats, after which high-fived once we discovered our approach.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Problem: Tough
Elevation Acquire: ~500 ft
Trailhead: Devils Backyard Trailhead
6. Grand View Level Path: Prime Sundown Hike in Canyonlands
Grand View Level lives as much as the title. This path, situated 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 closing overlook, and watched your complete desert ground flip gold. In the event you’re selecting one simple hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)
Problem: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 160 ft (49 m)
Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For a good higher view of this space, you would possibly wish to bounce on this tremendous well-liked Helicopter flight which supplies you a fantastic 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 course of crimson rock nation. The path winds via willows and cottonwoods, and also you’ll hop throughout a stream greater than as soon as. (Convey water footwear—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 via the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Problem: Average
Elevation Acquire: ~300 ft
Trailhead: Grandstaff Canyon Parking Lot
8. Useless 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 Useless 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 among our favourite hikes in Moab for pictures. Simply don’t overlook your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Problem: Average
Elevation Acquire: 908 ft (277 m)
Trailhead: Basin Overlook Parking Space (Useless Horse Level State Park)
9. Double Arch Path: Best Hike in Arches Nationwide Park
Double Arch may be the best hike in Arches Nationwide Park—however 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 beneficial!) and nonetheless liked it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two big stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. In the event you’re quick on time or touring with children, that is the proper “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Problem: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 95 ft (29 m)
Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
In the event you’re chasing that good 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 via the arch, lighting up the crimson canyon under prefer it’s been set on hearth.
We arrived at Canyonlands Nationwide Park in the dead of night with headlamps and joined a quiet line of sleepy hikers ready for the present. And when it hit? Absolute magic. Even in the event you’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is well worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
Problem: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 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 crimson 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 a neighborhood secret. It’s a brief hike however tremendous rewarding, particularly in the event you’re touring in summer time and wish a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Problem: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 66 ft (20 m)
Trailhead: Mill Creek Trailhead (East of Moab)
12. Fiery Furnace Path: The Most Complicated Hike in Moab
This one’s probably not a path, it’s a labyrinth. Fiery Furnace is a sandstone maze of tight slot canyons, tunnels, and arches that can check your navigation abilities. It’s quick in distance, however don’t let that idiot you. You will get misplaced, and that’s half the enjoyable.
We joined a ranger-guided hike (extremely beneficial), and nonetheless discovered ourselves doing the outdated “wait, have we been right here already?” routine. However between the echoing canyons and otherworldly formations, this is likely one of the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Observe: You want a allow or to guide a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 miles
Problem: Average (Navigation-heavy)
Elevation Acquire: ~300 ft
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Continuously Requested Questions About Mountain climbing in Moab
So, now you’ve acquired some mountain climbing path inspiration, what else ought to you already know? We’ve ready some vital solutions to frequent questions on Moab hikes.
Mountain climbing in Moab is adventurous, dry, and filled with dramatic crimson rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s top-of-the-line mountain climbing locations within the U.S. Be ready for excessive climate, restricted shade, and occasional flash floods—particularly in slot canyons.
Necessities for mountain climbing in Moab embody a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first assist equipment, sturdy mountain climbing boots, and water footwear for creek trails. Flashlights or headlamps are additionally helpful for dawn and sundown hikes.
Double Arch Path is the best 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 quick access.
Spring (March to Might) and fall (September to November) are the most effective occasions to hike in Moab. These seasons supply cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path circumstances in comparison with the acute warmth of summer time or snow in winter.
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Finances choices embody campgrounds and RV websites. Purple Cliffs Lodge is a superb mid-range lodge with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab affords a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and quick access to city.
And in the event you’ve acquired various days to spare, don’t cease at Moab. Utah is filled with jaw-dropping parks simply ready to blow your mountain climbing boots off—Zion Nationwide Park, Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park, Capitol Reef Nationwide Park, Goblin Valley… and possibly just a few hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the highway, and blissful mountain climbing.
