Mystical Moab: A Beginners Guide

All you die-hards out there are probably familiar with Moab. A spot that has long been the mecca for mountain bikers and National Park goers. But for those of you who are new to outdoor, this growing destination might not be on your radar. With more people wanting to unplug and the glamping + wellness scene booming, Moab is oh-so-hot-right-now. It’s the perfect place to fill your heart with adventure. The area offers kayaking, rafting, SUP, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, swimming holes and more. Here’s my go-to guide to all things Moab, for the Moab curious.

HIKES

Delicate Arch: Arguably the most popular hike in Moab and probably the most photographed arch. This hike is inside Arches National Park. Another spot that shouldn’t be missed (lots to see at ANP). It’s about 3 miles out and back. I did this hike with my dad and he handled it like a boss. I’d say the level is moderate — due to some steep inclines on slickrock. There is little to no shade so if it’s toasty outside make sure to bring plenty of water.
Corona Arch: I adore this hike. It might be my favorite. It’s fairly easy and just about 3 miles roudtrip. The ladder and cable aid make a few short climbing sections super fun. The arch at the end is gigantic and in my opinion, is more beautiful than Delicate Arch.
Mesa Arch: This little trail loop is located in Canyonlands. It’s most magical during first light or golden hour.
Jeep Arch: A lesser known hike that is dog-friendly and fairly private. It is also close to Golden Bar campground where we stayed. It is a good option if you want to be more alone. There is no official sign but the parking area is just past Corona Arch. After parking, you walk through a culvert under the railroad tracks and then follow the sign for the Jeep Arch Trail. Follow the cairns closely. They will guide you.
Negro Bill Canyon: This hike follows a small stream in a canyon. The hike terminates at a stunning 243-foot long natural bridge. It is a great one for dogs since the hike follows cool water for them to play in.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Dead Horse Point State Park: Breaktaking views of the canyon, Colorado River, buttes and Canyonlands. It is one of the most scenic vistas photographed in the world. There are a few developed dog-friendly hiking trails and spots for mountain biking as well. But mostly, I like to just park the car, bring a blanket and watch the sunset.

EATS

Eklecticafe: A good spot for breakfast with GF and veggie options. When the weather is nice it is a great place to sit outside.
Quesadilla Mobilla: Moab’s most popular food truck. We ate here twice the last time we came to town. It’s vegan-friendly, quick and absolutely delicious. It lives up to the hype. The quesadillas are hearty and full of cheesy goodness. Lines can be long but it is totally worth it. As someone who loves to dip, I was stoked to hear they had several sauce options.
Lops Pop Stop: A cute little drink drive-thru with super delicious sodas, shakes and desserts.
Moab Garage Co: A fun atmosphere, great coffee and good ice cream.
Sabaku Sushi: When in Moab and craving sushi, look no further. Expect an interesting menu, intimate setting and great service.
Spitfire Smokehouse: Tasty BBQ in the desert. According to my meat eating friends, they have great pulled pork. It has more of a backyard feel than a dining establishment, which is the best way to enjoy BBQ.

WATER

Mill Creek: One of the most popular watering holes in Moab, the creek/waterfall makes for great swimming in the hotter months. It requires about a 1-mile-ish hike to the best swimming spots so be prepared to hike in a little.
Ken’s Lake: A small man-made lake south of Moab. A good place for a swim or some SUP.

SHOPS

Moab Rock Shop: I could have spent hours here looking at all the rocks + crystals. The prices are really good/fair. When I was there they had a large $1-$3 table, with really pretty pocket-sized stones. Many of the rocks I saw here were marked up triple while in Sedona.
Moab Made: Pretty handmade items made by local artisans.

CAMPGROUNDS

Big Bend Campground: Riverfront views + a sandy beach.
Goose Island: The area has good shade in the summer and a paved bike trail that runs from the campground along the river into the town of Moab.
Gold Bar campground: This is where we camped for two days. We loved the location as it is right at the base of the Corona Arch Trailhead. The campground is situated along the Colorado River with sandy areas — our dogs really enjoyed swimming in the river.

HOTELS

Homewood Suites by Hilton: We stayed here one night while on our trip. We really loved the location. It was right next to the best restaurants and stores in town. They have a good gym with spacious modern suites with all the essentials.
Under Canvas: I’ve never personally stayed here but I do know that their tent accommodations are goals. They are indeed lux. If you’re looking for a luxurious segway to camping … this might be the way to go. The last I checked, you could get the safari room with 4 twin beds for a little over $200/night. Sounds like a fun girls trip to me!

RECREATION

Mountain Biking: Chance and I did the Bar M Loop. We rented bikes from Moab Cylcery. The customer service was really good. They were super helpful and the prices were better than spots down the road. If you’re fit and up for it, you can ride the path from town to the loop. It is a little aggressive (I think it is over 10 miles from town to Bar M) but it can be done and I find the path to be really enjoyable.