For those who’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it improper. This desert city is a mecca for out of doors journey, house to a few of 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 checklist.
Let’s dive in.
Leap to the Finest Hikes in Moab
Examine the Finest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Finest Quick Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers appears like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This quick path winds round towering pink 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 sizzling. However the payoff? Unimaginable views all over. The ultimate overlook provides 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)Issue: 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, however it ought to be. You’ll begin with a steep, no-nonsense climb that’ll get your coronary heart pounding, after which immediately… it opens up into a large, quiet basin ringed by cliffs.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)Issue: ModerateElevation Achieve: 1469 toes (448 m)Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
For those who solely do one hike in Moab, make it this one. Delicate Arch is the celebrity of Arches Nationwide Park—and simply probably the greatest 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 nearly totally to ourselves. Price each pre-dawn grumble.
Professional tip: Carry 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)Issue: ModerateElevation Achieve: 629 toes (192 m)Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Straightforward Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you’re taking while you’re drained, hungry, or touring with children who simply must see an arch already. It’s a fast loop that serves up a few of 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 clean, and you will get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s an excellent “rest day” hike or the right first cease in the event you’re quick on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)Issue: EasyElevation Achieve: 98 toes (30 m)Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the massive one. For those who’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is likely one of 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 Non-public Arch. There’s a primitive path and the principle 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 a bit 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 manner.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)Issue: DifficultElevation Achieve: ~500 feetTrailhead: 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, straightforward, and ridiculously scenic. You’ll stroll alongside the sting of a cliffside mesa with panoramic views that stretch all the best way to the La Sal Mountains and past.
We introduced snacks, parked ourselves on the closing overlook, and watched the whole desert ground flip gold. For those who’re selecting one straightforward hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)Issue: EasyElevation Achieve: 160 toes (49 m)Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For an excellent higher view of this space, you may need to soar on this tremendous standard Helicopter flight which provides you an excellent have a look at this panorama from the sky.
7. Morning Glory Bridge Hike through 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 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)Issue: 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 toes 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 beneath made it certainly one of our favourite hikes in Moab for pictures. Simply don’t neglect your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)Issue: ModerateElevation Achieve: 908 toes (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 likely to 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 below.
We did this one at excessive midday (not really useful!) and nonetheless cherished it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two big stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. For those who’re quick on time or touring with children, that is the right “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)Issue: EasyElevation Achieve: 95 toes (29 m)Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
For those who’re chasing that excellent Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This quick, well-marked path results in some of the well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines by the arch, lighting up the pink canyon beneath 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 in the event you’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is definitely worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)Issue: EasyElevation Achieve: 88 toes (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 straightforward 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 in the event you’re touring in summer season and wish a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 milesDifficulty: EasyElevation Achieve: 66 toes (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’re going to get misplaced, and that’s half the enjoyable.
We joined a ranger-guided hike (extremely really useful), and nonetheless discovered ourselves doing the outdated “wait, have we been here already?” routine. However between the echoing canyons and otherworldly formations, this is likely one of the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Notice: 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)
Ceaselessly Requested Questions About Mountaineering in Moab
So, now you’ve acquired some mountaineering path inspiration, what else ought to you already know? 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 probably the greatest 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 embody 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 best hike in Moab. It’s simply 0.6 miles (1 km) round-trip with 95 toes 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 instances to hike in Moab. These seasons provide cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path situations in comparison with the acute warmth of summer season or snow in winter.
The place ought to I keep when mountaineering in Moab?
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Price range choices embody campgrounds and RV websites. Crimson Cliffs Lodge is a superb mid-range resort with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab provides a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and easy accessibility 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 mountaineering 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 completely happy mountaineering.
