Should you’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it fallacious. This desert city is a mecca for out of doors journey, dwelling to a number of the most unbelievable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not you’re chasing iconic arches, hidden canyons, or epic rim views, the very best hikes in Moab ship all of it.
We’ve hiked them. We’ve sweated via 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, Useless Horse Level, and secret native favorites that don’t make each listing.
Let’s dive in.
Soar 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 brief path winds round towering crimson spires which were carved by centuries of wind and water, they usually’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 throughout. The ultimate overlook provides you a panoramic shot of all the 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: Average
Elevation Achieve: 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 out of the blue… it opens up into a large, quiet basin ringed by cliffs.
It’s referred to as “Hidden Valley” for a purpose. We noticed deer, heard nothing however the wind, and had the entire place to ourselves. Observe the fitting fork close to the tip to see historical petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation 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 among the finest 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 solely 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)
Issue: Average
Elevation Achieve: 629 ft (192 m)
Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Simple Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you are taking once you’re drained, hungry, or touring with children who simply have to see an arch already. It’s a fast loop that serves up a number 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 easy, and you will get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s an awesome “relaxation day” hike or the right first cease if you happen to’re brief on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Issue: Simple
Elevation 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 likely one of the greatest hikes in Moab. You’ll hit a number of arches—together with Panorama Arch (longer than a soccer subject), 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 elements are unmarked and require slightly scrambling. We bought rotated as soon as, stood on a ledge questioning if we had been mountain goats, after which high-fived after we discovered our approach.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Issue: Troublesome
Elevation Achieve: ~500 ft
Trailhead: 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 best way to the La Sal Mountains and past.
We introduced snacks, parked ourselves on the remaining overlook, and watched all the desert flooring flip gold. Should you’re selecting one simple hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)
Issue: Simple
Elevation Achieve: 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 fashionable Helicopter flight which provides you an awesome take 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 crimson rock nation. The path winds via 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 practically an hour, simply watching the sunshine shift and echoing our voices via the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Achieve: ~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 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: Average
Elevation Achieve: 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 is likely to be the best hike in Arches Nationwide Park—however it’s removed from boring. This brief path leads you to an enormous twin arch that’s as tall as a four-story constructing and excellent for scrambling below.
We did this one at excessive midday (not beneficial!) and nonetheless beloved it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two large stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. Should you’re brief on time or touring with children, that is the right “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Issue: Simple
Elevation 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 brief, well-marked path results in probably the most well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines via the arch, lighting up the crimson 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 if you happen to’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is well worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
Issue: Simple
Elevation 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 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 if you happen to’re touring in summer season and want a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Simple
Elevation 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 can check your navigation expertise. It’s brief 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 previous “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.
Notice: You want a allow or to ebook a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Average (Navigation-heavy)
Elevation Achieve: ~300 ft
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Incessantly Requested Questions About Mountaineering in Moab
So, now you’ve bought some mountaineering path inspiration, what else ought to you realize? We’ve ready some necessary solutions to widespread questions on Moab hikes.
Mountaineering in Moab is adventurous, dry, and stuffed with dramatic crimson rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s among the finest mountaineering locations within the U.S. Be ready for excessive climate, restricted shade, and occasional flash floods—particularly in slot canyons.
Necessities for mountaineering in Moab embody a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first support equipment, sturdy mountaineering boots, and water sneakers 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 choice with nice views and easy accessibility.
Spring (March to Might) and fall (September to November) are the very best occasions to hike in Moab. These seasons supply cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path circumstances in comparison with the acute warmth of summer season or snow in winter.
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Funds choices embody campgrounds and RV websites. Crimson Cliffs Lodge is a superb mid-range lodge with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab gives a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and easy accessibility to city.
And if you happen to’ve bought 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 a couple of hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the highway, and comfortable mountaineering.
