For those who’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it incorrect. 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, the very best hikes in Moab ship all of it.
We’ve hiked them. We’ve sweated by way of 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.
Soar to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Evaluate the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Quick Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers seems to be like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This brief path winds round towering pink spires which were carved by centuries of wind and water, they usually’re as weird as they’re stunning.
We tackled this one mid-morning and regretted not going earlier—it will get scorching. However the payoff? Unbelievable views right through. 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: 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, nevertheless it needs 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 known as “Hidden Valley” for a cause. We noticed deer, heard nothing however the wind, and had the entire place to ourselves. Comply with the precise fork close to the tip to see historic petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: 1469 ft (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 famous person 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: Convey a headlamp when you 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 Acquire: 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 children who simply must see an arch already. It’s a fast loop that serves up among the greatest, 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 when you’re brief on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Issue: 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 large 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, nevertheless 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 after we discovered our means.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Issue: Troublesome
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 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 flooring flip gold. For those who’re selecting one simple hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 160 ft (49 m)
Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For an excellent higher view of this space, you would possibly wish to soar on this tremendous in style Helicopter flight which provides you an awesome 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 way of 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 by way of the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: ~300 ft
Trailhead: 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 pictures. Simply don’t overlook your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: 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 likely to be the simplest hike in Arches Nationwide Park—nevertheless 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 cherished it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two large stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. For those who’re brief on time or touring with children, that is the right “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 95 ft (29 m)
Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
For those who’re chasing that good 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 by way of the arch, lighting up the pink canyon under prefer it’s been set on fireplace.
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 when you’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is well worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
Issue: 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 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 when you’re touring in summer time and want a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: 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 not likely a path, it’s a labyrinth. Fiery Furnace is a sandstone maze of tight slot canyons, tunnels, and arches that can take a look at your navigation abilities. 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 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.
Word: You want a allow or to e book a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Average (Navigation-heavy)
Elevation Acquire: ~300 ft
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Incessantly Requested Questions About Climbing in Moab
So, now you’ve acquired some mountaineering path inspiration, what else ought to ? We’ve ready some vital solutions to frequent questions on Moab hikes.
Climbing in Moab is adventurous, dry, and stuffed with dramatic pink 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 embrace a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first assist package, sturdy mountaineering boots, and water footwear for creek trails. Flashlights or headlamps are additionally helpful for dawn and sundown hikes.
Double Arch Path is the simplest hike in Moab. It’s simply 0.6 miles (1 km) round-trip with 95 ft of elevation achieve 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 very best instances to hike in Moab. These seasons supply cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path situations in comparison with the intense warmth of summer time or snow in winter.
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Funds choices embrace campgrounds and RV websites. Purple Cliffs Lodge is a good mid-range resort with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab gives a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and quick access to city.
And when 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 doubtless a number of hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the highway, and completely satisfied mountaineering.
