If you’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it flawed. This desert city is a mecca for out of doors journey, dwelling to among the most unbelievable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether 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 climbing boots off. This is your go-to path information for Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point, and secret native favorites that don’t make each checklist.
Let’s dive in.
Jump to the Best Hikes in Moab
Compare the Best Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Trail: Best Short Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers appears to be like like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This brief path winds round towering purple spires which have been 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. But the payoff? Incredible views throughout. The closing overlook provides you a panoramic shot of your entire 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)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: 448 toesTrailhead: Fisher Towers Picnic Area
2. Hidden Valley Trail: 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, but it surely must 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.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: 1469 toes (448 m)Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
If you solely do one hike in Moab, make it this one. Delicate Arch is the famous person of Arches National Park—and simply the most effective hikes in Moab. The 3-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 time the solar broke over the horizon, the arch was glowing orange, and we had it virtually fully to ourselves. Worth each pre-dawn grumble.
Pro tip: Bring a headlamp in case you go early or late. There’s no shade, no water, and no forgiveness for unprepared hikers.
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: 629 toes (192 m)Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Windows Loop: Easy Family Hike
This 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 National 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 important “rest day” hike or the right first cease in case you’re brief on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)Difficulty: EasyElevation Gain: 98 toes (30 m)Trailhead: The Windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Garden Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Adventure
This is the large one. If you’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Garden is among the finest hikes in Moab. You’ll hit a number of arches—together with Landscape Arch (longer than a soccer discipline), Double O Arch, and the secluded Private Arch. There is a primitive path and the principle path, so the selection is yours.
The path isn’t technically laborious, but it surely calls for stamina and confidence. Some components are unmarked and require a bit 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)Difficulty: TroublesomeElevation Gain: ~500 toesTrailhead: Devils Garden Trailhead
6. Grand View Point Trail: Top Sunset Hike in Canyonlands
Grand View Point lives as much as the title. This path, positioned within the Island within the Sky district of Canyonlands National 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 your entire desert flooring flip gold. If you’re selecting one straightforward hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)Difficulty: EasyElevation Gain: 160 toes (49 m)Trailhead: Grand View Point Trailhead
For a good higher view of this space, you may need to bounce on this tremendous fashionable Helicopter flight which supplies you an important have a look at this panorama from the sky.
7. Morning Glory Bridge Hike by way of Grandstaff Canyon
If you need 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 purple rock nation. The path winds via willows and cottonwoods, and also you’ll hop throughout a stream greater than as soon as. (Bring water footwear—you’ll thank us later.)
At the tip, 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)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: ~300 toesTrailhead: Grandstaff Canyon Parking Lot
8. Dead Horse Point Rim Loop: Canyon Views Without Crowds
Imagine standing on a cliff 2,000 toes above the Colorado River with nobody else round. That’s Dead Horse Point. While the overlook pulls within the crowds, the Rim Loop Trail 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. Just don’t neglect your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: 908 toes (277 m)Trailhead: Basin Overlook Parking Area (Dead Horse Point State Park)
9. Double Arch Trail: Easiest Hike in Arches National Park
Double Arch may be the simplest hike in Arches National Park—but it surely’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 beneath.
We did this one at excessive midday (not advisable!) and nonetheless liked it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two big stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. If you’re brief on time or touring with children, that is the right “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)Difficulty: EasyElevation Gain: 95 toes (29 m)Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Area
10. Mesa Arch Sunrise Trail in Canyonlands
If you’re chasing that excellent Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This brief, well-marked path results in one of the crucial well-known dawn views in Utah. As the solar rises, it shines via the arch, lighting up the purple canyon under prefer it’s been set on fireplace.
We arrived at Canyonlands National Park at the hours of darkness with headlamps and joined a quiet line of sleepy hikers ready for the present. And when it hit? Absolute magic. Even in case you’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is definitely worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)Difficulty: EasyElevation Gain: 88 toes (27 m)Trailhead: Mesa Arch Parking Lot (Island within the Sky, Canyonlands)
11. Mill Creek Trail: Swim and Hike Just Minutes from Moab
Need a break from purple 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. Yes—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 case you’re touring in summer time and want a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 milesDifficulty: EasyElevation Gain: 66 toes (20 m)Trailhead: Mill Creek Trailhead (East of Moab)
12. Fiery Furnace Trail: The Most Confusing 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 may check 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 advisable), and nonetheless discovered ourselves doing the previous “wait, have we been here already?” routine. But between the echoing canyons and otherworldly formations, this is among the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Note: You want a allow or to e book a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 milesDifficulty: Moderate (Navigation-heavy)Elevation Gain: ~300 toesTrailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in Moab
So, now you’ve bought some climbing path inspiration, what else ought to you understand? We’ve ready some essential solutions to widespread questions on Moab hikes.
What is it like climbing in Moab?
Hiking in Moab is adventurous, dry, and stuffed with dramatic purple rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s the most effective climbing 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 climbing in Moab?
Essentials for climbing in Moab embrace a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first support equipment, sturdy climbing boots, and water footwear for creek trails. Flashlights or headlamps are additionally helpful for dawn and sundown hikes.
What is the simplest hike in Moab?
Double Arch Trail is the simplest hike in Moab. It’s simply 0.6 miles (1 km) round-trip with 95 toes of elevation achieve and results in one of many park’s most spectacular arches. Windows Loop is one other beginner-friendly choice with nice views and quick access.
When is the most effective time to hike in Moab?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the most effective instances 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.
Where ought to I keep when climbing in Moab?
Stay close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Budget choices embrace campgrounds and RV websites. Red 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 quick access to city.
And in case you’ve bought various days to spare, don’t cease at Moab. Utah is filled with jaw-dropping parks simply ready to blow your climbing boots off—Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley… and possibly a couple of hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the highway, and blissful climbing.