If you happen to’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, dwelling to a number of the most unimaginable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not 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 by means of 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. 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.
Bounce to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Evaluate the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Quick Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers seems 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 lovely.
We tackled this one mid-morning and regretted not going earlier—it will get sizzling. However the payoff? Unbelievable views all through. The ultimate overlook offers 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)
Issue: Reasonable
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 immediately… 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 proper fork close to the top to see historic petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Issue: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 1469 ft (448 m)
Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
If you happen to 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 nearly completely to ourselves. Value each pre-dawn grumble.
Professional tip: Carry 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)
Issue: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 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 youngsters who simply must see an arch already. It’s a fast loop that serves up a number of 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 may get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s a fantastic “relaxation day” hike or the right first cease in case you’re brief on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Achieve: 98 ft (30 m)
Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the massive one. If you happen to’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is among the finest 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 Personal Arch. There’s a primitive path and the principle path, so the selection is yours.
The path isn’t technically exhausting, however it calls for stamina and confidence. Some elements are unmarked and require somewhat scrambling. We obtained rotated as soon as, stood on a ledge questioning if we have been mountain goats, after which high-fived once we discovered our means.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Issue: Tough
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 title. This path, positioned 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 way in which to the La Sal Mountains and past.
We introduced snacks, parked ourselves on the remaining overlook, and watched your entire desert ground flip gold. If you happen to’re selecting one straightforward hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Achieve: 160 ft (49 m)
Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For an excellent higher view of this space, you would possibly need to bounce on this tremendous well-liked Helicopter flight which supplies you a fantastic take 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 midst of pink rock nation. The path winds by means of willows and cottonwoods, and also you’ll hop throughout a stream greater than as soon as. (Carry 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 practically an hour, simply watching the sunshine shift and echoing our voices by means of the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Reasonable
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 one in every of our favourite hikes in Moab for pictures. Simply don’t neglect your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Reasonable
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 perhaps the simplest 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 beneath.
We did this one at excessive midday (not really helpful!) and nonetheless beloved it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two big stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. If you happen to’re brief on time or touring with youngsters, that is the right “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Achieve: 95 ft (29 m)
Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
If you happen to’re chasing that excellent Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This brief, well-marked path results in one of the vital well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines by means of the arch, lighting up the pink canyon beneath prefer it’s been set on fireplace.
We arrived at Canyonlands Nationwide 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)
Issue: Straightforward
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 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 a neighborhood secret. It’s a brief hike however tremendous rewarding, particularly in case you’re touring in summer season and want a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Straightforward
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 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 expertise. It’s brief 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 helpful), 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 among the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Word: You want a allow or to ebook a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Reasonable (Navigation-heavy)
Elevation Achieve: ~300 ft
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Often Requested Questions About Mountain climbing in Moab
So, now you’ve obtained some climbing path inspiration, what else ought to you already know? We’ve ready some essential solutions to frequent questions on Moab hikes.
What’s it like climbing in Moab?
Mountain 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 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?
Necessities for climbing in Moab embody a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first help equipment, sturdy climbing boots, and water footwear 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 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 easy accessibility.
When is the most effective time to hike in Moab?
Spring (March to Might) and fall (September to November) are the most effective occasions to hike in Moab. These seasons supply cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and safer path circumstances in comparison with the intense warmth of summer season or snow in winter.
The place ought to I keep when climbing in Moab?
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Funds choices embody campgrounds and RV websites. Purple Cliffs Lodge is a good mid-range lodge with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab provides a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and easy accessibility to city.
And in case you’ve obtained 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 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 glad climbing.
