In case you’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it unsuitable. This desert city is a mecca for outside journey, residence to a few of the most unimaginable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not you’re chasing iconic arches, hidden canyons, or epic rim views, the perfect 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 finest Moab hikes, from beginner-friendly trails to backcountry routes that’ll blow your mountain 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 checklist.
Let’s dive in.
Bounce to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Evaluate the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Brief Scenic Hike in Moab
Fisher Towers seems to be like Mars determined to construct a skyline. This quick path winds round towering purple 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 sizzling. However the payoff? Unimaginable views all through. The ultimate 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)
Problem: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 448 toes
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, but it surely must be. You’ll begin with a steep, no-nonsense climb that’ll get your coronary heart pounding, after which abruptly… 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. Observe the proper fork close to the top to see historic petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Problem: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 1469 toes (448 m)
Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
3. Delicate Arch (Arches NP)
In case you solely do one hike in Moab, make it this one. Delicate Arch is the famous person of Arches Nationwide Park—and simply the most effective 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 completely 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)
Problem: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 629 toes (192 m)
Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Simple Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you’re taking once you’re drained, hungry, or touring with youngsters who simply have to 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 hearth. The gravel path is easy, and you may get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s an important “relaxation day” hike or the proper first cease when you’re quick on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Problem: Simple
Elevation Achieve: 98 toes (30 m)
Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the large one. In case you’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is likely one of the finest hikes in Moab. You’ll hit a number of arches—together with Panorama Arch (longer than a soccer discipline), 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 onerous, but it surely calls for stamina and confidence. Some elements are unmarked and require slightly scrambling. We obtained circled as soon as, stood on a ledge questioning if we have been mountain goats, after which high-fived after we discovered our approach.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Problem: Tough
Elevation Achieve: ~500 toes
Trailhead: Devils Backyard Trailhead
6. Grand View Level Path: Prime 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 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. In case you’re selecting one straightforward hike for an unforgettable sundown, that is it.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km spherical journey)
Problem: Simple
Elevation Achieve: 160 toes (49 m)
Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For an excellent higher view of this space, you would possibly need to soar on this tremendous widespread Helicopter flight which provides you an important 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 course of purple 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 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 by way of the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Problem: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: ~300 toes
Trailhead: Grandstaff Canyon Parking Lot
8. Useless 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 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 under made it considered one of our favourite hikes in Moab for images. Simply don’t overlook your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Problem: Reasonable
Elevation Achieve: 908 toes (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—but it surely’s removed from boring. This quick path leads you to an enormous twin arch that’s as tall as a four-story constructing and excellent for scrambling underneath.
We did this one at excessive midday (not really useful!) and nonetheless cherished it. There’s one thing humbling about standing beneath two large stone arcs which have stood there for millennia. In case you’re quick on time or touring with youngsters, that is the proper “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Problem: Simple
Elevation Achieve: 95 toes (29 m)
Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
In case you’re chasing that excellent Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This quick, well-marked path results in one of the crucial well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines by way of the arch, lighting up the purple canyon under prefer it’s been set on hearth.
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)
Problem: Simple
Elevation 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 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. 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 when you’re touring in summer season and wish a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Problem: Simple
Elevation 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 not likely 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 quick 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 really useful), 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.
Be aware: You want a allow or to e-book a ranger-led tour to hike right here legally.
Distance: 2 miles
Problem: Reasonable (Navigation-heavy)
Elevation Achieve: ~300 toes
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Often Requested Questions About Climbing in Moab
So, now you’ve obtained some mountain climbing path inspiration, what else ought to you already know? We’ve ready some essential solutions to widespread questions on Moab hikes.
Climbing in Moab is adventurous, dry, and stuffed with dramatic purple rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s the most effective mountain climbing locations within the U.S. Be ready for excessive climate, restricted shade, and occasional flash floods—particularly in slot canyons.
Necessities for mountain climbing in Moab embrace a hydration pack or water bottle, solar safety (hat, sunscreen, sun shades), layered clothes, insect repellent, first assist package, sturdy mountain climbing boots, and water sneakers 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 toes of elevation achieve and results in one of many park’s most spectacular arches. Home windows Loop is one other beginner-friendly choice with nice views and quick access.
Spring (March to Might) and fall (September to November) are the perfect occasions 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.
Keep close to Arches or Canyonlands for early path entry. Funds choices embrace campgrounds and RV websites. Crimson Cliffs Lodge is a superb mid-range resort with excursions and nice views, whereas Hoodoo Moab presents a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and quick access to city.
And when you’ve obtained various days to spare, don’t cease at Moab. Utah is full of jaw-dropping parks simply ready to blow your mountain climbing 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 pleased mountain climbing.
