If you happen to’re heading to Moab, Utah, and never planning to hike, you’re doing it unsuitable. This desert city is a mecca for out of doors journey, dwelling to among the most unimaginable landscapes within the American Southwest. Whether or not you’re chasing iconic arches, hidden canyons, or epic rim views, one of the best hikes in Moab ship all of it.
We’ve hiked them. We’ve sweated by them. And now we’re sharing the 12 finest 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 checklist.
Let’s dive in.
Soar to the Greatest Hikes in Moab
Examine the Greatest Moab Hikes
1. Fisher Towers Path: Greatest Brief 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 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 right through. The ultimate overlook offers you a panoramic shot of your complete 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 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, however it needs to be. You’ll begin with a steep, no-nonsense climb that’ll get your coronary heart pounding, after which all of a sudden… 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 suitable fork close to the top to see historical petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: 1469 toes (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 celebrity of Arches Nationwide Park—and simply top-of-the-line 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 for those who 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 toes (192 m)
Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
4. Home windows Loop: Straightforward Household Hike
That is the Moab hike you are taking once you’re drained, hungry, or touring with youngsters 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 hearth. The gravel path is clean, and you will get nice views with out a lot effort. It’s an important “relaxation day” hike or the proper first cease for those who’re brief on time.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 98 toes (30 m)
Trailhead: The Home windows Loop Trailhead
5. Devils Backyard Primitive Loop: Epic Full-Day Journey
That is the large one. If you happen to’re up for a full-day journey with jaw-dropping surroundings and fewer crowds, Devils Backyard is without doubt one of 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 laborious, however it calls for stamina and confidence. Some components are unmarked and require a little 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 method.
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Issue: Tough
Elevation Acquire: ~500 toes
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, situated 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 ultimate overlook, and watched your complete desert ground flip gold. If you happen to’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 toes (49 m)
Trailhead: Grand View Level Trailhead
For a good higher view of this space, you would possibly need to soar on this tremendous in style Helicopter flight which provides you an important have 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 purple rock nation. The path winds by 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 the canyon.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: ~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 one among our favourite hikes in Moab for images. Simply don’t neglect your water, shade is scarce.
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Issue: Average
Elevation Acquire: 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 may 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 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 proper “wow” hike.
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 95 toes (29 m)
Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Space
10. Mesa Arch Dawn Path in Canyonlands
If you happen to’re chasing that good Instagram shot, Mesa Arch delivers. This brief, well-marked path results in one of the crucial well-known dawn views in Utah. Because the solar rises, it shines by 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 for those who’re not an early riser, Mesa Arch is well worth the effort.
Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 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 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 for those who’re touring in summer time and wish a fast cooldown.
Distance: 2 miles
Issue: Straightforward
Elevation Acquire: 66 toes (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 can 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 really helpful), 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 without doubt one of the most unforgettable hikes in Moab.
Notice: 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 toes
Trailhead: Fiery Furnace Trailhead (Arches NP)
Continuously Requested Questions About Mountain climbing in Moab
So, now you’ve acquired some mountaineering path inspiration, what else ought to you already know? We’ve ready some necessary solutions to widespread questions on Moab hikes.
Mountain climbing in Moab is adventurous, dry, and filled with dramatic purple rock surroundings. With canyons, arches, and slick rock trails, it’s top-of-the-line 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 assist 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 toes 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 Could) and fall (September to November) are one of the best 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.
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 affords a luxurious stick with a pool, spa, and easy accessibility to city.
And for those who’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 possibly just a few hidden gems we haven’t even stumbled throughout but. So lace up, hit the street, and glad mountaineering.
