Editor’s Pick · Destination Guide
Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah, is the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and Dead Horse Point State Park, all designated International Dark Sky Parks. Spring and fall are the prime seasons, with milder temperatures than the hot summer. In 2026, Arches does not require timed-entry reservations, though Fiery Furnace hikes and Devils Garden Campground still need reservations and vehicles may be diverted when the park is congested.
Official visitor informationThe light does strange things in Moab. At sunrise the sandstone fins north of town glow like embers, by midday the Colorado River runs green-brown between thousand-foot walls, and after dark the Milky Way pours across a sky so black you can see your shadow by starlight. This small eastern Utah town sits at the doorstep of two national parks, and almost every road out of it leads to a view that stops you cold.
Moab is our Editor's Pick for red rock adventure, whether that means an easy walk to a famous arch, a mountain bike ride on slickrock or a quiet night under the stars.
Why is Moab worth visiting?
Moab puts Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park within a short drive of one walkable downtown. Few places in the country offer so much protected desert scenery so close together.
Arches holds more than 2,000 natural stone arches, while Canyonlands spreads across vast mesas and canyons carved by the Colorado and Green rivers. Add the Colorado River corridor along Scenic Byway 128, and you could spend weeks here without repeating a view.
When is the best time to visit Moab?
Spring and fall are Moab's prime seasons, with comfortable daytime temperatures for hiking and biking. Summer is very hot, and winter is quiet, cold and surprisingly beautiful.
- Spring: Typically March through May, with mild days and the busiest trails of the year. Book lodging early, especially around holidays and school breaks.
- Summer: Daytime heat is intense, so hike at dawn, carry plenty of water and save midday for river trips or shade. Summer nights are excellent for stargazing.
- Fall: September and October bring cooler air, golden cottonwoods along the river and strong demand for lodging.
- Winter: Fewer visitors, crisp air and occasional snow dusting the red rock. Some trails can be icy, and some services keep shorter hours.
Do you need a reservation for Arches National Park in 2026?
No. The National Park Service announced that timed-entry reservations are not required at Arches in 2026, so visitors may enter any time during operating hours.
Reservations are still required for Devils Garden Campground and for both self-guided and ranger-led Fiery Furnace hikes, and the park may temporarily divert vehicles from the entrance when it becomes too congested. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is the best way to avoid lines. Check the official Arches website for current conditions before you go.
What are the top things to do in Moab?
Arches National Park
Hike to Delicate Arch, Utah's most famous landmark, for sunset, or explore the Windows Section and Double Arch on shorter walks. The Devils Garden Trail leads to Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world.
Canyonlands National Park
The Island in the Sky district, about 30 miles from Moab, is the easiest to reach. Mesa Arch at sunrise and the Grand View Point Overlook are classic stops, and the overlooks reveal canyons dropping toward the White Rim.
Dead Horse Point State Park
On the way to Island in the Sky, this state park overlooks a gooseneck of the Colorado River some 2,000 feet below. It is a favorite at sunset and after dark.
Stargazing
Canyonlands, Arches and Dead Horse Point are all designated International Dark Sky Parks. Ranger programs and dark sky events are offered seasonally, but a pull-off and a blanket away from town lights work wonderfully too.
Rivers, bikes and four-wheel drive
Local outfitters run Colorado River float and whitewater trips, mountain bike rentals and guided off-road tours. The Slickrock Trail is a legendary test for experienced riders.
Where should you eat and stay in Moab?
Main Street is lined with cafes, brewpubs, Mexican and Southwestern restaurants and spots for a hearty post-hike meal. Lodging spans motels, chain hotels, river ranches, vacation rentals and campgrounds on public lands. Book well ahead for spring and fall.
How do you get to Moab?
Moab is on U.S. 191, roughly 30 miles south of Interstate 70. Canyonlands Regional Airport just north of town has limited commercial service, while Grand Junction, Colorado, is about a two-hour drive and Salt Lake City about four hours.
Plan your visit
- Official visitor site: DiscoverMoab.com for lodging, dining, events and trip ideas
- Park info: Arches National Park for entry rules and alerts
- Best for: hiking, mountain biking, river trips and stargazing
- Tip: Carry more water than you think you need, in every season
Find more Editor's Pick guides in our destinations directory, or browse more national parks stories.
Frequently asked questions
- Does Arches National Park require timed entry in 2026?
- No. Arches does not require timed-entry reservations in 2026. Reservations are still needed for Fiery Furnace hikes and Devils Garden Campground, and vehicles may be diverted when the park is congested.
- What is the best time of year to visit Moab?
- Spring and fall are generally the best times, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and biking. Summer is very hot, and winter is quiet and cold.
- How far is Canyonlands from Moab?
- The Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands is about 30 miles from Moab, typically a drive of around 40 minutes. Dead Horse Point State Park is along the way.
- Is Moab good for stargazing?
- Yes. Canyonlands, Arches and Dead Horse Point State Park are all designated International Dark Sky Parks, offering exceptionally dark skies near town.
- What is the most famous hike in Arches National Park?
- The hike to Delicate Arch is the park's most famous trail. It is about 3 miles round trip with steady elevation gain and little shade.