10 Moab Hikes With Stunning Landscapes | Explore the Best of Utah

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Nothing beats the joy of being out in nature, exploring gorgeous landscapes. The U.S. Western region has plenty of stunning locations to explore, some of which can be found in Utah.

If you love outdoor adventures and are looking for some inspiration for your next one, Moab is the place to go. Moab is a unique town with loads of charm and character and is also an entry point to two of America’s most famous national parks.

Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park feature stunning hiking trails to explore and enjoy. By providing a gateway to both national parks, Moab itself becomes a sought-after destination.

Besides offering relatively cheap vacation spots, the Moab area is ideal for nature-inspired retreats where you can relax, reflect, and reset.

With that said, it’s time to get ready for a fantastic collection of the best Moab hikes. The fresh air and picture-perfect scenery await.

Best Moab Hiking Trails

Although small, Moab has a variety of fun holiday activities, such as biking and rock climbing. Red sandstone, majestic arches, and mountain ranges provide sublime backdrops for amazing travel photography. Take your pick from these incredible trails for the best Moab hikes.

Fisher Towers Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: There are excellent nature photography opportunities along the entire trail.

• Trailhead: Fisher Towers Picnic Area
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 4.2 miles (6.7 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1470 feet (448 meters)

The Fisher Towers Trail is one of the most accessible hikes in Moab, Utah, and a relatively short hike. The route offers splendid views, and the trail features amazing sandstone formations. 

The rock formations take on unique shapes thanks to mother nature and the workings of the elements over time. You can venture through the canyon, admiring the desert landscape as you go.

The Fisher Towers are the most spectacular sight as you’ll be able to enjoy marvelous scenery from the viewpoint.

Back at the Fisher Towers trailhead, you can relax on the benches and treat yourself to a light lunch. Keen on exhilarating watersports? Try a Fisher Towers half-day rafting day trip. 

Hidden Valley Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: There are good chances you’ll spot local wildlife, such as elks and deer.

• Trailhead: Hidden Valley Trailhead
• Difficulty: Hard
• Distance: 6.0 miles (9.6 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1470 feet (448 meters)

Although partially moderate, the Hidden Valley Trail offers a mix of difficulties — to ease you into and challenge you simultaneously on your walk. The trail begins on the Indian Trail and makes for steady trekking before taking a steep turn. At this point, expect some uphill hiking.

The final part of the hike is the steepest and most challenging, but once you reach the summit, you’ll appreciate the reward of wondrous vistas. There are also fascinating rock carvings that you can view towards the last ascending stretch of the trail.

Grandstaff Canyon Trail (AKA. Morning Glory Bridge Trail)

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: There is an intricate navigation route that makes this hiking trail more memorable than simpler ones.

• Trailhead: Negro Bill Canyon Parking Area
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 5.7 miles (9.1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 836 feet (255 meters)

Moab hikes don’t get more entertaining and quirky than the cheekily-named Morning Glory Bridge Trail. Traverse the Grandstaff Canyon (also known as the Negro Bill Canyon) by following the stream that flows steadily along this path.

You’ll make your way through some narrow channels, which have a striking similarity to slot canyons.

The waterway has served as the lifeblood of the surrounding desert ecosystem. It’s a tranquil place to reflect and even get your feet wet if you wish.

At the end of this five-mile hike, the much-talked-about 243-foot (74-meter) Morning Glory Bridge awaits you as the trail continues. As one of America’s largest and most intriguing natural bridges, it’s no wonder this is a popular hiking trail nearby Moab.

Moab Hikes at Arches National Park

A short eight-minute (5,2-mile) drive will get you from Moab to the much-loved Arches National Park. Here, 76,519 acres of land and over 2,000 natural rock formations are yours to explore.

There’s no better place to discover Utah and enjoy leisure walks. Look at which Arches hiking trails are your go-to if you want to conquer a Moab hike.

Delicate Arch Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: Delicate Arch is arguably the best hiking trail in Arches National Park.

• Trailhead: Delicate Arch Trailhead
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 3.2 miles (5.1 km)  
• Elevation Gain: 630 feet (192 meters)

So impressive is the Delicate Arch at Arches National Park that it made it onto official Utah license plates as a symbol. This iconic Utah landmark isn’t just perfect for sandstone photography but also delivers on epic Moab hiking trails.

The hike is moderate and relatively straightforward at the beginning. As you ascend, however, expect a steeper climb ahead. The Delicate Arch is the largest free-standing arch in the park and a marvel to witness. 

The giant boulder has a 32-foot-wide (9,8-meter), 46-foot-high (14-meter) light opening. If you’re willing to get up early, this is the most astonishing place to watch the sunrise.

Important Note: Please remember you cannot climb on any of the rock formations at Arches National Park. This is to help preserve these natural wonders and for your own safety.

Pro Tip: It’s best to do this hike during sunrise. This was my favorite hike at Arches, and for good reason! For this, you must arrive at the park at least an hour before sunrise so you can hike and enjoy the view of the delicate arch as it bathes in the first rays of light of the day.

Make sure you take a headlamp, as it will be dark!

Also, depending on how early you arrive for the sunrise, you might skip the park’s entrance fee as the gates/ticket boots are unmanned but open before the park officially opens for the day.

Windows Loop Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: The Windows Arches offer magnificent two-way views precisely the way a window does.

• Trailhead: Windows Loop Trailhead
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 98 feet (30 meters)

Another Arches National Park gem is the Windows Loop Trail, an easy and pleasant 0.7-mile hiking trail. Even though the route is flat and barrier-free at first, you should look out for some uneven, elevated steps as you go along the trail.

Make sure you make your way to the Parade of Elephants and the Garden of Eden, two of the most popular areas along the Windows Loop trail. Much like the Delicate Arch, the Windows Section of the park is another prime location for seemingly otherworldly sunrises.

Pro Tip: Squeeze in some quiet prayer or meditation time while at the Windows.

Devil’s Garden Primitive Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: You’ll witness some of the most beautiful rock formations on this walk.

• Trailhead: Devils Garden Trailhead
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Distance: 7.9 miles (12.6 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,085 feet (330 meters)

As the gift that keeps on giving, Arches National Park offers what is easily one of the best hikes in Moab. As picturesque as it is, the Devil’s Garden Primitive Trail is best suited for those who are fit and ready to tackle a challenging hiking trail.

This seven-mile trek requires quite a bit of stamina and endurance, but you can pace yourself and take in all the lovely scenery around you as you walk along. Be sure to carry a lot of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized along the way.

One of the most significant takeaways during this Moab hike is spotting a few of its seven famous arches. These include the Pine Tree Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch, amongst others.

Pro Tip: This is a trail I recommend doing at a leisurely pace due to how beautiful the “garden” is. Take your time, and if you don’t feel like doing the loop part. of the trail, you can walk all the way to Navajo Arch and back.

Double Arch Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: You’ll be able to take creative pictures at this two-for-one arches spot.

• Trailhead: Balanced Rock Parking Area
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 95 feet (29 meters)

What’s better than one arch? Two, at the same spot! That’s what you get at the end of the Double Arch Trail in Arches National Park. The 112-foot (34-meter) Double Arch stands as one of the tallest rock formations in the park.

This is an easy, enjoyable 0.6-mile short hike with beautiful scenery and gentle slopes. Early risers will relish an opportunity to catch an exquisite sunrise here, but sunset is equally as enthralling. 

The desert environment surrounding the arch makes it one of the most peaceful places to hike in Moab, Utah. If you love tours, opt for an Arches National Park 4×4 adventure or half-day driving tour. 

Moab Hikes at Canyonlands National Park

From Arches, all you need to do is travel 26.2 miles (30 minutes) to get to mesmerizing Canyonlands National Park. With its sprawling desert landscapes, this is one of Utah’s most captivating places to visit.

From camping to stargazing, Canyonlands is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream escape. Unsurprisingly, hiking is a frontrunner for activities in the park, and below are some of the best hiking trails when visiting Moab.

Grand View Point Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: You’ll capture enchanting views of Canyonlands National Park. 

• Trailhead: Grand View Point Trailhead
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)
• Elevation Gain: 160 feet (49 meters)

At Canyonlands National Park, prepare to experience one of the best hikes in Moab. What makes this location extra special is the sheer beauty of the Grand View Point Trail while on your walk.

Located on the aptly-named ‘Island in the Sky’ district, this is a phenomenal destination for romantic sunset-watching opportunities.

You’ll be able to revel in the joy of being at one of America’s most famous national parks as you enjoy the scenes at each viewpoint. The last lookout point is the most glorious because you get to see all of Canyonlands.

Use this opportunity to indulge in a half-day Canyonlands tour. 

Dead Horse Rim Loop Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: You’ll enjoy views of Utah’s grand canyons and rivers.

• Trailhead: Basin Overlook Parking
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
• Elevation Gain: 909 feet (277 meters)

You’ve noticed by now that moderate hiking is the theme in this article, and much of the same can be expected at the Dead Horse Rim Loop trail. You’ll be able to witness the fine form of the Colorado River Canyon, which the trail follows.

As with the other amazing Moab hikes on this list, the Dead Horse Point overlooks superb views of the area.

When you’re at Dead Horse Point State Park, you’re close enough to Arches and Canyonlands National Park to include some high-action activities in your itinerary. So why not get the adrenaline pumping with a full-day tour of Canyonlands and Arches during a 4×4 driving tour? 

Mesa Arch Trail

Why you’ll love this Moab hike: This is an easy hike, most suitable for beginners, travelers with kids, and the elderly.

• Trailhead: Mesa Arch Parking Lot
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 88 feet (27 meters)

Last, but nowhere near least, is the Mesa Arch Trail in Canyonlands National Park. You can enjoy one of the most manageable Moab hikes on this trail, with routes that offer memorable sunrise views.

While hiking, look out into the distance, and you’ll spot the La Sal Mountains. This mountain range sits above Castle Valley and Spanish Valley and is a wonderful sight to experience.

Don’t let your Canyonlands National Park explorations be short-lived. Consider rappelling into the Medieval Chamber Slot Canyon. 

Preparing for Moab Hiking Trails | What to Know Before You Go

Hiking is a fulfilling outdoor activity that offers an abundance of varied opportunities. You get to enjoy the beauty of nature and quality time with your hiking buddies or yourself. There’s also the added benefit of getting a good workout.

There are, however, a few tips to remember so you’re well-prepared and worry-free while on your hiking expeditions. Wondering what you need to know before embarking on a Moab hike? Below are five tips to ensure you enjoy the best hikes in Moab.

1. Hiking is about comfort, not style and fashion – Invest in suitable hiking shoes and comfortable clothing. If you’re shopping for new hiking items, opt for items like a waterproof jacket to prepare you to take on even those less-than-perfect weather conditions or any season. 

2. Check trail and weather conditions before going on your hike – The Moab area heat is unforgiving. Carry enough water, snacks, and sunscreen in a good-quality travel backpack. If you’re hiking in cold, rainy conditions, watch out for flash floods in the canyons and slippery rocks on the trails.

3. Tackle a trail with a moderate hike length – It’s easy to get overly excited and aim for a challenging course when a moderate trail might be more suitable. Do your research beforehand and try a lower level of trail difficulty if you’re a beginner. Moab hikes have a trail for everyone; you’ve just got to find the right trail for you. 

4. Purchase a National Parks Pass – You can make the most of hiking in more than one of the national parks around Moab if you have a National Parks Pass. Decide which national parks you want to include in your Moab hikes itinerary, check if you need passes, and plan accordingly.

5. Pack like a pro to ensure a comfortable hiking experience. Prioritize the essentials, like your water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and insect repellent. An LED flashlight and mini first-aid kit might need to find their place in your backpack as well for emergencies. Check out these handy tips to help you pack light for long hikes.

When to Visit Moab | Best Time to Hike in Moab, Utah

Although summers (June – August) seemingly present optimum weather conditions, these are considered to be scorching Moab months.

Consider visiting Moab in spring (March – May) or fall (September – November), when temperatures are milder. Remember, spring and summer are peak seasons in Moab and usually draw more crowds.

Best Hikes in Moab | Utah Trekking Done Right

With the ultimate list of Moab hiking trails, you can start planning a memorable nature adventure in one of Utah’s most treasured locations. As you’ve seen, there are different hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.

What are you waiting for? The best hikes in Moab are yours to conquer, one destination at a time. Choose the ones that best suit your preferences and let all roads lead you to Moab.

Looking for some more outdoor inspiration for a backpacking trip? Here’s a guide to the best backpacking trips in the U.S.