It’s easy to find a destination that offers one or two types of outdoor activities, from rock climbing to river rafting to mountain biking. Located in Utah on the south edge of the Grand Canyon, Moab offers just about every activity you can think of. Its incredible location puts it within a 60-minute drive of two of the five mightiest national parks in the US.
High and dry
Arches National Park is just a short walk north of Moab. This 76,518-acre reserve hosts the world’s largest collection of natural arches. It’s home to pristine hiking trails and some of the most exciting mountain biking you can find anywhere. While the varied activities make it perfect for adventure travel, you can also just take your car on a paved route that gives you a close look at many of the park’s natural attractions. To get a good look at all the best sights, a pair of binoculars or a rangefinder will allow you to enjoy the wonders of the park.
Wet and wild
If you prefer something near the water, the Colorado River makes a prominent appearance near Moab. Both the Westwater and the Cataract Canyons offer Class IV rapids for you to conquer, while more mild sections like Fisher Towers provide a relaxed opportunity for sightseeing and exploration. Moab is one of the top destinations for stand-up paddleboarders from all over the world due to its great mix of both flat, gentle water and exhilarating routes.
An island in the sky
Canyonlands National Park is home to one of the most striking views you can find, anywhere. It features colossal 1500 foot mesa that’s covered with hiking trails, four-wheel drive paths, and plenty of pullouts for you to use to shoot spectacular selfies to remember your holiday getaway. Called the “Island in the Sky,” this mesa has a habit of “floating” above a thick layer of clouds, creating the illusion that you’re on an island in the ocean. It’s one of the most memorable destinations you can visit.
Packing for your Moab adventure
Your adventure travel itinerary will vary based on your favorite activities, so be sure to pack accordingly. If you’re into hiking, biking, and other person-powered exploration, be sure to carry plenty of water in a durable yet lightweight container. A sturdy backpack will go a long way when it comes to carrying both water and spare battery packs for your electronics. If you want to bike, climb, or take advantage of the whitewater rapids, a solid helmet will help protect your head from injury.
For many people, the best part about Moab is the incredible views from the national parks, so don’t forget to bring binoculars or a rangefinder. Consider packing a standalone camera with a zoom lens, too, so you can share your favorite parts with all of your friends on the internet.
Moab – The ultimate adventure travel getaway
Moab’s unique location in the middle of multiple national parks makes it one of the single best destinations for any adventure travel excursion. You can enjoy sandstone arches, magnificent mesas, and the intense water of the Colorado River all within a few miles of each other. It’s the perfect place for hikers, bikers, rafters, and surfers alike. If you and your travel group want to try a cornucopia of activities in a single trip, consider Moab, Utah.