Moab is synonymous with outdoor adventure, and while the national parks are undoubtedly the stars of the show, plenty of thrilling activities can be enjoyed outside their boundaries. Here’s a guide to some of the best adventure activities in the Moab area:
Rock Climbing:
Moab is a rock climbing paradise with various routes suitable for all levels. Some of the most popular climbing areas include:
- Wallstreet: A climbing area just west of town, by about 3 miles, on Potash Road that runs along the Colorado River.
- Castleton Tower: A towering sandstone spire with challenging climbs.
- Fisher Towers: A group of sandstone towers offering a variety of routes.
- Indian Creek: A world-renowned destination for crack climbing.
Local Resources:
- Moab Adventure Center: Offers guided rock climbing trips and equipment rentals.
- Moab Climbing Adventures: Provides climbing instruction and guided trips.
4x4 & ATV
Explore the rugged desert landscape of Moab on an ATV. There are numerous trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
Local Resources:
- Moab Adventure Center: Rents ATVs and offers guided tours.
- Off-Road Moab: Provides ATV rentals and guided tours.
Base Jumping and Skydiving
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, consider base jumping or skydiving. These extreme sports offer breathtaking views of the Moab landscape.
Local Resources:
- Skydive Moab: Offers tandem skydiving experiences.
- BASE Jump Moab: Provides information and resources for base jumpers.
Mountain Biking
Moab is a mountain biking mecca with trails suitable for all levels. Some of the most popular trails include:
- Porcupine Rim: A challenging trail with stunning views.
- Slickrock Trail: A technical trail that requires advanced riding skills.
- Bartlett Wash: A beginner-friendly trail with beautiful scenery.
Local Resources:
- Moab Adventure Center: Rents mountain bikes and offers guided tours.
- Poison Spider Bike Shop: Provides bike rentals, repairs, and guided tours.
River Rafting
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. Moab offers a variety of rafting trips suitable for all skill levels, from gentle floats to exhilarating rapids.
Local Resources:
- Moab Adventure Center: Offers guided rafting trips and equipment rentals.
- Western River Expeditions: Provides multi-day rafting trips through the Colorado River canyons.
- Mild 2 Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours: Offers a variety of rafting trips and other outdoor adventures.
Scenic Drives
Moab’s stunning landscapes offer a variety of scenic drives that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Here are a few must-see routes:
- Arches National Park Scenic Drive
- This 18-mile loop within Arches National Park takes you past iconic formations like Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and Balanced Rock. The drive offers breathtaking views of the park’s red rock spires and unique geological features.
- La Sal Mountain Loop
- For a more mountainous adventure, take the La Sal Mountain Loop. This drive offers stunning views of the La Sal Mountains, including the peaks of Mount Peale and Mount Tukuhnikat. Along the way, you’ll pass through alpine forests and meadows.
Additional Scenic Drives
- Dead Horse Point State Park Scenic Byway: This byway offers panoramic views of the Colorado River and the Canyonlands National Park.
- Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway: This route follows the Colorado River through scenic canyons and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and river rafting.
- Potash Road: This scenic drive takes you along the Colorado River and offers views of towering cliffs and ancient rock art.
Additional Activities
- Hot Springs: Relax and soak in the natural hot springs.
- Canyoning: Explore canyons on foot, rappelling and swimming along the way.
- Horseback Riding Adventures: Saddle up and experience the beauty of Moab’s red rock country from a unique perspective.
- Photography & Dark Skies: Moab’s stunning landscapes and dramatic skies offer incredible opportunities for photography.
Moab offers a wide range of adventure activities beyond the national parks. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling challenge or a relaxing outdoor experience, there’s something for everyone in this stunning desert destination.
