Business Travel to Moab: Strategizing on Slickrock

Our Local Expert Says:

Magnificent red rock canyon scenery and hikes

Description:

Canyonlands preserves a colorful landscape eroded into countless canyons, mesas and buttes by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The rivers divide the park into four districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze and the rivers themselves. While these areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, each retains its own character and offers different opportunities for exploration.

Our Local Expert Says:

Really gorgeous and easily accessed from the highway, this hike is a must-do.

Description:

-If you can get past the old, old-school name of Negro Bill Canyon (named after William Granstaff, an African American prospector and rancher), you have the opportunity to explore a lovely canyon cut into Navajo Sandstone. If winding through cottonwood and willow trees on a beautiful Utah day isn't enough, consider hiking toward the Morning Glory Natural Bridge. It's the sixth longest natural bridge in the US. Starting from Scenic Byway 128 (a fantastic trip in itself), you'll head out into the canyon on the trail on the left side of the stream. The trip itself is popular and the trail is easy to follow. With a few water crossings, be prepared to get your feet wet, especially during spring runoff. As with most Utah hikes, bring water, wear proper footwear and a hat, etc. Keep an eye out for poison ivy along the way.

Our Local Expert Says:

A classic landmark that you should see if you can.

Description:

This trail leads to Delicate Arch, the signature landmark of Arches National Park. Three miles long with an elevation gain of 480 feet, the hike to Delicate Arch can be hiked all-year round. Don't be fooled by mere statistics into thinking this is an easy hike. While the elevation gain may seem small, it is concentrated in one final push up the slickrock ridge. Also completely unshaded, it can knock your socks off if you attempt it on a hot, sunny day. Bring abundant water, a sun-hat, camera, and a hearty constitution if you start midday in the summer! (Actually, we recommend you go early in the morning or to catch the sunset if possible during the hot months.) Absolutely worth every step, however; definitely make sure you see this iconic landmark if you can.

The trail leads you past Wolfe Ranch's Native American rock art panel
Pit toilets are available at the trailhead but there is no water, so bring your own. This hike can be finished in two hours, so it is a perfect outing to pair with another hike or trip.

Our Local Expert Says:

Must-visit, especially to see world-famous Delicate Arch

Description:

Arches National Park is known for its natural sandstone arches, carved by hundreds of years of wind, water, and weather. This park has over 2,000 of them! Delicate Arch, featured on one version of the Utah license plate, is probably the world's most famous sandstone arch. An arch, by the way, is basically an exposed rock that has a hole in it formed by natural forces. A natural bridge is a type of arch, but it was specifically formed by water which may or may not still be flowing beneath. But no matter how you define them, natural arches are beautiful and just plain cool.

Our Local Expert Says:

They have truly in-depth knowledge of Canyonlands & the Colorado River, rather than trying to do everything

Description:

Tag-A-Long River and Wilderness Expeditions in Moab can plan a tour for everyone from the most experienced outdoorsperson to the most sun-deprived cubicle dweller. Since 1964, Tag-A-Long has led outdoor adventures, including river rafting, 4x4 tours, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, sky diving (yes, you read that right!), and combo adventures. Their trips tend to the smaller side, which means more individualized attention for you as well as a more peaceful backcountry experience. Tag-A-Long also boasts holding the most wilderness permits for more areas than any other local outfitter, which means more ways to have fun. Half-day to five-day trips available.

Our Local Expert Says:

Fun spot to explore for the true film buff; details the many films shot here

Description:

Moab, and much of this part of Utah, has been a popular location for moviemaking since it was "discovered" by famed director John Ford. Ford filmed much of Stagecoach, starring a young John Wayne, in Monument Valley in the 1930s; and, in the 1940s, Ford found Moab. The Red Cliffs Ranch provided the spectacular scenery for many of Ford's movies, including Wagon Master, Rio Grande, and Son of Cochise. In recent years, feature films shot in the Moab area have included City Slickers and Thelma and Louise. The museum has exhibits from the earliest films to the most recent, including props, posters, and photos; and the scenery's still spectacular. Allow 1 hour.

Our Local Expert Says:

A fun, fascinating way to explore the natural area

Description:

Visible from your car, the rock art and dinosaur tracks on Potash Road is accessible to everyone who drives by, with a spotting scope provided for those who do not want to make the trek to the site. If you walk to the site, give yourself 1 to 2 hours to explore both the arts and the tracks – there is quite a bit to see! Archeologists attribute the petroglyphs to the Indians of the San Rafael Fremont Culture, created sometimes between 600 and 1300 CE.

Description:

If you are in Moab looking for an evening of fine dining, head out of town to the Desert Bistro's comfortably appointed restaurant and seasonally eclectic menu. Previously located in the center of town, the Desert Bistro is now in the historic ranch house of Moab Springs Ranch, a luxury development north of town on State Highway 191. Depending on the time of year, you will enjoy fresh, local ingredients prepared according to the season, such as an Elk, Poblano & Anaheim Pepper Tamale, Gorgonzola-Crusted Filet of Beef Tenderloin, Pan-Seared Rack of Fallow Deer, and Pistachio-Crusted Lamb Loin. Nightly game and seafood specials as well as homemade bread and desserts complement the limited but well-matched beer and wine menu. If you have some nice duds to pull on after hiking and a bit of money to spend, the casually elegant Desert Bistro is perfect for that special evening out in Moab.

Description:

The oldest brew pub in the area, Eddie McStiff's is known for its beers with cheeky names (Polygamy Porter, anyone?) and requirement to order food with your drinks. Inspired by many different regions, the menu includes pot stickers, a Mediterranean hummus and olive plate, a burger with blue cheese and caramelized onions, and a variety of nightly specials. Those more technologically inclined will enjoy the free WiFi and numerous outlets around the restaurant. Eddie McStiff's can get quite busy on weekends, so be prepared for a short wait.

Our Local Expert Says:

Simple, to-the-point, and good. Plus, they've expanded to three southern Utah towns...but are in no danger of becoming a big box store.

Description:

Moab has a couple of good breakfast choices, but none spur quite the devotion and dedication of The Peace Tree Juice Café. All natural and organic, this lively dining option serves hearty (and healthy!) breakfasts of champions, like hummus and veggies wraps, croissant sandwiches, and fresh juice smoothies. With a goal to "provide healthy, flavorful sustenance to our customers, natural, organic, and farm-to-table when possible," you're assured of the freshest, most local ingredients possible at this funky little breakfast restaurant. Grab a bite to eat before heading out to the parks, or pull up a chair on the patio and people watch all day.

Description:

This café used to be the courthouse, complete with actual jail cells in the basement, many moons ago. Check out the sturdy door frames and imagine famous outlaws cooling their heels in here after an unsuccessful heist. Oh, and breakfast nowadays? Very yum. Chorizo Scramble with Tortillas, Eggs Benedict with a Spicy Hollandaise sauce, and a Sweet Red Pepper Omelet await your hungry palate at the Jailhouse Café in Moab. If you desire hearty food after a long night camping, this is the place to eat. Outdoor seating allows you to enjoy your surroundings while drinking coffee and eating eggs. Be forewarned, prices can seem a little steep, but the locals say it is worth it.

Our Local Expert Says:

The "it" spot for locals, plus really yummy bar food.

Description:

Sidle up to this spacious-but-quickly-filled Moab Brewery and take a gander at the crowd around you – rock climbers, hikers, mountain bikers, and just about every other outdoorsy type just back from Arches for the day. Moab Brewery founder Jeff Van Horn started the business in order to "get a strong beer in the state of Utah" and tourists and locals alike have been thanking him every since. If that doesn't impress you, their handcrafted beer selection might. Locals recommend the Derailleur Ale, Black Raven Oatmeal Stout, and the Elephant Hill Hefeweizen.

Our Local Expert Says:

We think it has everything: movie memorabilia, Wild Horse Bar, Cowboy Grill, Castle Creek winery, extremely professional & courteous staff...true excellence.

Description:

Set at the foot of Red Rock cliffs, and just 14 miles up from the Colorado River, Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge's location is so picturesque that it has been the site of multiple films, including Rio Grande with John Wayne. Perfect for weddings and events, the lodge is also home to Castle Creek Winery, a restaurant and lounge and the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage. The food is excellent, the view breathtaking and the staff are all knowledgeable and eager to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Rated by Air Canada as one of Utah's top 5 lodges, Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge is the perfect base for your next vacation in Utah.

Our Local Expert Says:

They cater to cyclists by offering bike storage

Description:

The Sleep Inn at Moab boasts a knowledgeable staff and easy access to trails, shops and dining. The hotel is clean and well maintained and features a pool, a free continental breakfast and bike storage.

Our Local Expert Says:

Just the basics...done well.

Description:

The Moab Valley Inn is located in downtown Moab, on Main Street. All rooms have hairdryers, refrigerators, coffee makers and ironing boards. This hotel is an excellent choice for a business conference, event, retreat, wedding or reception. The friendly staff will be happy to help you plan.

Description:

The Moab Ramada Inn has a view of the La Sal Mountains, and is minutes from Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Convenient to everything visitors need to enjoy their stay in Moab (shops, dining, nightlife, outfitters and galleries), the Ramada Inn will help you have fun during the day and relax at night.

Description:

The La Qunita Inn in Moab has sparkling rooms and a staff that will do their best to make your stay in Moab fun, easy and worthwhile. With a free breakfast, pool, spa and free Wi-Fi, visitors are sure to find everything they need.