Moab Madness

Description:

"Scandalously Rich" Fried Mushrooms, "Feelin' Saucy" Monterey Burgers, and "It's the Schnizzle" Open Faced Sandwiches - Slickrock Café isn't shy when it comes to names, portions, or flavor. This café is not for the faint of heart, your meal will be big and loud and tasty. The 'Fins and Things' Fish and Chips and 'Hungry Hiker' Old Time Pot Roast are local favs. Canadian beer drinkers will be happy (or sad?) to know that they serve Molson.

Our Local Expert Says:

Eight of the best known arches in the Park are found on this trail

Description:

Devils Garden Loop is the longest maintained trail in Arches National Park, consisting of 3 to 5 hours of well-groomed trails passing some of the most strange and fantastic rock formations in Utah. It's popular to be sure, but braving the potential crowds is worth it. You'll see Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, Landscape Arch, Wall Arch, Partition Arch, Navajo Arch, Black Arch, Double O Arch, Dark Angel monolith, Private Arch and take a trip through Fin Canyon. Although this is a moderate hike, there is nothing super difficult along the way, so be sure to check it out if you have the time.

Note: 7.2 miles of hiking in the hot Utah sun can take its toll on anyone, so be sure to bring at least a couple of liters of water per person. Devils Garden Loop trail can be quite slippery when wet, so be aware of weather patterns.

Our Local Expert Says:

The second largest arch in the Devils Garden area

Description:

This arch within an arch is unusual enough to draw attention. Add its dimensions (the larger arch spans 71 feet; the smaller, 21 feet), the surrounding Devils Garden area with its proliferation of arches, and the fact that you can see the brooding Dark Angel in the distance, and this arch is a total win. Located 1.93 miles past the Devils Garden trailhead, at the far end of the primitive loop.

Our Local Expert Says:

World's longest freestanding natural arch

Description:

This popular arch draws throngs during the busy season. The graceful ribbon of rock soaring through the air has been photographed thousands of times. At nearly 300 feet long, Landscape Arch is longer than a football field! Start this mostly flat trail from the Devil's Garden Trailhead parking lot.

Our Local Expert Says:

Voted "Best Fish Tacos" by Outside Magazine

Description:

Ole for Mexican food! Miguel's is a great choice for fare from south of the border in Moab. From Baja California, owner Miguel of Miguel's Baja Grill is known to make a mean fish taco with a smile on his face. Homemade salsa tops tamales and chile rellenos, and blue salt rims the edge of every margarita. Known for outstanding service, Miguel's Baja Grill is friendly, warm, and fun, making it a great place for families and friends. Locals like this place too, which is always a good sign. Main courses include Mariscos La Paz, Mahi Mahi, Enchiladas, Steak Fajitas, Chicken Fajitas, Portobello Fajitas, Todos Santos Lamb Tacos, the extra-large M.O.A.B. ("Mother Of All Burritos") and the popular Baja Fish Tacos. Appetizers include Nopolo Style Ceviche, Flautas, Scallops with Bacon, Guacamole with Chips. Beer, wine, and margaritas available. Come prepared for a festive evening at this lively restaurant.

Description:

River Canyon Lodge is one of Moab's newest hotels. Located in Downtown Moab, it is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, nightlife and rental shops. Luxury meets affordability at this Extended Stay Inn and Suites lodging establishment.

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:

Great outdoor gear shop on top of their offered tours

Description:

Mountain biking, rock climbing and Hummer tours, oh my! The Moab Adventure Center and Red Rock Outfitters are sister companies dedicated to giving you the best Moab Adventure you can have. Guided rafting trips down the Colorado River can be as exciting as you want them to be, from beginner half-day trips to six day river and ranch vacations. Horseback riding, scenic flights, and jet boat tours have something for every person on your trip. Don't worry if you forgot your supplies, Red Rock Outfitters can sell you everything you need for your trip - you can even shop online before you leave.

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.

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.

Description:

River Canyon Lodge is one of Moab's newest hotels. Located in Downtown Moab, it is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, nightlife and rental shops. Luxury meets affordability at this Extended Stay Inn and Suites lodging establishment.

Description:

The white table cloths do not do the experience at the Center Café justice. Here, a regional menu changes with the seasons but the quality does not; creative classics prepared with love in a cozy and inviting environment. Small plates (Roasted Artichoke, Empanadas) from 4 to 6 PM set the stage for a fantastic dinner of Cedar Planked Salmon, Pan Roasted Free Range Chicken, or Seared Ahi and Scallops. An extensive by-the-glass wine list and a secluded courtyard promise a relaxing meal. Awards for Center Café from Zagat, Sunset Magazine, and Salt Lake Magazine confirm the excitement and dedication of chefs/owners Zee and Paul McCarroll.

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:

Quick, easy, very accessible

Description:

This trail is a quick 15-20 minute loop trail around a rock formation - a good chance to stretch your legs and get a taste of the park. Balanced Rock is an impressive example of what wind, rain and years of erosion can do to rock. Not super exciting, but an excellent stop for the very young, the infirm, or just to wander for a moment.

Description:

Don't come to Milt's Stop & Eat in Moab expecting high molecular gastronomy. Milt's, operating in Moab since 1954, is known for vinyl topped stools, formica countertops and well-priced, delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Milt's Stop & Eat may be a classic burger joint, but they are not lacking for creativity - the Black and Blue Burger is crusted with black pepper and smothered with blue cheese, and the Chicago-style Hot Dog includes a dill pickle, jalapeno peppers, and celery salt. If you don't have a milkshake, you're not living. (favorites of ours are Oreo, Heath Bar, or Coffee flavored).

Description:

After purchasing what had previously been known as Fort Moab (circa 1967) and Sundowner (circa 1972), Chef/Owner Tim Buckingham created Buck's Grill House (circa 1995) after establishing the Center Café. Known for having the most beautiful patio, Buck's Grill House specializes in familiar southwestern food executed in new and exciting ways. Where else can you find a Rabbit Quesadilla, Duck Tamales, Elk Stew, or Artichoke Ceviche? You'll also find a mean Buffalo Burger and Meatloaf, if you'd like to get a bison fix. Relaxed and elegant, the spacious interior and patio are local favorites.

Description:

River Canyon Lodge is one of Moab's newest hotels. Located in Downtown Moab, it is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, nightlife and rental shops. Luxury meets affordability at this Extended Stay Inn and Suites lodging establishment.