Your First Time in Moab

Our Local Expert Says:

Mountain biking nirvana due to trail technicality, views, and length

Description:

Slickrock is one of the most popular mountain biking trails in the world, with over 100,000 visitors per year flocking to this incredible and unique mountain bike experience. This trail helped put southeastern Utah on the map and, some say, launch the sport of mountain biking. Founded in 1969 for motorcycles, this 12 mile main loop of heavily eroded sandstone rock crests tests the most seasoned athletes, as constantly changing elevation and narrow ledges test both your legs and your concentration. You'll want to take it easy and slow, which will of course allow you to get an even better look at the spectacular scenery. For those with slightly less experience, try the 1.7 mile practice loop, thought be warned it is still not for beginners. Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring lots of water as the afternoon sun can be particularly harsh and there is no water on the trail. In addition to mountain biking, Slickrock also appeals to off-roaders, cross country skiers, trail runners, and hikers.

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:

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:

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:

Simply put, this drive is amazing. Drive or bike it as soon as you reach Moab. If you're a climber, you'll already know all about Potash Road.

Description:

The Potash / Colorado Scenic Byway follows State Highway 278 along the Colorado River towards Canyonlands. Along the way, you'll pass the Matheson Wetlands Preserve, Moon Flower Canyon, and Jug Handle Arch (a must see). Be aware that the paved road ends at the Moab Salt Plant, so only high-clearance vehicles can continue on to Canyonlands. Beware weather conditions as well; big rains can cause flooding across the road in spots.

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.

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:

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:

Handy, interesting way to gain a deeper appreciation for the area's geologic history

Description:

Amazingly, there are no gates, fences, or security guards to pass on the way to the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail - this nature trail after a moderate ½ mile hike is preserved through the respect of every person who experiences this truly natural history museum. Following the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail, you will come upon fossils, petrified plant life and footprints, layered Jurassic rocks, and the remains of an old copper mill. Visit the Grand Resource Area before you begin your journey, as your self-guided tour will be greatly supplemented by an information pamphlet.

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"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.

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:

Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the weather, things move a bit slower at Eklecticafe. Strong coffee, many vegetarian options, and a laid back atmosphere entice many a hiker and bike rider. Located in a small cottage, Eklecticafe sits as a little oasis in the middle of the desert, a great breakfast and coffee spot. Bring a book, bring your family, and bring your appetite. Try the Pancakes or the Quiche.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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:

Billiards, beer, and a midnight menu set Frankie D's Bar & Grill apart from other late night establishments in Moab. This local landmark is active in the community, and strives to use local produce in all of its nibblies. Able to hold 100 people, Frankie D's Bar & Grill has a wide selection of beers to wash it all down with. They offer a covered outdoor patio, a dance floor, a juke box, and pool tables. On the menu you can find Fish Tacos, Frankie's Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, 12 Oz. Ribeye Steak, Smoked Baby Back Ribs, Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich, Smoked Chicken Breast, and Smoked Beef Brisket Sandwich. Salads, sides, and appetizers including Beer-Battered Snake Bites encourage drooling. Don't forget their specialty burgers, including BBQ Bacon Cheese, Veggie, Jalapeno Cheese, and Guacamole Bacon. Their full bar serves up beer, wine, and liquor-cheers! And remember to check their online calendar to see what rockin' group will be playing live music next.

Description:

The Rio Sports Bar and Grill hosts live music every weekend, Karaoke occasionally, and enjoys a full Utah liquor license (mixed drinks, ahoy!). Considered one of the most happening joints in town, the Rio Sports Bar features darts, foosball, and billiards.

Description:

Moab's best music venue is the "World Famous" Woody's Tavern on S Main Street. Woody's Tavern features lives music every Friday and Saturday nights, and can be quite hopping early on in the evening. Get there at a decent time to secure a stool at the bar to listen to bands from around the four corners area.

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:

All the displays are really interesting, but the dinosaur section is particularly great. Be sure to check out the fossil leg of a Utah Raptor -- the leg itself is over four feet tall. Yikes.

Description:

With a mission to "preserve, protect, and display artifacts and information, and to promote research and education which accurately reflect the natural and cultural history of the Moab area," the Museum of Moab (also known as the Dan O'Laurie Museum of Moab) is a great place to get acquainted with the area around you. Pioneer home remedies, ranching and farming displays, as well as information about the role of the National Park Service demonstrate many years of resourcefulness in land and culture preservation. Allow an hour or two during your exploration of the town.

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.