Weekend Getaway in Moab, Utah
Day One
Start in Denver, Colorado. Take the scenic I-70 drive past most of Colorado’s famous ski resorts straight West for 5 and a half hours, until you get to Utah. Soon, you’ll be in scenic Moab- home to two insane National Parks (Arches & Canyonlands). Settle into your accommodations (I recommend any of the four Moab Sun Outdoors locations for a fun glamping experience), then head downtown for some dinner! Moab is home to many different food options, with one of my favorites being the Food Truck Park with something for everyone. Highly recommend catching the sunset at Dead Horse Point in Dead Horse State Park.
Day Two
Arches National Park. If choosing to visit during the summer months, you may need a timed entry reservation (check nps.gov prior to arriving). The drive alone into Arches is magnificent. The can’t-miss hike is Delicate Arch- a rewarding 3 mile loop to the most stunning and picturesque arch in the park. Continue your day at the Windows section of the park. This section has several scenic arches connected by trails, that are easily accessible in any condition. For a more challenging hike, check out Devil’s Garden in the back of the park. This hike offers a primitive section for the experts who enjoy their hikes with a side of rock scrambling. Finally, end your day with a short walk to Skyline Arch.
Day Three
Grab breakfast in town from Love Muffin Cafe before heading into Canyonlands, Utah’s biggest National Park. You can’t miss these vast and spectacular views when in Moab. The sprawling canyons rival views found at the Grand Canyon. And definitely less crowded. Check out Mesa Arch if you didn’t get enough Arches, and a few other short trails like Whale Rock. Fun fact: Canyonlands is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park; check out the night sky anywhere during your Moab trip for unbeatable stargazing. Once content, hit the road to head back to Denver.
If you are continuing on West, or have an extra day to spend in Moab, consider driving the hour and a half West to Goblin Valley State Park. One of the most underrated parks I’ve seen, Goblin Valley is basically a playground of hoo-doos you can check out at a quick pit stop or spend the day getting lost in the valley.
Tip: Always fill up on gas before heading into the parks and pack tons of snacks! There are no restaurants or gas stations once inside the parks.
Downtown Moab dinner recommendations: Blu Pig BBQ, Fiesta Mexicana, Moab Food Truck Park.
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