Free Guide: First Time Trip to Moab, Utah

Free Guide: First Time Trip to Moab, Utah

Visiting Moab for the first time and want to make the most of your trip? Check out my free itinerary for 3 full days in Moab that is perfect for a long weekend in Moab (arriving on a Friday afternoon and leaving Monday morning). The itinerary prioritizes hiking in the Moab area and includes lodging options, where to eat, and where to prioritize your time.
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First Time Trip to Moab, Utah

Day 1: Fly into SLC or GJT and drive to Moab, Utah.

Moab
@kateoutdoors
If you’re driving into Moab from the east, get off I-70 in Cisco and drive along River Road into town.
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Dead Horse Point State Park
@kateoutdoors
Go for a sunset hike along the Dead Horse Rim Trail. $20 entrance fee.
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Sunset hike: Dead Horse Point Rim Trail

The Spoke on Center
@kateoutdoors
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Where to Stay:

Hotel (on a budget, dog-friendly)

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moab
@kateoutdoors
Dog-friendly
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Resort (splurge)

Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa
@kateoutdoors
Located along River Road near Castle Valley.
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Camping

Big Bend Campground
@kateoutdoors
Located along the Colorado River on River Road.
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Kings Bottom Campground
@kateoutdoors
Located along the Colorado River.
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Horsethief Campground
@kateoutdoors
Located close to Canyonlands National Park.
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Day 2: Moab, Utah

Day 2 is going to start in Arches National Park and end in Canyonlands National Park. You can also flip flop the itinerary if you’d rather do Canyonlands for sunrise & Arches for sunset.

Pack breakfast.

Arches National Park
@kateoutdoors
Entry reservations required beginning April 1st (or you can enter the park prior to 7am or after 4pm).
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Hikes to Do:

Delicate Arch
@kateoutdoors
I recommend getting to the trailhead before dawn to get to the arch for sunrise!
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Sand Dune Arch
@kateoutdoors
A short hike to a fun arch.
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Windows Trailhead
@kateoutdoors
There are a few arches in the area with very short hikes.
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Lunch:

Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro
@kateoutdoors
I’m a big fan of the DIY sandwiches!
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Afternoon/sunset:

Canyonlands National Park
@kateoutdoors
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Mesa Arch
@kateoutdoors
A short hike to a stunning view. This spot is very popular with photographers at sunrise.
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Sunset:

Green River Overlook
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Dinner:

Arches Thai
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Day 3: Moab, Utah

Sunrise hike:

Corona Arch
@kateoutdoors
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Breakfast:

Doughbird
@kateoutdoors
Doughnuts & fried chicken.
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Choose Your Adventure (pick 1):

Moab Adventure Center
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Mountain Biking

Slickrock Bike Trail
@kateoutdoors
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Rock Climbing

Wall Street Climbing Area
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Rafting

Colorado River
@kateoutdoors
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Dinner:

Moab Brewery
@kateoutdoors
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Antica Forma
@kateoutdoors
Tasty Italian food. Great for take out.
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Day 4: Sunrise Hike & Driving Home/Back to Airport

Fisher Towers Trailhead
@kateoutdoors
Sunrise hike.
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Breakfast (for the road):

Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro
@kateoutdoors
I’m a big fan of the DIY sandwiches!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi, I’m Kate! I’m an outdoor content creator based in Grand Junction, Colorado. I have a passion for road trips and adventure travel in the western United States. From creating guides to organizing itineraries, I'm here to help streamline the trip planning process for you so you can focus on enjoying the destination. I have a wealth of experience adventuring around the western United States, finding the best hikes and hidden gems along the way. Come tap into my well of knowledge and plan the ultimate trip!
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