Moab Joins Arches, Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point and Utahraptor State Park to Create the Ultimate American Desert Adventure: Experience Nature Like Never Before!

Published on December 31, 2025

Moab, Utah, joins forces with Arches, Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point, and Utahraptor State Park to form the ultimate American desert adventure. These remarkable destinations, all within a stone’s throw of each other, offer stunning landscapes and unparalleled outdoor experiences. From the iconic arches of Arches National Park to the rugged canyons of Canyonlands, the region promises endless opportunities for exploration. Dead Horse Point delivers breathtaking views of the Colorado River, while Utahraptor State Park offers a glimpse into prehistoric times. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this combined experience gives you a chance to connect with nature like never before. Moab serves as the perfect basecamp, offering a variety of accommodations and activities, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking the ultimate desert adventure.

Moab, Utah: An Oasis of Adventure

Imagine towering rock formations, endless canyons, and beautiful rivers that stretch across the horizon. Moab offers just that and much more. This small town in eastern Utah is the perfect base for exploring some of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States.

When you visit Moab, you’ll be treated to an outdoor playground that includes world-class hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and camping opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just looking to enjoy the beauty of the desert, Moab caters to all kinds of travellers.

The town’s location makes it the perfect starting point to explore nearby national parks, such as Arches and Canyonlands. With its red rock formations, unique geological features, and clear skies, Moab is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Arches National Park: A Must-See Natural Wonder

Just a short drive from Moab lies Arches National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases over 2,000 naturally occurring arches. These stunning rock formations were shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion, leaving behind some of the most unique geological structures in the world.

Exploring Arches’ Trails and Treasures

Arches National Park is home to various hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Devil’s Garden Trail, a 7.2-mile loop that takes you past several impressive arches. For something shorter and easier, the Windows Trail offers stunning views of the park’s famous arch formations. Each trail offers a unique perspective of the park’s breathtaking landscape, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Visitors can also camp under the stars at the Devils Garden Campground, which offers a chance to experience the desert’s beauty up close. With over 2 million visitors each year, Arches National Park continues to be one of the most popular national parks in the country.

Accommodation Near Arches National Park

• Red Cliffs Lodge: A luxurious lodge located along the Colorado River, just 14 miles from Arches. It offers riverfront rooms and a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding and off-road tours.
• Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground: Perfect for campers or RV travellers, this park offers modern amenities and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Aarchway Inn: A comfortable mid-range hotel located just outside Arches National Park, offering spacious rooms, a pool, and easy access to local attractions.

Nearby Airports for Arches National Park

• Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY): Located just 18 miles from Moab, this small airport is the closest to the park and offers daily flights from Denver, Colorado.
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): About a 4-hour drive from Moab, Salt Lake City is the largest international airport in Utah, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Canyonlands National Park: A Vast Wilderness of Canyons and Rivers

While Arches National Park is known for its arches and rock formations, Canyonlands National Park is a vast wilderness of canyons, mesas, and rivers. This park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, off-roading, river rafting, and stargazing. With its rugged terrain and stunning vistas, Canyonlands provides an awe-inspiring experience for visitors.

Activities and Attractions in Canyonlands

In Island in the Sky, visitors can enjoy some of the best views in the park, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding canyons and rivers. The Mesa Arch Trail is a popular short hike that leads to a stunning arch with views of the La Sal Mountains. Meanwhile, The Needles offers a variety of challenging hikes that take visitors through narrow canyons and past towering rock spires.

Canyonlands is also known for its incredible stargazing opportunities. Due to its remote location and lack of light pollution, the park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it a prime location for observing the night sky. Whether you’re camping or just passing through, the view of the Milky Way above Canyonlands is a sight you won’t forget.

Accommodation Near Canyonlands National Park

• The Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa: Located on the banks of the Colorado River, this luxury resort offers top-notch accommodations, a spa, and easy access to Canyonlands and Arches.
• Moab Under Canvas: An upscale glamping experience offering luxurious tents with spectacular views, just outside Canyonlands National Park.
• Canyonlands Campground: A basic, yet comfortable, camping experience within the park, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

Nearby Airports for Canyonlands National Park

• Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY): The closest airport to Canyonlands, it offers regional flights and shuttle services to Moab and the park.
• Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT): Located about 2.5 hours away, this airport offers additional flight options and rental cars for visitors heading to Canyonlands.

Dead Horse Point State Park: A Scenic Overlook of the Colorado River

If you want to experience the beauty of the desert without venturing too far from Moab, then Dead Horse Point State Park is the perfect destination. Located just a short drive from Canyonlands, this state park offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the surrounding canyonlands. The park’s Dead Horse Point is a natural overlook that provides one of the most iconic views in Utah. The sight of the river winding through the canyons below is truly unforgettable.

What to Do at Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park is ideal for those who love scenic drives and hiking. The park offers several easy-to-moderate trails that provide fantastic views of the canyon and river. The East Rim Trail is a popular hike that takes you along the edge of the cliffs, offering dramatic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy mountain biking and camping in the park, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.

Accommodation Near Dead Horse Point State Park

• Dead Horse Point State Park Campground: The park offers a well-maintained campground with amazing views and easy access to hiking trails.
• Red Cliffs Lodge: Just a short drive away, this lodge provides luxurious accommodation and is ideal for those looking to explore both Dead Horse Point and nearby national parks.

Nearby Airports for Dead Horse Point State Park

• Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY): As with Arches and Canyonlands, Canyonlands Field Airport is the closest airport to Dead Horse Point State Park.
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): A larger international hub, approximately 4 hours away, offering a variety of flight options.

Utahraptor State Park and SR-313 Scenic Byway: More Hidden Gems

While Moab’s national parks are the main attractions, Utahraptor State Park and the SR-313 Scenic Byway provide additional opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

Utahraptor State Park: Discover the Land of Dinosaurs

Located just 15 miles from Moab, Utahraptor State Park offers a unique glimpse into the prehistoric world. The park is famous for its fossilized dinosaur footprints and the remains of Utahraptor, a theropod dinosaur that roamed the region millions of years ago. Visitors can explore the park’s dinosaur-themed exhibits, walk along fossil trails, and learn about the area’s rich paleontological history.

What to Do at Utahraptor State Park

• Hiking: Explore the Fossil Trail, where visitors can see preserved dinosaur tracks.
• Education: The visitor center offers educational displays and programs on the park’s paleontological significance.

Accommodation Near Utahraptor State Park

• Canyonlands Ranch: Located nearby, this rustic ranch offers a comfortable stay with scenic views and access to outdoor activities.
• Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground: A great choice for those looking to stay close to Utahraptor State Park, this resort provides easy access to the park and surrounding areas.

SR-313 Scenic Byway: A Road Trip to Remember

The SR-313 Scenic Byway is a must-drive for anyone looking to see Moab’s spectacular landscapes from the road. This route takes you through some of the most stunning desert scenery in Utah, offering breathtaking views of the Colorado River, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park. The drive provides plenty of photo opportunities and is perfect for those looking to take in the beauty of the region at a leisurely pace.

Outdoor Adventures in Moab: Hiking, Biking, and Rafting

Beyond the national parks and state parks, Moab offers a wealth of outdoor activities that make it a true adventure hub. From hiking and mountain biking to river rafting and off-roading, Moab is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Mountain Biking: A Thrilling Ride Through the Desert

Moab is considered one of the best places in the world for mountain biking. The town is home to several world-class trails, including the Slickrock Trail, which attracts bikers from all over the globe. The trail’s challenging terrain and stunning views make it a must-ride for any mountain biking enthusiast. For those looking for something less challenging, there are also beginner-friendly trails, such as the Porcupine Rim Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.

River Rafting: An Exciting Way to Explore the Colorado River

The Colorado River runs through Moab, offering visitors the chance to experience the desert from the water. River rafting trips are available for all skill levels, from calm, scenic floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids. Whether you’re looking to relax on the water or tackle thrilling white-water rapids, rafting in Moab is an unforgettable experience.

Off-Roading and ATV Tours: Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

For those looking to get even closer to the rugged desert landscape, Moab offers numerous off-roading and ATV tours. These tours take visitors through the desert on specially designed vehicles, allowing them to explore areas that are inaccessible by foot. Whether you’re cruising over sand dunes or navigating through rocky terrain, Moab’s off-road trails are the perfect way to experience the wild desert in all its glory.

Where to Stay in Moab: Comfortable Accommodations for Every Traveller

Moab offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels. Whether you’re looking to stay close to the action or prefer a quiet, secluded spot, Moab has something for everyone. For those who prefer camping, there are numerous campgrounds within and near the national parks.

Best Accommodations Near Arches and Canyonlands

If you want to be close to Arches and Canyonlands, consider staying at the Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground or the Red Cliffs Lodge. Both offer easy access to the parks and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For a more luxurious experience, the Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa offers upscale accommodations with river views and plenty of on-site amenities.

Conclusion: Moab, Utah — The Ultimate Desert Adventure

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Moab, Utah, has it all. From its iconic national parks and state parks to the wide array of outdoor activities, Moab is the ultimate desert playground. With its stunning landscapes, exciting adventures, and welcoming atmosphere, Moab is a destination that should be at the top of every traveller’s bucket list.

Start planning your adventure today and experience the breathtaking beauty of Moab and its surrounding landscapes. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories of your time in this American desert paradise.