A Fall Guide to Exploring Moab, Utah
Whether you’re a thrill-seeking mountain biker or a chill-seeking bird watcher, once you visit Moab, Utah, you’ll be eager to return. Nestled in the breathtaking, high-canyon landscape of southeastern Utah, this town has something for everyone.
Why Autumn?
As a high-desert climate, Moab has extremely hot summer days and chilly winter nights, so the temperate fall weather makes it easy to enjoy every moment of your trip. Plus, you’ll be less likely to get rained out of one of their iconic national parks compared to spring.
Where Should I Stay?
If you’re eager to explore the vast, breathtaking public lands this area offers, look into reserving a camping spot in one of the area's national parks, as long as you don’t mind getting a little red dirt on your trusty travel duffel bag.
If camping in a national park isn’t your jam, there are plenty of other accommodations in this quaint desert town, ranging from dispersed camping to comfortable resorts.
What Should I Do?
Here are three things to do during a fall trip to Moab, Utah:
1. Explore Arches National Park
Located five miles from town, this park lives up to the name; Arches National Park boasts the largest number of natural stone arches in the world. As you drive into the heart of the park, prepare to be awe-struck by stone fins, balancing rocks, and other geological marvels.
Catch a glimpse of this park's crown jewel, Delicate Arch, from an accessible lookout point or via a 3-mile hiking loop. Desert days can be hot, even in the fall, so bring plenty of water on any hike. Durable travel backpacks with built-in bladder pockets are popular on these trails, as they offer a hands-free hiking experience and make staying hydrated a breeze.
2. Watch the Sunrise in Canyonlands
Mesa Arch, a massive natural stone arch perched on the wall of a stunning canyon, is a popular sunrise hike for good reason. The glow of the early morning light streams through this arch as the sun peeks over the horizon, making the early wake-up call and brief 0.7-mile hike well worth it.
The fall months are a great time to witness this incredible spectacle since the sunrise is a bit later, and the area will likely be less crowded. Remember to be respectful of others, as this is a popular spot for wildlife and nature photographers!
3. Seek Thrills
Once you’ve gotten your fill of the stunning high-desert landscape surrounding Moab, quench your thirst for adventure with a thrilling excursion. Moab is a hotspot for countless outdoor adventures that travelers of any experience level can enjoy.
Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker excited to tackle this area’s iconic trails or you’d rather book a ride with an off-road tour company, this town offers adventure for everyone.
Grab your mountain bike or binoculars (or both) and get ready to enjoy sweeping landscapes and exhilarating activities in Moab, Utah, this fall.
