Moab, UT: Your Adventure Awaits

10-11-2012

By Teri Storms

Moab, UT is one of the best places to go for outdoor family adventures. As a small town just shy of 5,000 in population, Moab's economy relies heavily on tourism. The city's official website approximates one million people visiting each year. All activities and famous national parks, like Arches and Canyonlands, are within 35 miles of the city of Moab.

Whether family vacationers, adventurous friends or experienced outdoorsmen, Moab has something for everyone. There are year-round activities to suit your interests and skill level.

Hiking

Some of the best hiking trails in Utah are in Moab and the surrounding national parks. Breathtaking scenery and rock patterns will keep your visit interesting no matter what trails you take. A short hike through Arches National Park will bring you to Delicate Arch, the most recognizable sandstone arch formation. According to Utah.com, author and naturalist, Edward Abbey said there are many ways to view the arch and everyone sees something different, from cowboy chaps to a procession of angels. What better place to teach the kids about the geology of the Earth and what makes it beautiful. 

"If Delicate Arch has any significance, it lies, I will venture, in the power of the odd and unexpected to startle the senses and surprise the mind out of their ruts of habit, to compel us into a reawakened awareness of the wonderful-that which is full of wonder," Abbey said.

Off-Roading

Dirt bike, Jeep and ATV off-roaders from all over the world visit Moab every year for some of the best trails in the country. Hell's Revenge is perhaps the most famous off-roading trail in Utah and features famous obstacles such as "The Elevator," "Tip-Over Challenge" and "Rubble Trouble." This is a very difficult trail, however, so only advanced off-roaders should attempt it. If you and the family decide to take your own off-road venture and find some used four wheelers for sale, it is best to stick to a novice trail like Long Canyon Trail. 

Rafting and Kayaking

Canoeing, kayaking and rafting are popular activities for visiting groups or families. Guided trips through the Colorado River, Green River or Lake Powell are available; or the more experienced can take on the challenging rapids by themselves. Whitewater rafting tours are a popular option for family adventures. Rafting excursions through Fisher Towers are great for the kids, while Westwater and Cataract Canyons are for skilled rafters because they are more difficult.

Camping

No matter what time of year, there are many campgrounds to choose from around Moab to suit your preference and needs.  If you're not a fan of roughing it, a place like Slickrock Campgrounds, with such amenities as a pool and WiFi, may be right up your alley. For the more outdoorsy, Up the Creek Campground is a little more remote. Take the opportunity to show the kids camping etiquette by teaching campfire safety, camp setup and how to cook homemade camping meals. 

Horseback Riding

There are many options for horseback riding in Moab depending on trail length, terrain and the skills of the rider. Some local ranches, like Red Cliffs Lodge, offer guided horse tours. These are usually about four hours long and are great for beginners and kids. The tour starts with safety and basic riding instructions. Then, they take groups around the scenic, mountainous terrain to view the famous rocks and wildlife. Other trails, like Pack Creek Trail, are ideal for the experienced horseman.

Everyone needs a little adventure. Moab is a great place to experience fun in nature in a unique environment. As Helen Keller once said, "Life is either a daring adventure our nothing at all."

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