The Moab area offers thousands of miles of excellent riding for e-bikes. These miles are primarily regulated as motorized routes; however, due to the capabilities of e-bikes in sand and added power for steep climbs, e-bikes are capable of enjoying new terrain that mountain bikes don’t generally venture to.

These routes are just a few of the lesser known options that are great on an e-bike.

Equipment NOTE: The routes on this page have been tested on a Class 1 eMTB with 27.5” x 2.8” tires and a 504 WH battery.

All information courtesy of Moab Trail Mix.

Current e-bike rules within Moab and Grand County

Rules and regulations concerning e-bikes, current as of November 25, 2020.
Note: In the Moab/Grand County area, the classes of e-bikes are not a factor. These rules apply to all e-bikes.

Moab City

• e-bikes are welcome on all surface streets, and within on-street bike lanes.
• e-bikes are considered motorized vehicles. (12.20.005)
• On June 8, 2021, the Moab City Council passed Ordinance No. 2021-09 allowing Class 1 electric bicycles (“e-bikes”) on the City’s path systems and setting a 15 mile-per-hour speed limit on Mill Creek Parkway. A Class 1 e-bike is an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.

Grand County

• e-bikes (Class 1) are allowed on the non-motorized Moab Canyon pathway paralleling HWY 191 North, and the non-motorized pathway along the Colorado River beside HWY 128.
• e-bikes are welcome on all open motorized trails.
• e-bikes may not be used on trails designated for non-motorized use, and may not be used other than on legally designated trails. (17.07.040)
• Violation is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a sentence of up to six months in jail and $1,000. (17.08.010)

BLM

• e-bikes are allowed on all open motorized roads and motorized trails.
• e-bike use is prohibited on all non-motorized trails unless specifically authorized in writing by the local BLM District Manager. (43 CFR 8340)
• Operation of an e-bike off designated roads and trails is a class A misdemeanor punishable by fine and/or imprisonment and/or forfeiture of vehicle.

US Forest Service

• e-bikes are allowed on all open motorized roads and motorized trails.
• e-bikes are considered motorized vehicles. (36 CFR 212.1)
• e-bike use is prohibited on all non-motorized trails.

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

• e-bikes are allowed anywhere a regular bicycle is.
• However, there are no singletrack trails open to bicycles in either park.

Dead Horse State Park

• e-bikes (Class 1 only) are allowed on trails open to regular bicycles.

Trails

FLAT IRON MESA

Background

• 15.23 miles – Lollipop loop
• 1,352’ elevation gain
• Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced – Beginner option, out and back
• Mix of loose and hard-packed doubletrack with advanced options.
• Additional info: mtbproject.com/trail/7036624/flat-iron-mesa-loop

Description

If an escape from the crowds and scenic landscapes are what you’re looking for, this is the ride for you. You’ll be following along the top of a canyon with steep walls comprised of the Wingate sandstone formation. Many of Moab’s most scenic viewpoints are on this route.

From trailhead (TH), follow the 4X4 road north, parallel the highway into a wash, once in the wash the road turns left (west) and climbs out of the wash. Continue on this road west for 2.1 miles. At the T intersection turn left, and follow Flat Iron Mesa Rd. for 0.85 miles, turn right onto the Flat Iron Mesa 4×4 route signed with “FI” on signposts. From here, the trail makes a loop heading south, turning west, then heading north along the rim of Hatch Wash.

After 6.2 miles on the Flat Iron 4×4 route, you’ll intersect Flat Iron Mesa Rd. once again.

OPTION: Turning left, and continuing for 2.1 miles, northwest will take you to the end of Flat Iron Mesa Rd and a stunning overlook of the confluence of Kane Creek Canyon and Hatch Wash Canyon.

To return to the trailhead, turn right (southeast) and continue for 1.8 miles on Flat Iron Mesa Rd. to the first road you pedaled out on. Turn left (east) and follow the road back to the trailhead.

ADVANCED OPTION: Turn left after 1.6 miles for an added 2.25 miles on an advanced 4×4 road. After 2.25 miles, turn right (south) on the Gas Line Rd. and continue for 0.35 miles. Turn left (east) to return to the TH.

BEGINNER OPTION ROUTE: Start the route from the same Trailhead, but once to Flat Iron Mesa Road, turn right (north) and continue for 4.3 miles to the end of the road at Kane Creek Overlook. The return route is reversed.

Access

From Center St. and Main St. in Moab, drive south on Highway 191 for 18 miles. Just after crossing over Mule Shoe Canyon, turn right and park at the entrance of the 4×4 road.

Note: This trailhead is not signed along HWY 191. If struggling to find TH, you can start the route on Flat Iron Mesa Rd at its intersection with HWY191

SEVEN MILE RIM

Background

• 15.15 miles – Loop
• 1,490’ elevation gain
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• 4×4 doubletrack with mixed packed, slickrock, and sandy stretches.
• Open desert with scenic views of large sandstone mesas
• Additional Info: mtbproject.com/trail/7036625/seven-mile-rim-loop

Description

The Seven Mile Rim route takes you through the rolling slickrock canyons of Tusher Canyon, past the tall desert towers of Determination Towers, along and between Monitor and Merrimac buttes, climbs Seven Mile Rim to a stunning view looking out into Arches National Park and the La Sal Mountains, before descending past Uranium Arch and Courthouse Rock back to the Trailhead. Use caution as this area has many alternative roads. Carry proper equipment for navigation.

From trailhead (TH), ride west for 0.1 mile, turn left and follow signs labeled 7R from here. Continue 2 miles to intersection of Tusher Canyon Rd., turn left (south). Continue up the canyon for 1.1 miles. Turn left (east), following signs marked “7R” and “M&M”. After 1.2 miles you will leave Tusher Canyon, and see Determination Towers to your south, turn right at this intersection following the sign to “7R”. Traveling south, past the Determination Towers, continue for 1.45 miles. You’re now at a strange four way intersection near Wipeout Hill, and just west of the Merrimac Butte.

Take the second left that heads to the south side of the Merrimac Butte. Continue east around the southern base of the Merrimac Butte for 1 mile. Continue through the middle of the two buttes, heading northeast, for 0.5 mile. Turn right (east), and continue straight for 0.7 mile, this stretch will have a few roads intersecting your path, however, continue straight until the T intersection. At T, turn left (north), in approximately 1500 feet stay right and continue on this road east, for 1.9 miles. This road primarily climbs east then turns north near the top of Seven Mile Rim. After 1.9 miles, turn left (west), to descend 0.3 mile to Uranium Arch. Once past the arch, continue north on roads marked “M&M” or “HWY 191” for 3.1 miles. Your final slickrock descent will take you past the east side of Courthouse Rock before intersecting the Cotter Mine Road. Turn left (northwest), on Cotter Mine Rd and continue for 1.5 miles to the Trailhead. There are many alternative roads in this last 3 mile section. By continuing north you will make your way to the Cotter Mine Road.

Access

From Center St. and Main St. in Moab, drive north on Highway 191 for 16 miles. Turn left onto Mill Canyon Rd. and proceed for 0.6 miles to the Mill Canyon, Tusher Canyon Trailhead.

Note: Tusher Canyon (west side of loop), during dry periods of the year can be difficult on an ebike with narrower tires due to sand. If on an ebike with tires narrower than 2.5”, riding this route in the opposite direction is advised.

POISON SPIDER MESA

Background

• 17.49 miles – Lollipop loop
• 1,975’ elevation gain
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Challenging 4×4 doubletrack, some sand, and long stretches of sandstone riding.
• Additional Info: mtbproject.com/trail/7036620/poison-spider-loop-route

Description

From trailhead (TH), ride up the Poison Spider Mesa 4×4 road for 5.3 mi. This first section of the route will be retraced upon your return. Turn right at the Golden Spike/Poison Spider Mesa intersections. Proceed on Poison Spider Mesa for 2.8 miles to the top of the Portal Viewpoint.

Note: Portal Singletrack and Goldbar Rim Singletrack are non-motorized routes not open to e-bikes.
Heading northwest continue on the Portal Connector Road for 0.7 miles downhill toward the intersection of Golden Spike and Where Eagles Dare (WED). Follow route for WED for 0.4 miles (west), at the first intersection turn left (south), and continue for 0.25 miles.

OPTION: At this intersection turning right (west), will take you to the viewpoint of Dragonfly Canyon and Corona Arch.
To continue the route turn left (east), and continue on WED for 1 mile to the southern intersection of WED and Golden Spike. Turn right (south), on Golden Spike and continue for 1.6 miles back to the Poison Spider/Golden Spike intersection. This is the section of road you came out on. Continue straight, south, for 5.3 miles back to the Poison Spider Trailhead.

Access

From Center St. and Main St. in Moab, drive north on Highway 191 for 4.1 miles, turn left on Potash Rd. Highway 279. Proceed for 5.9 miles, turn right onto Poison Spider Mesa Road., proceed up the hill and park at the trailhead.

CAUTION: POISON SPIDER MESA HAS MANY ALTERNATIVE ROUTES AND DEAD END ROADS. IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED YOU CARRY A MAP AND GPS UNIT WHILE EXPLORING THIS AREA. POISON SPIDER MESA IS CLIFFED OUT ON ALL SIDES AND THE JEEP ROAD IS THE ONLY WAY ON AND OFF THE MESA FOR EBIKES.

OTHER TRAIL OPPORTUNITIES

Dead Horse Point State Park

• Beginner – Intermediate singletrack
• 19+ miles of singletrack – many loop options

With the most iconic Moab views, and fun purpose built singletrack this is a must do. Entry fee is required, map included upon entry of park.

Visitor Center Phone: 435-259-2614

Website: stateparks.utah.gov/parks/dead-horse/

Sand Flats Recreation Area, Slickrock Bike Trail

• Advanced singletrack entirely on sandstone.
• 15+ miles – many loop options

One of the most unique experiences you will ever have on two wheels. Other great options within Sand Flats include Hells Revenge and Fins and Things. Fee required at booth, map included upon entry.

Phone: 435-259-2444
Website: sandflats.org

Sovereign Singletrack Trail System

Intermediate-advanced singletrack

20+ miles – Many loop options

Located on Sovereign Utah State Lands 12 miles north of Moab. These trails traverse fun terrain with many loop options making it easy to ride as long as you like.

Trail Description: mtbproject.com/trail/231528/sovereign

E-BIKE GUIDELINES FOR THE MOAB AREA

"Electric assisted bicycle" means a bicycle with an electric motor that:

1. has a power output of less than 750 watts;
2. has fully operable pedals on permanently affixed cranks;
3. is fully operable as a bicycle without the use of the electric motor

ON FEDERAL PUBLIC LANDS in the Moab area, BLM and Forest Service, e-bikes are allowed on all open motorized roads and motorized trails. E-bikes are NOT allowed on designated non-motorized mountain bike trails.

Policy updates issued by the BLM on October 22, 2019 state that e-bike use is prohibited on existing designated non-motorized bicycle trails unless authorized by the local BLM District Manager. The BLM Moab Field Office is currently exploring options to expand e-biking recreation opportunities in the area. This process involves environmental assessments and public comment periods to investigate what impacts e-bikes may have on other user groups, wildlife, and trail conditions. Please respect the current regulations as this process takes place.

ON UTAH STATE PUBLIC LANDS, SITLA, Sovereign, and Utah State Parks, e-bikes are classified as non-motorized and are categorized by three classes.

• Class 1: Provides assistance when pedaled up to 20 MPH
• Class 2: Provides assistance via pedaling or a throttle up to 20 MPH
• Class 3: Provides assistance when pedaled up to 28 MPH

We all share our right to enjoy public lands. Please use them respectfully and within the laws that govern them.

E-BIKES AND OTHER USERS

E-Bikes on Shared Use Trails

• Stop for cyclists, hikers, runners and horseback riders.
• STAY ON THE TRAIL – Ride to the edge of the trails surface and lean out away from the other rider to protect sensitive biological crusts. Do not ride off trail to get out of the way!
• Passing from behind, alert the other rider of your presence, slow down, and give them time to pull over in an appropriate spot. Be patient, don’t rush them.
• When passing other users on a road, slow down and announce your presence before passing.
• When riding around blind corners, always slow down and anticipate other users.

E-Bikes and Horseback Riders

• Always announce yourself from a long distance before approaching an equestrian.
• Once the rider acknowledges you, they will give instructions on how to proceed past.
• Never pass a horseback rider unexpectedly as this can startle the horse and cause injury to the rider.

E-Bikes and Other Motorized Users

• Yield to one another and stop as appropriate.
• Pull over only in wide areas like washes or on rock.
• When encountering a 4×4 vehicle driving up or down ledges or on steep loose surfaces, get the driver’s attention before attempting to pass and signal how many more are coming.
• You are on a maneuverable machine; be courteous and yield right of way to larger vehicles.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Be Prepared

• Make sure your e-bike battery is fully charged.
• Carry tools to fix mechanical breakdowns.
• Have at least one gallon of water per person per day, extra food, and appropriate clothing for unexpected weather conditions.
• Let someone know where you are going before heading out, carry maps for the area you are planning of going.
• Cell phone coverage is limited outside of the Moab Valley; do not rely solely on your cell phone for navigation or rescue.

Desert Trail Conditions

Moab trails feature steep sandstone and stretches of sand that can drain your battery faster than riding on hard-packed trails. Plan your mileage with this in mind. Keep a close eye on your battery consumption, and adjust your ride and power settings accordingly.

Navigation

Know your route and bring accurate maps. The most accurate and frequently updated maps for the Moab area are the Latitude 40, Moab East and Moab West maps, and National Geographic North and South Moab maps. These maps have the most accurate road and trail info and also highlight popular OHV routes that are great for e-bikes. Do not rely solely on the information on this page for navigation.

Desert Weather

Always plan for adverse, changing conditions. Flash floods can affect most the trails in the area leaving you on the wrong side of a creek for minutes or hours.

Desert weather can be unpredictable. Fast moving thunder and lightning storms, along with heavy rains and even unexpected snow showers can hit with little notice.

High daily temperatures in summer months (June-August) are consistently over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius). Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are common in summer months. To help avoid this life threatening issue, ride in the early morning or in the evening and rest during the hottest part of the day.

PRACTICE MINIMUM IMPACT

E-bikes have more power than traditional mountain bikes, are lighter than motorcycles and seem capable of going just about anywhere. It is the rider’s responsibility to respect the desert and the laws of our public lands to preserve our right to enjoy them into the future. Limiting your impact reduces the amount of maintenance required to keep trails open. Stay precisely on the designated routes and don’t widen or ride off the trail for any reason. Respect trail signage, info kiosks, and other amenities found at trailheads.

Pack It In, Pack It Out

Decomposition in the desert is slow. Please pack out all trash, including garbage, food waste, human waste and toilet paper. Trash does not disappear, other humans must remove it!

Human Waste in the Desert

• Pack it out! Grand County requires you to pack out all human waste (Poo and toilet paper) from public lands.
• Wag bags are available from local gear stores and are the most sanitary system of disposal.

All information courtesy of Moab Trail Mix.

Where to View

As few as one in ten Americans live in areas where they can see the estimated 2,500 stars that should be visible under normal conditions, which means many visitors have never seen the Milky Way or experienced the splendor of a true star-filled sky. At the following Dark Sky Parks, the naked eye is sufficient to witness a wealth of stars. Under the right conditions, binoculars may even reveal the rings of Saturn!

Arches National Park
Arches National Park received its International Dark Sky Park designation in 2019. On a clear night, you can see an incredible number of stars just about anywhere in the park. Areas off the main park road with few obstructions of the sky are best. A few easy-to-access options include Balanced Rock Picnic Area, The Windows, Garden of Eden Viewpoint and a dedicated stargazing area at Panorama Point. The farther north you drive away from the lights of Moab, the darker the sky will be. Be sure to check at the visitor center for more information and to find out about opportunities to attend ranger-led stargazing events and programs.

Canyonlands National Park
Night skies at Canyonlands National Park are so pristine the International Dark-Sky Association designated Canyonlands as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park in 2015, which is the highest designation for darkness. Efforts to preserve natural darkness at Canyonlands began several years ago with a focused effort to revamp and replace lighting with "night-sky friendly" bulbs and fixtures. Today, nearly 100 percent of the lights in the park are "night-sky friendly." Visitors enjoy attending night sky programs at the Island in the Sky and Needles districts, where rangers use story-telling and telescopes to showcase the wonders of the universe. 

Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park, the first Utah state park to be recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, is one of the most active and accessible areas to stargaze in the Moab area. Its high plateau location, mountains far in the distance and cities out of sight, yields a nearly full view of the celestial sphere. Park staff routinely provide after-dark programs celebrating the night sky, from hikes under the full moon to gazing through telescopes at objects millions of light years away. Whether you want to enjoy by yourself or join a ranger, Dead Horse Point State Park is a premier spot to see the night skies at their best.

What to Look for

• The Milky Way: The central part of the Milky Way, also known as the galactic core, can be seen shining brightly in Utah over the summer months, from March to November. 
• March–May: The galactic core doesn’t become visible until a few hours before sunrise.
• June–August: The Milky Way is easily viewable any time after the sun sets.
• September–November: The early evening is the best Milky Way viewing opportunity during these months.
• Perseids Meteor Shower: One of the most popular meteor showers of the year due to its midsummer appearance, the Perseids are visible from the northern hemisphere July 14 to September 1. This year’s shower is predicted to peak August 12–13, which will provide a particularly good viewing opportunity as the moon will only be 10% full. The best time to view is before dawn, when you could see a rate of 50–75 meteors per hour!

• The Summer Triangle: Made up of a few of summer’s brightest stars, the Summer Triangle can help you identify three separate constellations. Look for the most attention-grabbing star in the eastern sky to locate Vega, which is the brightest star in the constellation Lyra the Harp. Or trace a line from the two stars by the handle of the Big Dipper to find your way there. To the lower left of Vega is Deneb, the star that makes up the tail of Cygnus the Swan. To complete the triangle to the lower right of Vega, Altair represents the brightest star and head of Aquila the Eagle.

Stargazing Tips

• When to Watch: For the best viewing, plan to do your stargazing during a new moon (or within three days before or three days after) or when the moon is below the horizon. Even the slightest light from a thin crescent moon can make it more difficult to see the Milky Way and other faint stars and celestial objects. Check our Moon Phase Chart for dates, as well as sunrise and sunset times.
• Be Prepared: Despite hot temperatures during the day, the desert can still get chilly at night, even in the summer. Make sure your outing is comfortable and enjoyable by packing chairs, blankets, layers, and maybe even a warm drink.
• Allow Your Eyes to Adjust: It can take up to 20–30 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the dark, so spend enough time away from bright lights and without your phone to be able to take in as many stars as possible. For light, use flashlights or headlamps with a red-light setting, which won’t affect your night vision.
• View Responsibly: Please note that using artificial light sources to light up landscapes, rock formations, or other park features for photos or other purposes is prohibited. Artificial light sources may be used for personal route-finding or minimum impact camping only.

Introduction

Located just 5 miles (8 km) north of Moab, you will discover the awe-inspiring Arches National Park, boasting the largest concentration of natural sandstone arches on Earth. With over 2,000 arches scattered across its vast 76,518-acre expanse, this park is a treasure trove of geological wonders. Towering sandstone fins, majestic balanced rocks, and soaring pinnacles and spires dominate the landscape, leaving visitors in awe as they explore the park’s numerous viewpoints and hiking trails.

Embarking on a scenic drive along a paved route, visitors can easily access the park’s key viewpoints, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking vistas. However, Arches National Park offers more than just stunning arches. Its rock formations captivate the imagination of both children and adults alike. Families can venture out of their vehicles and embark on easy trails, providing kids with the perfect opportunity to intimately experience the arches up close.

For avid hikers seeking a deeper connection with this natural marvel, the park offers an array of trail options. Whether you prefer a leisurely twenty-minute stroll leading to some of the largest arches in the park or an adventurous trek into lesser-explored areas, Arches National Park caters to all levels of hiking enthusiasts.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Arches National Park, where nature’s artistry unfolds at every turn.

Food

Please note that food is not available within the park. The closest restaurants are either in the town of Moab, at Dead Horse Point State Park, or at the dinosaur museum at the intersection of Highways 191 and 313 (entrance fee is not required to access the restaurant).

Park Highlights

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch

People come from all over the world to visit Arches National Park, and visiting Delicate Arch is on the top of many visitors’ to-do lists. In a park with over 2,000 stone arches, this particular free-standing arch has become a widely recognized symbol of the state of Utah and one of the most famous geologic features in the world. The light opening beneath the arch is 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, making it the largest free-standing arch in the park.
Learn More About Delicate Arch Hiking Trail

Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock

A short paved trail leads visitors to the base of Balanced Rock. The landform’s total height is 128 feet, with the huge balanced rock rising 55 feet above its base.

Landscape Arch

Landscape Arch

The longest natural rock span in the world, this arch’s opening is 306 feet wide – 6 feet longer than a football field. A nine story building would easily fit beneath this thin span. In 1991, a massive slab of rock fell from its underside, resulting in an even thinner ribbon of rock.

Spring Wildflowers

Spring Wildflowers

April and May bring a variety of desert wildflowers to Arches.

Double Arch

Double Arch

Located in the Windows Section of Arches National Park, Double Arch was used as a backdrop for portions of the 1988 movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”. Numerous other movies have been filmed in Arches National Park, including Thelma and Louise in 1991.

Park Avenue

Park Avenue

From Park Avenue parking area, the trail descends steeply into a spectacular canyon and continues down the wash to Courthouse Towers. If you have a shuttle driver, you can begin at one point and be picked up at the other. For round-trip hiking, retrace your steps along the trail rather than walk along the park road.

Arches in Winter

Arches in Winter

Winter brings a blanket of pristine snow to Arches, providing dramatic contrast to the surrounding red rocks.

Family Hiking

Family Hiking

There are many family friendly hikes in Arches, including the hike to Turret Arch in the Windows Section.

Biological Soil Crust

Your help is crucial in preserving our trails and protecting the fragile soil that sustains the desert ecosystem. The biological soil crust, also known as cryptobiotic soil, serves as the foundation for desert plant life. This unique black, knobby crust is composed of diverse living organisms and plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the desert environment.

However, this soil crust is exceptionally delicate and can take several decades to regenerate. Even a single footstep can cause irreparable damage that can persist for years, impacting the entire ecosystem. We urge you to stay on designated roads, routes, and trails to ensure the preservation of this fragile life. In areas where hiking trails are not established, it is advisable to hike on sandy washes or bare rock surfaces to minimize the impact on the soil.

By remaining vigilant and adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the long-term sustainability of the desert ecosystem and help safeguard its natural beauty for generations to come. Let’s work together to keep all of our trails open and protect the invaluable biological soil crust.

Photography

Arches National Park is a paradise for photographers. Under conditions of constantly changing light, the red rock landscape provides limitless photographic opportunities. Often, the difference between an average photograph and an exceptional photograph is good lighting. Low sun angles at sunrise and sunset can add brilliant color to the red rock. Scattered clouds can also add depth to an image and a passing storm can provide extremely dramatic lighting.

Photographing Delicate Arch

Over one million people visit Arches National Park every year, and just about everyone wants to see all of the major views within the park. One of the most heavily visited arches is Delicate Arch. As a result of its popularity, you should always expect to see people surrounding this world famous arch. Although it may occasionally happen, it is unrealistic to expect a solitary experience around Delicate Arch. Be courteous to other visitors during your visit to the arch, and do not expect people to move away from this world famous landmark during your photographs. Remember that not everyone who visits this arch is a photographer. Most people simply want to experience the joy of standing next to such a beautiful landmark. People can add scale to any photo of Delicate Arch, so make your visit a great shared experience for everyone involved.

Try not to limit your creativity by simply capturing images of iconic places using the same composition as countless photographers before you. Arches National Park contains thousands of arches and vast expanses of breathtaking scenery just waiting for you to introduce your own personal style and interpretation. For those seeking solitude, Arches has much to offer beyond its iconic places. For example, consider a hike to Double O Arch, returning via the Primitive Trail, for some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Just remember to bring enough memory cards to capture all of the great views!

Best Times / Locations to Photograph

Early Morning	Late Afternoon
Moab Fault	Park Avenue
The Three Gossips	Courthouse Towers
Sheep Rock	Petrified Dunes
The Great Wall	Balanced Rock
Turret Arch	The Garden of Eden
The Spectacles	North and South Windows
Double Arch	Delicate Arch (at end of main trail)
Cache Valley	Fiery Furnace
Wolfe Ranch	Skyline Arch
Landscape Arch	Fins in Devil Garden
Double O Arch	Tower Arch

Partners

Canyonlands Natural History Association

Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA) is a nonprofit organization assisting the National Park Service in its educational, interpretive and scientific programs throughout southeast Utah. Known as a "cooperating association," CNHA’s goals include enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of public lands by providing a selection of quality, educational materials for sale in many vistor centers. Twenty percent of these sales is returned to the National Park Service and other federal land management agencies.

CNHA operates the bookstore at Arches Visitor Center.

Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks

The Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks: Bates Wilson Legacy Fund provides direct support to Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Natural Bridges and Hovenweep national monuments in order to enhance existing projects in these spectacular areas, and to conserve the land and its cultural treasures for present and future generations to enjoy.

This mission honors the legendary work of Superintendent Bates Wilson, who came to Arches in 1949, inspiring and leading the effort that resulted in the establishment of Canyonlands National Park in 1964. The Friends Group offices are in the Rock House behind Arches Visitor Center, where Bates once lived with his family.

Introduction

Campgrounds within the National Parks, State Parks & National Forests generally have less amenities than privately owned campgrounds (no showers, etc.), however they are often located within exceptionally scenic areas.

Key

#

Elevation

#

Sites

#

RV Length

#

Group Sites

Picnic Tables

Boat Launch

Drinking Water

Arches National Park

• No RV hookups – No showers – Reservations required from March 1st-October 31st

Arches – Devils Garden Campground

End of 18 mile paved scenic drive

Info: 435-719-2299

Reservations: 877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov

5000

53

30

Learn More About Camping in Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park

• No RV hookups – No showers – No reservations

Learn More About Camping in Canyonlands National Park

Dead Horse Point State Park

• Electrical hookups – No Showers – Reservations strongly recommended due to limited availability.

Dead Horse Point State Park

9 miles north of Moab on Hwy 191, then 22 miles west on Hwy 313

Info: 435-259-2614

Reservations: 800-322-3770 or visit: utahstateparks.com

6000

61

45

National Forest

• No RV Hookups – No Showers – Reservations accepted for Warner Lake only

Warner Lake Campground

Location: South on Hwy 191 for 8 miles to La Sal Mountain Loop Road sign. Turn left and follow Loop Road signs for 14.8 miles, then 5 miles on a dirt road. (Lat/Long: 38.519942 -109.276368)

Info: 435-259-7155

Reservations: 877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov

9200

21

33

Introduction

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) maintains 26 campgrounds in the Moab area. With the exception of Ken’s Lake (see below), most individual campsites are available on a first-come/first-served basis and no reservations are accepted.

Ken’s Lake and Selected Courthouse Rock Campsites are Now Reservable

• Individual campsites are now reservable through Recreation.gov.
• Ken’s Lake Recreation Area is just 10 miles south of Moab and offers swimming, paddle-boarding, limited boating and fishing. Hiking and 4WD roads are accessible from the campground. Click here for Ken’s Lake Campsite Reservations Q & A.

All other BLM Campgrounds are first-come, first-serve (no reservations available):

• All individual sites are $20/night.  Pay at the campground with exact cash, check or by utilizing the Credit Card ROK where available. The Remote Off-Grid Kiosk (ROK) is a solar powered Recreational Free Collection System. See the list below for campgrounds which utilize the ROK for credit card payments. The North Klondike campground has the option to pay using the Recreation.gov mobile app. (Note: Camping in the Sand Flats Recreation Area is $15 per night per vehicle.)
• Campgrounds and camping areas have picnic tables, vault toilets and fire rings. Firewood gathering is not allowed. Bring your own wood (available at convenience stores in Moab).
• Campsites are limited to 10 people and two vehicles (or one vehicle and a trailer).
• RV Sites have no hook-ups. Generator hours are from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
• Camping at all sites is limited to 14 days within a 30-day period.
• Group Campsites – Several campgrounds feature reservable group sites, which are suitable for large groups. All BLM group campgrounds are reserved through Recreation.gov.

Please note that drinking water is NOT available at these campsites and plan accordingly.

Please do not drive through campgrounds when "Full" signs are posted. The campgrounds are full and the noise and lights disturb fellow campers!

  Did you know: All Moab BLM campgrounds are supported solely by user fees – not tax dollars!  

Key

#

Elevation

#

Sites

#

RV Length

#

Group Sites

Picnic Tables

Boat Launch

Horse Corral

Highway 128 Campgrounds

Goose Island Campground

Hwy 128, 1.4 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

19

40

2

Grandstaff Campground

Hwy 128, 3 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

16

24

Drinks Canyon Campground

Hwy 128, 6.2 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Big Bend Campground.

4000

17

18

Hal Canyon Campground

Hwy 128, 6.6 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Big Bend Campground.

4000

11

24

Oak Grove Campground

Hwy 128, 6.9 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Big Bend Campground.

4000

7

18

Big Bend Campground

Hwy 128, 7.4 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Big Bend Campground.

4000

33

40

3

Upper Big Bend Campground

Hwy 128, 8.1 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Big Bend Campground.

4000

8

18

Upper Onion Creek Campground

Hwy 128, 21 miles from Hwy 191, then 0.7 miles southeast on gravel road. Has corral for up to 8 horses. Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Hittle Bottom Campground.

4200

14

40

2

Lower Onion Creek Campground

Hwy 128, 21.5 miles from Hwy 191 then 1 mile northwest on graded road. Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Hittle Bottom Campground.

4000

21

24

3

Fisher Towers Campground

Hwy 128, 21.5 miles from Hwy 191 – Dirt Road access. Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Hittle Bottom Campground.

4500

5

18

Hittle Bottom Campground

Hwy 128, 22.5 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK.

4000

15

34

1

Dewey Bridge Campground

Hwy 128, 28.7 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK at Hittle Bottom Campground.

4000

7

34

3

Highway 279 Campgrounds

Jaycee Park Campground

Hwy 279, 4.2 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

7

18

Williams Bottom Campground

Hwy 279, 6 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

17

24

Gold Bar Campground

Hwy 279, 10.2 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

9

40

4

Highway 313 Campgrounds

Lone Mesa Group Sites

Utah 313, 9 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

5300

0

50

5

Horsethief Campground

Utah 313, 12 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash, check or Credit Card ROK.

5800

83

40

5

Cowboy Campground

Utah 313, 14 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

6100

7

7

Kane Creek Road Campgrounds

King’s Bottom Campground

Kane Creek Rd, 2.8 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

25

24

Moonflower Group Site

Kane Creek Rd, 3 miles from Hwy 191 – Payment by cash or check.

4000

1

Hunter Canyon Group Site

Kane Creek Rd, 7.8 miles from Hwy 191 – Dirt road access. Reservable only through Recreation.gov.

4000

1

The Ledge A, B, C, D, & E Campgrounds

Kane Creek Rd, 10 miles from Hwy 191 – Access to the Ledge Campground is down a tight, steep switchback and over several creek crossings on a gravel/dirt road. It is not recommended for vehicles over 22′ or vehicles pulling long trailers. – Payment by cash or check.

4000

105

22

3

Ken’s Lake Campground

Ken’s Lake Campground

8.5 miles south of Moab off Hwy 191, then follow signs south on Spanish Valley Drive. Ken’s Lake Campground is now reservable via Recreation.gov.

4000

49

40

2

North of Moab

Courthouse Rock

16 mi north of Moab on Hwy 191, then approximately 1 mi on the graveled Mill Canyon Road (turn left at first “Y” on road). Large graveled parking area suitable for large RVs and/or trailers. Campsites 1-4 and 7-10 cash, check, scan and pay. Campsites 5 and 6 reservation only through Recreation.gov.

4500

10

50

North Klondike

22 mi north of Moab on SR 191, take the graveled Road 143 and past the metal toilet (stay left at first “Y” on road). This campground also has the option to pay using the Recreation.gov mobile app.

4700

25

2

Sand Flats Recreation Area

Sand Flats Recreation Area

Sand Flats Road, 2 miles east of Moab

4500

140

34

6

BLM CAMPGROUNDS THAT ACCOMMODATE LARGE RVS:

• Sand Flats Recreation Area – Most sites accommodate up to a 26 foot RV. Campground A has 6 sites that will accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.
• Goose Island – All sites accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.
• Ken’s Lake – Numerous sites accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.
• Big Bend – 5 sites will accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.
• Hittle Bottom – 5 sites will accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.
• Gold Bar– Reservable group sites that accommodate several large RVs.
• Lone Mesa– Reservable group sites that accommodate several large RVs.

EQUESTRIAN FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS:

• Upper Onion Creek Group Site A
• Ken’s Lake Group Site A
• Lone Mesa Group Site A
• Courthouse Rock Campground

BLM Camping Map

Dispersed (Primitive) Camping On Public Lands

The areas with designated sites (marked with green hatch lines) are summarized below:

• Dubinky Well Road – 12 sites on the east side of the road
• Gemini Bridges Road – 6 campsites located in Bride Canyon.
• Cotter Mine Road- 10 sites located just off HWY 191 and north of SR 313
• Dripping Springs Area – 6 large campsites near Tenmile Wash
• Black Ridge Area – 6 sites located in the camping area.
• Picture Frame Arch Area – 4 sites located in the Behind the Rocks area located six miles southwest from Moab off Hwy. 191

There are several areas in which no sites are designated and camping is not allowed (orange). The Shafer Basin, which forms the viewshed of Dead Horse Point State Park and is important bighorn sheep habitat, has no sites. Long Canyon, which is subject to extreme flooding and is also important bighorn habitat, has no sites. No camping is allowed in the Mill Creek area immediately east of the city of Moab, or on the west side of Spanish Valley. No camping is allowed within one mile of developed recreation sites in the Canyon Rims Recreation Area. If you have any questions about primitive camping restrictions please contact the Moab BLM Office at (435) 259-2100.

Moab Outdoor Adventure Guide

Introduction

Key

#

RV Hookups

#

Tent Sites

#

Cabins/Glamping Sites

#

RV Length

Glamping

Dump Station

Laundry

Pool

Hot Tub

Internet Access

Playground

Group Sites

Pets

Campfires Allowed

Open All Year

Moab Area

Dowd Flats RV Park & Campgrounds

2701 S Highway 191

435-231-0800

25

40

40

HTR Moab Lodge and Cottages

1536 Mill Creek Dr

htrresorts.com

435-355-0355

19

30

Moab KOA

3225 S Hwy 191

moabkoa.com

435-259-6682

153

26

57

80

Moab Rim Campark

1900 S Hwy 191

More Info

888-599-6622 | 435-259-5002

26

25

13

70

OK RV Park

3310 Spanish Valley Dr

okrvpark.com

435-259-1400

40

57

40

Pack Creek Campground

1520 Murphy Lane Unit #23

packcreekcampground.com

435-259-2982

33

16

35

Portal RV Resort Campground

1261 N Hwy 191

portalrvresort.com

435-259-6108

88

100

Spanish Trail RV Park

3225 S Hwy 191

spanishtrailrvpark.com

435-259-6682

81

57

60

Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway

1773 N Hwy 191

sunoutdoors.com

877-418-8535

63

40

35

45

Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway

Intersection of Hwy 191 & SR 313

sunoutdoors.com

435-259-7854

97

15

13

35

Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown

555 S Main St

sunoutdoors.com

435-259-6848

88

26

8

34

Sun Outdoors North Moab

1301 N Hwy 191

sunoutdoors.com

888-991-5329

80

50

14

55

Under Canvas Moab

13784 N Highway 191

undercanvas.com

888-496-1148

38

Thompson Springs

Ballard RV Park

Utah I-70 Exit 187

moabrvpark.com

435-285-4924

55

8

100

Desert Moon Mobile RV

75 West Highway 6-50, Thompson Springs

desertmoonrvpark.com

702-773-1928

10

8

3

50

Moab Area Camping

(Click for Complete List)

Commercial Campgrounds & Cabins

Commercial (privately owned) campgrounds generally have many conveniences such as showers, running water, RV hook-ups, flush toilets, and more. They also generally accept reservations. This list includes all commercial campgrounds in the Moab area.
Click here for a list of campgrounds…

(Click for Complete List)

BLM Campgrounds

BLM campgrounds are located in extremely scenic locations and are very well-maintained. Many BLM campsites are suitable for RVs, although hook-ups are not available. There are many Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campgrounds on the public lands surrounding Moab, although most fill daily during mid-March-May and Sept-October. Please note that most individual campsites are available on a first come – first served basis only and No reservations are accepted. Plan to arrive earlier in the day. Starting March 1, 2021, Ken’s Lake Campground will be reservable via recreation.gov. Some campgrounds have reservable group sites through recreation.gov.
Click here for a list of campgrounds…

(Click for Complete List)

National Park, State Park, & Forest Campgrounds

Campgrounds within the State Parks, National Parks & National Forests generally have less amenities than privately owned campgrounds (no showers, etc.), however they are often located within exceptionally scenic areas.
Click here for a list of campgrounds…