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Moab Nightlife
After a full day of hiking, biking, rafting, 4-wheeling or sightseeing, take some time to relax in the town of Moab. Moab has a surprising variety of nighttime activities that are sure to please every visitor.
Southeastern Utah is home to some of the darkest skies in the country with some incredible nocturnal night life thriving under its stars. However, with urbanization and population growth there are threats on the horizon. Join Ranger Rhodes as we explore what makes the night skies of Canyonlands and Arches special, how we can continue to protect them, and what differences we can make at home to save our night skies for future generations.
Summer Stargazing in Moab’s Dark Sky Parks
While you’re sure to experience epic views of unique rock formations and panoramic vistas during the day, these scenes set the stage for a completely different kind of breath-taking beauty at night. Here in the deep darkness of the desert, you’ll be able to escape the light pollution of cities and see more stars than ever before.
Utah currently has the most certified International Dark Sky Parks anywhere in the world, and the Moab area is proud to call three of them home. In fact, the public lands surrounding Moab have some of the darkest skies remaining in the contiguous 48 United States. Read on to get the full scoop on where to go and how to maximize your stargazing experience.
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.
Dead Horse Point State Park
The view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world.
32 miles (51.5 km) from Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is one of Utah’s most spectacular state parks. The view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the overlook provides a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes. Millions of years of geologic activity created the spectacular views from Dead Horse Point State Park. Deposition of sediments by ancient oceans, freshwater lakes, streams and wind blown sand dunes created the rock layers of canyon country. Igneous activity formed the high mountains that rise like cool blue islands from the desert below.
The legend of Dead Horse Point states that in the late 1800’s the point was used as a corral for wild mustangs roaming the mesa top. Cowboys herded them across the narrow neck of land and onto the point. The neck was then fenced off with branches and brush. One time, for some unknown reason, horses were left corralled on the waterless point where they died of thirst within view of the Colorado River 2,000 feet below.
There are miles of pet-friendly developed hiking trails in the park, including a paved trail which provides easy access to some of the most scenic views. Mountain Bikers will love the new Intrepid Trail System at Dead Horse Point. With slickrock sections, looping singletrack, sandy washes, and incredible scenery, the Intrepid Trail System provides a great taste of what Moab mountain biking is all about. This is the perfect ride for families and offers spectacular views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park.
Mailing Address
Dead Horse Point State Park
P.O. Box 609
Moab, UT 84532
Visitors Center GPS Coordinates
38.487767, -109.735997
Website
Mailing Address
Dead Horse Point State Park
P.O. Box 609
Moab, UT 84532
Visitors Center GPS Coordinates
38.487767, -109.735997
Website
Eight miles of pet friendly hiking trails in the park include two joining loops around the rim and several spurs to beautiful viewpoints.
The Intrepid Trail System has three hiking and biking loops ranging from one to nine miles with varying degrees of difficulty.
Nine yurts are available for overnight use and are available by reservation. Open year-round.
Dead Horse Point’s combination of breathtaking scenery and easy accessibility has made it a must-see for visitors to the Moab area.
Dead Horse Point State Park, 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 celestial sphere. Park staff routinely provide programs celebrating the night sky, from walks 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 skies our ancestors wondered over and survived with.
Download Dead Horse Point State Park’s Dark Sky Brochure to learn more.
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.
Canyonlands National Park
The largest national park in Utah, with diversity that staggers the imagination.
Phone: General Info
(435) 719-2313Backcountry Information
(435) 259-4351Mailing Address
Canyonlands National ParkDay-Use Permits
You must have a day-use permit for four-wheel-drive, motorcycle, and bicycle travel on:
Overnight Permits
River Permits
Horseback Riding, and Pack- and Stock-Use Permits
Phone: General Info
(435) 719-2313Backcountry Information
(435) 259-4351Mailing Address
Canyonlands National ParkNearby Campgrounds
In addition to the campground located within the park, there is a great selection of additional campgrounds in the surrounding area. Moab has many commercial campgrounds with RV hookups in addition to a huge assortment of BLM public campgrounds in extremely scenic locations. Click here for a complete list of all the camping options available in the Moab area.
Where to Stay
No lodging is available within the park. The closest lodging is located within the town of Moab, just 5 miles south of the entrance to the park.
Moab has hotels & motels, bed & breakfasts, resorts and a large variety of guest houses and condos. Several property management companies can even take the hassle out of finding the right accommodations. Click here for a complete list of all the lodging options available in the Moab area.
Day-Use Permits
You must have a day-use permit for four-wheel-drive, motorcycle, and bicycle travel on:
Overnight Permits
River Permits
Horseback Riding, and Pack- and Stock-Use Permits
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).
The Green River meanders beneath the Island in the Sky, as seen from the Green River Overlook. A paved walkway leads right up to the overlook.
A great hike for families with small children, the .5 mi (.8 km) round trip hike to Mesa Arch rewards visitors with a naturally framed view of canyon country.
The Shafer Trail descends from the Island in the Sky to the White Rim. A high clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. For current conditions check at the visitor center or call 435-259-4351.
Located in Canyonlands National Park, Cataract Canyon contains fourteen miles of rapids ranging in difficulty up to Class V.
Indian Paintbrush are just one of the many wildflowers that populate the Island in the Sky in the Spring (April-June).
Canyonlands National Park, which contains some of the darkest night skies in North America, is a popular destination for stargazers. Click here for the latest sunrise/sunset and moon phase information for Moab.
Canyonlands is famous for its mountain biking terrain, particularly for the 100-mile White Rim Road at the Island in the Sky. The Maze also offers some multi-day trip possibilities, though the logistics and roads are more difficult (for the support vehicles, not the bikes).
The Colorado and Green rivers wind through the heart of Canyonlands, cutting through layered sandstone to form two deep canyons. Both rivers are calm upstream of the Confluence, ideal for canoes, kayaks and other shallow water craft. Below the Confluence, the combined flow of both rivers spills down Cataract Canyon with remarkable speed and power, creating a world-class stretch of white water.
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.
With hundreds of miles of four-wheel-drive roads, Canyonlands offers ideal terrain for multi-night mountain bike trips. Most groups travel with vehicle support to haul water and gear since there are few reliable water sources along these roads. For the truly adventurous, self-supported trips with panniers and trailers are also possible. Bikes must remain on designated roads: there are no single-track trails in the park.
Things to Know
Where Can I Ride My Bike?
You can ride a bicycle on any public roadway in the park. Some roads are better for cycling than others. Check at visitor centers for recommendations and road conditions.
Paved Roads
You can ride on paved roads at the Island in the Sky. You must must ride single file. There are no road shoulders or bike lanes; please be aware of passing vehicles.
Backcountry Roads
Canyonlands is famous for its mountain biking terrain, particularly for the 100-mile White Rim Road at Island in the Sky. The 100-mile White Rim Road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top and provides expansive views of the surrounding area. Bicycle trips usually take three to four days. Overnight and day-use permits are required.
Do I Need a Permit?
During the spring and fall, demand for permits frequently exceeds the number available. If you plan to visit Canyonlands during peak season, especially to bike and camp along the White Rim Road, we recommend making reservations well in advance. You can reserve overnight permits up to four months in advance of the start of your trip. Day-use permits are available up to 24 hours in advance of your trip.
Mountain bike groups must travel single-file, remain on established roads, and camp in designated sites. There is no single-track riding in the park. We recommend a support vehicle for all multi-day bike trips: there are no water sources along most of the roads. Guided trips are available for many destinations within Canyonlands.
On August 30, 2019 the National Park Service announced a new electric bicycle (e-bike) policy for national parks, expanding recreational opportunities and accessibility. The policy supports Secretary’s Order 3376, signed by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on August 29, 2019, that directs Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus to create a clear and consistent e-bike policy on all federal lands managed by the Department.
Beginning October 1, 2019, visitors to Southeast Utah Group parks (Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Hovenweep and Natural Bridges national monuments) will be allowed to use e-bikes where traditional bicycles are allowed. Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on paved and unpaved roads that are open to the public. Bicycles and e-bikes are not allowed on any trails in the parks.
There are no charging stations in the parks. Generators are not allowed in the backcountry. This change in e-bike policy applies to private and commercial use in the parks.
The National Park Service announcement and the agency’s new e-bike policy are available online at www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/ebikepolicy.htm.
Canyonlands is a paradise for photographers. Under conditions of constantly changing light, the varicolored 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 rock. Scattered clouds can also add depth to an image and a passing storm can provide extremely dramatic lighting.
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.
As winter loosens its grip, Moab awakens in a riot of color and adventure! 
From thrilling outdoor escapades to serene moments in nature, here’s why Moab should be on your springtime bucket list:
Mild Temperatures: 
Say goodbye to winter chills and hello to perfect hiking, biking, and climbing weather! With temperatures hovering in the comfortable range, you can explore Moab’s stunning landscapes without breaking a sweat.
Blossoming Landscapes: 
As spring unfolds, Moab transforms into a tapestry of wildflowers and budding greenery. Take a leisurely stroll through Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park to witness nature’s breathtaking spectacle.
Outdoor Adventures: 
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature enthusiast, Moab has something for everyone. Hit the trails on a mountain bike, embark on a scenic hike, or challenge yourself with rock climbing—all amidst awe-inspiring red rock formations.
Cultural Delights: 
Explore Moab’s vibrant art scene and immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit art galleries, attend live music events, and check out our retail store for a good souvenir.
Dark Skies: 
As night falls, Moab’s dark skies offer a mesmerizing canvas for stargazing. Experience the magic of the cosmos as you marvel at the Milky Way and countless twinkling stars above.
Take advantage of the magic of spring in Moab, Utah! 
Plan your getaway today and make unforgettable memories amidst nature’s splendor.
Moab in Winter
While Moab is renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes and outdoor adventures in the warmer months, the winter season unveils a whole new side of this desert paradise. Embrace the serene beauty and unique charm that Moab has to offer during the winter months, and you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience.
Tranquil Beauty
Winter transforms Moab into a peaceful haven, where the iconic red rocks are dusted with a light blanket of snow, creating a breathtaking contrast against the clear blue skies. The quiet beauty of the landscape provides a serene backdrop for exploration.
Mild Temperatures
Escape the extreme summer heat, as winter in Moab brings cooler and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking, biking, or off-roading without the intense sun, making it the perfect time to explore the trails and marvel at the geological wonders.
Cozy Accommodations
Embrace the winter chill with cozy accommodations that offer a warm retreat after a day of exploration. Off-season rates make our accommodations irresistibly affordable and provide the perfect atmosphere to relax and recharge.
Shopping
Many people are surprised to discover that a large number of Moab’s retail shops and galleries are open throughout the year. Whether you’re exploring locally owned boutiques, outdoor gear stores, or artisanal shops, the diverse selection reflects the adventurous spirit of Moab, making it an ideal destination for those seeking gifts that align with the town’s rugged and vibrant character.
Unique Adventures
Winter opens up a whole new realm of adventures in Moab. Experience the thrill of slick rock trails covered in a dusting of snow or embark on a scenic winter hike to discover hidden arches and canyons. The landscape takes on a magical quality, offering a unique perspective on Moab’s natural wonders.
Stargazing Extravaganza
With crisp winter nights, Moab becomes a stargazer’s paradise. The clear skies reveal a dazzling display of stars, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Bring your telescope or join a local stargazing tour for an awe-inspiring celestial experience.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking winter adventures or someone looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by natural beauty, Moab in winter promises an enchanting experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this desert gem when it transforms into a winter wonderland – your next unforgettable adventure awaits!
Hiking & Biking in Winter
Night Sky Above Delicate Arch in Winter
Moab isn’t just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts; it’s also a shopper’s delight with a diverse array of unique stores and boutiques. Whether you’re seeking authentic local crafts, stylish apparel, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, Moab’s shopping scene has something for everyone. Here’s why shopping in Moab is an absolute blast:
Artistic Treasures
Explore a vibrant art scene with galleries featuring local artists’ masterpieces. From paintings and sculptures to handmade jewelry, you’ll find artistic treasures that capture the spirit of Moab.
Outdoor Gear Galore
Moab is an adventure hub, and its shops are stocked with top-notch outdoor gear. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or rock climbing, you’ll find high-quality equipment and knowledgeable staff ready to assist you in selecting the perfect gear.
Unique Souvenirs
Forget generic souvenirs – Moab’s shops offer a plethora of unique keepsakes that reflect the region’s rich culture and natural wonders. Take home a piece of Moab with handcrafted items, locally inspired artwork, or distinctive trinkets.
Fashion Finds
Stay on-trend with Moab’s eclectic fashion boutiques. Discover stylish clothing, accessories, and footwear that seamlessly blend comfort and fashion, perfect for both outdoor exploration and casual strolls around town.
Locally-Made Goods
Support the community by indulging in locally-made products. From gourmet foods and specialty items to handmade crafts, Moab’s shops showcase the talents of local artisans, giving you a taste of the region’s unique flavors.
Quaint Shops and Boutiques
Stroll through Moab’s charming downtown area, lined with quaint shops and boutiques. Enjoy a leisurely shopping experience as you explore the diverse selection of stores, each offering its own distinctive products and atmosphere.
Funky Finds
Unearth quirky and eclectic items that add a touch of Moab’s eccentric charm to your shopping haul. Whether it’s funky home décor or offbeat accessories, you’re sure to find something that sparks joy.
Make your visit to Moab an all-encompassing experience by immersing yourself in the town’s delightful shopping scene. With a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and retail therapy, Moab invites you to shop, explore, and create lasting memories in this desert oasis!"
Retail Shops Open Year-Round
Retail Shops Not Quite Open Year-Round
Note: All shops may be closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. This list may not yet be 100% complete. We are still in the process of reaching out to our local businesses.
Winter hours for restaurants in Moab can be a challenge, but fortunately, numerous dining establishments in Moab remain open throughout the year, albeit with modified schedules.
Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve
Arches Thai • Bangkok House Too • Bon Jour Bakery Cafe • Canyon Steak & Waffle House • Cafe Italiano • Cowboy Grill at Red Cliffs Lodge • Domino’s Pizza • El Tapito • Gloria’s Cafe • Fiesta Mexicana • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Brewery • Moab Coffee Roasters • Moab Grill • Pasta Jay’s • Pizza Hut • Proper Brewing/Package Agency • Red Rock Bakery • Singha Thai • Snake Oil Coffee Company • The River Grill at Sorrel • Spitfire Smokehouse • Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro • Thai Bella • The Spoke on Center • Wendy’s • Zax Restaurant
Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Arches Thai • Bangkok House Too • Bon Jour BakeryCafe • Cafe Italiano • Cowboy Grill at Red Cliffs Lodge • Gloria’s Cafe • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • Moab Grill • Singha Thai • Spitfire Smokehouse • Moab Chevron/Stu’s Deli • Thai Bella • The River Grill at Sorrel
Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve
Arches Thai • Bangkok House Too • Blu Pig • Canyon Steak & Waffle House • Cowboy Grill at Red Cliffs • Domino’s Pizza • El Tapito • Fiesta Mexicana • Gilberto’s • Gloria’s Cafe • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Coffee Roasters • Moab Brewery • Moab Grill • Pasta Jay’s • Pizza Hut • Proper Brewing Co. • Red Rock Bakery • Singha Thai • Snake Oil Coffee Company • Spitfire Smokehouse • Thai Bella • The River Grill at Sorrel • The Spoke on Center • Village Market • Wendy’s • World Famous Woody’s Tavern • Zax Restaurant
Restaurants Open on New Year’s Day
Arches Thai • Bangkok House Too • Blu Pig • Canyon Steak & Waffle House • Cafe Italiano • Dave’s Corner Market • Domino’s Pizza • El Tapito • Fiesta Mexicana • Gilberto’s • Gloria’s Cafe • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Brewery • Moab Coffee Roasters • Moab Diner • Moab Grill • Pasta Jay’s • Pizza Hut • Proper Brewing • Cowboy Grill at Red Cliffs • Singha Thai Cuisine • Spitfire Smokehouse • Thai Bella • The River Grill at Sorrel • Spoke on Center • Wendy’s
Moab’s Electric Light Parade on the first Saturday on December
Embarking on an off-season escape to Moab promises to be an unforgettable experience, where each decision made unfolds into a tapestry of indelible memories. The allure of Moab, set against the stunning backdrop of southern Utah’s landscapes, ensures that every moment becomes a treasure trove of exploration. Whether you opt for an exhilarating adventure, taking a leisurely stroll through festively adorned streets, or basking in the warmth of local hospitality, Moab presents endless possibilities. As you uncover our vibrant local culture, festive events, and community celebrations, Moab’s winter becomes a time of warmth and camaraderie. Discover our city’s rich history, seasonal festivities, and relish the cozy comforts of local eateries. Your winter visit to Moab is not merely a journey; it is an odyssey into the realm of unforgettable moments that leave an indelible mark on your soul, where the beauty of nature converges with the warmth of community. It’s also a heck of a lot of fun!
Moab Attractions
In Moab, hikers set beneath a sandstone arch to watch the sunrise illuminate the sandstone desert. Mountain bikers ride out of town on pathways leading to some of the world’s greatest trail networks, river runners raft the world-renowned stretch of the Colorado River near Moab, and artists lay eyes upon some of Mother Nature’s greatest gifts. No matter what brings you to Moab, adventure awaits.
Surrounded by two national parks, a state park, and seemingly endless stretches of public land, Moab has no shortage of hiking trails. Some wind through patches of light sand and sagebrush, some are a slickrock scramble, and others follow a river or creek beneath towering canyon walls. Depending on which trail calls to you, you may end up at the base of a famous landmark like Delicate Arch, or you may find solitude in some of the biggest stretches of undeveloped land anywhere in the U.S.
In 1969 Richard Wilson designed a route that would lead motorcyclists along a 10 mile loop through valleys of slickrock and up short, punchy climbs. It didn’t take long for mountain bikers to venture out on the Slickrock Loop, which is now one of the most popular trails in the area. Since then, thanks to an ever growing network of trails that wind through some of the most unique mountain biking terrain anywhere in the world, Moab has become a bucket-list destination for mountain bikers.
If you plan to visit Moab during the warmer months, river rafting should be near the top of your to-do list. The winding Colorado River has everything from sections of calm, paddle board friendly water to Class V rapids where the Colorado meets the Green River in Canyonlands National Park. There are quick, one-day routes like The Moab Daily, or multi-day ventures like a 5-day excursion through Desolation Canyon. To start planning your trip, get in touch with one of Moab’s local river rafting guides.
Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park are all only about half an hour outside of downtown Moab. That means in a few days time you can explore the largest concentration of natural arches in the world, gaze upon the desolate Maze district, and visit one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the U.S. Even though the parks are all accessible in a day’s time, you could spend countless trips seeing all that the parks have to offer.
More on Arches National Park…
More on Canyonlands National Park…
More on Dead Horse Point State Park…
For many, Moab is a natural oasis. One where travelers can look upwards from their camp to clear dark skies where stars are not hidden behind the polluting light of nearby development. It’s a place where your family can gather around a campfire and share stories at a glamping resort. There are plenty of ways, and places, to camp in Moab. Set up a basecamp in either of the national parks for early access to the trails and overlooks, book a night at one of the many camping resorts, or find your own site in the surrounding BLM land.
After an evening spent in town it’s apparent how inspired, artistic, and passionate the locals of Moab are. Outdoor art exhibits are shown at nearly every street corner, and concerts, festivals and other events are almost always within reach. Yearly events like the Moab Folk Festival and Scots on the Rocks are a great way to experience Moab’s strong sense of community, a community that knows the importance of protecting their home so everyone can enjoy it for years to come. So, during your next vacation plan to save an evening for an art stroll or an event, and remember to Do It Like a Local.
Upcoming Events…
More on Arts…
Moab is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet. From deep canyons to towering mountains, from breathtaking red rock landscapes to raging rivers, it guarantees astonishing vistas at every turn. Protecting and preserving this precious area for future generations is essential. When visiting, always stay on the trails, leave historic sites and rock art untouched, respect wildlife and always pack out what you pack in.
Sunrise/Sunset Times for Moab
Moab is renowned for its remarkable dark skies due to its remote location, low population density, numerous Dark Sky Park designations, natural landscapes, and favorable atmospheric conditions. These factors contribute to minimal light pollution, allowing for clear and unobstructed views of the night sky, making Moab an ideal destination for stargazing.
The best days and times for stargazing can vary depending on factors such as the time of year and the specific celestial events you’re interested in observing. However, here are some general guidelines to consider:
To determine the specific dates and times for stargazing events, including moon phases, refer to the astronomical calendars below. Remember, stargazing can be a rewarding experience throughout the year, so seize opportunities whenever you have clear skies and favorable conditions.
2024 Sunrise & Sunset Times for the Moab Area
1st of Month
15th of Month
Sunrise
Sunset
Sunrise
Sunset
January
7:35 am
5:07 pm
7:34 am
5:21pm
February
7:23 am
5:40 pm
7:08 am
5:56 pm
March
6:50 am
6:11 pm
7:29 am
7:25 pm
April
7:02 am
7:41 pm
6:41 am
7:52 pm
May
6:20 am
8:10 pm
6:06 am
8:23 pm
June
5:55 am
8:36 pm
5:53 am
8:44 pm
July
5:57 am
8:46 pm
6:06 am
8:41 pm
August
6:20 am
8:28 pm
6:32 am
8:12 pm
September
6:47 am
7:47 pm
6:58 am
7:26 pm
October
7:14 am
7:00 pm
7:27 am
6:39 pm
November
7:45 am
6:18 pm
7:00 am
5:04 pm
December
7:17 am
4:57 pm
7:28 am
4:58 pm
2024 Moon Phases for the Moab Area
January
25
3
11
17
February
24
2
9
16
March
25
3
10
17
April
23
1
8
15
May
23
1/30
7
15
June
21
28
6
14
July
21
27
5
13
August
19
26
4
12
September
24
2
11
17
October
24
2
10
17
November
22
1
9
15
December
22
1/30
8
15
