Discover Moab/Utah
There’s a lot to discover, explore, admire, and experience in Utah. In my personal records, I still have many places left to visit — and one trip alone isn’t enough to see it all. That being said, this page reflects my experience from a recent journey through Utah. I’ll mention a few places that captured my attention and sparked my curiosity, in case you, the reader, feel the same pull to explore. If you’re interested in Utah, feel free to check back — I’ll update this page as I visit new locations.
Based on my own research, the most visited cities in Utah are Salt Lake City, Moab, and Kanab. Of course, data can change over time, but these three stood out during my planning and exploration.
Moab, perched at roughly 4,026 feet (1,227 meters), is famous for its red rock landscapes and proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Summers are hot and dry, with average highs reaching 95°F (35°C), while winters cool down to around 21°F (-6°C). The low humidity and clear skies make spring and fall ideal for outdoor adventures.
Kanab rests at an elevation of about 4,970 feet (1,515 meters), slightly higher than Salt Lake and Moab. It has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. July averages around 92°F (33°C), and January drops to lows near 23°F (-5°C). Known as “Little Hollywood,” Kanab is a gateway to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Staircase, offering scenic hikes and quiet charm.
🚗 Getting There
As I mentioned earlier, Utah offers countless places to explore, but for now, I’ll focus on Moab, Arches National Park, and the surrounding area.
Once I’ve visited more locations, I’ll turn Utah into a modular page — similar to how I’ve structured Puerto Rico and Colorado on the main site.
So, how do you get to Moab? There are several options depending on your starting point and travel style:
Flying: The closest airport to Moab is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), located about 18 miles north of town. It offers limited direct flights from Denver and Phoenix. Alternatively, you can fly into larger airports like Salt Lake City (SLC), Grand Junction (GJT), or Denver (DEN) and drive the rest of the way.
Driving: Moab is accessible via US-191 and is roughly:
– 4 hours from Salt Lake City
– 5.5 hours from Denver
– 1.5 hours from Grand Junction
The drive itself is part of the adventure, with scenic routes and optional stops at places like Colorado National Monument or Goblin Valley.
Shuttle Services: If you’re flying into Grand Junction or Canyonlands Field, shuttle services like Moab Express can get you into town. Rental cars are highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore the parks and trails at your own pace.
🌟 My Personal Observation
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Arches National Park: If you're planning to visit Arches National Park in Utah, be
aware that a timed entry reservation is now required during peak seasons.
For 2025, reservations are needed from April 1 to July 6 and again from August 28 to
October 31, between 7 AM and 4 PM daily. You can reserve your entry slot through
Recreation.gov for a $2 non-refundable fee. This is in addition to the standard park
entrance fee or valid pass. Visitors with campground permits, backcountry or Fiery Furnace
permits, or special authorizations are exempt from the timed entry requirement.
Arriving by bike or on foot also bypasses the reservation system. These changes help reduce
congestion and improve the overall experience, especially during busy months.
These policies may change over time, so be sure to verify the latest guidelines directly
with Arches National Park before your visit. Based on my opinion, here are the coordinates
of the arches that I think that are the most beautiful.
🏞️ Devils Garden Section
- Devils Garden Section: Landscape Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Tunnel Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Pine Tree Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Navajo Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Partition Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Double O Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Private Arch
- Devils Garden Section: Skyline Arch
🌄 The Windows Section- Windows Section: North Window
- Windows Section: South Window
- Windows Section: Turret Arch
- Windows Section: Double Arch
🧭 Scenic Drive Section- Scenic Drive Section: Delicate Arch
- Scenic Drive Section: Sand Dune Arch
- Scenic Drive Section: Broken Arch
- Scenic Drive Section: Balanced Rock
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Corona Arch: Corona Arch is not located inside the Arches National Park. The hike is about
3 miles round trip inside (Bureau of Land Management).
📍 Corona Arch
🏔️ Hidden Gems in Moab
- Moab Hidden Gems: Beyond the iconic arches and Corona Arch trail, Moab offers a treasure trove of lesser-known adventures. Mill Creek Canyon is a lush desert oasis with waterfalls and swimming holes just minutes from downtown — perfect for cooling off or picnicking under cottonwoods. Fisher Towers, east of town, features towering red spires and a winding trail through surreal formations that feel straight out of a fantasy novel. For prehistoric vibes, Potash Road reveals roadside Dinosaur Tracks and ancient Petroglyphs, all framed by the Colorado River. Secret Spire and Dellenbaugh Tunnel offer remote solitude and cinematic views for those with a 4WD spirit. And if you’re craving alpine air, the La Sal Mountains Scenic Loop delivers cool breezes, golden aspens, and a totally different ecosystem — all within reach of red rock country.
🛏️ Places to Stay in Moab
Moab offers year-round lodging options that blend desert beauty, outdoor access, and modern comfort. Whether you're hiking through Arches, biking Slickrock, or chasing sunsets in Canyonlands, these top-rated hotels offer something for every kind of traveler.
- My Place Hotel–Moab, UT: A traveler favorite for its clean, spacious rooms and proximity to Arches National Park. Guests love the kitchenettes, friendly staff, and quiet location — ideal for longer stays or gear-heavy adventures.
- Moab Springs Ranch: Nestled near the Colorado River, this boutique property features private bungalows, shaded ponds, and a peaceful vibe. Reviewers rave about the comfort, layout, and location — a hidden gem for couples or families.
- Field Station Moab: A stylish, adventure-forward hotel with gear rentals, trail maps, and a community vibe. Perfect for solo travelers, climbers, and anyone who wants to plug into Moab’s outdoor culture.
- Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton: A sleek, upscale option just minutes from Arches. Guests praise the modern rooms, on-site dining, and walkability. Great for those wanting a polished base with easy park access.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab: Known for its riverfront views and proximity to both Arches and Canyonlands. Families love the pool, breakfast, and spacious rooms — a reliable pick for comfort and convenience.
