Overview
Moab, a small desert town in southeastern Utah, punches far above its weight as America’s premier outdoor adventure destination. Flanked by Arches National Park (home to over 2,000 natural stone arches) and the vast wilderness of Canyonlands National Park, Moab sits in a landscape of towering red rock formations, deep canyons, and the mighty Colorado River. It is the epicenter for mountain biking, with the legendary Slickrock Trail drawing riders worldwide.
No currency exchange needed. Moab’s peak seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) brings 100+ degree heat; winter is quiet with cold nights but fewer crowds and lower prices. Timed entry reservations are required for Arches during peak months.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($70-$120/day): Camp at BLM land or developed campgrounds ($0-$40/night), pack food and water ($15-$25/day), drive your own vehicle to parks ($30-$35 entrance), and hike the spectacular free trails in both parks.
Mid-Range ($150-$280/day): Stay in a Moab hotel or vacation rental ($120-$250/night), eat at local restaurants ($30-$50/day), mountain bike the Slickrock and Whole Enchilada trails ($40-$60 bike rental), and take a scenic river float trip ($60-$100).
Luxury ($350-$600+/day): Book a luxury resort or glamping experience ($300-$600+/night), enjoy fine dining ($60-$100/day), arrange private guided canyoneering or climbing ($150-$300), and book a scenic helicopter or airplane tour ($150-$350).
How to Save Money in Moab
- Camp on free BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land surrounding Moab — legal, scenic, and costs nothing.
- Pack all food and water for trail days — there are no services inside the parks and town restaurants are pricey.
- Buy the America the Beautiful pass ($80/year) if visiting both Arches and Canyonlands (saves vs. separate $30-$35 entries).
- Bring your own mountain bikes rather than renting at $40-$60/day in Moab.
- Visit during March-April or October-November for ideal temperatures and slightly lower hotel rates.
Worth the Splurge
- Mountain biking the Whole Enchilada trail — a legendary 26-mile descent from the La Sal Mountains to the Colorado River (shuttle + rental: $80-$120).
- A half-day whitewater rafting trip through Westwater Canyon or the Fisher Towers section ($60-$100).
- Sunrise at Mesa Arch in Canyonlands — the most photographed arch in the Southwest, glowing orange at dawn (free with park entry).
- A guided canyoneering adventure through one of Moab’s slot canyons ($100-$200).
