Explore National & State Parks Near Moab, Utah

Your gateway to red rock adventures, epic views, and unforgettable trails

Welcome to the Heart of Canyon Country

Moab, Utah isn’t just a town—it’s a launchpad into some of the most stunning protected landscapes in the United States. With two of the country’s most iconic national parks and several nearby state parks and recreation areas, Moab is surrounded by limitless opportunities for hiking, photography, stargazing, and outdoor adventure.

This page gives you an overview of each National and State Park near Moab, so you can explore your options and click through for detailed hiking guides, maps, tips, and visitor info.

📍 National & State Parks Near Moab

1. Arches National Park

Distance from Moab: 5 miles
Known For: Over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch
Must-Do Hikes:

• Delicate Arch Trail

• Devils Garden Loop

• The Windows Section

• Sand Dune Arch
  Best Time to Visit: Sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting
  🔗 Explore Arches National Park →

2. Canyonlands National Park – Island in the Sky District

Distance from Moab: 32 miles (via UT-313)
Known For: Massive canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, panoramic overlooks, and rugged trails
Must-Do Hikes:

• Mesa Arch

• Grand View Point

• White Rim Overlook

• Upheaval Dome
  Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temps and fewer crowds
  🔗 Explore Canyonlands – Island in the Sky →

3. Dead Horse Point State Park

Distance from Moab: 33 miles
Known For: Jaw-dropping views over the Colorado River and Canyonlands, scenic biking and hiking trails
Must-Do Hikes:

• Dead Horse Rim Trail

• East Rim & West Rim Loop

• Big Horn Overlook
  Best Time to Visit: Golden hour for photography, stargazing at night
  🔗 Explore Dead Horse Point State Park →

4. Canyonlands National Park – The Needles District

Distance from Moab: 75 miles (via US-191 S and UT-211)
Known For: Colorful spires, remote slot canyons, and challenging backcountry routes
Must-Do Hikes:

• Chesler Park Loop

• Druid Arch

• Cave Spring Trail

• Joint Trail
  Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cooler weather
  🔗 Explore Canyonlands – The Needles →

5. Manti-La Sal National Forest

Distance from Moab: 20 miles (access via La Sal Loop Road or Geyser Pass Road)
Known For: Alpine peaks, mountain meadows, lakes, and backcountry trails above 10,000 feet
Must-Do Adventures:

• Geyser Pass to Mount Tukuhnikivatz

• Warner Lake Trail

• La Sal Mountains Loop Road (scenic drive)
  Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking, fall for foliage
  🔗 Explore Manti-La Sal National Forest →

6. Colorado River Recreation Area (BLM)

Distance from Moab: Immediate access from town via Potash Road or River Road
Known For: Scenic river access, petroglyphs, campgrounds, and riverside hiking trails
Top Spots:

• Corona Arch Trail

• Grandstaff Canyon Trail

• Wall Street Climbing Area
  Best Time to Visit: Anytime! This area offers great options year-round
  🔗 Explore Colorado River Recreation Area →

🗺️ Compare Parks at a Glance

🥾 Choose Your Adventure

Whether you want a short, scenic walk to an arch, a full-day canyon trek, or a mountain escape above the desert floor, Moab’s park system has it all. This region offers more than just one signature hike—it’s a choose-your-own-adventure paradise for every type of explorer.

🔎 Click any park above to access:

• Trail guides & elevation profiles

• Maps and GPS downloads

• Sunrise and sunset tips

• Best hikes for families or photographers

• Local regulations and access info

📅 Planning Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November

• Passes: Consider the America the Beautiful Pass if visiting multiple parks

• Weather: Check conditions before heading out—temperatures can swing dramatically

• Crowds: Visit early morning or shoulder season for a quieter experience