The editorial staff at Utah Stories magazine has been covering Moab for six years and we love sharing our knowledge. We guarantee the following itineraries will make your next visit a fantastic one.
Jeeps (families)
From March 24 to April 1, Jeeps of all grades and conditions will converge on Moab for the annual Easter Jeep Safari. Jeep Safari was started in 1967 by the Moab Chamber of Commerce, and has grown bigger every year. The event is now sponsored by Red Rock 4-Wheelers, who sponsor other events throughout the year, as well as mark and clean the trails. Guided trips are available with pre-registration .
Jeep Safari isn’t the only time to enjoy backcountry adventures. Moab offers Jeep rentals at Moab Adventure Center, Canyonlands Jeep and Car Rental, Twisted Jeep Rental and Tours, and Cliffhanger Jeep Rental.
Trails vary in difficulty from easy to difficult and everything in between. Try Picture Frame Arch trail for an easy, stress-free ride leading to two impressive arches and an overlook into Kane Creek Canyon. For something a little more adventurous, there is Hidden Canyon Overlook. This trail can be narrow in spots, with several rock ledges that require careful tire placement. And for those looking for an adrenaline rush, Poison Spider Mesa can’t be beat. This trail is usually combined with Golden Spike and Gold Bar Rim for an all day excursion. Be advised that the more difficult trails require equipment such as lockers, large tires, and high clearance.
It is always good to have a detailed trail map, plenty of water, some food, and basic repair equipment. It is advisable to go with other parties and stick to designed trails. Beginners may want to try a guided tour.
Hikers & Bikers (Younger couples)
Two Amazing Days in Moab: Wake up at 8am and eat breakfast at Ekleticafe. It’s a tiny little place, but with an amazing patio and excellent food. Peruse the main drag in Moab, and grab a juice and a sandwich to go from Peace Tree, another topnotch restaurant in town, then head out for a long, adventure-filled day.
Rent bikes from Poison Spider Bike Shop. Advanced and daring mountain bikers will want to try the Porcupine Rim trail, accessed from Kane Creek Road. It’s an amazing cliff-side trail. For an easier route that is still spectacular, ride Amasa Back. Be sure to take plenty of water and some food. It’s also a good idea to have cell phones for both riders in case of emergencies.
The Porcupine Rim trail is a bit off the beaten path, making it far less crowded than more popular trails such as Slickrock and other branded trails, but if you aren’t into technical single-track, ask your rental shop about the best ride for your skill level.
After an exhilarating ride, stop at Miguel’s Baja Cantina. They have top-notch margaritas, made with fresh lime and top shelf tequila. We usually order their chips and salsa and add guacamole. I relish their fish tacos, and their fajitas are on par with any big city fresh Mex.
The next morning, enjoy a sit-down breakfast at Peace Tree. Try their vegetarian and vegan options for juices and scrambles. Pre-book a horseback ride at Red Cliffs Lodge. After the 60-90 minute ride, tickle your palate by tasting the local wines. Castle Creek Winery is the largest winery in Utah, and their Cab, Merlot and Outlaw Red are some of our favorites. Take home a case—it’s legal!
In the evening, book a trip with Red Tail Aviation to see Canyonlands in all its glory from the air, bathed in the golden light of sundown. If it’s not sky but water you’re after, try a jet boat tour on the mighty Colorado with Moab Jet. This will make for a jam-packed day.
If you can’t fit it all in to one day, make it a three-day weekend and save a huge amount of money by renting a Wandervan and booking a campground. Wandervans are spacious enough for up to eight people. And if you can’t imagine pitching a tent, they are a great alternative for budget-conscious visitors when hotel rates in Moab are in excess of $300 per night.
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