We've been exploring the rivers and canyons surrounding Moab, Utah since 1961 as Western River Expeditions - pioneers in the river rafting industry. Western River created the Moab Adventure Center to give the "Adventure Capital of the West" its full due with a focus on day tours and adventures in unparalleled red rock beauty and to become your convenient "One Stop for Adventure" in world-famous Moab, Utah.
Surrounded by an immense red rock playground, Moab, Utah is unlike any other place in the world. You'll feel like a kid again as you play in Moab's postcard-perfect desert adorned with giant sandstone formations, canyon mazes, and thousands of natural arches. You can explore several national and state parks just minutes from Moab, Utah. Find great accommodations with dozens of hotels in Moab, vacation rentals, ranch resorts, campgrounds, and RV parks throughout Moab’s southwestern-style Main Street area. You'll experience the thrill of adventure every day with your choice of Moab river rafting trips, off-road hummer safaris, hiking in Arches National Park, guided tours, horseback riding, and one-of-a-kind Moab mountain biking, and more!
Moab's One Stop for Adventure, the Moab Adventure Center, offers the easiest way to reserve any of Moab's abundant outdoor activities, bundle and save with any of our package vacations, and even gear up for your adventures with our retail store - all located conveniently in the shopping district of downtown Moab, Utah. Chat with the most fun and best trained guides in town and learn about all the best things to do in Moab.
Planning a trip to Moab? Whether you’re curious about what to pack, which tours are best for your group, or how to navigate the desert heat, we’ve got answers. Our team has helped thousands of guests make the most of their time in Moab, and we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions along with honest, experience-based answers to help you feel confident and prepared.
Moab is one of the country’s top outdoor adventure destinations, offering a wide range of guided experiences for families, first-time visitors, and seasoned explorers alike. Explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, hike to iconic formations like Delicate Arch, or mountain bike world-famous trails like Slickrock Mountain Bike Trail. Thrill-seekers can enjoy rafting on the Colorado River, rent an off-road Jeep to explore independently, or let us handle the driving. Take one of our Hummer tours, or go rock climbing or canyoneering. Families will love scenic river floats, dinosaur museums, and scenic views at Dead Horse Point State Park. Whether you’re looking for high-adrenaline adventures or want to take in Moab’s iconic red rock scenery, Moab has some of the best things to do if you want to take a break from the screens and are looking for outdoor adventure.
Many visitors to Moab are unsure whether they'll see the same sights at these two national parks and wonder whether they should spend the time and money to visit both. However, we're here to tell you that you're in for two distinct adventures at these two parks. Though they're both in the area, each national park offers its own specific sights and experiences to be had. So, yes, it's worth visiting Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
Arches National Park is home to the world's largest concentration of natural arches. This park offers visitors an intimate experience of the stunning, otherworldly red rock landscape. Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park is nestled on top of a 1,000-foot mesa with beautiful viewpoints that encircle thousands of square miles of incredible canyon country. So, if you have the time and want to make the most of your visit to Moab, both of these distinctly beautiful national parks are worth a visit.
The time needed to visit the national parks all depends on what specific tours and adventures you want to do there. For example, the scenic drives at Arches and Canyonlands National Parks can typically be driven in a few hours each. We recommend spending at least a full day at each park if you have the time to enjoy some hiking and other sights, to experience each park fully. You can easily spend several days in each park with the numerous longer hiking trails at Arches National Park and the expansive backcountry in Canyonlands National Park.
Arches National Park is much smaller than Canyonlands National Park and more easily accessible for driving and hiking activities. Our Morning or evening Sunset Arches Tours make it easy to see the most popular sites in Arches without the hassle of driving, navigating, and scanning for parking spots. If you are hiking on your own, here are a few of our favorite hikes in Arches National Park.
Canyonlands National Park is spectacular from viewpoints that are easily accessible by car, but interacting with this vast landscape is much more challenging than in most National Parks - one of its many charms!
Not sure if Moab, Utah, is the right fit for your whole crew? You’re not alone—many first-time visitors are surprised by just how family-friendly it is.
We’ve curated a wide range of experiences that are perfect for all ages, from curious toddlers to adventurous teens and relaxed grandparents.
Start with Moab Giants, where prehistoric fun meets hands-on learning. At Moab Giants Dinosaur Park, kids ages five and up can walk among life-sized dinosaurs, dig for fossils, and explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits. It’s more than a few hours of fun and a chance for your family to connect with Utah’s ancient past.
Next, make your way to Arches National Park, where your child can become an official Junior Ranger. With short, kid-friendly hikes and awe-inspiring natural formations, it’s the perfect setting for a day of light adventure, discovery, and scenic family photos. Our guided tours through Arches include expert interpretation that keeps both kids and adults engaged.
And yes, river rafting is absolutely an option for families.
The Colorado River float near Moab is one of the best ways to cool off and connect during summer. With calm currents, incredible canyon views, and plenty of splashy fun, rafting in Moab is an excellent way for kids, parents, and even grandparents to cool off and beat the heat. Families consistently tell us it’s the highlight of their trip as it's peaceful, easygoing, and more memorable than they expected. Our guides take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
Want more ideas?
Explore our Top 10 Kid-Friendly Activities in Moab to start planning a vacation your family will never forget!
What started as a Mormon Mission in the 1850s has evolved into one of the top worldwide vacation destinations, thanks to its beautiful scenic surroundings and numerous activities and adventures to enjoy. No matter how or where you want to spend your time visiting Moab you can find the perfect place for you or your family. Whether you want to pitch a tent in the great outdoors, stay at an affordable motel, cozy up in a bed and breakfast, find an upscale suite, enjoy some time on a ranch resort, or park the RV, Moab offers some of the most diverse accommodations of any tourist destination, catering to a wide range of tastes and needs. Plan your trip in advance and explore our list of recommended Moab Lodging options.
After a full day of exploring Moab’s trails, canyons, and river views, you’re going to want a meal that hits the spot. From iconic diners to southwest-inspired patios, there’s no shortage of great food and friendly service to help you refuel and unwind.
The Moab Diner is a long-standing local favorite.
It’s known for fast, friendly service and hearty classics that satisfy. Whether you’re rolling in with a group of hungry kids or just looking for a comfort-food fix, the Fisher Tower French Toast, Bacon Cheeseburger, or Southwestern Stir Fry will not disappoint.
For something with a bit of extra flair, try Miguel’s Baja Grill.
Only open in the evenings, this spot is a go-to for dinner with a southwest twist. Enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors like their Nopolo-style Ceviche, Baja Fish Tacos, or Steak Salad. Grab a seat on the colorful patio or cozy up indoors—it’s a favorite for good reason, and it fills up fast during peak season.
Cactus Jack’s is another great pick, especially for breakfast or lunch.
Locals rave about the Chicken and Waffles, French Toast and the Bacon Burger. It’s a relaxed, no-frills spot where flavor comes first and the portions are generous.
Looking for more?
Check out our list of the top 7 Moab restaurants and discover where locals and guests love to eat after a day of adventure.
Expedition GuideWhat to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Not unlike your own personal Jiminy Cricket, (minus the worries of the little guy getting smooshed) the Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.
