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Manti-La Sal National Forest, Moab District

The Manti-La Sal National Forest, a 1.4 million acre mountain range, occupies parts of central and southeastern Utah, as well as parts of Colorado. The La Sal Mountains are lush with lakes, pine, aspen and evergreen trees, wildlife, and recreation. An easy drive from Moab, the La Sal Mountains not only provide a stunning visual contrast to the red rock town, but also a climactic, and recreational contrast as well.

Manti La Sal Loop Drive

Driving through Moab’s section of the scenic Manti-La Sal National Forest

This 50 mile paved route starts 6 miles south of Moab, takes you through the Alpine wonders of the La Sal Mountains, down through the rich, red towers and buttes of Castle Valley, along the scenic byway following the Colorado River, and back again to Moab. Allow 2-3 hours of driving time, and maybe a little extra time to stretch your legs at some of the most scenic points. Note: the road is best suited for passenger vehicles, and not recommended for large RV’s or trailers.

LA SAL LOOP SCENIC DRIVE
La Sals Lake

Our Favorite Picnic Spots

An afternoon outing near a mountain lake, under a shady grove of Aspen trees, is an ideal way to beat the desert heat of Moab. Just a short drive away is an alpine paradise and a picnic table with your name on it.

LA SAL PICNIC SPOTS
Camping La Sals

Camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Cool temperatures, mountain lakes, meadows, fresh woodsy smells, aspen and pine trees, fantastic peaks above, and Moab below. What other reasons do you need to spend a night or two camping in the Manti-La Sal National Forest?

MANTI-LA SAL CAMPING
Manti La Sal Mountains

Weather and Best Times to Visit

Topping out over 12,700 ft., the La Sal Mountains has a climate of its own. Mountain weather can be fickle, be sure to know when to bring a t-shirt, sweater, or coat, and some days you might want all three.

MANTI-LA SAL NATIONAL FOREST WEATHER
La Sals Aspens

Best Hikes in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Seven counties in Utah and two in Colorado claim parts of the Manti-La Sal Mountains, making the hiking opportunity boundless. With so many options, choosing a trail can be daunting. Here are a few of our favorite hikes near the Moab area to help make your decision a little easier.

HIKING IN MANTI-LA SAL NATIONAL FOREST
Manti La Sal Mountain Biking

Biking in the La Sal Mountains

Biking in the La Sal Mountains is a diverse and rewarding experience. The combination of thick forest, tall aspens and open meadows please all the senses, but the trails challenge the body and mind and rejuvenate the spirit.

BIKING THE LA SALS
Manti La Sal Forest Map

Manti-La Sal National Forest Map

Spanning over a million acres, laced with miles and miles of intertwining roads and trails, the Manti-La Sal Mountains are absolutely worth exploring. The experience is only enhanced when you know where you are and where you are heading.

MAPS OF MANTI-LA SAL NATIONAL FOREST
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Experience Moab Utah’s Top Tours

Moab Mountain Biking 20 15
MOAB MOUNTAIN BIKING TOURS

Starting at $140
per person

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Moab Hummer Tours Side Climbing
MOAB HUMMER TOURS

Starting at $99
per person

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Moab Rafting Am Castle Valley Class1 Hero1 Cropped
MOAB RIVER RAFTING

Starting at $92
per person

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Sun DividerFree Insiders Guide to Moab, UT

What to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Our Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.

Moab Insders Guide