For those who haven’t been, Moab is a gathering place of sorts for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike, camp, rock climb, mountain bike, sky dive, explore National Parks, and take jeep tours. So, when the opportunity arose to go to Moab, there was no doubt in our minds that this was an adventure we wanted to say, “Yes!” to. And, in typical Brad and Gabrielle fashion, we had a whopping 48 hours to explore 🙂 But, instead of thinking, “48 hours is just not worth it,” we thought, “48 HOURS IN MOAB!? LET’S GO!”
If you are like Brad and me, this 48 hour guide is going to be SO up your ally. If you are not like Brad and me (aka you are a sane person), use this guide as a jumping off point to plan an adventure in Moab that fits your wants and needs. The places included in this guide are surprisingly close to each other so it CAN be done in 48 hours! I believe in you!
Arches National Park
Corona and Bowtie Arch
Distance: 2.3 mile out and back
Elevation: 469 ft
Rating: Moderate
Tip: Corona Arch is not technically inside the park. As a result, it is not as crowded as Arches NP and, most importantly, it’s dog friendly!!! Corona Arch trail is so fun because there are a few scrambling spots and a ladder to climb. If you are able, time your hike so that you are at Corona Arch for sunrise: this means that you will be hiking in the dark on the way to the arch so the landscape will be STUNNING in the light on the way back. Watching sunrise over Corona Arch is breathtaking. You will not regret waking up in the middle of the night to see it.
Canyonlands National Park
Mesa Arch Trail
Distance: 0.6 mile loop
Elevation: 62 ft
Rating: Easy
Tip: This is an amazing stroll to do for families, young kids, or even people who cannot “hike.” The trail is the busiest during sunrise, for good reason, but is beautiful any time of the day. Mesa Arch is perched right on the edge of sheer sandstone cliffs over 1,000 feet above the canyon floor, so the views are remarkable.
Upheaval Dome via Crater View Trail
Distance: 1.5 mile out and back
Elevation: 301 ft
Rating: Moderate
Tip: What is cooler than learning about a mile-wide crater of mysterious origins!? Nothing, that’s what. What was once thought to be formed by a hidden volcano, the dome was most probably caused by a meteorite. When the meteorite struck, it created the dome like structure with rocks along the trail tilting away from the dome as a result of the impact. While you do not need a ton of time to complete the hike, I would plan a few extra minutes to spend at the dome reading about the formation.
Shafer Canyon Overlook
First of all, this overlook is a pullout right off the main road, which is so convient. Second, it leads to spectacular views of the canyon. What more can you ask for? Shafer Trail is actually a 19.2 mile point-to-point (the route can be done either way) off-road driving route through Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands National Park. If you do not have a vehicle equipped to handle an off-road route, Shafer Canyon Overlook is going to be your best bet to still see some amazing views.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point is one of my favorite places in all of Moab: very reminiscent of the Grand Canyon. The first time we visited Dead Horse, we were there for sunrise. Watching the sun transform the canyon is something I will never forget. However, this past trip we went for sunset. I thought NOTHING could beat sunrise. I was wrong. Sunset at Dead Horse Point is a must see: the light is nothing short of magical. We happened to be visiting for our Engagement photos (shout out Brian Paul Mallik Photograph!!) so add in a cozy blanket to sit on and some champagne to sip on…MAGICAL, PEOPLE.
Where to eat
You thought I was going to forget food recommendations, didn’t you? People. Food fuels most of our adventures 😉 Thankfully, Moab has some wonderful places:
Moab Brewery
Moab Brewery has a super versatile food menu, a gelato bar, 9 beers on tap, a full liquor and wine menu, and is Moab’s only microbrewery. This place does get very busy on the weekends so be prepared to wait for a table. The wait will be worth it!
Peace Tree
The Peace Tree Juice Cafe has such a cool origin story that you can read about here. Essentially, Peace Tree celebrates goodwill and harmony and it is their goal to provide healthy, organic, farm-to-table foods whenever possible. If you are swinging by Peace Tree for breakfast, make sure to try one of their lattes or smoothies!
Village Market
If you happen to be staying in an Airbnb and have the ability to cook, Village Market is the perfect place to visit for groceries. They have natural and organic options, as well as dairy free items. The best part is that they are an independent grocery store that promotes shopping local and supporting local businesses.
Happy traveling!
Yours,
Bohemian Postcards
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