Moab is a town located in the state of Utah, USA. Many people may recognize it as the place where Arches National Park is located.
In the past, Moab was a mining town due to its rich deposits of resources such as oil and uranium. However, nowadays, tourism supports the town’s economy. As Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park became popular filming locations for movies, the number of tourists rapidly increased along with the success of these films.
In this article, we will introduce 9 tourist spots in Moab.
1. Arches National Park
Arches National Park is arguably Moab’s most iconic tourist destination—it's no exaggeration to say that every visitor to Moab comes here for this park. Designated as a national park in 1971, it contains over 2,000 sandstone arches within its boundaries.
This land was once underwater around 300 million years ago. Later, due to the evaporation of seawater and uplift of the land, rainwater and other elements collected in the rock crevices, gradually forming the arches over an immense period of time.
There are plenty of highlights here! For example, the Double O Arch, where two arches overlap; the Landscape Arch, stretching an impressive 90 meters; and the Delicate Arch area, where you can see a cabin from over 100 years ago.
Seeing the power of nature firsthand will surely leave you in awe of America's vastness and the deep history of its land!
It’s recommended to visit by tour or rental car, but there’s also a shuttle bus from Salt Lake City to Moab.
Name: Arches National Park
Address: Moab, UT
2. Corona Arch
Don't miss out on other stunning arches outside of Arches National Park! Located about 5 km west of downtown Moab, Corona Arch is a large arch standing around 42 meters tall.
From here, you can also enjoy beautiful views of Bowtie Arch (named after a bowtie), the Colorado River, and the Slickrock Canyon.
Since there are fewer tourists compared to Arches National Park, it’s a great place to take photos or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Reaching Corona Arch requires about an hour-long hike (one way), so it’s perfect for those confident in their stamina! If you're lucky, you might even spot cacti bearing fruit along the way.
In the summer, the sun can be intense and the heat quite strong, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or around sunset. At those times, you can see the arch glowing an even deeper red in the sunlight.
Name: Corona Arch
Address: Potash Road, Moab, UT
3. La Sal Mountain Loop
If you’re looking for that classic American road trip through vast, open landscapes, then a drive on the La Sal Mountain Loop is highly recommended!
Along the way, you’ll find lakes where you can take breaks, and there are viewpoints with picnic areas—perfect for lunch or a rest during your sightseeing adventure.
Why not take a relaxing drive while soaking in the scenery of Moab?
It's an experience you can hardly have in Japan—traveling under an endlessly wide sky is sure to become a precious memory!
However, be aware that wild turkeys and cows sometimes cross the roadway.
Name: La Sal Mountain Loop
Address: Moab, UT
4. Castle Valley
Castle Valley is another must-see tourist spot in Moab! Like Arches, it features vast lands that have been uplifted and eroded, creating a stunning and impressive landscape.
This area has a restaurant and is maintained as a tourist-friendly spot. Since it’s not a national park, it’s perfect for those who want to casually enjoy the rocky terrain without the restrictions of a protected park.
That said, the natural rock formations here are still incredibly powerful! Climbers from all over the world gather here to scale the towering rock formations in Castle Valley.
It’s located about 10 km northeast of downtown Moab.
Name: Castle Valley
Address: Moab, UT
5. Moab Giants
Moab Giants is a highly recommended spot for tourists with kids. It’s a unique amusement park that combines Moab’s natural landscape with science.
Imagine walking through the vast Moab desert, surrounded by life-size, gigantic dinosaurs—it feels like stepping back in time!
The 3D-designed dinosaurs look so real that you might find yourself screaming when you see a T-Rex with its mouth wide open, about to attack!
There are lots of games and touchscreen activities that kids will love. There’s even a playroom, so families with young children can relax.
One of the most popular attractions is the 5D PaleoAquarium, a virtual aquarium that offers an immersive underwater experience.
You’ll want to spend an entire day here exploring everything Moab Giants has to offer!
Name: Moab Giants
Address: SR 313, 112 West, Moab, UT 84532
6. Canyonlands National Park
Among Moab’s many breathtaking sights, Canyonlands National Park is one of the top scenic spots.
This park was formed by two rivers: the Green River and the Colorado River.
It covers an impressive area of 1,366 km² and is divided into three districts. Among them, Island in the Sky is packed with scenic viewpoints!
You can gaze out over Moab’s stunning landscape from various observation points.
One must-see in Island in the Sky is the Mesa Arch at sunrise!
It’s a famous spot among photographers, with some people visiting Moab just to capture this view.
Watching the sunrise through the arch, as the rocks glow red in the morning light, is a mystical sight you’ll never forget.
Name: Canyonlands National Park
Address: 2282 South West Resource Blvd., Moab, Utah 84532
7. Dead Horse Point State Park
Located about 10 km southwest of central Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is another must-visit attraction in the area.
This park features breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from its cliffs, making it a perfect spot to watch beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
The highlight of Dead Horse Point State Park is the view of the Colorado River, which makes a dramatic U-shaped bend below the cliffs. This spot is often compared to a goose’s neck and is commonly referred to as the "Gooseneck".
Even though the Colorado River is wide and majestic, from the viewpoint—600 meters above—the twisting meander is clearly visible and absolutely striking.
Name: Dead Horse Point State Park
Address: P.O.Box 609, Moab, Utah 84532-0609
8. Utah Scenic Byway 279 Rock Art Sites
Here, you can see rock art—pictures carved or drawn into rock by Native Americans.
Although you can find rock art throughout Moab, this location is especially convenient, as it has a parking lot and is barrier-free, making it easily accessible for families with small children and strollers.
Even experts are unsure about the exact meanings behind these ancient drawings, which makes them all the more fascinating!
The variety of figures and shapes etched into the rock surface will spark your imagination.
Interestingly, no one knows exactly when these artworks were created.
This site also has a picnic area, making it a great place to stop for a break or enjoy lunch during a scenic drive.
Name: Utah Scenic Byway 279 Rock Art Sites
Address: Highway 279, Moab, UT
9. Wilson’s Arch
Wilson’s Arch is another highly recommended spot in Moab, offering a dynamic view that rivals anything you’ll see at Arches National Park.
This impressive arch stands about 14 meters high and spans 27 meters across.
Though it looks close, it’s quite a hike to reach it, but once you climb up and look through the arch to the vast desert landscape beyond, the view is spectacular!
It feels like you’re peeking at a work of art through a circular picture frame.
This is a spot where you can truly appreciate the grandeur of the Earth and its ancient history.
Name: Wilson’s Arch
Address: U.S. Route 191, Moab, UT
◎ Summary
How did you like these 9 recommended tourist spots in Moab?
Moab is such a vast area that you could say the entire town itself is one big tourist destination. No matter where you are, you can truly feel the grandeur and power of the Earth.
When you visit Moab, be sure to explore not only Arches National Park but also all the other amazing spots around town!