Moab isn’t just a gateway to the desert. It is a hiker’s dreamscape. With world-renowned trails weaving through red rock arches, canyons and towering spires, it’s no wonder that hiking tops the list for visitors to this iconic Utah destination.
To help travelers make the most of their time in the high desert, Moab Adventure Center, the region’s premier outfitter, has released its expert-curated list of the top guided and self-guided hikes in and around Arches National Park.
“One of the best ways to experience Moab is to lace up and hit the trail,” says Kam Wixom, Marketing Director at Moab Adventure Center. “Whether you’re hiking to Delicate Arch at sunrise or rappelling into hidden canyons, there’s a perfect trail for every skill level.”
Top Self-Guided Hikes in Arches & Beyond
1. Moab’s Most Famous Hike: Delicate Arch
Moab’s most iconic trail. A 3.2-mile moderate-to-strenuous round-trip with stunning sunrise/sunset views. This is Utah’s most photographed arch for good reason.
2. Longest Trail in Arches: Devil’s Garden & Landscape Arch
The longest trail in Arches. Routes range 1.6 to 7.8 miles, from easy strolls to strenuous climbs. Don’t miss the 290-foot Landscape Arch—North America’s longest.
3. Best Short Hike in Arches: The Windows & Turret Arch
A 1-mile, family-friendly loop with up-close views of some of the park’s largest arches.
4. Best Free-Standing Arch Outside Arches National Park: Corona Arch
A stunning, permit-free 2.4-mile hike to a massive arch. Great for photos, without the park crowds.
5. Best Canyon Overlook Hike: Dead Horse Point Rim Trail
An easy 1-to-3-mile rim walk with epic views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands below.
6. Best Hike for Dramatic Cliffs & Spires: Fisher Towers Trail
This 5-mile moderate hike offers jaw-dropping scenery and a front-row view of world-famous Titan Tower, a 900-foot spire favored by climbers.
7. Best Waterfall Hike in Moab: Mill Creek Canyon
A local favorite featuring shaded trails, waterfalls and stream crossings. Distance varies from 2 to 5 miles based on the route.
Professionally Guided Adventures
Visitors looking for deeper connection—and less hassle—often opt for guided experiences with Moab Adventure Center. These include interpretive insights, crowd avoidance and worry-free logistics like permits and parking.
Arches Morning & Sunset Tours
A 4-hour guided excursion with easy walking and highlights like:
- Balanced Rock (128-foot geological marvel)
- The Windows Section & Turret Arch (amazing for photos)
- Delicate Arch Viewpoint (for those who want the shot without the trek)
Guided Canyoneering Adventures
Morning Glory Arch & Ephedra’s Grotto
A 4-to-5-hour, moderate tour combining hiking and two rappels: one into Medieval Chamber and a second 100-foot drop through Morning Glory Arch. See photos of Morning Glory Arch & Ephedra’s Grotto.
Bow & Arrow Canyon
A 3-to-4-hour moderate-to-challenging experience with multiple rappels, views of Longbow Arch and ancient petroglyphs tucked into a red rock canyon. Bow & Arrow Canyon is a must-see.
For more details on the Best Moab Hikes, please see: https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/moab-hikes and https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/blogs/stories/ultimate-guide-to-the-best-moab-hikes.
