Discover Moab in One Day

1. 8:00 AM: Sunrise at Delicate Arch
   19-minute drive (12.1 miles) from Moab

   Witness one of the most photographed landmarks in Utah with the sunrise at Delicate Arch. The 1.5-mile round trip hike should take about an hour, including stopping time for photos. Remember to bring water and sunscreen for the exposed trail.

2. 10:00 AM: Arches National Park Visitor Center
   5-minute drive (1.5 miles) from Delicate Arch

   Head over to the Visitor Center to grab a trail map and learn about the geology, ecology, and history of the park. Be sure to watch the park orientation movie and browse the bookstore for souvenirs.

3. 11:00 AM: Windows Section
   15-minute drive (8 miles) from Arches National Park Visitor Center

   Explore the Windows Section, an easy and short walk that features several arches, including the North and South Windows and the Turret Arch. The Double Arch is also nearby but requires a slightly longer and more strenuous hike.

4. 12:30 PM: Lunch at Moab Brewery
   10-minute drive (3.8 miles) from the Windows Section

   Recharge at Moab Brewery with some craft beers and delicious pub food. Try their famous Dead Horse Amber Ale and the Blackened Ahi Tuna Sandwich. Vegetarian and gluten-free options also available.

5. 2:00 PM: Colorado River Scenic Drive
   15-minute drive (6.2 miles) from Moab Brewery

   Take a leisurely cruise down the Colorado River Scenic Byway, a 17-mile paved road that offers breathtaking views of the river, the towering red cliffs, and the Moab Valley. Several pullouts offer photo opportunities and picnic areas.

6. 3:00 PM: Courthouse Towers
   10-minute drive (4.6 miles) from Colorado River Scenic Drive

   Stop at the Courthouse Towers viewpoint and take in the panoramic view of the towering sandstone formations, including The Three Gossips, Sheep Rock, and The Organ. Take a short walk to the viewpoint for Park Avenue, a beautiful canyon of eroded sandstone.

7. 4:30 PM: Dead Horse Point State Park
   37-minute drive (32.4 miles) from Courthouse Towers

   Drive to Dead Horse Point State Park and admire the stunning overlook of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Walk along the Rim Trail and spot the namesake of the park, Dead Horse Point, a promontory of rock surrounded by steep cliffs. Watch the sunset and be amazed by the ever-changing colors of the landscape.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Delicate Arch (1-2 hours, free)
• Arches National Park Visitor Center (30 minutes, free)
• Windows Section (1-2 hours, Arches NP entrance fee $30 per car)
• Moab Brewery (1 hour, $10-20 per person)
• Colorado River Scenic Drive (1 hour, free)
• Courthouse Towers (30 minutes, Arches NP entrance fee $30 per car)
• Dead Horse Point State Park (1-2 hours, entrance fee $20 per car)
Total Estimated Costs: $60-80 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, don't miss the Fiery Furnace, a maze of narrow canyons and towering fins that requires a permit and a guided ranger tour. The Devil's Garden section of Arches NP also features longer and more challenging hikes, including the Primitive Trail and the Landscape Arch. If you have less time, skip the Colorado River Scenic Drive and go straight to Courthouse Towers or Dead Horse Point State Park. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, hat, and sunglasses, and carry enough water and snacks for the day.