National Parks near Moab

National Parks near Moab

Moab sits perfectly between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, two protected areas that showcase the geological wonder of the Colorado Plateau. Each park offers something distinct: Arches is a sculpted world of rock windows and spires, while Canyonlands spreads wide and wild with endless viewpoints and backcountry trails.

There are few places on Earth where two major national parks are so close together. From downtown Moab, Arches National Park lies just 5 miles north on US-191. Canyonlands National Park begins about 30 miles southwest, with the Island in the Sky district only a 40-minute drive away.

Both are part of Utah’s famous “Mighty 5,” but Moab is the only town that gives you front-door access to two of them. That means you can spend sunrise photographing Delicate Arch, take a midday break at a local café, then watch the sunset over the Maze or Needles districts — all in a single day.

Key takeaway: Moab is the best basecamp for exploring multiple Utah National Parks without long drives or complicated logistics.

Canyonlands National Park

The wild heart of Utah

Just 32 miles from Moab, Canyonlands National Park stretches across more than 300,000 acres of cliffs, mesas, and river canyons divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the Colorado and Green Rivers. Each feels like its own park.

Island in the Sky

• Closest to Moab and the easiest to reach.

• Famous for Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, and the sweeping panorama from Green River Overlook.

• Many short, scenic hikes under 2 miles round trip.

The Needles

• About 75 minutes from Moab; ideal for longer hikes and backpacking.

• Highlights include Chesler Park, Druid Arch, and Elephant Hill.

The Maze

• Remote, rugged, and for experienced explorers only — usually accessed by 4WD or guided expedition.

Fees and access

• $30 per vehicle valid for 7 days.

• America the Beautiful Pass also accepted.

Best seasons

• March–May and September–October offer the best weather and visibility.

• Winters are quiet and beautiful with light snow on the mesas.

Key takeaway: Canyonlands is where you go to feel small in the best possible way. It is vast, quiet, and unforgettable.

When to Visit National Parks Near Moab

Key takeaway: Spring and fall are the best seasons for comfort and photography, but winter delivers a special kind of quiet magic.

Other protected lands close to Moab

Beyond the two main parks, you’ll find several federal and state areas that extend your adventure:

• Dead Horse Point State Park — Just outside Canyonlands’ entrance, known for its world-class overlook of the Colorado River.

• Manti-La Sal National Forest — Cool alpine escapes in summer with hiking, camping, and mountain biking in the La Sal Mountains.

• Sand Flats Recreation Area — Home to the famous Slickrock Bike Trail and off-road routes like Fins and Things.

These lands are managed separately but offer park-quality scenery and activities with fewer crowds.

What to bring and how to prepare

• Plenty of water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen

• Layered clothing for temperature changes

• Paper or offline maps because cell service is unreliable

• Snacks and a small cooler for your car

If you plan multiple adventures, Moabing’s Travel Concierge Service can help design a full week of guided tours from sunrise hikes to rafting the Colorado River while finding package discounts that often save more than the $250 planning fee.

Key takeaway: Preparation makes your Moab adventure smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

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