Planning and Preparation

Here's you'll find information about planning, scheduling and preparing for your trip to Moab.

Scheduling Tips

Hotels and Lodging
As Moab continues to grow, it can be difficult to find lodging unless you book well in advance. It also will help plan your activities if you reserve your accommodations first, as close to town as possible to minimize driving times



Transportation
Although flights are now available directly to the Moab Airport, there are still very few companies offering shuttle and taxi services locally, especially into the National Parks. We highly recommend renting a vehicle if possible, and confirming the reservation before finalizing your other travel details. If you are unable to secure transportation, we may still be able to provide shuttle service if we are not already booked.



There is a lot to see on your own!
If you have your own vehicle, there are many hikes and destinations you can do on your own without a guide. There are enough easy trails and attractions in Arches National Park to fill a half day or more and the same is true for Canyonlands. Make sure you save a little time to enjoy these beautiful places at your own pace. If you do opt for a guided tour, we recommend scheduling it early in your trip so the guide can answer questions and help your plan the rest of your stay! Click here for a list of things you can see all by yourself with ease.




Common Itineraries

After years of talking with customers about planning their stay in Moab, we've come up with the most common itineraries that have worked well for our clients in the past.

3 Days in Arches, Canyonlands and Beyond. If you've never been here before, you'll definitely want to check out both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Much of these two parks can be seen without a guide easily and we recommend saving some time during your stay to explore. The below plan is a good way to maximize your time by combining guided tours with self guided adventures.

Day 1: Arrive in Moab
AM- You'll most likely still be traveling to Moab.
PM- Arrive in Moab. secure campsite or check into lodging. Get dinner and a pack-able lunch for the following day's adventure. There is no food sold in the park so come prepared!


Day 2: Arches National Park
AM- Half Day Guided Hike: Meet your guide in Arches National Park to explore some of the least known areas of the park like Tower Arch or Devil's Garden. During the hike you can ask questions and get local advice on planning the rest of your trip.
PM- Self Guided Tour: After your guide drops you off at your vehicle, stop at the popular photography sites or shorter trails until Sunset (your guide can discuss these options during your morning hike).


Day 3: Island in the Sky
AM- Half Day Guided Hike: Meet your guide in Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky district to explore some of the least known areas of the park like Neck Spring and get more tips on how to spend the afternoon and evening.
PM- Self Guided Tour: After your guide drops you off at your vehicle, stop at the popular photography sites like Dead Horse State Park or others on your way back to Moab.


Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
AM- Custom Half Day Hike: See the side of Moab most people never get to experience with a custom tour based on the interests you've discovered so far on your trip. "Local Moab" offers everything from waterfalls to ancient rock art and dinosaur fossils. Ask the guide about other trails or activities.
PM- Some choose to relax on this day, or enjoy another activity like Rafting, 4x4 Tours and Jet Boat rides (but if you're like us you'll be hiking). :)


Day 5: Depart Moab
AM: On the way out of town, stop by a missed destination or a favorite spot for sun rise!

Contact us for more information!