6 Best Hikes in Moab You Need To Check Out!

Are you looking for the best hikes in Moab, Utah? Then you are in the right spot!

Moab has an incredible amount of hiking trails, and all of them are quite special! When you only have a few days in town, it can be super hard to pick the best ones that are worth your time and effort.

Many of the trails in Moab are pretty similar, so it is importat to find a good mix so you can experience the best of the area.

Luckily for you, I have just returned from my trip to Moab and we checked out many trails, famous and off-the beaten paths.

In this post, I’ll discuss with you my 6 favorite hikes in Moab, and add some helpful tips and insights so you can have an amazing experience!

Let’s get to it!

1. Corona Arch Trail

Trailhead: Google Maps

The Corona Arch Trail is my favorite hiking trail in Moab.

You get to see this really cool arch at the end of the hike, and since it is outside of the National Park, it is usually never busy. I prefer it over Arches National Park!

You’ll have some stunning views of the desert valley, and the Corona Arch is beautifully embedded in the landscape.

The hike is moderate; you’ll have to climb up a ladder set in the red rocks to reach the arch.

As an added bonus, you can see the Pinto Arch and the Bowtie Arch as well, since they all share the same trailhead.

2. Mill Creek Waterfall Trail

Trailhead: Google Maps

The Mill Creek Waterfall Trail is a bit of a hidden gem in Moab.

It is beloved by locals, and it will give you an entirely different experience than all of the other trails.

You’ll hike alongside (and sometimes cross) a beautiful small stream through a lush valley. No boring desert landscapes in sight!

There is virtually no elevation gain, so it is an easy hike.

You’ll reach the beautiful Mill Creek Waterfall pretty soon after the trailhead, but you can continue on the trail if you like to make it more of an adventure.

3. Devil’s Garden Trail

Trailhead: Google Maps

As I mentioned before, Arches National Park is not my favorite place to hike because of all the crowds.

Especially the easier and more famous trails, like the Delicate Arch Trail or the Fiery Furnace, are super busy.

Devil’s Garden Trail is one of the less busy hikes, because it is pretty long and moderately difficult at times.

You’ll pass by the fantastic Landscape Arch, which is great for Instagram pictures.

4. Shafer Trail

Trailhead: Google Maps

Shafer Trail is not your usual hike; it is a bit of a mix between scenic drive and trail.

Shafer Trail is a scenic back road located in the Canyonlands National Park. It is a lesser-known alternative to the Mesa Arch trail in the park.

It winds down steep switchbacks carved into the cliffs, which look so pretty.

You can drive it with a 4×4, but many people also hike parts of the trail. You’ll have some incredible views over the desert landscape, which makes the hike well worth it.

6. Rim Loop Trail (Dead Horse Point)

Location: Trailhead

The Rim Trail at Dead Horse Point State Park is an easy and super scenic hike. I really enjoy the park because of its elevation over the desert.

It follows the edge of the mesa for a mile (round trip), and you have nonstop views of deep canyons and the Colorado River below.

You’ll pass a few nice lookout points that are perfect for photos, especially at sunset.

It’s mostly flat and great for all skill levels, which definitely makes it one of the best family-friendly hikes in Moab.

What Is The Hardest Trail in Moab?

One of the (in my opinion) hardest trails in Moab is the Fiery Furnace. It is inside Arches National Park.

It’s not hard because of steep climbs or long distances. It’s tough because it’s a maze of sandstone canyons, tight passages, and dead ends.

You need a special permit or go with a ranger-led tour. Otherwise, it’s super easy to get lost without a map or GPS.

What To Wear For Hiking in Moab?

Moab is super hot and dry (for most of the year), so I’d definitely keep my hiking outfits simple.

As for myself, a UV-protective shirt and shorts always did the trick. And, of course, a cap was super useful. My wife usually wore shorts and a sporty tank top on our hikes.

Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind when dressing for a hike in Moab:

☀️ Breathable Shirts: Make sure to wear something lightweight, otherwise you’ll sweat to death in the Moab heat

☀️ Hiking shorts: Lightweight and flexible are best. Shorts are great in spring/summer, but pants help with the brush and sun.

☀️ Hiking boots: Good grip is a must; there are a lot of slickrock and difficult climbs on Moab’s trails

☀️ Sun protection: Always wear a cap or a hat; otherwise, you’ll be too exposed to the desert sun

Conclusion: Best Hikes in Moab

In this post, we checked out my favorite 6 hiking trails in Moab. 

All of these are beautiful trails, each with a different vibe and difficulty. You’ll get to see petroglyphs, wander along slickrock, and see beautiful red rock formations. 

We’ll skip the overcrowded Double Arch and the Sky District (Mesa Arch) and head straight for hidden gems, like the Corona Arch or the Mill Creek Waterfall. 

This is definitely the best of Moab hiking, and you don’t need a permit for any one of these. 

Make sure to pack snacks, and maybe even head out around sunrise already for a great vibe. 

Not sure yet if Moab is worth visiting. Keep on reading:

Amazing 5 Days in Moab Itinerary: Instagrammable and Fun

Is Moab Worth Visiting in 2025? Totally Honest Review

Why Arches National Park Is Not Worth Visiting (+ Alternatives)

15 Best Moab Photo Spots And Photography Guide (With Map)