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Exploring desert magic with insights from Outdoorable expert Maria Lally
Written by Maria Lally, Park Ranger + Field Expert
Moab's not a secret—but doing it right still kind of is. This guide is for the travelers who want the good hikes and the good tacos, who care about the land they're on, and who don't want to waste half their trip figuring out trailhead parking or where to get a drink that isn't a tourist trap margarita. Moab's not a secret—but doing it right still kind of is.
Maria Lally is a Park Ranger for the National Park Service with deep experience in public lands across the American West. She’s worked in Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain, and has logged serious time in Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Yellowstone, and more. She now offers one-on-one trip planning sessions through Outdoorable, helping travelers navigate permits, seasons, trail choices, and park-to-park logistics.
There's a reason people lose their minds over Moab. The town sits on the doorstep of two national parks(Arches and Canyonlands), plus the sprawling Dead Horse Point State Park and countless BLM lands,canyons, slot hikes, bike trails, and world class river access.
It's also a place people rush through too fast. Moab deserves your full attention.
Maria first visited Moab during a college geology course. "I did not know that desert landscapes like theones found in Moab existed in this world, let alone in the U.S. It instantly became one of my favoriteoutdoor destinations."
Since then, she's returned again and again—each time discovering something new. "I always seem to findmy new favorite hike or campground on each trip! Moab is amazing for just about any outdoor activity, andthe stillness and beauty of its desert live unmatched in my mind."
Maria is adamant that first-timers should absolutely go see the iconic sights. "Delicate Arch is popular for areason. But so much beauty can also be found off the beaten path."
"Hike through towering rock formations the entire time. You feel like you're on Mars. Try to spot some rockclimbers along the way!"
Venture through a canyon oasis that ends at Morning Glory Natural Bridge. "Perfect for warm days—flat,shady, and beautiful."
"Hike and climb over smooth sandstone to reach these stunning arches outside of Arches National Park."
Maria’s been around the block—and the canyon. A few more favorite trails include:
Moab Rim Trail – “A great off-the-beaten-path trail for hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading.”
And don’t skip the drive:
“Route 128 into Moab is stunning. If you’re coming from I-70, skip Route 191 and take 128 instead—you’ll drive past the Colorado River, red cliffs, and a bunch of trailheads and campgrounds.”
Best time to visit: Late February to early May, or October. "Start your hikes early or late in the day to avoidthat midday desert heat. Catch the sunrise as you embark on your day's adventure, or wind down at theend of the day with a sunset hike!"
Expect crowds at Arches National Park on any given day. Canyonlands' Island in the Sky district tends tobe a bit less crowded as far as national parks go.
Arrive early at trailheads to grab a parking spot before they're taken!
The Gonzo Inn – Funky, centrally located. Walkable to shops and restaurants.
Field Station Moab – A basecamp-style stay with gear rentals and cool communal spaces.
Hoodoo Moab – Upscale, full-service and great for families or groups.
Upper Onion Creek Campground – "Panoramic views, peaceful, and close to Fisher Towers. My absolute favorite."
Under Canvas Moab – Glamping with La Sal views.
Kayenta Campground – Inside Dead Horse Point State Park. Some of the darkest skies in the region.
Quesadilla Mobilla – Food truck with massive quesadillas
Moab Garage Co – Chill café with creative toast and great coffee
98 Center – Vietnamese-inspired eats and solid veg options
The Spoke on Center – Burgers and beers post-hike
Moab Food Truck Park – Multiple casual options in one open-air spot
Moab Street Dogs – "Fun hot dogs, fries, milkshakes—great pre-sunset snack."
Moonflower Co-op – Perfect for snacks, smoothies, or quick deli bites. Local and healthy.
Maria’s must-haves:
"There seem to be infinite options for the perfect day in Moab, but mine would be one filled with hikes tojaw-dropping viewpoints and moments to soak up the desert beauty." Here's how it unfolds:
"No better end to a day than food, friends, and a fire under desert skies."
"I loved rafting a section of the Colorado with friends. We had rafts, inflatable kayaks, paddleboards—eveninner tubes. The wind was insane, but we laughed the whole way, then we grilled dinner at camp. It wasan incredibly memorable day in Moab!"
If you're curious: The Moab Daily is the classic whitewater stretch—book a guide or DIY with rentals.
✅ Reserve timed entry for Arches on Recreation.gov
✅ Check trail conditions and flash flood warnings
✅ Book popular campgrounds early
✅ Bring more water than you think you need
✅ Start early to beat heat and crowds
✅ Let the season guide your itinerary
"Every visit feels different depending on the time of year—and that's the magic of Moab."
Need help planning your trip? Book a 1:1 session with Maria to build your perfect Moab itinerary, get help with permits, or find the right hike for your skill level.
Whether you’re going solo, with a group, or on a national parks road trip, Maria will help you experience the real Moab—at the right pace, with the right gear, and the best insider tips
Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions
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