The Desert is Different: How to Visit Moab, Utah

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One-on-One Mentorship

Experience the beauty of Moab, Utah, while preserving its breathtaking landscapes for generations to come. Whether you're hiking the iconic Arches, biking the rugged trails, or exploring the mighty Colorado River, responsible recreation is key to maintaining the area's natural wonders. By staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, and practicing Leave No Trace principles, you help protect Moab's delicate ecosystem. Moab's beauty is a privilege to enjoy—let's all do our part to keep it thriving.

Sample course content

What you're going to learn:

  • Trip Planning Essentials: Learn how to prepare for your Moab adventure with safety, sustainability, and local guidelines in mind.
  • Protecting Moab’s Resources: Gain insights on safeguarding fragile biocrusts, respecting cultural sites, and minimizing your environmental impact.
  • Recreation-Specific Tips: Master best practices for hiking, mountain biking, motorized activities, camping, river use, climbing, canyoneering, and recreating with dogs.
  • Trail Etiquette & Shared Spaces: Explore strategies for sharing trails, respecting other users, and fostering a positive outdoor community.
  • Waste Management Made Easy: Understand proper waste disposal techniques, including the use of wag bags, to keep Moab’s pristine environment clean.

Planning Your Trip

Moab’s stunning, remote landscape offers unparalleled adventure, but it also demands careful preparation. Before heading out, make sure you're equipped with the 10 essentials—like a navigation system, water, sun protection, and communication tools—to stay safe and self-reliant in the backcountry. With the right planning and gear, you can explore this rugged paradise with confidence and respect for its unique environment.

Sharing Moab and the Trails

Moab's vast wilderness is a popular destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. To ensure everyone can enjoy their unique experiences, it's important to respect other trail users, practice good campsite etiquette, and follow local guidelines for wildlife, noise, and traffic. By being considerate, prepared, and mindful of the environment, we can help preserve this incredible landscape for future generations and honor the people who call Moab home.

Waste and Wag Bags

Explore the beauty of Moab’s trails while minimizing your environmental impact! Mariah Ward, Healthy Trails Coordinator, shares essential tips for eco-friendly outdoor adventures, from packing out human and pet waste to proper trash disposal. Equip yourself with tools like wag bags, respect trail rules, and help preserve these stunning landscapes for future generations.

Cultural Sites

Discover the awe-inspiring ancestral landscapes of Bears Ears, home to over 100,000 cultural sites across 1.3 million acres in southeastern Utah. Visit with respect by preserving the integrity of sacred sites—leave artifacts undisturbed, avoid touching rock imagery, and report any damage to authorities. By honoring these lands and their living cultural significance, you show care for the history, traditions, and communities that make this region unique.

Biocrust

Explore the delicate beauty of this unique ecosystem, where every step matters. Held together by vital biological soil crusts that prevent erosion, retain water, and nourish plants, this landscape is as fragile as it is breathtaking. Stay on marked trails to protect this sensitive environment and help preserve it for future generations.

Hiking

Discover the wonders of public lands with respect and preparation. From towering peaks to riparian oases, these spaces offer unmatched diversity—but responsible hiking is key. Stay informed, follow marked trails, and prioritize safety and conservation to protect these shared treasures for everyone.

Mountain Biking

Explore the epic beauty of Moab's 170 miles of desert trails, perfect for bikers of all skill levels. Whether your headed out with a local expert guide or venturing into pristine wilderness on your own, we leave you with some tips to maximize fun and safety.

Motorized Vehicles

Experience the thrill of Moab’s diverse off-road adventures, from E-bikes to jeeps and rock buggies, with over 90 trails to explore. Prepare for your journey with the right gear, trail etiquette, and a commitment to preserving the environment. Respect the local community and fellow adventurers as you enjoy the ultimate off-road experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

River Use

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado and Green Rivers with a wide range of adventures, from serene paddleboarding to exhilarating whitewater rafting. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, guided tours ensure a safe and educational experience, while self-planned trips offer endless opportunities to customize your journey. Respect the environment, embrace "Leave No Trace" principles, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure under the desert sky.

Climbing/Canyoneering

Moab is a world-class climbing destination like no other, where diverse sandstone formations offer thrilling adventures for every climber, from bouldering to multi-day summits. With stunning landscapes, a delicate ecosystem, and rich cultural history, it’s a place that inspires awe and demands respect. Plan ahead, embrace sustainable practices, and let the desert challenge and reward you in equal measure.

Camping

Discover the joys of camping on public lands with low-impact practices that protect our natural treasures for everyone to enjoy. Plan ahead for your Moab adventure, from reservable campsites to dispersed options, and follow essential guidelines for fires, waste, quiet hours, and leash laws. Let’s create unforgettable experiences while preserving these lands for generations.

Camping

Discover the joys of camping on public lands with low-impact practices that protect our natural treasures for everyone to enjoy. Plan ahead for your Moab adventure, from reservable campsites to dispersed options, and follow essential guidelines for fires, waste, quiet hours, and leash laws. Let’s create unforgettable experiences while preserving these lands for generations.

Recreating with Dogs

Explore Moab with your furry best friend and create unforgettable memories in this dog-friendly paradise! From pet-friendly trails and accommodations to tips for staying safe in the desert heat, Moab offers a wealth of adventures for you and your pup. Plan ahead, pack the essentials, and enjoy a responsible, paws-itively amazing experience! 🐾

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