Best Moab Hiking Trails for Your Desert Adventure
While I’m your go-to Moab wedding and elopement photographer, there are times when it’s fun to mix it up a little. I love the variety that comes from shooting proposals, engagements, and even some family fun! Guiding my clients to their Moab destination is a part of my work that I always enjoy. Find the many Moab hiking trails we can explore on your own Utah adventures!
Find Your Way to the Best Moab Hiking Trails
Visiting Moab doesn’t have to be restricted solely to your wedding day. The adventure can last as long as you wish with pre or post-wedding experiences. There are countless options for Moab Utah activities that range from off-roading to more risk-taking experiences like tandem base jumping!
For those looking for a more relaxed and laid-back time there are some easy Moab hikes that fit a more family-friendly time! These work best for those looking to move around in their wedding clothes or capture a session with the entire family. I find myself at times even becoming a lifelong photographer capturing both a couple’s wedding and family portrait photography!
With the vast expanse that is the Moab desert, there are endless opportunities to easily enjoy the sights from dawn to dusk. These are the top Moab hiking trails I recommend that are easily accessible and insanely pretty!
Where to Find Easy Hikes in Moab
I’m all for guiding you to the more wild Moab, Utah activities including skydiving and rock climbing. I also find that the best way to appreciate the epic landscape is through slower and more laid-back experiences. For those bringing their families along or just looking for an easier entry into knocking out some Moab hiking trails, the following are some favorites that I recommend.
Mill Creek Trail (1.8 miles round trip)
One of the shortest hikes in the area, it crosses a stream several times with small waterfalls, spots for swimming and shaded alcoves for the hotter seasons. This popular hike can become overcrowded very quickly so it’s best to avoid the afternoons or to explore the upstream trail from above the waterfall.
Corona Arch Hike (3.0 miles round trip)
Of these Moab easy hikes, the Corona Arch Trail consists of slickrock and a bit of a scramble on a small ladder climb. It is most magical at sunset as long as you remember to bring headlamps for the return walk! Another option is to hop onto Bowtie Arch which connects to the Corona Arch trailhead and isn’t much more of a walk.
Grandstaff Trail to Morning Glory Natural Bridge (5.0 miles round trip)
This hike’s destination is the Morning Glory Natural Bridge which is the sixth longest natural bridge in the U.S. On this trail you will find a mix of slickrock and sandy terrain with 8-10 creek crossings. The trail is moderately difficult with poison ivy that you must be careful to avoid mostly found near the streams. The morning and late afternoon are great for a visit when the canyon is in the shade. You can also go at sunset!
Devils Garden Trail to Landscape Arch in Arches National Park (1.9 miles round trip)
This is a shorter segment of the full Devils Garden Trail on an easy gravel path that includes majestic arches with minimal effort. Landscape Arch holds the position of the longest arch in North America hitting over 300 feet in length. There also are two off-shoot trails available to slightly increase the length of the hike: one to Pine Tree Arch and the other to Tunnel Arch.
Keep in mind that certain times of year require a timed entry permit into Arches National Park: April 1 – July 6 and August 28 – October 31 (7am-4pm). Other short trails found in Arches are the Windows Trail which includes Turret Arch (1.0 mile round trip) or the Double Arch Trail (0.6 miles round trip). Both of these are relatively flat and scenic loops best in the morning or at sunset.
Other Short Moab Trails to Explore
- Fisher Towers (5.2 miles round trip): this runs through red sandstone towers with some scrambling including a ladder descent. The hike is best for early morning or late evening due to high sun exposure.
- Left Fork Mill Creek Canyon (2 miles round trip): one of the Moab hiking trails that starts within the town of Moab itself. The trail is relatively flat and shaded with easy creek crossings, a small waterfall, and local petroglyphs near the falls. Wear water shoes and start early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- Park Avenue Trail and Courthouse Towers (1.8 miles round trip): amazing visuals with flat and wide sandstone pillars on a spacious trail.
- Mesa Arch Trail (0.6 miles round trip): this short walk to a stunning viewpoint found in Canyonlands National Park is ideal for a scenic stop!
Top Tips for Exploring Moab Hiking Trails
There is such a mix of shorter Moab hiking trails offering creek-side explorations and epic arches. Below are some tips to guide you through the best Moab hikes offering an easier path:
- Timing: Go early or late to avoid the heat and crowds especially in the summer.
- Hydration & Snacks: Bring at least one gallon of water per person and snacks that will provide energy.
- Sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, and spare layers in the spring or fall seasons.
- Gear: Water shoes for creek trails and headlamps for dusk hikes.
Looking for a private tour with a photographer on one of these Moab trails? Let’s go!
Vendors
Destination | Moab, Utah
Photographer | Matt Davidson Photography
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