Moab, Utah, is one of the most breathtaking adventure destinations in the U.S., home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, dramatic red rock landscapes, and so many amazing outdoor activities. As a travel blogger who's always on the hunt for epic outdoor getaways, I couldn't wait to explore it for myself—and I’ve shared even more of my adventures over at Wild Poppy Travels. But before you pack your bags, here are 14 things to know before visiting Moab that will help you have the best adventure!
1. There’s No Cell Service in the Parks – Download Maps in Advance 📍
Moab’s national parks—Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point—are remote, which means little to no cell service once you’re inside. If you rely on Google Maps or navigation apps, you’ll want to download maps offline before you go.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Google Maps offline mode, the AllTrails app if you plan on hiking, and the ExploreHere app! It’s a lifesaver when you lose service.
2. Watch Your Speed – Law Enforcement is Everywhere 🚔
Moab is a small town, but speeding tickets are no joke here. The speed limit through town is super low, and the speed also changes pretty drastically when coming into town.Â
Law enforcement is out in full force too. There wasn’t a day that I drove through town without seeing a police officer sitting with their speed radar tracker waiting to give out tickets.Â
Stick to the posted speed limits, and watch for speed changes when entering and leaving Moab—it could save you an unexpected addition to your budget.
3. Food is Expensive – Consider Buying Groceries 🍽️
Eating out in Moab isn’t cheap, and I didn’t find any restaurants that were especially “write home about” worthy either.Â
Budget-friendly tip? Buy groceries at one of the local grocery stores—City Market or Moonflower Co-op and get a rental with a kitchen. You can also pack lunches and snacks for your time in the parks - see #5 below for more info!
If you're looking for more budget-friendly travel tips, I cover tons of money-saving hacks for road trips and national park adventures on my website!
4. Alcohol is Expensive🍺
Utah has strict alcohol laws, and Moab is no exception. Here’s what you need to know:
✔️ Beer can be bought at grocery stores and gas stations.
✔️ Wine and liquor are only sold at state-run liquor stores (which close early).
✔️ Many restaurants only serve alcohol with food due to Utah’s laws.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you want to enjoy a drink at your rental or campsite, buy alcohol ahead of time when you arrive in Utah.
5. There Are No Services Inside the National Parks â›˝
Once you're inside many of the parks, there are zero services—no gas stations, restaurants, or convenience stores.
✔️ Fuel up before heading out.
✔️ Pack snacks & food if you're spending a full day exploring.
✔️ Bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially in summer. The suggested amount is 2L per person, but if you’re planning on staying in the park all day, take more, just in case.Â
There are also limited restroom facilities throughout the park. Most are vault toilets, and while they were clean and stocked when I went, it doesn’t hurt to bring a roll of toilet paper and hand sanitizer just in case.
6. Stay Protected: Sun, Bugs, and Moab’s Harsh ElementsÂ
Moab’s high desert climate means you’re constantly exposed to the sun, even when temperatures are cooler. Many people assume sunscreen isn’t necessary in winter, but UV rays remain intense at higher elevations, so protecting your skin year-round with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses is essential.Â
If you're visiting in spring or summer, be prepared for gnats and mosquitoes, especially after rain in April through June. Bug spray or long sleeves can help keep them at bay, and if you're camping, a simple head net can make all the difference in avoiding constant swatting.
7. You’re at High Altitude – Stay Hydrated & Be Cautious with Alcohol 🏔️
Moab sits at over 4,000 feet elevation, and if you're not used to higher altitudes, dehydration and fatigue can hit fast.
✔️ Drink extra water to prevent altitude sickness.
✔️ Take it easy on alcohol, as it affects you more at high elevations.
✔️ Give yourself time to adjust, especially if you’re coming from sea level.
Keep an eye out for altitude sickness. Mild symptoms include headache, fatigue, and dizziness while moderate symptoms include confusion, severe headache, and vomiting. Be sure to see a doctor if any of these symptoms occur!
8. Bring a First Aid Kit & Personal Safety Alarm ⛑️
Moab is all about outdoor adventures, and with that comes the possibility of injuries—from minor cuts to blisters or more serious issues like dehydration. It's a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and basic medical supplies to handle any minor accidents on the trail.Â
If you’re hiking solo or exploring remote areas, bringing a personal safety alarm adds an extra layer of security, as Moab’s trails can be both stunning and isolated.
9. Wear Good Shoes – You’ll Be Walking on Rocks & Sand 🥾
Even if you’re not planning on hiking, you’ll still be walking on uneven, rocky terrain.
If you're exploring Delicate Arch, The Windows, or Mesa Arch, a good grip is essential. The rocks can be slippery, especially if there’s any sort of moisture, and loose gravel makes slipping and falling very easy.
10. Not All the Best Sights Require Hiking đźš—
One of the best things about Moab? You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to see amazing scenery!
✔️ Arches National Park – Drive the scenic loop for breathtaking views.
✔️ Canyonlands National Park – The Island in the Sky viewpoint is unreal and requires zero hiking.
✔️ Dead Horse Point State Park – One of the best sunset spots in Moab!
That said, some of the most iconic spots do require some hiking—like Delicate Arch and The Fiery Furnace—so plan accordingly.
11. Pack Layers – Moab’s Weather is Wild 🌡️
Moab’s weather is unpredictable, with strong winds and dramatic temperature swings throughout the year.Â
Wind gusts can be intense, especially in spring and fall, so it's important to secure your tent and camping gear if you're staying outside. Sunglasses are a must to protect your eyes from dust, which can kick up unexpectedly.Â
In addition to the wind, temperatures fluctuate drastically between day and night. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly before the midday heat soars past 100°F (38°C). In spring and fall, layering is essential since mornings and nights can be cold while afternoons remain warm. Winters are generally mild, but temperatures can drop below freezing at night, so packing accordingly will keep you comfortable no matter the season.
12. The Best Time to Visit Moab & When to Avoid the Crowds
Moab’s summer temperatures can soar past 100°F (38°C), making hiking and outdoor activities brutal. The best time to visit is during spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) when the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and hiking conditions are ideal.Â
However, if you're planning a trip in March or April, be aware that Moab hosts the Jeep Safari, a massive off-roading event that drives up hotel prices and fills the town with visitors. If possible, it's best to avoid Jeep Safari week unless you're attending.Â
If you must travel during this time, book your hotel or campsite well in advance to secure accommodations before they sell out.
Also, be sure to note that if you’re visiting Arches National Park from April–October, you must reserve a timed entry pass in advance on the NPS website.
If you want to experience Moab’s most iconic spots without the crowds, consider visiting at sunrise instead of sunset. While sunset at Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch is breathtaking, these locations get packed with photographers and visitors. Sunrise offers fewer crowds, softer lighting for photos, and a quieter experience. If you do visit for sunset, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot before the crowds take over.
PRO TIP: Drones are NOT allowed in any of the parks in Moab. You’ll have to grab your footage somewhere outside the parks.Â
13. Camping is Cheaper But Books Up Fast 🏕️
Moab has amazing budget-friendly camping, but sites fill up months in advance during peak season.
What to do:
✔️ Reserve in advance if staying in a developed campground.
✔️ For free camping, check Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites—they’re first-come, first-served.
14. 4WD Isn’t Required, But It Helps for Some Areas 🚗
Most main roads and scenic drives are accessible with a regular car, but if you want to explore areas like Shafer Trail, White Rim Road, or Gemini Bridges, a 4WD vehicle is needed. If you’re renting a car, double-check road conditions (and your rental agreement for your damage liabilities) before heading off-road.
Final Thoughts
Moab is one of the most incredible outdoor destinations in the U.S., but a little prep goes a long way. By knowing these essential things to know before visiting Moab—from food costs to park logistics and high-altitude effects—you can have an amazing, stress-free adventure.
For more Moab travel tips, packing lists, and budget-friendly adventure guides, check out Wild Poppy Travels! If you found this helpful, save this post for your next trip and follow along for more travel advice. 🚗✨
