Your adventure awaits in Moab, a general aviation-friendly destination and an outdoor lover’s dream trip. Here is what you should know in planning a fly-in to Moab, from my article in AOPA’s Pilot magazine, March 2024 issue.

A picture may be worth a thousand words. But even as you fly over the magnificent red rock canyons on final approach into Moab, Utah, it is evident: no picture will be able to adequately compare to the stunning geological masterpiece of a region you’re about to see in person.

Southeastern Utah’s Playground

Recently named one of the 50 most charming small towns in America, Moab draws adventure-seekers from around the world for one primary reason: location, location and more beautiful location. With Arches National Park in its backyard, Canyonlands National Park and a renowned state park just about 30 minutes away, and the Colorado River neighboring it, Moab is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes just beckoning for up-close looks.

The drive south from Canyonlands Regional Airport into Moab teases visitors with peeks at what awaits in Arches and Canyonlands national parks, two of Utah’s famed “Mighty Five” national parks. Arches is just on the outskirts of Moab about 10 minutes north. The turnoff to both Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point State Park is just beyond. To access both national parks, you’ll need National Park visitor passes, available online or at the entrance gates. Arches visitors also need a timed entry reservation if exploring between 7 am and 4 pm.

Before venturing out, download the GuideAlong App for GPS-enabled narrated tours of both parks. If you have a couple of days, earmark one for Arches and take the short hikes to Double Arch, Balanced Rock and Delicate Arch overlook. On day two, spend several hours exploring Canyonlands, coupled with a sidebar to the impressive Dead Horse State Park. For a special treat, get an early start to watch as the sun rises through Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, or stay late for some serious stargazing. All three parks are International Dark Sky Designated.

Four-Wheel Adventure

With 1.8 million acres of surrounding public land, there’s no shortage of four-wheeling trails just waiting to be explored. Rent a UTV from High Point Hummer in town, then head to Sand Point Recreation Area for an unforgettable day navigating near-vertical slick rock and boulder-littered trails like Fins ‘n Things. Trails are rated easy, moderate and difficult so ask your outfitter for recommendations for your skill and comfort level. Utah requires all UTV drivers to pass a safety education course.

If UTVing piques the adventure driver in you, test out one of Twisted Jeeps’ fleet of customized Wrangler Rubicons on the back roads around Canyonlands. Gemini Bridges is a great beginner trail delivering amazing views as it leads to the iconic Gemini Bridges. Follow it on to the popular Potash Road/Shafer Trail, where you’ll meander from the Colorado River and slowly wind up the single-lane, red rock cliff-hugging switchbacks.

Moab by River

A day on the Colorado River gifts visitors with an entirely different perspective on Moab’s red rock cliffs. Sit back and take in the scenery through Castle Canyon as longtime local outfitter Mild2Wild’s guides navigate this mostly calm stretch. Along the way, spot wildlife, learn about early settlers and pass both abandoned and current movie sets. Want to explore more? Drive Hwy. 128, a Utah Designated Scenic Byway, through the Colorado River Gorge. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the many riverbank picnic sites, or venture about 12 miles to Red Cliffs Lodge. There, you can sip on local Spanish Valley Wines as you watch rafters from the shady deck. Don’t miss the Museum of Film and Western Heritage, also housed at this historic working ranch.

Getting There

Moab’s Canyonlands Regional Airport (KCNY) is a mecca for general aviation enthusiasts looking to discover this high desert region. Situated on 985 acres and at 4,579 feet elevation, the airport provides wide vistas to the southeastern mountains of Utah. Pilots can opt for full service or self-service Jet A and 100 LL fuel through the friendly crew at Redtail Jet Center. Enterprise, Hertz and Canyonlands Jeep Rental maintain onsite rental desks with after-hours drop off. Just grabbing lunch in town? Request one of Redtail’s complimentary courtesy cars (3-hour limit, first come basis). Transient hangar space is limited, but tie downs are plentiful and free with fuel purchase. Keep your eyes peeled for jumpers and hot air balloons in the area; the airport houses an active skydiving operation and balloon charter rides are popular with tourists.