Immersed in Moab's Majesty: A Weekend in the Red Rocks of Southern Utah

In a world dominated by bustling cities and endless screens, there's an indescribable allure to the untouched wilderness, where the only soundtrack is the gentle rustle of wind and the occasional call of a distant bird. Recently, I embarked on a journey to Moab, Utah, seeking the vast expanse of its red rock landscapes, rugged canyons, and star-studded night skies. This trip was not just a vacation; it was one of many trips down to Moab calling back to the days when I was a kid. All growing up my family had a tradition of coming down in late May for the Moab Art Festival. So along with many beautiful hikes and sceneries, I have many memories waiting for me in Moab.

Camping: Embracing the Wild Beauty

My adventure began with a decision to leave the comfort of traditional campsites and instead embrace the rugged beauty of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land for boondocking. With our campervan Voyager, this is really more glamping than camping. Along with me was my good friend Taylor, a photographer known as @tdcamerman on social media.. The allure of camping beneath a blanket of stars, far away from the noise and distractions of civilization, proved irresistible. Some common spots for free camping are:

Willow Springs Road BLM Camping Area: Located just a few miles north of Moab, this dispersed camping area along Willow Springs Road offers stunning views of red rock formations and easy access to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. The camping spots are primitive, with no facilities, but campers can enjoy the peacefulness of the desert landscape and the star-filled night sky. Keep in mind that this area can get crowded during peak seasons, so it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

Klondike Bluffs BLM Camping Area: Situated northwest of Moab, near the entrance to Arches National Park, Klondike Bluffs is a popular spot for camping and hiking. The area features numerous dispersed camping sites along the dirt roads, offering solitude and breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock cliffs and canyons. Campers can explore nearby trails, such as the Klondike Bluffs Trail and the Tower Arch Trail, which provide opportunities to see ancient petroglyphs and stunning rock formations. Like other BLM camping areas, visitors should come prepared with plenty of water, food, and other essentials, as there are no amenities available on-site.

Thelma and Louise Point:

1. Starting Point: Thelma and Louise Point is situated along the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway (State Route 279), approximately 19 miles southwest of Moab. To begin your journey, head south from Moab on US-191 and then turn left onto State Route 279 (Potash Road) at the junction just before crossing the Colorado River.

2. Drive along Potash Road: Follow Potash Road for about 17 miles as it winds along the scenic Colorado River corridor. The drive itself is incredibly picturesque, with towering red rock cliffs rising on either side of the road and the river flowing alongside.

3. Look for the Sign: Keep an eye out for a sign indicating Thelma and Louise Point. It's a well-marked pullout area on the right-hand side of the road, offering parking and a short trail leading to the overlook.

4. Park and Hike: Once you've reached the pullout area, park your vehicle and take a short hike to the viewpoint. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for most skill levels, though it may involve some uneven terrain. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Colorado River winding through the red rock canyon below, with dramatic cliffs and rock formations towering above.

5. Enjoy the View: Once you reach Thelma and Louise Point, take some time to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery. The overlook provides a perfect vantage point to admire the beauty of the canyon and the river below, making it an ideal spot for photography or simply enjoying a peaceful moment surrounded by nature.

It's important to note that Thelma and Louise Point is a popular stop along the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway, especially during peak tourist seasons. Therefore, it's advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and to capture the best light for photography. Additionally, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear for the hike, as the desert environment can be hot and rugged.

Hiking: Trails of Discovery

Waking up early before dawn, we eagerly set out to explore the wonders of Moab. Our first stop was Arches National Park, home to some of the most iconic hikes in the country. During the day, a permit is required to get in unless you wake up and get into the park before the 7am cut-off. If you leave you have to wait until after 4pm or get an entry ticket. Some of the best hikes in Arches national park and around Moab are:

1. Delicate Arch (Arches National Park): Arguably the most iconic hike in Arches National Park, the Delicate Arch Trail is a must-do for visitors. This moderately strenuous 3-mile round trip hike leads to the famous freestanding Delicate Arch, the symbol of Utah and one of the most photographed natural arches in the world. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding red rock landscape and culminates in a breathtaking vista of Delicate Arch against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. It's best to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

2. Devils Garden Loop (Arches National Park): For those looking for a longer and more adventurous hike, the Devils Garden Loop is an excellent choice. This 7.2-mile loop trail takes hikers past several stunning arches, including Landscape Arch, the longest natural arch in North America. Along the way, you'll encounter impressive rock formations, narrow fins, and expansive vistas of the surrounding desert landscape. The trail offers optional side trips to iconic arches like Double O Arch and Navajo Arch, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and photography.

3. Corona Arch Trail: Located just outside of Arches National Park, the Corona Arch Trail is a moderately difficult 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the impressive Corona Arch. This massive sandstone arch spans 140 feet and offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding red rock canyon. The hike involves some scrambling and steep sections but is well worth the effort for the chance to see this spectacular natural wonder up close. The trailhead is easily accessible from Moab and is popular among both hikers and rock climbers.

4. Fisher Towers Trail: Situated northeast of Moab, the Fisher Towers Trail is a scenic 4.4-mile out-and-back hike that winds through towering sandstone spires and rock formations. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the dramatic Fisher Towers, which are renowned for their striking vertical cliffs and unique geological features. While the trail is moderately strenuous, it's relatively less crowded than other hikes in the area, making it a peaceful and rewarding experience for hikers seeking solitude and stunning scenery.

Campervan Recommendations: Roaming in Comfort

The campervan we used made trips like this easy and convenient. The van we used was Voyager, a Mercedes 4x4 sprinter van. The things that were especially convenient were the A/C for during the day, heating for the cold nights, a bed lift to save space and have room for a second bed, running water, a shower and power available for off grid. We overlanded at the aforementioned Thelma and Lousie point so having a vehicle with the off-road capabilities to get there and then the other amenities that made it convenient were amazing. It felt like a hotel on wheels and the best thing was that the van was very easy to use! Other things that we thought were cool were the fridge, toilet, heated water capabilities, the microwave and stove. There was also a fold down bench with room for 2 and 3 point seat belts but since there were only 2 of us we didn’t have to bother with it. Campervans make boondocking easier than ever, and it’s free to camp and the sites I listed above!