Second of a Three Part Series

-Written by Samantha Bonsack

If you are coming to the Moab Century Tour and only have a few days for a Moab break, try some of these activities to ensure you'll feel like you had a full vacation before you head back home. In this second issue, we explore the hidden treasures in the La Sal Mountains, communications in rock from ancient times, find the Grand Canyon in Moab as well as other surprising jewels not many tourists know about. All are family friendly adventures that can take an hour to a day, so consider one of the following adventures and explore a little more of the never-ending-adventure known as Moab!

Native Rock Art:

Keep Your Head in the Clouds:

Scenic flights are the best way to take in the entire beauty of this famous landscape in the shortest amount of time. This is truly a spectacular, affordable experience that will leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation for this region. If you're seeking the most adrenaline in the shortest period of time, skydiving may be your ticket! Take in the best views in the country as you experience almost a full minute of complete free-fall over the amazing views of Canyonlands. 

Cool, Green Mountains...in the Rock-Rock Desert!

An amazingly over-looked gem exits just a few miles south of Moab. The La Sal Mountains are the foot of the Rocky Mountain Range, and offer just as much beauty and awe. Cyclists have long adored the La Sal Loop Road, but few have taken a bit of time to explore the hidden treasures tucked away in the wild flower covered terrain. This relaxed, beautiful drive provides for stunning viewpoints, an active wildlife and truly picturesque hidden mountain lakes. Clearly marked from the main road, these peaceful settings offer wonderful picnic spots, fishing, easy hiking to stretch the legs and impressive waterfalls. You'll understand why this region has been the backdrop for so many movies as you travel down into Castle Valley. Red-rock towers perched upon mighty buttes guide you on this route towards the Colorado River corridor to meet up with Scenic Byway 128. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the few turn outs so you can stop to enjoy and take it all in.

Did You Know the Grand Canyon was in Moab?

Speaking of movies, this unique geography has been in every kind of movie from the old westerns to the modern day Mission Impossible and Thelma & Louis. The Moab Movie Museum located at Red Cliffs Ranch chronicles hundreds of movies and commercials shot on location and is free to the public. While there, sign up for a horseback ride and explore this incredible landscape under ideal conditions; riding through amazing canyons along the Colorado River at the foot of the La Sal mountain range.

World-class Climbing, But isn't the Desert Flat??

Another great Moab secret is the spectacular rock climbing and canyoneering routes. From the idyllic "boldering" along Highway 128 to the amazing buttes of "Wall Street" along the River Portal (Potash) Road, Moab has great intermediate routes. If you consider yourself more experienced, try the legendary crack climbing of Indian Creek. Moab provides world-class routes with some of the most challenging climbs you will attempt. Be sure to check in with the local climbing shops for guides and route conditions.

Golf:

Little known Moab secrets include one of Utah's Top Ten Golf Courses. Moab offers one of the most scenic courses you'll ever play on this challenging but fair 18-hole golf course. Test your skill and use every club in your bag as you wind through the beautiful and scenic sandstone cliffs. Rated in the Top Ten Utah Courses, this is a "can't miss" opportunity for any golfer, and provides full amenities such as golf carts, snack bar, pro shop and even private lessons.

Moab Loves Kids!

For kids, Moab has a lot to offer. The Youth Garden Project has teamed with the Teen Center, Canyonlands Field Institute, After School Programs and many other community programs to provide a safe, fun, interactive place for kids to learn more about the natural world. Contact for schedules at YouthGardenProject.org.  Moab's public swimming pool is closed but has a skate board park next door and is always a hit. Adventure Land Family Fun Center is a great place for the entire family to play. They offer miniature golf, go-carts, a full arcade and even laser tag.

Before You Leave...

A Sunday morning tour through Fiery Furnace is an excellent way to see the unique rock formations. Further up highway 191 hang a left on highway 313 to explore Dead Horse Point State Park which is often used by the movie industry to mimic the Grand Canyon. A bit further down Hwy 313 is Canyonlands National Park. When you see the view from Grand View Point, it will be obvious how it was named. This breath-taking view from pavement allows your eyes to see canyons far into the horizon. The amazing drop off overlooks the delicate White Rim below, and drops further still to the Colorado River flowing below.

A little bit of exploration in Moab will provide you with stunning experiences. Just an hour can open your spirit and leave you with a deeper appreciation for a different way of living. Who knows? It may even entice you to rent a mountain cabin or a room at a river resort and stay to take in more of the magic of Moab. Continue to Part three.

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