Grand Solitude and Red Rock Festivals

Spring comes early to the canyon country around Moab, and it brings a slue of opportunities for adventure. I love to backpack into the area's remote desert chasms, trekking toward solitude, rewarded by vistas seen by relatively few humans. Others enjoy hiking the well-marked national park trails or participating in the popular events that take place at this time of year, including the Moab Skinny Tire Festival and the Easter Jeep Safari.

By late February, daytime temperatures are usually mild and conditions are great for hiking, biking and jeeping. March and April are prime months to explore this country, which has come to be known as "America's Adventure Capital." It feels great to break free from winter's doldrums, getting out and climbing the rocks, challenging the trails and enjoying the scenery.

This is the best time of year to hike in Arches National Park, which is up on a plateau and so it catches the full benefit of early spring sunshine. Hiking opportunities range from easy to challenging--everyone can find a suitable trail. The view of the snow-covered La Sal Mountains through Delicate Arch will be spectacular. The Devil's Garden area also offers attractive trails. Our short video clip give an overview of the Devils Garden area.

Many other Moab-area trails also offer great spring hiking opportunities. This page includes some options. This is also a great time for horseback rides.

Moab's famous Slickrock Mountain Bike Trail will be in peak condition during the next several weeks. If you dream of riding the Slickrock, you may never find a better opportunity. The trail will be crowded, but that's part of the fun. And don't forget the other bike trails in this area; they offer great rides and less-crowded conditions.

Canyonlands National Park is a favorite destination for people who enjoy exploring rugged backroads and jeep trails. Many of the world's most famous axel-busting obstacles are found in this area. If you want great scenery on moderately rugged trails, consider driving to the overlooks and gorges adjacent to the park's Needles District, in the area know as Canyon Rims Recreation Area. If you are looking for epic adventure, try four-wheeling the remote Flint Trail and its spurs, into the Land of Standing Rocks, and then hike down into the Chocolate Drops, or down to the Doll House.

Moab's spring festivals are very popular and provide great opportunity for people seeking adventure in a more structured environment. People come from around the world to participate in these activities.

Moab Skinny Tire Festival, March 3-6: Moab is famous for its mountain bike trails. But did you know Moab offers some of the best road biking in the world. Festival participants will peddle along hundreds of miles of paved roads in and out the parks, amid the world-class scenery. This festival features rides through Arches National Park, along the Colorado River and up to Dead Horse Point. Info: 435-259-2698

Moab Marathon, April 1: This is a 26.2 run from Dead Horse Point, through the red rock canyons and up past Arches National Park.

Easter Jeep Safari, April 8-16: This popular event consists of various trail rides, mostly day-long trips. It is hosted by the Red Rock 4-Wheelers Inc, the local four-wheel drive club of Moab. Participants use their own vehicles and provide their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. The club officially runs approximately 9 different trails every day, culminating on "Big Saturday," the largest ever single trail ride departure happening, when some 30 groups line up in downtown Moab to head off in every direction on 30 different trails! Pre-registration for this event is recommended, although limited registration at the event may be possible. Phone: 435-259-8825.

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