The Ultimate 3-Day Family Itinerary in Moab

An ideal family itinerary in Moab should balance adventure and rest, with hikes under 3 miles, splash time or siestas, and magical evening vistas to wrap each day.

Here’s a sample 3-day plan designed for families with young kids, stroller-friendly paths, and a comfortable pace.

Day 1: Arches & Intro to the Red Rocks

Morning: Easy Arches Walks

Kick off your trip with gentle hikes in Arches National Park. For stroller-friendly or very easy walks, try:

These short loops let little legs experience sandstone wonders without overtiring. If energy permits, you might tackle Delicate Arch, a steeper but rewarding 3-mile round-trip trail that many families count as a highlight.

Midday: Siesta, Splash, and Break

After a morning on the trails, head back into Moab for lunch and downtime. Let kids nap or rest at your lodging, then cool off with some pool time or a visit to the Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center for indoor/outdoor fun.

Evening: Sunset Views & Dinner

Round out the day with a scenic evening. A short drive to a viewpoint or relaxing on your hotel’s terrace can yield memorable red-rock vistas. Dinner options in Moab are plentiful — try family-friendly restaurants like Moab Brewery, Zax, or Antica Forma.

Day 2: Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) & Dead Horse Point

Morning: Canyon Overlooks & Easy Trails

Head to Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, about 40 minutes from town. Stop at overlooks like Grand View Point, Green River Overlook, and Buck Canyon for short, easy walks and jaw-dropping views. The Grand View Point Trail is less than 2 miles round trip and perfect for families.

Midday: Picnic & Siesta

Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the overlooks or in the visitor center picnic area. Afterward, let everyone rest or enjoy quiet time in the shade before heading to your next stop.

Afternoon: Dead Horse Point State Park

On your return toward Moab, stop at Dead Horse Point State Park. The Colorado River Overlook Trail (1 mi) is an easy, flat walk with fantastic views. For a slightly longer adventure, try the Bighorn Overlook Trail (3 mi).

Evening: Sunset at Dead Horse

Dead Horse Point is famous for its golden-hour colors. Time your visit for sunset to see the canyons glow, then head back to Moab for dinner.

Day 3: River Adventure & Local Gems

Morning: Scenic Drive or River Tour

Start gently with a drive along the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (SR-128), one of the prettiest routes in Utah. If you’d rather be on the water, book a family-friendly Colorado River boat tour — perfect for calm sightseeing and a splash of adventure.

Midday: Lunch, Rest & Local Exploration

After your morning outing, enjoy lunch in town and a restful break. If you have energy afterward, visit a kid-friendly stop like Moab Giants Dinosaur Park or the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite for a quick, educational experience without strenuous hiking.

Afternoon: Final Easy Hike & Photo Ops

For a gentle farewell, revisit one of your favorite short trails or try something new under 3 miles. Many families return to an Arches loop or an easy canyon trail for final photo ops.

Evening: Last Sunset & Departure

Cap your trip with one more sunset view — perhaps Mesa Arch or another nearby overlook. Soak in the warm light, take your final photos, and enjoy a relaxing farewell dinner in town.

Family Tips for Visiting Moab

Stay central and kid-friendly: Choose hotels with pools, laundry, and extra space.
Balance activity and rest: Plan a midday siesta or pool break each day.
Hike smart: Prioritize trails under 3 miles and bring plenty of water.
Protect from the sun: Sunscreen, hats, and snacks are essential.
Plan for evening views: Schedule scenic overlooks for sunrise or sunset.
Dine easy: Moab has plenty of casual, family-friendly options for dinner after active days.

A Memorable, Manageable Moab

This 3-day family itinerary Moab offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. You’ll enjoy easy hikes, cooling splash breaks, and unforgettable evening views — all at a pace that keeps everyone happy.

Whether you’re hiking through arches, gazing over canyons, or floating down the Colorado River, Moab’s red-rock beauty will leave your family with lasting memories.

Family Itinerary Moab FAQs

How many days should you spend in Moab?

Three days is ideal for a Moab family trip. It gives you time to explore both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, enjoy a scenic drive or river tour, and still have relaxing breaks for rest or pool time. If you love hiking or off-road adventures, you could easily extend your stay to four or five days to see more without feeling rushed.

Where to stay in Moab with family?

For families, look for hotels with pools and spacious rooms, such as Hyatt Place Moab, SpringHill Suites, or Hoodoo Moab. Vacation rentals and campgrounds are also great options if you prefer kitchens or outdoor space. Staying near Main Street makes it easy to access restaurants, shops, and both national parks within a short drive.

What is the best month to go to Moab, Utah?

April through May and September through October are the best months to visit Moab. The weather is warm but not scorching, trails are comfortable for kids, and the desert scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter offers smaller crowds but cooler temperatures.

Why is Moab Utah so expensive?

Moab’s prices rise because it’s a small town with limited lodging and dining options, yet it attracts millions of visitors each year. High demand during peak seasons drives up costs for hotels, tours, and restaurants. Planning your trip early or visiting in the shoulder seasons can help you find better deals.