Best day trips from Moab
The best places to escape Moab for a day — drives, train rides, and easy outings within 1–3 hours of the city.
Skip the search — let a CheapoTrav expert do it for you.
Phone-only fares for Moab, 24/7.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090Key facts
- Most day trips from Moab fall in a 60–120 minute radius
- Rental car is the most flexible option for day trips
- Guided tours include transport and skip-the-line tickets at most destinations
- Train and bus options exist for many popular routes
- Pack water, snacks, and a flexible return time
Already settled in Moab and looking for a change of scenery for the day? Arches and Canyonlands plus mountain-bike legend status. A short drive or train ride away, you'll find beaches, mountains, smaller towns, or wine country depending on the direction you go.
This shortlist focuses on day trips that are genuinely doable in one day — most under a 2-hour drive each way. We've flagged whether you'll need a car, can take transit, or whether a guided day tour is the easiest path.
In this guide
- Top picks for day trips
- How to get there from Moab
- Best for nature
- Best for food and drink
- Tips for planning
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a rental car for day trips from Moab?
- Not always — many popular day trips from Moab are reachable by train, bus, or guided tour. A car gives the most flexibility, especially for nature destinations.
- How long should a day trip from Moab be?
- Plan on 8–10 hours door to door including transit. Anything farther than a 2-hour drive each way usually works better as an overnight. Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
- What are the best day trips from Moab without a car?
- Train- or bus-accessible destinations from Moab include several of the nearby cities listed in this guide — check the "getting there" notes on each pick.
- Are day tours from Moab worth it?
- Yes for first-timers and time-pressed travelers. A guided day tour bundles transport, entrance fees, and a guide for usually $50–$150 per person. Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
- What should I pack for a day trip from Moab?
- Water, snacks, layers for changing weather, a portable phone charger, and any tickets pre-loaded on your phone.
- Can CheapoTrav help book day trips?
- Yes — our travel desk can quote a rental car or guided day tour as part of your overall trip. Call us for a bundled rate. Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
More for travelers visiting Moab
Nearby destinations
- Day trips: Salt Lake City
Closest big city to five national parks and world-class skiing.
- Day trips: Bryce Canyon
Pink-orange hoodoos and dark-sky stargazing.