If you’re planning a family trip to Moab and wondering how to keep your kids engaged, excited, and energized, you’ve come to the right place. Our guide to the 15 best hikes in Moab with kids is designed with young adventurers in mind. Moab, known for its stunning red rock landscapes and natural arches, is a fantastic place for kids to hike and get a first-hand idea of what makes this area so amazing. As Utah locals, one of our favorite places to hike with our kids is in Moab, so we hope our experience helps make your family trip to Moab even better.
These trails are not just kid-friendly in distance and difficulty but are also packed with interesting features like rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and cool streams, ensuring that your little ones are entertained throughout. We’ve selected hikes that offer a good mix of what Moab has to offer, from easy strolls that lead to magnificent arches to more challenging routes that venture into the heart of its iconic red rock country. Each trail has been chosen to ensure it’s doable for kids, with plenty of opportunities for breaks, picnics, and, most importantly, fun. This guide aims to make your family hiking trip in Moab memorable for the right reasons, showing you where to find those perfect, manageable trails that promise a great day out for everyone. So, grab your water bottles, slap on the sunscreen, and let’s dive into discovering the best family hikes in Moab that will have your kids talking about this trip for years to come.
Essential Gear for Hiking in Moab with Kids
Before you hit the trail, remember that the extreme desert of Moab can be pretty hard on hikers. Being prepared with the right gear is essential here to protect you from the hot temperatures and scorching sun.
Dress in layers: Temperatures are cool in the morning and heat up a lot throughout the day, so be prepared with different layers. Quick dry clothing is good for moderate heat, but when it’s really hot, lightweight cotton clothing will keep you the coolest.
Take LOTS of water: Plan on 1L/hour of hiking for adults and 24 oz/hour for kids. If your kids are great at drinking enough, a water bottle is fine, but most kids drink more with a hydration pack. Also, consider getting flavored electrolyte drink mixes to help their body absorb fluids better (and to get them to want to drink more).
HATS: A desert necessity. The less sun touching your skin the better
Backpack: Keep hands free so you can scramble and play on all the rocks in Moab. A hydration pack can double as a backpack. Stash sunscreen, extra water, and lots of snacks here.
Sturdy Shoes: Sandals are tempting when it’s hot, but if you’re hiking, you need good traction. These sandals and these work great for simple hiking, but for longer hikes, it’s worth investing in a good pair of kids hiking boots or shoes.
Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Red Canyon Utah: Trails, Camping, & More and 33 Best Hikes in Utah with Kids
Corona Arch
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Hiking to Corona Arch with kids is an unforgettable experience that will be a highlight of your trip to Moab. The trail is about 3 miles round trip, striking the perfect balance between adventure and accessibility for young hikers. Along the way, we encountered a few sections that required a bit of climbing and even a ladder section, which the kids found thrilling and turned into a highlight of the hike. Starting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is critical to allow you to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the magical light that comes at the beginning and end of the day. There is very little shade on this hike, so if you choose to hike it in the summer, avoid this trail between 10am and 5pm.
The path itself is well-marked, winding through stunning desert landscapes that prompted endless questions and curiosity from the kids about the natural world. Reaching Corona Arch feels like a moment of triumph, with its massive span creating a perfect natural playground for the kids to explore. Make sure to take your time, enjoying snacks while soaking in the views and letting the kids play and imagine.
Near the arch, there are some pretty steep dropoffs, so make sure to keep a close eye on your kids if you’re near there. This hike is a must-do for families visiting Moab, offering just the right mix of fun, challenge, and awe-inspiring beauty that will be talked about long after the trip is over.
NOTE: Corona Arch is one of the best hikes in Moab and can get very crowded. Avoid hiking there on weekends and holidays to avoid the biggest crowds.
Mill Creek Trail
Distance: 1.6 miles roundtrip, out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Hiking the Mill Creek Trail in Moab with kids is an experience that blends adventure with the joy of discovering nature’s wonders. This trail, with its relatively easy terrain and the promise of waterfalls and swimming holes, was the perfect choice for a family outing and is one of the best Moab hikes on a hot day. The path meanders alongside the creek, offering a mix of sun and shade that kept us comfortable even in the warm Moab climate. One of the biggest highlights for the kids is reaching the waterfall and natural pool, where we all took a refreshing dip.
The trail isn’t too long, but there are spots where you need to navigate over rocks and through shallow water, which adds a sense of adventure and fun to the hike. Make sure everyone wears sturdy water shoes, which makes these sections easier. Pack a picnic lunch, and find a scenic spot by the water to relax and refuel!
Hidden Valley Trail Hike
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate (steep switchbacks)
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Hidden Valley Trail provides a 4-mile journey that showcases stunning views of the Moab Valley. The trail begins with a series of moderately steep switchbacks but rewards hikers with a serene valley surrounded by majestic red rock cliffs. Along the way, keep an eye out for petroglyphs and the lively desert wildlife, including lizards and possibly blooming cacti, depending on the season. The initial ascent may be challenging, but the beauty of the Hidden Valley is well worth the effort. For the best experience, consider hiking in the late afternoon when the trail is shaded.
Morning Glory Bridge
Distance: 2 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The Morning Glory Bridge hike is a roughly 4-mile round-trip trail that meanders through a picturesque canyon, leading you to the awe-inspiring Morning Glory Bridge. This moab hiking trail is kids is really family-friendly, ensuring that even the littlest hikers can hike here, while the varying terrain keeps their interest piqued.
Spanning 2 miles each way, the trail meanders alongside a creek, featuring several crossings and delightful spots for wading. Abundant shade and just a few mild inclines make it comfortable at any time of the day, so it’s a great Moab hike to do even in the summer. The creek is a habitat for small fish, crawfish, toads, and snakes, offering endless entertainment for curious kids. The hike culminates at the Morning Glory Bridge, where a perennial spring emerges from the slickrock. With a 243-foot span, it stands as the sixth longest natural rock bridge in the United States, presenting a stunning finale to the journey.
While the trail is a must-visit for those scouting the best hikes in Moab, it’s wise to be mindful of poison ivy, particularly near Morning Glory Bridge.
Potash Dinosaur Tracks and Longbow Arch
Distance 2.2 Miles RT Out and Back
Difficulty: MODERATE
If you’re looking for a hike that will have several wow factors, consider the Potash dinosaur tracks at the Poison Spider trailhead. The dinosaur tracks are only about 300 yards from the parking lot, so not much of a hike, but keep going fo there. As you travel north 100 yards up the canyon, you’ll see some petroglyphs on the cliff wall which is fun to see. The trail keeps going to Longbow Arch from here. Our kids’ favorite part of this trail was the ladder rungs in the hillside to get you up a tricky section. After that section, there’s a large open area of Slickrock, before continuing to Longbow Arch. The hike isn’t especially difficult, but there is a bit of scrambling and younger kids will need some help in sections. Once you leave the dinosaur track area, you won’t find many crowds, so this is a good hike for exploring near Moab when there are lots of crowds.
Scott M Matheson Wetland Preserve
Distance 0.6-mile loop
Difficulty: EASY
The Scott M. Matheson Wetland Preserve is one of the easiest Moab hikes with kids with a 0.6-mile loop trail that is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. This easy, accessible trail offers an excellent opportunity for little explorers to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors without the commitment of a big hike. Educational signs at the preserve’s entrance enrich the visit, while a network of trails and boardwalks guide you to various viewpoints, including a path to the Colorado River and a wildlife blind. Whether in the tranquility of morning or the soft light of evening, visitors can spot deer, beavers, raccoons, bunnies, and an array of birds, making it a must-visit spot for a nature-filled break in Moab.
Best Hikes with Kids in Arches National Park
Exploring Arches National Park is like stepping into a child’s wildest dreams, where the natural playground of endless rocks encourages them to explore and get really dirty. This park is a treasure trove of family-friendly hikes, offering some of the best trails in Moab that cater to kids of all ages. Make sure to stop at the visitor center to get a Junior Ranger book while you’re there! Let’s dive into some top picks for kid-friendly hikes in Arches that embody the spirit of Arches National Park. Find our 1, 2, and 3 day itineraries for Arches here.
Balanced Rock Hike, Shortest Arches Hike
Length: 0.3 miles
Difficulty: Very easy
Perfect for a quick jaunt, the Balanced Rock trail is so short it’s almost a stroll rather than a hike. It’s a fantastic way for families to enjoy close-up views of this iconic geological feature without much effort. The paved path makes it accessible, providing a great opportunity for a leisurely leg stretch amidst awe-inspiring scenery.
Delicate Arch Hike, Most Iconic Arches National Park Hike
Length: 3.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate, with some exposed areas
Venturing to Delicate Arch offers a chance to stand beneath the famous landmark depicted on Utah’s license plates. While it’s among the park’s more crowded trails, the experience is unparalleled, especially if timed to avoid peak hours. Keep young hikers close as the trail narrows approaching the arch, culminating in a spacious area ideal for a scenic picnic.
Double Arch Hike, Arches National Park
Length: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
This brief hike leads to the impressive Double Arch, allowing visitors to walk directly beneath its grandeur. It’s an easy and rewarding experience, especially appealing for families exploring the park with children.
Sand Dune Arch Hike, Best Arches National Park Hike for Little Kids
Length: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
More an enchanting sandbox than a traditional hike, Sand Dune Arch provides a unique playground of soft sand and rock formations. The short walk to the arch opens into a canyon where kids (and adults!) can play for hours, making it a must-visit for families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. Our kids are obsessed with climbing on the rocks around the arch and playing the powdery fine sand. If you’ve got a bucket or sand friendly toys in the car, bring them with you! Sand Dune Arch’s location deep in the canyon makes it one of the cooler temperature hikes in Arches.
Devils Garden Hike, Arches National Park
Length: 2 to 8 miles, tailored to your adventure
Difficulty: Ranges from easy to challenging
Devils Garden captivates with its world-class collection of natural arches, making it a family favorite for unforgettable explorations. The trail presents a gentle ascent, a thrilling climb up a sandstone fin, and minor hills, making it an accessible yet adventurous outing. Key highlights include Landscape Arch and Double O Arch, surrounded by the fascinating crypto biotic soil crust that plays a crucial ecological role in the desert.
Landscape Arch Hike, Devils Garden, Arches National Park
Length: 1.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
This comfortable trail leads to the breathtaking Landscape Arch, the longest of its kind in North America. The path winds through striking rock formations, offering a straightforward route to this natural wonder. Pushing past Landscape Arch toward Double O Arch adds a bit of challenge but enriches the adventure.
Fiery Furnace Backcountry Hike – Best Arches Hike for Adventure Lovers
Length: 2+ Miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
The Fiery Furnace is unlike most other hikes in Arches National Park since it’s one of the few areas where you can just explore all over instead of being limited to a trail. Hiking here requires an advance reservation and permit, and a required education and safety briefing, but if you’re adventurous, this will likely be your favorite spot in Arches National Parks. Inside the Fiery Furnace you can explore slot canyons, caverns, hidden arches and more. The likelihood of getting lost and turned around in the maze that is the fiery furnace is pretty big, so unless you have experience here, the parks service recommends that you take a ranger-guided tour. NOTE: All hikers must be age 5 or older to hike here.
Best Hikes with Kids in Canyonlands National Park, Island in the Sky
On your first visit to the Moab area, the juxtaposition of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks is immediately striking — so close in proximity, yet each with its own unique landscape. Arches is celebrated for its stunning natural arches, while Canyonlands is a vast expanse of incredible canyons. Both parks offer an array of trails perfect for family excursions. The visitor center has some great displays that are worth stopping at, and you can grab a junior ranger badge there too. If you are looking for some bucket-list adventures in Arches and Canyonlands read this article next.
Mesa Arch – Easiest Canyonlands Hike
Length: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Though Canyonlands is famed for its vast canyons, don’t overlook the chance to experience its arches, especially Mesa Arch — an ideal hike for families. This brief, half-mile trail is easy to navigate, placing it among the top family-friendly hikes in Moab, Utah. As you approach the arch, keep an eye on little ones due to some steep and exposed areas near the arch, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Grandview Point: A Canyonlands Must-See with Kids
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
For breathtaking panoramic views of Canyonlands’ canyons, the Grandview Point trail is a must-hike with your children. This trail grants a spectacular birds-eye view of the Island in the Sky district, showcasing the vast beauty of Canyonlands National Park. The path is mostly flat and easy, though it may occasionally be challenging to follow. Keep an eye out for cairns marking the way, guiding you and your family through this unforgettable landscape.
Other Adventures Nearby:
- 11 Easy Trails For Hiking with Kids in Arches National Park
- Perfect Arches National Park 1, 2, & 3 Day Itinerary
- 10 Best Fruita Bike Trails For Kids
- Incredible Moab Parks and Playgrounds
- Ultimate Guide to Floating Ruby Horsethief
Best Time of Year for Hiking in Moab
The ideal seasons for hiking in Moab are spring (March to May) and fall (October and November). These months offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter. Spring brings a burst of color to the desert landscape, while fall offers cooler days and crisp nights. Both seasons provide an excellent opportunity to explore the trails with comfort and to fully appreciate Moab’s natural beauty without the crowds of peak tourist seasons. If you are looking for biking trails these are our favorite.
Hiking in winter in Moab will get you the smallest crowds, and cool temperatures. While it occasionally snows in Moab, it’s rare, and most winter hiking just needs a coat.
Hiking in Moab in the summer can be downright dangerous. The temperatures are almost always over 100 and the desert landscapes provide very little shade. If you do hike in Moab in the summer, make sure that you avoid the heat of the day and don’t spend time outside between 10am and 5pm unless you’re in the shade or in the water. Hiking in the summer is best early in the morning, or our favorite of later in the afternoon. Heat stroke happens to unprepared hikers regularly in Moab, so always stay safe!
As you can see, this unique corner of Utah offers an abundance of outdoor adventures suitable for kids of all ages. From the awe-inspiring arches to the serene riverbanks and the intriguing rock formations, Moab is a place where memories are made, and a love for the outdoors can grow. These 15 hikes showcase just a fraction of what’s available but are a perfect starting point for families looking to immerse themselves in nature without overwhelming the little ones.
Remember, the key to a successful family hike is preparation, patience, and openness to the wonders around you. Don’t rush; instead, allow the natural curiosity of your kids to lead the way. Whether it’s a pause to admire a lizard, a detour to splash in a stream, or a moment to gaze at a vast canyon, these experiences add up to the adventure. The journey is often much more important than the destination!