Salt Lake City isn’t just the gateway to Utah’s stunning landscapes—it’s also a smart starting point for memorable two-day tours. With its central location, access to national parks, and a variety of private and group options, travelers can indulge in outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and unique landscapes without spending days on the road. Plus, Salt Lake’s friendly atmosphere and easy logistics make it a perfect launchpad for exploring some of Utah’s most famous spots, like Moab, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park. Whether you’re after a private, customizable experience or a guided group tour, these options give you a taste of Utah’s rugged beauty in just 48 hours.
Below, we’ve compiled the best 2-day tours based on value, uniqueness, and traveler reviews. From the private trip to Moab designed for small groups to the comprehensive guided explorations of iconic parks, each offers something different—so you can pick the one that best fits your style, interest, and budget.
1. 2-Day Private Trip to Moab from Salt Lake City for 4 People
At number 1, this private 2-day trip to Moab is tailored for small groups, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a personalized experience. Starting from Salt Lake City, the tour includes a scenic three-hour drive to Utah’s adventure capital, Moab, famous for its stunning red rock formations and outdoor activities. The trip is highly flexible—you can customize the itinerary based on your interests, whether it’s hiking, scenic drives, or visiting specific landmarks.
This tour’s strength lies in its private nature, allowing for a more intimate and adaptable adventure. The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and charismatic, which makes for a more engaging experience. Highlights include Canyonlands National Park with overlooks and landmarks like Mesa Arch and Shafer Switchbacks, and Corona Arch near Moab—an impressive natural sandstone formation. On the second day, guests explore Arches National Park, visiting iconic arches like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, with plenty of opportunities for photos and short hikes.
What makes this trip stand out is the flexibility and personalized attention, perfect for travelers who want to craft their own adventure. The cost is $2,575 for up to 4 people, which includes hotel accommodations with two queen beds. Extra rooms are available for an additional fee, making it suitable for small groups or families.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, customizable experience with knowledgeable guides and exclusive access to Utah’s top sites, this is a top choice.
2. Exclusive 2-Day Moab Arches & Canyonlands & Deadhorse Tour
For travelers seeking an all-encompassing guided tour that covers Utah’s most iconic landscapes, this exclusive 2-day tour stands out. With a focus on Arches and Canyonlands National Park, plus a visit to the rugged Deadhorse Point, this tour promises a comprehensive experience.
Priced at around $1,512 per person, it emphasizes quality over quantity, with a focus on geologic wonders that look almost extraterrestrial—think Mars-like landscapes and soaring natural arches. This tour’s highlights include visiting the famous Delicate Arch and the Landscape Arch within Arches NP, as well as exploring the dramatic depths and vistas of Canyonlands. The guide offers insights from extensive global travel experience, sharing cultural and geological stories that add depth to your sightseeing.
An attractive feature is the inclusion of high-definition photos taken with professional Nikon DSLR cameras, sent to your email for free—an excellent souvenir for your trip. The tour is perfect for travelers who want in-depth knowledge, stunning scenery, and a hassle-free experience with direct hotel pickup and return.
Bottom Line: This guided tour suits those who want a detailed, expertly led exploration of Utah’s most famous parks, and appreciate professional photos and cultural insights.
3. How to Choose Your Utah 2-Day Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, interests, and how personalized you want your experience to be. If you’re traveling with a small group or family that values flexibility and private guides, the private trip to Moab offers excellent value. Conversely, if you prefer a comprehensive guided experience with professional photography and in-depth commentary, the guided Arches and Canyonlands trip might be the better fit.
Consider your physical fitness level—both tours involve walking and hiking, but the private tour allows you to pace yourself. Budget-wise, the private trip costs around $2,575 for up to 4 people, making it a good deal for small groups. The guided tour, at over $1,500 per person, offers a premium experience with added cultural and photographic highlights.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons from spring to fall, when these tours tend to fill up. If your time is limited but you want a tailored experience, the private trip offers maximum flexibility. For those seeking a deep dive into Utah’s geological marvels with expert commentary, the guided tour provides a rich narrative.
The Sum Up
Salt Lake City serves as an excellent base for exploring Utah’s stunning national parks and landscapes in a short time. Whether you opt for the private, customizable adventure of the Moab trip or the guided, photo-rich experience of the Arches and Canyonlands tour, both offer unforgettable ways to see Utah’s iconic scenery.
For travelers seeking flexibility and a more intimate experience, the private trip is ideal. If you prefer guided insights and professional photos, the guided tour delivers a comprehensive, hassle-free adventure. Either way, planning and booking early will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable Utah escapes.