The 16 Best National Park Tours in Moab
Moab, Utah, is a playground for lovers of red rock landscapes, rugged canyons, and wide-open skies. Its proximity to both Canyonlands and Arches National Park makes it a prime spot for tours that go beyond the typical visitor experience. Here, you can go 4×4 off-roading, soar above the parks in airplanes, or capture the stars as they shimmer over ancient formations. Whether you’re after a quick half-day trip or an all-day adventure, Moab offers options that peel back the curtain on these spectacular natural wonders.
What sets Moab apart is its accessibility combined with the chance to explore in ways that suit all interests. From guided backcountry drives to aerial vistas, these tours provide a rich, immersive perspective on the area’s geology, history, and stunning scenery. To help you choose the best fit, we’ve rounded up the top-rated options, each with their own unique appeal.
1. Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour from Moab
At number 1, the Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour gets top marks for its comprehensive exploration of the Island in the Sky district in just four hours. This 4WD adventure takes you along White Rim Road, revealing ancient Pueblo rock art and canyon walls that drop more than 1,000 feet. Guided by an expert, you’ll enjoy scenic lookouts and visit sites like the Gooseneck Overlook. The itinerary includes stops at petroglyph sites along Scenic Byway 279, and a short trek to Musselman Arch.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the seamless balance of driving and sightseeing. With a 5-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, this tour offers value in both its depth and convenience. It’s perfect for those who want a quick yet immersive taste of this vast park.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see breathtaking canyon vistas and ancient art with expert guidance.
2. Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab
Number 2 on our list is the Arches National Park Back Country Adventure, a four-hour journey into the park’s less-traveled areas. Traveling through the Willow Springs Road, this tour ventures into Native American sites and dinosaur tracks at Utah Raptor State Park. It explores more remote parts of Arches, away from the crowds, with stops near iconic formations like Tower Arch.
The tour’s appeal lies in the personalized experience and the access to hidden corners that most visitors never see. For just $210, it offers an intimate look at the park’s geology and ancient history, with a guide eager to share stories. Tourists report that guides are very knowledgeable and make the experience memorable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a private, off-the-beaten-path look at Arches’ backcountry with a focus on history and geology.
3. Canyonlands National Park Backcountry 4×4 Adventure from Moab
At number 3, the Canyonlands National Park Backcountry 4×4 Adventure offers a rugged four-hour trip with off-road driving in a Jeep Wrangler. You traverse the famous Shafer Trail and explore remote areas like the White Rim Road. The tour features stops for sweeping views of the Colorado River and Longhorn sheep sightings.
It’s a great choice for those wanting a hands-on off-road experience with an emphasis on geology, local wildlife, and dramatic scenery. Guides bring their expertise to navigate switchbacks and share insights into park history. With 424 reviews rating 5 stars, it’s a well-loved adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy off-road driving and want to see the park’s geology up close.
4. From Moab: Half-Day Arches National Park 4×4 Driving Tour
Number 4 is the Half-Day Arches 4×4 Driving Tour, which explores hidden areas of Arches in just four hours. This tour focuses on less-visited off-road trails, allowing you to see formations like Tower Arch and Eye of the Whale. The guide shares insights into the park’s geology while navigating through stunning terrain.
Guests often highlight the expert driving and the chance to see dinosaur footprints along with the arches. For about $197, it offers a combination of comfort, knowledge, and adventure, especially for those who prefer not to stick to paved roads.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a guided tour that hits key sights while exploring off the beaten path.
5. From Moab: Sky District Canyonlands National Park 4×4 Tour
Number 5, the Sky District Canyonlands 4×4 Tour, offers 4.5 hours exploring the Island in the Sky with a focus on Native American petroglyphs and views of the Colorado River from Gooseneck Overlook. Guided by an engaging expert, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas and learn about the area’s geology and ecological features.
Rated nearly 5 stars from over 200 reviews, this tour provides a rundown of the park’s geology and history in a comfortable 4×4 setting. It’s especially suited for those interested in Native American art and spectacular canyon vistas.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, educational experience with outstanding scenic views.
6. Canyonlands & Arches National Parks Airplane Tour
Number 6 is the Canyonlands & Arches Airplane Tour, a 1 hour 20-minute scenic flight that provides a bird’s-eye view of two of Utah’s most iconic parks. The tour covers Upheaval Dome, White Rim, The Maze, Landscape Arch, and more, with live commentary from the pilot.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a quick, expansive overview that can’t be matched from the ground. The reviews rave about the breathtaking views and the pilot’s knowledgeable narration. It’s an excellent choice for first-timers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A scenic flight offering unmatched perspective, especially for those who want a memorable overview without hours of ground exploration.
7. Arches National Park Backcountry Tour
Number 7, the Arches Backcountry Tour, takes you into the less accessible parts of the park in 4.5 hours. Riding in a private 4×4, you’ll visit formations like Marching Men and Tower Arch, learning about geology and history from your guide.
Guests note that the tour is private, allowing full customization, and that guides are highly knowledgeable. Includes all park fees, snacks, and water, making it a hassle-free way to see hidden spots.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a personalized, off-the-beaten-path adventure with flexible itineraries.
8. Canyonlands National Park Airplane Tour
Number 8 is the Canyonlands Airplane Tour, a one-hour flight over the park’s vast wilderness. Every seat is a window, and you’ll learn about Upheaval Dome, Green River, and the Maze from your pilot.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick, comprehensive aerial view of Canyonlands’ sprawling landscape. The reviews emphasize the smooth flight and informative narration. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see the park’s scale.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to grasp the park’s immense size and geological features from above.
9. Canyonlands National Park Backcountry Tour
Number 9 offers a private, customized 4.5-hour canyonlands adventure. You’ll explore remote areas such as Thelma and Louise Point and see ancient petroglyphs. The tour emphasizes off-road exploration with a focus on geology and history, allowing you to tailor stops to your interests.
Rated 5 stars from reviewers, this trip is praised for personalized attention and the opportunity to see areas inaccessible to most visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a bespoke, in-depth experience of Canyonlands with expert guidance.
10. Astro-Photo, Hiking and Stargazing Tour in Arches National Park
Number 10 is the Astro-Photo, Hiking and Stargazing Tour, a two-hour evening adventure. This tour combines photography tips with stargazing, taking advantage of Arches’ designation as an International Dark Sky Park.
Guests rave about the friendly guide and the ability to capture stunning night sky photos. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts or those wanting a peaceful night under the stars.
Bottom Line: A unique, evening experience that combines natural beauty with photography and astronomy.
11. Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park
Number 11, the Sunset and Night Photography, offers a 6- to 8-hour tour focusing on golden hour and night sky shots. Visiting lesser-known locations, your guide helps you set up perfect photos of double arches, Courthouse Towers, and the Milky Way.
Rated highly for expert guidance and practical tips, this tour is ideal for those wanting to improve their night photography skills while capturing iconic scenery.
Bottom Line: A specialized tour perfect for photography buffs eager to shoot sunset and stars.
12. Half Day Private Arches National Park Guided Tour
The Half Day Private Arches Tour features a fully customizable four-hour experience. It includes personalized stops at top sights like Balanced Rock and Windows, with the flexibility to focus on hiking, photography, or geology.
Rated 5 stars, it suits travelers who value personalized attention and flexible itineraries. The private guide helps tailor the experience to your interests while providing local insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a customized, intimate exploration of Arches.
13. Moab: Canyonlands + Arches National Park Scenic Flight
Number 13 offers an 80-minute scenic flight over both parks. It provides a comprehensive aerial perspective of formations like Fisher Towers, White Rim, and Landscape Arch.
This tour is a superb choice for visual learners and travelers who enjoy airborne adventures. Customers highlight the beautiful views and the professional pilot as the highlight.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to see vast landscapes in a short time and appreciate their scale from above.
14. 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour
The Sunset Pavement Tour takes you along the park’s iconic roads with stops at Three Gossips, Skyline Arch, and Courthouse Towers. The three-hour trip offers prime sunset photography opportunities, with air-conditioned comfort and expert narration.
Travelers praise the beautiful sunset views and the knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for those wanting a shorter, scenic experience focusing on golden hour lighting.
Bottom Line: Great for sunset lovers who want a stress-free way to see key sights and capture stunning photos.
15. Day Tour Arches and Canyonlands National Park in Utah
Number 15 combines both parks in a full 10-hour day. This air-conditioned 4×4 takes you through Eye of the Whale and The Maze, with detailed commentary on the parks’ geology and history. The tour offers a comprehensive look at Utah’s most famous landscapes in one day.
Reviewers appreciate the well-paced itinerary and the knowledgeable guide who helps uncover hidden stories behind the formations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with limited time who want to see both parks thoroughly with expert guidance.
16. From Moab: Arches National Park 4×4 Drive and Hiking Tour
Closing our list is the Arches 4×4 Drive and Hiking Tour, a nine-hour adventure combining guided hikes and off-road driving. You’ll get close to Tower Arch and Eye of the Whale, and walk scenic trails that most visitors miss.
Rated 4.8 stars, this tour is suited for active travelers who want a full day of exploring the park’s natural and geological features on foot and in a vehicle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who love hiking and want a comprehensive park experience.
How to Choose the Best Moab National Park Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re eager for a quick overview with spectacular aerial vistas, the airplane tours (Canyonlands Airplane Tour or Canyonlands + Arches Scenic Flight) are ideal. For a more hands-on, off-road experience, the Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure or Arches Backcountry Tour might suit your style.
If you’re passionate about night photography or stargazing, the Sunset and Night Photography and Astro-Photo Tour are perfect choices for capturing the park’s beauty after dark. Budget, physical activity level, and interest in geology versus wildlife or photography are key factors.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the airplane scenic flights and private guides, which tend to fill quickly during peak seasons. Always check the latest availability and weather conditions to ensure your adventure goes smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Moab’s array of guided tours offers something for almost every traveler. For those seeking a quick scenic overview, airplane trips provide stunning perspectives. If you want to wander off the beaten path and get close to ancient petroglyphs or hidden arches, private 4×4 adventures or backcountry tours deliver a personalized experience.
For photographers, nighttime tours and sunset trips unlock incredible opportunities to capture the park’s beauty under different light and starry skies. Budget-conscious travelers can find excellent options that focus on smaller groups and personalized service.
Don’t wait too long—these tours are popular and tend to book up, especially in spring and fall. Whatever your preference, Moab’s parks are waiting to surprise and inspire you with their astonishing landscapes and stories. Happy exploring!