Moab Off-Road Tour: Canyons, Petroglyphs & Arches Views

Summary

See ancient carvings, canyon walls and arches near the Colorado River

You’ll ride open-air through Moab’s canyons with a local guide, pause at ancient petroglyphs carved into rock faces, snack by the Colorado River, and spot hidden arches most folks drive right past. Expect laughter, dust on your shoes, and moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect to start the day with a Rice Krispy Treat in the middle of the Utah desert, but that’s exactly what happened. Our guide, Mike (who grew up just outside Moab), handed them out as we bumped along the first stretch of dirt trail. The air smelled like sun-baked sagebrush and dust, and there was this low hum from the river below that you could almost miss if you weren’t listening for it. We’d barely left town and already my shoes were covered in red grit.

The first real stop was at these ancient petroglyph panels — Mike called them “stories in stone,” which sounded cheesy until I saw how carefully he traced one with his finger (not touching, just hovering). He told us about the people who carved them centuries ago, and I caught myself squinting at the shapes trying to guess their meaning. There was a quiet moment there; even the kids in our group seemed to feel it. Then someone’s phone beeped and we all laughed — so much for sacred silence.

We kept winding through canyons that felt way bigger than they looked on any map. At one point, we stopped under this arch — not one of those famous ones you see on postcards, but still wild-looking against the sky. The wind picked up and rattled some dry grass around my ankles. Mike pointed out a spire he said locals call “the Sentinel” (I probably wouldn’t have noticed it otherwise). By then my face felt sunburned and I’d lost track of time — which is kind of the point on a day trip like this from Moab.

I still think about that stretch along the Colorado River where everything went quiet except for our tires crunching over gravel. It wasn’t dramatic or anything — just peaceful in a way I didn’t expect. If you’re looking for a Moab scenic off-road adventure that’s more about soaking up weird colors and old stories than testing your nerves, this is probably your thing. Plus, you get snacks (and yeah, water too).

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Moab scenic off-road adventure

• Travel Moab backcountry dirt trail
• View ancient Indian petroglyph panels
• See Arches and red rock spires
• Observe towering canyon walls
• Stop for snacks and photos
• Learn about Moab history

Top questions

Is this Moab off-road tour suitable for families?

Yes, all ages are welcome from 0-100 years old.

Are snacks and drinks included during the tour?

Yes, bottled water and Rice Krispy Treats are provided.

Can I choose between different trails?

Yes, you can choose between Long Canyon or Hurrah Pass trails.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, vehicles are wheelchair accessible and specialized infant seats are available.

How many people can join each tour?

The tour can accommodate up to 13 passengers; smaller groups use private vehicles.

What will we see on this Moab scenic off-road adventure?

You’ll see canyon views, ancient petroglyph panels, arches, red rock spires, and Colorado River scenery.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Moab with a local guide who shares stories along the way; bottled water and Rice Krispy Treats for snacking; stops at petroglyph sites, canyon overlooks, arches and spires; plus comfortable seating in either an open-air private vehicle or larger group transport depending on your group size.