3-Day Arches, Canyonlands & Moab Small-Group Adventure — Arches, Dead Horse & Goblin Valley
Three days of red-rock drama—hike to Delicate Arch, gaze across Canyonlands’ vast overlooks, scramble among Goblin Valley hoodoos. This small-group tour packs Utah’s big sights into an accessible itinerary with local guides, transport, and hotel lodging.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start hikes before 9 AM
Desert temperatures rise quickly; early starts avoid heat and offer the best light for photos.
Carry 2–3 liters of water
On-trail water sources are nonexistent—use a hydration reservoir or multiple bottles.
Wear supportive footwear
Trails include slickrock and uneven footing—sturdy hiking shoes with good tread reduce ankle risk.
Plan optional activities in advance
Whitewater rafting or scenic flights sell out in high season; reserve your adventure day options early.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning Mesa Arch for canyon light and fewer visitors
- •Potash Road pullouts for dinosaur tracks and petroglyph panels away from main crowds
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep on canyon rims
- •Golden eagles and ravens riding thermals over the canyons
Conservation Note
Stay on established trails in Arches to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil; pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect vegetation and petroglyph sites.
This region preserves Fremont culture pictographs and Paleozoic to Mesozoic rock layers—evidence of ancient seas, dunes, and the dinosaurs that once roamed here.
Photographer's Notes
- • Delicate Arch viewpoint and the summit approach
- • Mesa Arch rim for sunrise shots
- • Dead Horse Point overlook for sweeping canyon panoramas
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support for slickrock, sand, and uneven trails.
Hydration system (2–3 L)Essential
Desert heat demands constant hydration—bring a bladder or multiple bottles.
Sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses)Essential
High UV exposure at 4,000 ft makes reliable sun protection necessary.
Light insulating layer
Evenings and early mornings are cool—pack a fleece or light down.
Common Questions
How strenuous are the hikes on this tour?
Most walks are short to moderate; Delicate Arch is the longest (~3 miles RT, ~480 ft gain). Guides choose options suitable for the group's fitness.
Is park entrance included?
Yes—entrance fees for national and state parks on the itinerary are included.
Can I choose my adventure day activity in Moab?
Yes—options like rafting, horseback riding, or a scenic flight can be selected, though they may cost extra and should be booked early.
What is the accommodation like?
Two nights are in mid-range hotels in Moab (typically Best Western or Holiday Inn Express style), double occupancy.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but some activities may have age or safety limits; inform the operator if traveling with kids five and under.
What if I’m traveling solo?
The tour requires two people to run; solo travelers can often join an existing group—contact the operator to arrange.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to do several short hikes (0.5–3 miles) with some elevation gain and walk on uneven terrain.
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