Canyonlands Jeep Adventures

Hiking with Kids in Moab: The Best Family-Friendly Trails for an Unforgettable Adventure


Originally published June 1, 2015
Updated July 22, 2026
Canyonlands Jeep Adventures
5 min read

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Hiking with Kids in Moab: The Best Family-Friendly Trails for Families

Moab, Utah, is one of the best outdoor destinations in the United States, offering incredible scenery, world-famous national parks, and adventures for every age. While many people associate Moab with challenging hikes and rugged backcountry trails, families with young children will discover plenty of easy hikes that deliver spectacular views without requiring an all-day commitment.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire week exploring southeastern Utah, choosing hikes that match your children’s abilities can make all the difference. Short distances, exciting rock formations, arches, wildlife, and opportunities to climb on slickrock make these hikes memorable for both kids and adults.

One of the best ways to maximize your family vacation is by combining short hikes with a Jeep rental from Canyonlands Jeep Adventures. Our Jeep Wranglers allow you to explore scenic backroads between hikes, discover hidden viewpoints, and experience much more of Moab than you could by staying on the pavement.

Why Moab is Perfect for Hiking with Kids

Moab offers something many outdoor destinations cannot: incredible scenery that doesn’t always require long hikes.

Within just a mile or two, families can experience:

  • Massive sandstone arches

  • Towering red rock cliffs

  • Slickrock landscapes

  • Dinosaur tracks

  • Ancient petroglyphs

  • Desert wildlife

  • Beautiful overlooks

Many of Moab’s most famous attractions are surprisingly accessible, making the area ideal for children who enjoy exploring but may not yet be ready for strenuous hikes.

Before You Hit the Trail

Even easy hikes require some preparation.

Bring Plenty of Water

The desert climate is much drier than many visitors expect. Children often become dehydrated before they realize they’re thirsty.

A good rule is to bring at least one liter of water per person for shorter hikes, and more during the summer months.

Start Early

Morning temperatures are cooler, trails are quieter, and lighting is often better for photography.

During summer, many families begin hiking before 9:00 a.m. to avoid afternoon heat.

Wear Proper Footwear

While many trails are short, slickrock and uneven terrain can be slippery.

Closed-toe hiking shoes or athletic shoes with good traction work best.

Pack Snacks

Kids hike happier with snacks.

Energy bars, fruit, crackers, and trail mix can help keep everyone smiling.

Respect the Desert

Stay on designated trails whenever possible.

Cryptobiotic soil—the dark crust covering much of the desert—is alive and takes decades to recover when damaged.

Teach children to “Leave No Trace” so these beautiful places remain protected for future generations.

1. Corona Arch Trail

One of Moab’s hidden gems, Corona Arch is often considered one of the area’s best family hikes outside of the national parks.

Unlike many arches, you can actually walk underneath Corona Arch, giving children a true appreciation for its enormous size.

Distance

Approximately 3 miles round trip

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Time

1.5–2.5 hours

Why Kids Love It

  • Massive arch to stand beneath

  • Small ladders built into the trail

  • Slickrock to explore

  • Rope-assisted section that feels adventurous

  • Plenty of places to stop and take photos

Parents should keep children close near cliff edges and avoid letting them run ahead on exposed sections.

The trail follows an old railroad route before climbing gradually toward the arch.

Many visitors consider Corona Arch one of the most rewarding hikes near Moab because it offers spectacular scenery without requiring an all-day commitment.

2. The Windows Trail

Located inside Arches National Park, The Windows is arguably the best family hike in the park.

With multiple arches located close together, children stay engaged throughout the entire walk.

Distance

Approximately 1 mile round trip

Difficulty

Easy

Time

30–60 minutes

Highlights

  • North Window

  • South Window

  • Turret Arch

  • Incredible photography

  • Easy walking

Children especially enjoy climbing around the slickrock surrounding the arches while parents capture unforgettable family photos.

Sunrise and sunset provide spectacular lighting, although the trail is beautiful throughout the day.

If your family still has energy afterward, Double Arch is only a short drive away and is another fantastic stop.

3. Fisher Towers Trail

If your children enjoy unusual rock formations, Fisher Towers delivers one of the most unique landscapes in the Moab area.

Instead of arches, you’ll find towering sandstone spires rising hundreds of feet above the desert floor.

Distance

Up to 4.4 miles round trip

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

2–3 hours

Families don’t need to complete the entire trail.

Many choose to hike the first mile or two before turning around, allowing younger children to enjoy the scenery without becoming exhausted.

Kids enjoy spotting formations that resemble castles, towers, and giant sculptures.

The drive along Highway 128 to reach Fisher Towers is almost as scenic as the hike itself.

Bonus Family Hikes Around Moab

If you’re staying several days, consider adding these excellent family-friendly hikes to your itinerary.

Balanced Rock

One of the easiest walks in Arches National Park.

  • 0.3-mile loop

  • Nearly flat

  • Great introduction to Moab geology

  • Excellent for toddlers

Sand Dune Arch

Children love this hike because the trail winds through deep sand before reaching a hidden arch.

  • 0.4 miles round trip

  • Cool shade

  • Fun for younger children

  • Excellent summer option

Double Arch

One of the largest arch formations in the park.

Children can scramble across the slickrock beneath the arches while parents enjoy panoramic views.

  • 0.5 miles round trip

  • Easy

  • Excellent photo opportunities

Hidden Valley Trail (Lower Section)

Families looking for something slightly longer may enjoy hiking the first portion of Hidden Valley.

The lower section offers beautiful scenery without committing to the entire trail.

Dinosaur Tracks

Several easy-to-access dinosaur track sites exist around Moab.

Kids love seeing footprints left by dinosaurs millions of years ago.

Many are located just off scenic roads and require only short walks.

Combine Hiking with a Jeep Adventure

One of the best ways to experience Moab is by combining hiking with scenic Jeep travel.

Many incredible hikes begin along roads that are attractions themselves.

A Jeep rental from Canyonlands Jeep Adventures allows your family to:

  • Explore scenic backcountry roads

  • Reach less crowded trailheads

  • Visit multiple hikes in one day

  • Stop at overlooks whenever you want

  • Experience Moab at your own pace

Our fleet of Jeep Wrangler Rubicons comes equipped with:

  • 2-inch Mopar lift

  • 35-inch Yokohama all-terrain tires

  • Bestop Sunrider top for open-air driving

  • Ice-filled cooler

  • Trail guide

  • Comfortable seating for the entire family

Many families combine hiking with scenic drives such as:

  • Gemini Bridges Road

  • Hurrah Pass

  • Long Canyon

  • Potash Road

  • Onion Creek

  • Willow Springs Road

This combination creates an adventure that’s far more memorable than simply driving from parking lot to parking lot.

Safety Tips for Hiking with Children in Moab

Before heading out, keep these important safety tips in mind:

  • Carry more water than you think you’ll need.

  • Apply sunscreen often.

  • Wear hats and sunglasses.

  • Watch children carefully near cliffs and steep drop-offs.

  • Stay on designated trails.

  • Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day in summer.

  • Never climb on delicate arches or closed rock formations.

  • Pack a basic first-aid kit.

  • Download offline maps since cell service can be limited.

Remember that desert weather changes quickly. Afternoon thunderstorms can create dangerous flash floods in washes and canyons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest hike for kids in Moab?

The Windows Trail and Balanced Rock in Arches National Park are among the easiest and most popular family hikes.

Can toddlers hike in Moab?

Yes. Many trails, including Sand Dune Arch, Balanced Rock, and The Windows, are suitable for toddlers with supervision.

What should kids bring hiking in Moab?

Children should carry water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and lightweight clothing appropriate for the season.

Is Corona Arch suitable for children?

Yes, many families hike Corona Arch successfully. Parents should supervise children closely near cliff edges and the rope-assisted section.

What’s the best way to see more of Moab with kids?

Combining several short hikes with a Jeep rental allows families to experience scenic drives, hidden viewpoints, arches, and less-crowded areas all in one day.

Make Your Family Vacation One to Remember

Moab offers endless opportunities for families to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other while exploring one of the most beautiful landscapes in the American Southwest.

From standing beneath the towering span of Corona Arch to climbing around The Windows or marveling at the sandstone spires of Fisher Towers, these hikes create memories that children will remember for years.

To make the most of your trip, pair your hikes with the freedom of a Jeep rental from Canyonlands Jeep Adventures. You’ll discover scenic backroads, hidden overlooks, and unforgettable landscapes that many visitors never get to experience.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a full week of adventure, we’re here to help you explore Moab like a local.

Continue Planning Your Moab Adventure

Before your trip, be sure to read these helpful resources:

  • Moab Trail Guide – Discover scenic drives and off-road adventures.

  • Jeep Rental FAQ – Everything you need to know before renting.

  • Best Time to Visit Moab – Seasonal tips for hiking and exploring.

  • Top Family Adventures in Moab – Activities for all ages beyond hiking.

  • Why Rent a Jeep in Moab? – Learn how a Jeep opens up more of the area’s incredible landscapes.

We look forward to helping your family create memories that will last a lifetime.