Moab, Utah serves as the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands national parks, and is the mountain biking capital of the world. Red rock canyons, arches, and slickrock define the landscape. Use this packing guide as a starting point, then let PackList's AI personalize it based on your exact dates, activities, and gear preferences.
Essential Gear & Permits
Must-Have Essentials
- 4+ liters of water capacity
- Electrolytes (desert heat is extreme)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (high UV at elevation)
- Permit for Fiery Furnace and White Rim Road
- Trekking poles for canyoneering
- Sandstone-specific climbing shoes if climbing
What to Wear
Clothing & Footwear
- Lightweight moisture-wicking clothing
- UV protective long-sleeve shirt
- Wide-brim sun hat
- Convertible pants
- Sturdy hiking boots with good traction on slickrock
- Warm evening layers (desert temps drop fast after sunset)
Gear & Equipment
Backpacking & Camping Gear
- Mountain bike (Slickrock and Porcupine Rim are world-famous)
- Bike helmet and pads
- Jeep/4WD for White Rim Road
- Canyoneering harness and rope if doing technical canyons
- Dry bags for river sections
- Satellite communicator for remote areas
Food & Nutrition
Food Planning
- Heat-stable snacks (bars, nuts, jerky)
- Electrolyte-heavy foods
- Freeze-dried meals for multi-day trips
- Pack out all trash — Leave No Trace
Safety Tips for Moab
Cryptobiotic soil crust forms the desert ecosystem — only walk on established trails or rock
Flash floods can rush through dry canyons without warning — always check forecasts
Summer heat regularly exceeds 100°F — plan all outdoor activity for early morning
Never free-solo technical canyon routes — always bring proper gear
Popular Activities
mountain bikinghikingcanyoneering4x4 trailsrock climbingcamping
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