If you have not yet been to Moab, Utah, I would strongly urge you to put it on the top of your list for a visit. There is a great deal to see and do in Moab, Utah, including the biking, hiking, climbing, rafting and off road adventure.

First, I would strongly caution against visiting in the summer months given the extreme heat.  The best time of the year to make the trip is in the Spring or Fall. Given the profusion of activities I would suggest allocating at least a few days for your trip.  However, if you are making it a short visit the activity I would recommend that one put on the top of their list is a side by side tour.  These may be rented from the various outfits in Moab and will run a few hundred dollars for the day and these tours are self-guided.  Most trails are very well marked so a self-guided tour should not pose an issue and most outfits will both recommend trails as well as drop the side by side off for you directly at the trailhead.  While I am not generally much for motorized sport, I do think that the 4 wheel drive Razr’s can be a great way to cover substantial ground and therefore see more of the amazing landscape.

There is also technical skill involved in navigating up and through the various rock formations. One of my favorites is Poison Spider which will provide a good mix of challenging climbs as well as breathtaking scenery.

This trail will require the better portion of the day and will get you some elevation as you make the snakelike climb to the top of the plateau.  Keep an eye out for white stripes painted on the rock that will guide you along the trail.  I would also suggest bringing plenty of water and snacks and a can of tire repair or Fix-It-Flat in the event that you catch a sharp rock and have a puncture.