Moab, Utah 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Start Drive to Indianapolis

Begin your epic road trip from Pittsburgh.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head west. Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the kids.

Plan for frequent stops at rest areas or small towns to stretch legs and refuel. Consider audiobooks or road trip games for entertainment.

Dinner in Indianapolis

Find a family-friendly restaurant in Indianapolis or pick up groceries for a simple dinner at your accommodation.

Look for restaurants near your chosen hotel. Many grocery stores like Kroger or Meijer offer prepared foods.

Continue Drive to Kansas City

Another full day of driving across the Midwest.

Enjoy the vast plains and anticipate your arrival in Kansas City.

Keep the kids engaged with travel bingo or podcasts. Take breaks at roadside attractions or playgrounds if time allows.

Dinner & Relaxation in Kansas City

After checking into your hotel, enjoy a classic Kansas City dinner, perhaps some BBQ, or find a local grocery store to stock up.

Kansas City is famous for its BBQ! Consider a family-friendly BBQ joint or explore options around your hotel.

Drive to Denver, Colorado

Head west across Kansas, watching the landscape gradually change as you approach the Rocky Mountains and Denver.

This is a long stretch, but the anticipation of the mountains will build. Break up the drive with stops in smaller towns or scenic overlooks.

Dinner & Foothills View

Arrive in the Denver area.

After checking in, enjoy dinner and perhaps a glimpse of the Rocky Mountains at sunset.

Denver has many family-friendly dining options. Grocery stores like Safeway or King Soopers are widespread.

Final Stretch to Moab

Embark on the most scenic part of your drive, heading towards Moab.

You'll pass through stunning mountain and desert landscapes. Get ready for red rock country!

The drive through Glenwood Canyon and along the Colorado River is spectacular. Keep cameras ready! Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint.

Check into Moab Hotel

Arrive in Moab and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to settle in and relax after the long drive.

Stroll Downtown Moab

Take a leisurely walk down Main Street in Moab.

Explore the unique shops, art galleries, and get a feel for the adventure town.

Grab some local ice cream or a souvenir. This is a great way to orient yourselves with the town.

Dinner in Moab

Enjoy your first dinner in Moab.

There are many casual, family-friendly options.

Grocery stores like City Market are available for stocking up on breakfast items and snacks for the parks.

Explore Arches National Park

Spend the morning exploring the iconic Arches National Park.

Start with easier, kid-friendly trails and viewpoints like Balanced Rock, The Windows Section (Turret Arch, North & South Window), and Double Arch. Consider participating in the Junior Ranger program for kids.

Book timed entry tickets in advance if required during your travel season. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Sun protection (hats, sunscreen) is essential. The Visitor Center has Junior Ranger booklets. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60724-d8535374-Reviews-Arches_National_Park-Moab_Utah.html?m=66827

Picnic Lunch at Park

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the designated picnic areas within Arches National Park, or just outside the park entrance.

This saves time and money, and allows you to maximize your park time. Pack sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water.

Moab Adventure Center Activity

Choose a kid-friendly adventure with Moab Adventure Center.

Options include scenic drives, rafting (seasonal), or beginner jeep tours. Their Hell's Revenge Jeep Tour is highly rated for thrilling views.

Check age and height restrictions for various activities. Book in advance. For a 'real' feel, a guided jeep tour is fantastic. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60724-d1195614-Reviews-Moab_Adventure_Center-Moab_Utah.html?m=66827

Dinner & Stargazing Prep

Enjoy a casual dinner in Moab.

Afterwards, prepare for some evening stargazing, as Moab has incredible dark skies.

Pick up some hot chocolate or marshmallows for a fun evening treat. Remember flashlights for navigating in the dark.

Explore Arches National Park

Discover the iconic red rock formations.

Enjoy short, kid-friendly hikes to Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and the famous Delicate Arch viewpoint. Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for the kids at the visitor center.

Arrive early to beat crowds. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The visitor center is a great stop for park maps and information. Keep an eye out for wildlife!

Lunch in Moab

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery in downtown Moab, or pick up supplies for a picnic from a nearby grocery store.

City Market is a good option for groceries to save on costs and pack lunches for the road. Many casual restaurants like Moab Diner or Quesadilla Mobilla offer quick, kid-friendly meals.

Hells Revenge Jeep Tour

Experience an exhilarating off-road adventure on the legendary Hell's Revenge Trail.

This guided tour offers breathtaking views and a thrilling ride suitable for adventurous kids.

Prepare for bumps and steep climbs. Book in advance, especially for New Year's Eve. Multiple tour operators offer similar experiences.

New Year's Eve Dinner

Enjoy a celebratory dinner in Moab.

Many restaurants will have special menus or hours for New Year's Eve. Consider a festive but family-friendly option.

Reservations might be essential for popular spots. Check local listings for any community New Year's Eve events, though Moab tends to be quieter.

Canyonlands National Park

Visit the Island in the Sky district, offering spectacular panoramic views of canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.

Enjoy short walks to Mesa Arch and Grand View Point.

The park is less crowded than Arches but equally stunning. Bring water and snacks. The drive from Moab is about 40 minutes.

Farewell Lunch in Moab

Grab a quick and easy lunch in Moab before hitting the road for your long drive back east.

Stock up on road trip snacks and drinks at a local grocery store like City Market for the long drive ahead.

Drive East into Colorado

Begin the long return journey, driving eastward from Moab, Utah, into Colorado.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you cover significant ground.

This will be a substantial driving day. Plan for regular stops for stretching, restrooms, and driver changes. Consider aiming for a town like Grand Junction or Rifle in Colorado for your overnight stop.

Drive Across Colorado & Kansas

Continue your cross-country drive, covering a major portion of the distance across Colorado and into Kansas.

This day will be primarily dedicated to driving.

Prepare for a long day of driving. Keep kids entertained with road trip games, audiobooks, or movies. Plan for frequent stops at rest areas or small towns for breaks and meals. Remember to stay hydrated.

Dinner Break

Stop for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant along the highway, or pick up food from a grocery store for a quick and budget-friendly meal.

Look for truck stops or larger towns for more dining options and amenities.

Continue Drive / Overnight Stop Prep

Depending on your energy levels and driving plan, continue driving further east or prepare to find an overnight accommodation to break up the remaining journey to Pittsburgh.

The total drive from Moab to Pittsburgh is roughly 28-30 hours, so Day 8 will end with a significant portion remaining. You will likely need another overnight stop before reaching Pittsburgh.