Free things to do in Moab beyond the parks
Hike to Corona Arch, cool off at Ken’s Lake, and explore roadside rock art and dinosaur fossils on scenic drives.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | February 20, 2026
In Moab, some of the best attractions have little to no cost. Beyond the national park gates, Bureau of Land Management trails and roadside pullouts deliver arches, rock art, and river views that feel bigger than a price tag. On your next trip, explore no-fee hikes, Moab scenic drives, and splashy breaks like Ken’s Lake, plus mellow nature walks for golden-hour calm. When you’re traveling on a budget, Moab makes it easy to build a rhythm of mornings, mid-day cool-downs, and evenings in the red rock glow.
In this article: Things to do in Moab for free
Free scenic drives and roadside rock art
Cool-down swims and shady escapes
Free scenic drives and roadside rock art
Explore Moab’s diverse landscapes through scenic drives that showcase the region's beauty without the need for park fees. Start on Potash Road to spot ancient roadside petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks, or follow the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway for stunning views of rust-red cliffs reflecting in the water. For a total change of scenery, the La Sal Mountain Loop climbs into forested peaks for high-altitude vistas before dropping into dramatic Castle Valley. Between these rugged excursions, Slackline Moab, Outset Collection by Hilton serves as your easy basecamp for adventure. Designed for the modern explorer, the hotel offers a social atmosphere and intentional comforts, like on-site dining and outdoor pool, that make it easy to transition from the dusty trail to a relaxed evening of recharging for the next horizon.
Cool-down swims and shady escapes
Beat the desert heat by incorporating Moab’s refreshing water spots into your itinerary. Ken’s Lake Recreation Site, located just 10 miles south of town, offers a relaxed day-use escape with shoreline access, stunning La Sal Mountain views, and the nearby Faux Falls for a quick waterfall detour. For a shady outing closer to the city center, the Mill Creek Parkway provides a lush, green corridor perfect for a low-key bike ride or a walk between park adventures. Afterward, retreat to Hampton Inn Moab, where you can start your day with a free hot breakfast and enjoy the convenience of free self-parking. When you're ready to escape the afternoon sun, head to the outdoor pool to watch the red rocks glow from the comfort of the water.
Outside-the-park hikes with big views
Experience Moab’s rugged beauty without the park fees by exploring Bureau of Land Management (BLM) trails. Hike the iconic three-mile route to Corona Arch, featuring fun ladder sections and massive spans, or find shaded relief in Grandstaff Canyon, where a perennial stream leads to the 243-foot (74-meter) Morning Glory Natural Bridge. For dramatic skylines, the Fisher Towers trail offers sculpted sandstone spires that glow intensely in the late-day sun. Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab is the perfect base for these adventures, offering spacious suites with kitchens to help you manage trail snacks and prepare budget-friendly meals. After a day on the slickrock, enjoy a relaxing dip in the indoor pool and hot tub, followed by free hot breakfast the next morning.
Sunrise, sunset, and quiet nature walks
For the quieter side of Moab, prioritize calm moments when the desert light is at its best. Start your morning at the Scott and Norma Matheson Wetlands Preserve, an expansive sanctuary along the Colorado River that’s home to dozens of bird species. While the main visitor area is currently closed, an alternative undeveloped entrance remains open for those seeking a low-key, rustic nature walk. For sunset, skip the crowded trailheads and revisit a river corridor pullout to watch the cliffs glow as the sun drops. Return to Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab to enjoy the desert’s peaceful transitions with all the comforts of home.
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