Moab is the outdoor adventure capital of the red rock desert. Set on the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah, its Mars-like landscape draws mountain bikers, off-roaders, rock climbers, river rafters and photographers from around the world. With Arches and Canyonlands National Parks next door and millions of acres of public land around them, there's adventure in every direction.

The area has a long human history. Ancestors of today's Hopi, Zuni, Ute, Paiute and Navajo people lived here for centuries, and the dry climate preserved their rock art and dwellings, which you can still see today. Mormon settlers arrived later, ranchers moved into the valley, and in 1952 Charlie Steen's discovery of the Mi Vida uranium mine sparked a boom. Mining gave way to tourism, which keeps the town's hotels, restaurants and outfitters busy today.

Ride the famous Slickrock Trail, raft the Colorado River, take a Jeep tour on backcountry roads and catch sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park. Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons. I'll handle Arches timed-entry reservations, lodging and guided adventures so your Moab trip runs smoothly.