Early Bird Special:
A Trip to Moab, Utah,
with the Alliance
Moab…the legendary destination for ruckus raisers, climbers, riders, and explorers. For years it has been a mecca, a pilgrimage of sorts for so many…some of our parents look back fondly on visits to Moab in the 60’s and 70’s, camping off grid in Canyonlands National Park in their VW bus.
Times have changed drastically in the town of Moab….the sleepy town from years ago is booming, buildings springing up everywhere you look, and the community has struggled with how to handle the roads packed with apocalyptic vehicles, dirt bikes and ATV’s. For this reason, it’s more important than ever to respect the residents and the landscape.
The Alliance team headed out to the land of red rocks for an early season trip in the beginning of March. We’ve all been there many times, but there’s always new trails to discover and a different sunset to see. The air is still filled with dust and adventure.
The result of our pilgrimage? 7 days of long rides, chilly nights (10 degrees at times….winter in the desert can be punishing), great food, raging campfires, laughter, camaraderie, and plenty of sand and dirt.
One of the all important things to remember when visiting Moab is that a LOT of people visit. The earlier in the season you can head out, the better (both to avoid the punishing heat and the crowds) Don’t be someone who ruins it for the next person…respect the rules, leave your camp cleaner than you found it, hell, maybe even pick up someone else’s trash on the trail. Keep this place magical for future adventurers.
Below, find some of our Moab recommendations….places to go, things to know, what to pack, etc.
Gearheads - One of the best adventure shops you could possibly visit, no matter what sport you’re into. Not only that, they provide FREE water jug fill ups….and water is precious in the desert.
Eats - If you’re tired of cooking on your camp kitchen or find yourself running into town for water or propane, a few great spots to nosh in town are as follows:
Zax’s
Antica Forma
Love Muffin
Moab Garage Co.
Doughbird
Moab Food Truck Park
Laundry Express - Open 24 hrs., clean, and monitored. Just in case….your dog accidentally pees on your sleeping bag in the middle of the night….not that we would know anything about that…
Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse - The first two are probably some of the most visited national parks in the country. Go early, like, before sunrise, if you want to see the park without the crowds. Dead Horse State Park is a great option if you’re looking for paid camping and restrooms, and it has views every bit as beautiful as the National Parks.
Shafers Pass - An OHV trail located just inside of Canyonlands (i.e, you’ll have to pay to run it…but it’s worth it.) Make sure to check the Canyonlands site to make sure it’s open, as it closes seasonally due to mudslides and weather. Be prepared for hairy switchbacks, moderate terrain, and some of the best views one could ask for. We have done this in a 26’ high clearance camper, but that would be the absolute max on this trail…but maybe don’t try that one.
Willow Springs - If you camp out west, you probably already know about Willow Springs Road, one of the most popular BLM camp roads just outside of Moab. Very popular to stay here if you’re coming in from the East due to its proximity to town and the ease of access to a huge network of OHV trails. Be warned, if you’re coming in on a Friday during the season, this place will be packed to the gills. Best for early season and mid week campers.
Goal Zero and solar power - One thing the desert provides endlessly is SUN. On this trip we used mobile Goal Zero solar panels and a Yeti 1000 Core to keep our cameras and devices charged. (So we don’t miss award winning photos like this…)
The Desert - if you’re headed out riding an OHV vehicle, be PREPARED. This is wild country. Be prepared for the unexpected. If you’re stuck with a broken down vehicle, did you bring tools? Extra gas? If you need recovery, do you have a way to call for help? Did you bring enough water? The Garmin InReach is something we highly recommend for anyone heading out for an adventure…that and a plan are two things that could save your life.
That’s all for now folks….as always, leave it better than you found it, and we’ll see you out there!
