UTAH
Moab \ Zion \ Monument Valley \\ July 2018
MOAB
DO THIS:
See the sunset over Dead Horse Point State Park. I made it to Moab a few hours before the sunset and got a tip from a local that I MUST see the sunset over Dead Horse Point. I headed into the small town of Moab, went to a place called Peace Tree Cafe , where I grabbed some take out dinner, and headed towards Dead Horse.
The drive up to the overlook is STUNNING.
So much so that I stopped at almost every turn off to get out of my car and take in the view. After getting to the top, I parked my car and grabbed my dinner. Then I made my way out the rocks to sit and watch the sun go down. At the top there are a few pull offs near the top - I chose the one right before the last one/end of the road.
Eat here:
I ended up having both of my meals at Peace Tree Cafe. Simply because I loved the atmosphere and my first meal was so good - I went back for another. One day I had a chicken ceasar wrap - which I took with me to the top of Dead Horse Point to watch sunset. The next day we had breakfast on the porch! The omelet I had was not only delicious but also a nice large portion. No lack of food here!
STay here:
During my trip there was one night I was riding solo and I decided to stay at a place I have always wanted to: Under Canvas Moab. I rented my own tent with a king bed and it was magical. Even in the extreme heat, the tent aired out at night and I slept like a baby. Under Canvas even had a campfire with live music and s'more making. One of the other best part was the water, coffee, and tea that was available 24/7.
Arches National Park
DO THIS
Get yourself to Arches National Park. Even if you are a non-hiker, there is so much to see and do. I highly suggest entering the park either just before or after sunrise. This not only gets you to the parking lots inside the park before all spots are taken, but also gives you time to hike before the crowds join you.
I got into Arches just after 6:00am. It took me around 20 mins or so to get to the parking lot for Delicate Arch. I set off to hike to Delicate Arch around 6:30am. This hike is about 3 miles round trip and it took me about 45mins to get to the arch. The trip on the way there is rough - it is mostly all up hill and some of the time the up hill is just rock.