5 Things to Do in Moab — Through the Eyes of a Vanlife Family

We're Denis, Sofia, and our little Amelia, and we're traveling the globe in our custom-built van, Orbita. We named it Orbita because we're doing a full circumnavigation of the planet. Our van is both our home and our spaceship. After leaving California and exploring Lake Powell and Monument Valley (you can check out those adventures on our YouTube channel), we've arrived in Moab, Utah—a vanlifer's paradise filled with red rock canyons, off-grid camping, and unforgettable views. Here are our top five must-do experiences in Moab:

Potash Road is one of Moab's most scenic routes, winding alongside the Colorado River with towering red cliffs on one side and serene waters on the other. It's the perfect introduction to Moab's landscape—breathtaking but not overly challenging. A great way to ease into the adventure!

Hiking is essential in Moab, and one trail we loved was Grandstaff Canyon. Sofia ventured out solo for this 2-hour hike, crossing a creek 17 times! The desert heat was intense—bring plenty of water—but the scenery, solitude, and sound of the creek made it worth every step. It felt like a natural reset.

For bike lovers, Lions Park and the Bike Path Trailhead offer a gentle, paved trail along the Colorado River. Riding between Moab’s iconic red cliffs, it felt like cycling through a natural cathedral. The flat, safe path is ideal for families—we rode with Amelia, who enjoyed it so much she fell asleep during the ride.

Moab provides a huge variety of camping options, from remote off-grid locations to scenic official campgrounds. Whether you're seeking solitude or prefer amenities, there's a perfect spot waiting for you. The possibilities here make every camping experience unique and memorable.

Off-roading is the heart of Moab's appeal, and Onion Creek Trail is an absolute must. This legendary trail winds through a deep canyon, featuring more than 20 stream crossings. Surrounded by red cliffs and surreal rock formations, each turn feels cinematic. It’s tight and challenging, so be mentally and physically prepared—almost like astronaut training!

Moab wasn't originally part of our long-term plans, but we loved it so much we stayed almost five days instead of one. It truly is like Mecca for adventurers—endless trails, epic campgrounds, and cinematic views.

Check out our full Moab adventure in our latest YouTube episode, and don't forget to like and subscribe to follow our journey. Next stop: Colorado, then Europe, Russia, and China!

Stay wild, stay tiny, and see you on the road. Let’s keep discovering our tiny planet together!