Friday
Moab is fueled by locomotion. Paddling rivers, cyclingslickrock, hiking through the world’s grandest collection of stonearchways ― this southeastern Utah destination is a slice ofhigh-energy nirvana.
Sandals, T-shirts, shorts, and sunglasses are de rigueur herefrom late April through mid-October. The only other accessoriesworth considering: hiking boots, mountain bikes, climbing gear, ora whitewater raft or kayak.
Life in Moab wasn’t always so fraught with possibility. Settledin 1855, the town revolved around cattle and crops during its firstseven decades. A comparatively short-lived uranium boom in the1950s injected much-needed infrastructure into Moab: motels,stores, and restaurants. Today it is recreation that playsthrobbing heart to Moab’s soul.
Of course, you don’t have to keep moving every minute of eachday. A good museum, quiet spots for watching wildlife, and even asunset cruise will give you a chance to contemplate the serenebeauty of the countryside. And once night falls, Moab rechargeswith good restaurants and charming B&Bs.
Sweet red-rock sleep
Chain motels compose the bulk of Moab’s lodging. For atravel planner or for trail maps and lists of outfitters, contactthe Moab Information Center (Center and Main Streets; www.discovermoab.com,800/635-6622, or 435/259-8825).
Cali Cochitta Bed & Breakfast. The owners borrowed theAztec words for “house of dreams” when they turned this historic1870s brick Victorian home into a B&B. Breakfast can be takenout on the patio by the garden, or inside, family style, at arambling table. Five rooms from $95. 110 South 200 East; www.moabdreaminn.com,888/429-8112, or 435/259-4961.
Sunflower Hill Bed & Breakfast Inn. A dozen rooms arehoused in two beautiful old homes nestled amid Moab’s most colorfulgardens. A covered porch graces the side of one house, the GardenCottage, and a hot tub stands ready in a nook of the garden. From$139. 185 North 300 East; www.sunflowerhill.com,800/662-2786, or 435/259-2974. ― Kurt Repanshek