The countdown to spring break is officially on! With ski season winding down, many Breck families are taking advantage of the mild temperatures and hitting the road for a week of exploration. In particular, the southeastern Utah town of Moab is a popular destination for thrill seekers looking to explore a natural playground outside of the snow-capped Rockies. Unsurprisingly, there’s a lot to see. From desert star-gazing to roaming a park filled with life-sized replicas of dinosaurs (seriously – they’re awesome), there’s something for everyone in this adventure-packed town.
One of the best parts about going to Moab for spring break happens way before you turn onto Highway 128. The drive to Moab from Breckenridge is one of the most gorgeous stretches of I-70 you’ll ever see. Encourage your fellow travelers to put down their books and iPads and look out the window at the magnificent panoramic views of western Colorado. Keep the kids entertained by playing “I Spy” or the license plate game.
Most Moab travelers head straight to Arches National Park when they get to town (which you should also check out), but Dead Horse Point State Park deserves a slot on your itinerary too. As the canyon comes alive with the rising sun, a spectacular display of shimmering gold and deep purples dance across the red rocks. Set against a glowing pink sky, sunrise at Dead Horse Point makes for a great photo op and serene start to your day.
I told you there’d be dinosaurs, and I wasn’t kidding! Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is one of the top attractions in Moab – and for good reason. The park houses a 3D cinema where you can watch a movie about the prehistoric world of dinosaurs and then visit life-size replicas out in the southern Utah landscape. With no civilization in sight, it’s easy to imagine a time when these archaic creatures roamed the area. Other highlights include a kid’s paleontological dig site and dinosaur playground.
If you think Moab is beautiful during the day, just wait until the sun goes down. Without the lights or pollution that often obscure our view of the night sky, star-gazers can clearly see galaxies, nebulae, planets, star clusters, and much more through a high powered telescope. Check out this online guide for the best star-gazing spots and what to search for in the sky.
Coming from Colorado, you’ve probably already investigated the microbrewery scene in Moab and the surrounding area. If you have, you know that Moab Brewery is the only microbrewery in the region, and that it’s known for producing a variety of ales, lagers, pilsners, and even a root beer. This family-friendly establishment welcomes travelers of all ages and offers a kid’s menu for the smallest members of your group.
Narrowing this list to five things you must see and do in Moab was really hard. There’s so much more that I wasn’t able to include here! With numerous opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and water sports, Breck locals will feel right at home in this outdoor, natural wonderland.
Living only a few hours from the spectacular sights of Moab, Utah and Arches National Park is just one of the many perks to buying a home in Breckenridge. Allow me to introduce you to the rest! I believe there’s no better place to plant your roots than this charming mountain town. Give me a call if you’re thinking about relocating to Summit County, Colorado this spring or summer. I’d be thrilled to learn more about what you’re looking for and match you with the home of your dreams.