Moab

Moab, Utah, is smack in the middle of Arches, Canyonlands and a hundred other sandstone adventures. If he’d had a mountain bike and this was his kingdom, Poseidon might have wondered if he wasn’t already in eternal paradise.

CONVENIENT (NATIONAL) PARKING

If you’re going to Arches National Park, you’re going to Moab. If you’re going to Canyonlands National Park, and you’re not hiding out from the authorities in some desolate corner of the Maze, you’re probably staying in Moab. The weird grandeur of these two federal designations is documented elsewhere — just know that you need to see them both in person, twice, before you die. Dead Horse Point, too.

MOAB OUTDOORISM

If the Tigris and Euphrates are the Cradle of Civilization, the confluence of the Green River and the Colorado River is the Kiddie Bike Trailer of Uncivilization. Red dirt, whitewater and pinkish-orange sandstone are fertile ground for the sowing of wild oats. Pick your poison from the list of activities below and get ready to burn various types of rubber. Including your spare tire.

BIKE

Bike. Eat. Bike. Eat. Bike. Sleep. Call in sick. Repeat. (See: Porcupine Rim, Gemini Bridges, Slick Rock, Bartlett Wash, Amasa Back)

4X4

The Easter Jeep Safari kicks off the season. You’ll want lockers. (See: Hells Revenge, Steel Bender, Gold Bar Rim)

HIKE

The national parks don’t have a monopoly on the area’s best treks. (See: Negro Bill Canyon, Hunter Canyon, Corona/Bowtie Arch, Fisher Towers)

WHITEWATER RAFTING/KAYAKING

Uniquely positioned to access both the Green and Colorado Rivers. Rapids up to class IV, so be kind of careful. (See: Westwater, Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon)

SNOWSHOEING/CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Moab even has winter sports covered in the La Sal Mountains — them snowy peaks you see through Delicate Arch. More biking and hiking up there, too, when it’s warm.