Moab - Town

Moab is the largest town in southeastern Utah with a population of 5,500. It lies in a green valley near the Colorado River and is surrounded by high sandstone cliffs. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. In the past 20 years of so, it has become a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts or “yummies” (young urban macho men into extreme sports), who flock here to mountain bike, river run, rock climb, four-wheel drive, hike, etc. It is the most youthful and vibrant community in Utah, and the Main Street through town reflects that with its numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.

Moab is another one of those towns like Whistler, Breckenridge, and Jasper, that attracts young (and young at heart) outdoor enthusiasts in great shape, who come here to enjoy its seemingly endless recreational opportunities. It’s a town with attitude, and I mean that in a positive way. There’s such a sense of vitality and enthusiasm here that it’s contagious.

After our very unpleasant experience last night with the heat and the gnats by the river, we were certainly enthused to be here. Fortunately, we were able to get one of the last sites at Canyonlands Campground, right in the heart of downtown Moab. Normally, we prefer campgrounds in more natural settings, but we had had enough nature last night to last us for quite awhile. All we wanted to do tonight was close up the windows, crank up the air conditioner, and get a good nights sleep.

But first, Tommy’s birthday dinner (he had turned 12 today). As per the recommendation from our shuttle driver the day before, we headed over to the Fat City Smokehouse on West Street, a local hangout specializing in Texas-style pit barbecue. It was a great choice—lively, upbeat atmosphere and delicious food. Most importantly, Tommy enjoyed it. He really was growing up. Instead of ordering chicken fingers or a burger as usual, he ordered the trout. He said it was almost as good as the one he had caught and prepared for himself back at Flaming Gorge, and that’s saying something.

The next morning before heading over to Arches National Park, we decided to explore the town of Moab a bit and do some shopping. What a great place! By far the favorite stop for all of us was Ruby’s, a funky store that sold everything from Jimi Hendrix t-shirts and bathing suits to erotica novelties such as Jell-O molds in the shape of breasts and windup dancing penises. I’m embarrassed to admit that we purchased several of the above items. Andrew still cherishes his vibrantly colored Jimi Hendrix bathing suit, and the dancing penises were (and still are) a big hit back home.