A Playground With Scenery

MOAB - Growth, both in body and mind, is an essential element of childhood. So, it’s natural for parents to search for family vacations that will help stimulate this transformation.

This path has increasingly led to the red rock, kid-friendly paradise of Moab. This playground for young and old is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world and two national treasures: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Sandwiched between are more than enough opportunities, challenges and elements of fun for even the youngest in the clan. The experts at the Moab Adventure Center offer this list of kid-friendly favorites for starters:

Invest Your Kids in our Parks: After a visit to Moab Adventure Center to arrange activities for your family (this can also be done ahead online), head over to the visitor center of Arches National Park to introduce your kids to the benefits of the Junior Ranger program. There, children can also rent Explorer Packs for the day. (Be aware of the new Timed Entry Reservations system to assure your admission.)

Kid-Friendly Hikes Inside Arches National Park: Some sections of the park (Devils Garden and Windows) offer lots to see in relatively small areas. To get to these sections, guests on an Arches Nation al Park Tour ($108 adults, $88 ages 5-12) settle back in a bus or Sprint er Van with high ceilings and large picture windows on a start-to-finish adventure including guided hikes plus snacks and drinks.

River Rafting on the Colorado River: Whether for a half or a full, this is a must-do adventure.

Rafts wind down a world-renowned stretch of this iconic river, through scenes made famous by dozens of popular movies. On select trips, guests savor an exclusive BBQ lunch at a riverside ranch.