Discover the beauty of Utah’s desert oasis.
Looking for the best places to paddle board in Moab?
Gear up and join us as we uncover the hidden gems perfect for paddleboarding.
Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Dive in!
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Moab
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Colorado River
- Location Type: River
- Access Point: Hittle Bottom Campground (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate currents, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring and Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Deer, herons, beavers
- Landmarks & Views: Red rock cliffs, Fisher Towers, Castle Valley
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of other river users, respect private property
The Colorado River winds its way through Moab, offering paddle boarders a chance to explore the stunning red rock scenery.
With a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and towers, this paddleboarding experience is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
#2 Ken’s Lake
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Ken’s Lake Campground (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasional afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring and Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, herons, occasional deer
- Landmarks & Views: La Sal Mountains, red rock formations
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Keep a safe distance from the dam, respect local regulations
Ken’s Lake is a tranquil reservoir southeast of Moab, featuring picturesque views of the La Sal Mountains and surrounding red rock formations.
The calm waters make it an ideal spot for paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming.
#3 Daily Canyon
- Location Type: River
- Access Point: Dewey Bridge (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm river currents, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring and Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Herons, beavers, osprey
- Landmarks & Views: Red sandstone cliffs, historical Dewey Bridge
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect private property
Daily Canyon is a section of the Colorado River, offering scenic red sandstone cliffs and a relaxed paddleboarding experience.
Accessible via Dewey Bridge, paddlers can float downstream, marveling at the dramatic landscape as they go.
#4 Mill Creek
- Location Type: Creek
- Access Point: Powerhouse Lane Bridge (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm currents, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, dragonflies, fish
- Landmarks & Views: Cottonwood trees, historic mill site
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Avoid during high water, respect private property
Mill Creek is a picturesque and serene spot for paddleboarding.
Surrounded by cottonwood trees and the remnants of a historic mill site, this tranquil waterway provides a unique and calming paddling experience.
#5 Potash Ponds
- Location Type: Ponds
- Access Point: Potash Road (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, occasional wind
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, fish, insects
- Landmarks & Views: Red rock vistas, nearby petroglyphs
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious in wind, follow local regulations
Potash Ponds, located along the scenic Potash Road, offer paddlers a unique opportunity to explore a series of small ponds surrounded by the beauty of Moab’s red rock landscape.
A popular area for birdwatching, it’s also a great destination for a leisurely paddle.
#6 The Big Bend
- Location Type: River
- Access Point: Big Bend Recreation Site (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, may be windy in afternoons
- Popular Seasons: Spring and Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Beavers, birds, fish
- Landmarks & Views: Red rock cliffs, natural arches
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of other river users, follow local regulations
The Big Bend stretch of the Colorado River offers a peaceful paddleboarding experience through the heart of Moab’s red rock country.
With stunning cliffs and natural arches as your backdrop, you can paddle at your leisure and immerse yourself in the breathtaking desert landscape.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Moab?
You can paddle board in Moab at the Colorado River, Ken’s Lake, and the Fisher Towers section.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Moab?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Moab.
When is the best time to paddle board in Moab?
The prime time for paddle boarding in Moab is between April and October due to the favorable weather.