An Insider's Guide to Bronco Off-Roadeo Moab

Landing in Moab you feel like you’re a world away—the scale of the multi-million-year-old rock formations are mind-numbing. The earth is red, so red that—I imagine—Martians would feel at home. 

If Highway 128—River Road as it’s known to locals—isn’t on a list of Most Scenic Drives in the country or world, it should be. It twirls in perfect synchronicity with the Mighty Colorado through a narrow canyon flanked by Arches National Park and within view of the LaSalle Mountains’ snow-capped peaks. 

It is breathtaking. And it is home to Bronco Off-Roadeo Moab. 

Here’s everything you need to know when planning your adventure to this can’t-miss destination.  

Getting There... 

If Vegas is the most accessible, Moab is the least. But don’t let that deter you—it’s worth every minute of travel time. When flying, your options are to arrive at Grand Junction Regional Airport or Salt Lake City International. Either way you’re looking at a two- or four-hour drive respectively, so grab yourself a rental.  

For those who prefer to skip the flight, it’s within a day’s drive from Phoenix, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Denver, and the list goes on.  

Where to Stay... 

Red Cliffs Lodge is Bronco Off-Roadeo Moab’s partner resort and as cliché as it sounds, it looks like a scene from an old western (but only in the coolest way possible). A series of cabins are perched along the Colorado River offering cinematic views of the canyon.  

Not only is basecamp on property which makes for an easy early-morning commute, but Red Cliffs is also a hub for adventure offering horseback riding and white-water rafting excursions plus yoga, meditation, swimming, and tennis. 

Moab is considered a world capital of outdoor adventure and so accommodation offerings are abundant. If Red Cliffs isn’t a fit for your style or budget, check out the host of hotels and motels in town or one of the 26 campsites available on a first come, first served basis through the Bureau of Land Management. There is even an Under Canvas glamping resort nearby for those who want the best of both worlds.

At The Off-Roadeo... 

I can’t emphasize this enough—Bronco Off-Roadeo is for every type off-roader, including total beginners who have never driven off pavement. In Moab, you will learn from world-class Trail Guides—including four-time Rebelle Rally Champion Melissa Clark—who will empower you and ensure that you feel knowledgeable, in control and safe. 

Not to mention it is an absolute, freakin’ blast.  

While You’re There... 

There isn’t enough real estate in this article to review the endless opportunities to turn your trip to Bronco Off-Roadeo into a weekend of epic outdoor adventure—the last time I was in Moab I paddle boarded, hiked, went canyoneering, rappelled, and explored Arches, all of which you can and should do through Moab Adventure Center.

However, before you leave you must visit Dead Horse Point State Park on a clear night to witness more stars in the sky than grains of sand on all the world’s beaches.  

Pro Tip: Dead Horse is an International Dark Sky Park which means only red light is allowed, so power down your phones, turn off your interior lights and wait 15 minutes to allow your eyes to adjust.

Winter Weekends... 

I’m a huge fan of traveling during off-peak times to experience the less-touristy, more authentic side of a town. Winter is the perfect season to do just that in Moab. The trails are quieter, hotel prices drop, and reservations are less competitive. If you want a unique off-roading experience, consider booking during Bronco Off-Roadeo's Winter Weekends, open Fridays and Saturdays in January, and February. 

What Do You Think?... 

Have you attended Bronco Off-Roadeo Moab? What’s holding you back? Have any questions? I want to hear from you in the comments section below.