“I may have found the next best thing to Sedona,” is what I thought the moment I drove into Moab, Utah. For those of you who know me well and my love affair with Sedona, you know that’s not something I would say lightly. However, they probably call it the Adventure capital of the U.S. for a reason! While Sedona has these stunning individual standing rock formations, imagine all of them clustered together forming an immense canyon around you…that’s Moab. Arches National Park contains the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Like Sedona, Arches is a red, arid desert, punctuated with oddly eroded sandstone forms such as fins, pinnacles, spires, balanced rocks, and arches. The 73,000-acre region has over 2,000 of these miracles of nature.
On the drive from Vail to Moab we stopped at the beautiful Sorrel River Ranch for a tour and lunch. If you’re looking for privacy and exclusivity, this is the place to stay. About 20 miles outside of Moab, the resort is nestled on 160 acres along the banks of the Colorado River amidst the majestic red rocks. Authentic western, rustic elegance is their tag line and with accolades like being awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star Award and voted one of the Top 10 Luxury Wilderness Lodges in the USA by Luxury Travel Magazine, it’s easy to see why this is a coveted location.
You can stay in their luxurious River View Spa Suites which include a sprawling balcony overlooking the Colorado River. These are ideal for honeymooners and couples seeking stunning views and solitude. Or if you’re traveling with the kids, experience the River View Family Suites. These expansive suites are perfect for families or groups of friends traveling together with separate sleeping areas and bi-level layouts.
The list of things to do here is virtually endless! Sorrel River Ranch is a gateway to activities suited to all desires and experience levels. Simply spend a summer day at the beautiful pool, raft down the winding Colorado River, head out on an ATV ride, or explore numerous hiking and biking trails. After all this, unwind at the peaceful and serene Colorado River Spa on property. You can also take a yoga class right on the banks of the river and they even have an adventure concierge who will help you plan any experience you desire.
Many of the locally sourced ingredients used in the restaurants and bar come directly from their All-Natural Garden, an expansive plot of produce and herbs which the culinary team incorporates into each restaurant and banquet menu. The Executive Chef and culinary team collaborate with their onsite gardener before each coming month to plan seasonal varieties. Farm raised selections include root vegetables, melons, herbs, and floral assortments.
All in all, the Sorrel River Ranch offers an adventurous escape from the grind of daily life, where you can simply relax on your private porch and watch the Colorado River glide by or explore the amazing landscape all day. Visit: www.sorrelriver.com. to experience all the ranch has to offer.
We ended the day with a quick drive into Arches National Park to view the Fiery Furnace and a few of the spectacular arches. Stopped at Moab Brewery which is a funky, local brewery with super friendly staff. This time, I did sample one of their brews – the Export Stout – at $8 for a 22 oz (which I did share by the way!) – it was a great deal and very smooth and tasty. We also tried their jalapeno cornbread with chipotle spread which had just the right amount of heat to it. One interesting fact to note about Utah – you actually have to pay .65 to sample any of the beer – as it’s illegal for them to serve you a free tasting!