Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead

On the picturesque banks of the mighty Colorado River lies Lions Park and Trailhead — a place rightfully called the "gateway" to Utah’s world of adventure. Located at the intersection of strategic highways north of the city of Moab, this site serves as a vital link between urban comfort and the wild expanses that the USA is so famous for.

This modern recreational hub was designed as a safe haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is more than just a green space; it is a high-tech transportation hub for cyclists and pedestrians, providing comfortable access to the region's legendary national parks without the need to travel on busy highways.

The main feature of the area is its functionality and aesthetics. One of the state's most popular paved trails begins here, leading to the famous red rocks. The combination of developed infrastructure and breathtaking panoramic views of the river and canyons makes this place a must-stop for every traveler arriving in the region in search of excitement or tranquility.

To clarify information about infrastructure conditions or visitation rules, you can use the official contact details of the city services. Although the park does not have a separate office, it is managed by the municipal authorities.

Everyone will find something to their liking here, whether it's an energetic workout or peaceful nature contemplation. Thanks to its modern paved paths, the park has become a favorite spot for runners, inline skaters, and cyclists. Famous routes leading to Arches National Park and the legendary White Rim Road begin here, making the location an ideal start for a grand adventure.

If you prefer less intense recreation, take a stroll across the creative pedestrian bridge over the Colorado River. It offers magnificent views of the reddish cliffs and the water's surface, which are especially impressive in the rays of the setting sun. Within the park itself, there are cozy picnic areas and rest zones where you can relax after a long journey.

For families, the park offers a safe environment and educational walks along the shore. Nature lovers often come here for bird watching or fishing. The presence of clean restrooms, convenient parking, and clear navigation makes staying here as comfortable as possible, even for those visiting Moab for the first time.

Reaching this recreation hub is easy, as it is located just 3 kilometers north of the city center. If you are traveling by car, follow US-191 north to its intersection with UT-128. The park's parking area is located right by the banks of the Colorado River.

For those who prefer active travel, there is a specially equipped bike and pedestrian path that starts in the city center and leads directly to the park. This is a safe and scenic route that eliminates the need to ride on a busy highway.

If you don't have your own transport, you can use a taxi from the city center — the trip will only take a few minutes. Public transport in the form of buses is limited here, so a car or bicycle remains the most convenient option.

The story of this location’s transformation into a modern hub began in the early 2010s. Previously, Lions Park was a simple riverside recreation area that struggled to handle the growing influx of tourists. The main issue was the lack of a safe connection between the city and the natural parks: travelers had to cross dangerous sections of high-speed highways.

A large-scale reconstruction became possible thanks to an initiative by the local non-profit Moab Trails Alliance in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS). The main goal of the project was to create a unified network of trails that would connect urban infrastructure with Utah's wilderness.

A key moment in the park's development was the construction of an elegant pedestrian bridge across the Colorado River. This architectural solution not only beautified the landscape but also provided a safe path for thousands of cyclists and pedestrians heading toward the national parks. Today, the park is considered a model for successful transportation hub planning for outdoor recreation.

Planning your time depends on your goals. If you're stopping by Lions Park just to take a break, have a small picnic, and snap a few photos against the backdrop of the Colorado River, 30–60 minutes will be plenty.

If the park serves as your starting point for a serious bike ride or a hike through the surrounding area, you should budget between 2 to 5 hours. This will allow you to enjoy the views without rushing and make your way to the nearest canyons or arches, returning at a comfortable pace.

Lions Park maintains a fixed operating schedule, ensuring access to its amenities during the most in-demand times of the day. You can visit it any day of the week:

• Monday — Sunday: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

It is important to note that while the park grounds may technically be accessible 24/7 for transit, key infrastructure facilities such as restrooms and lighting in recreation areas operate during the specified interval. To ensure your own safety and for the best views of the landscape, it is recommended to plan your visit during daylight hours.

Exploring the surroundings of Lions Park can significantly enrich your trip, as both natural treasures and cozy places to relax are hidden nearby. Its proximity to the river and cliffs makes this location an ideal starting point for regional routes.