The Five Stages of Adventure Travel, and How the Fun Never Really Ends

If you are reading this, you may be happily basking somewhere along the 5 stages of a traveler’s love affair with Moab. Maybe you are making your way through a third round? Here’s how it usually goes down, and how to keep it ever alive!

Stage 1: Dreaming – Admit it, they are very dreamy advertisements. I know lots of folks who “always wanted to come to Moab,” due in no small part to its sweet reputation for adventure and astounding scenery like no other. There’s a reason for it. Dream away! But before too long, you should consider moving on to…

Stage 2: Planning – Surf the net, read the paper, ask your mates, check it out, and book it! Savor this step, it’s part of the satisfaction you derive from taking control of your destiny. From making stuff happen.

Stage 3: Anticipating – You planned it, you booked it, and now, in the musical words of the mighty Tom Petty: “The waiting is the hardest part!” Notice the skip in your step and the slightly higher edges of your smile. It’ll be here soon enough; relish the anticipation!

Stage 4: Experiencing – Today is the day, and, to quote another famous one (Seuss), “Oh, the places you’ll go!” Let go of expectations, leave your comfort zone ever so slightly (or more), and bring it on. Take plenty of pictures but don’t forget to smell the… pristine air, desert sage, red dirt and living rivers!

Stage 5: Sharing – The day is done, now is your chance. From the quiet comfort of your hotel room or tent, have at it. Upload those photos, share the funny moments, create a slide show for your next barbeque, write that Trip Advisor review while you are still glowing with adventure. Make this stage last as long as you like. Keep sharing. And guess what? Like any good process this is also a circular one: lather, rinse, repeat. And by that I mean…enjoy dreaming and then start planning your triumphant return to Canyon Country!

If you head to the river, I, Swirlin’ Eddy, look forward to goofing around with you this season and many seasons hereafter!

Wild West Voyages specializes in family-friendly guided day tours on the Colorado River near Moab, Utah.  Call them for rafting, kayaking, and Stand Up Paddle tours, rentals, or river shuttle service.  Customized and private trips available. 

Phone: 435-602-4489 / 844-494-5393

Location: 422 Kane Creek Blvd in Moab

Website: www.wildwestvoyages.com