Between 1829 and the early 1850s, the vicinity of present-day Moab was a crossing point for the Colorado River on the Old Spanish Trail. In April 1855, Mormon settlers tried to set up the Elk Mountain Mission trading post at this crossing to engage with traversing traders.

In 1949, the region gained cinematic fame when Western movie director John Ford was encouraged to film “Wagon Master” in Moab. This led to the creation of the Moab to Monument Valley Film Commission, which has facilitated many film productions since.

More recently, Moab has seen an influx of second-home owners drawn by its mild climate and appealing summers. Moab is also recognized for its cultural events and festivals, such as the Moab Music Festival, LGBT Pride Festival, Folk Festival, Skinny Tire Festival, and the Moab Art Walk. These events attract a variety of attendees and celebrate diverse aspects of community and culture, from music and art to biking and inclusivity.