Camping is almost second nature for some of us Coloradans. But for those of us who love the outdoors and dream about sleeping under the stars but don’t want to forefit the comforts of a cozy bed or running water, glamping is thankfully an option. For those of us who enjoy the “softer side” of adventure, be sure to check out this luxury glamping resort near Moab, where scenic views and modern comforts aren’t compromised.
The red rock arches of Moab draw in adventurers from all over, turning it into a town of overcrowded streets, functional chain hotels and bare-bones campsites residing amongst its outskirts, all of which suit minimalist travelers looking for a place to sleep between climbs or grueling days on the trails. But the luxury glamping resort, ULUM Moab, sets a new standard of outdoor living for those who prefer to carry the comforts of home with them when traveling.
Blink and you might miss your turn into the secluded campgrounds of ULUM Moab, a name that feels a bit deceiving since the property resides 25 miles south of town. Situated west of the La Sal Mountains and an hour’s drive to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, this glamping resort near Moab rests in a prime location for adventure amongst Utah’s scarce red rock landscape. Nothing else in this remote area of southern Utah comes close to ULUM’s chic and luxurious accommodations; except for maybe its sister property, Under Canvas, which has been credited to the growing popularity of glamping with its safari-inspired tented camps. ULUM dials up the luxury and amenities of its sibling brand to offer a full resort experience—glamping style. And this year, ULUM celebrates its luxury status as a Two MICHELIN Key resort, recognized for its exceptional hospitality, elevated dining and curated amenities since opening two years ago in April 2023.
Enjoying the Great Outdoors and Indoors
Driving up to the property, the resort’s understated details blend in with the surrounding landscape and are a stark contrast to the chain hotels littered around Moab. A cluster of 50 luxury glamping tents nestled within the red rocks of Southern Utah is anchored by views of Looking Glass Arch and a modern lodge with a full-service kitchen and dining area, plus three dipping pools of varying temperatures and a shop that stocks some of the same brands you’ll find in your tent, including Aespo, Pendleton, Vuori and Parachute Home.
Other than the faint sounds of glampers zipping open their tents to start the day or the occasional sounds of wildlife scurrying about camp, days and nights here are quiet and peaceful. Even the semi-remote parking lot keeps your car from driving right up to your tent where the main part of the property is a car-free zone and staff transports you to and from your tent via golf carts.
Throughout the property, nature is reflected inside and out from its open-air lobby featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows to its safari-inspired suite tents. Designed with nature in mind, the safari-style canvas tents blend almost seamlessly with the surrounding scenery and are lifted above ground to minimize environmental impact. Zipping open your tent, the only noticeable differences between ULUM and a typical luxury hotel room are the canvas walls, a wood-burning stove and the occasional uninvited insect.
Each tent comes equipped with a King-size bed outfitted with Parachute linens and Pendleton blankets, lounge areas with West Elm furnishings, private patios, WiFi, electricity, bathrobes, heating and cooling systems and an ensuite bathroom stocked with Aēsop bath products—removing any discomfort or anxiety associated with outdoor living. And at nearly 400 square feet, there’s plenty of room to stretch out after a long day of adventures, so you’ll be ready to hit the trail again at daybreak. But none of these perks come at the expense of the camping experience. The walls of your zippered tent still whip in the wind. The silence of Mother Nature still lulls you to sleep. The sounds of wildlife remind you the great outdoors are right outside your tent. And the night sky opens to a blanket of stars.
Fueling your days and evenings, ULUM features a full-service culinary experience with a Southwest-inspired menu using fresh, local ingredients. Working with local food purveyors, like Easy Bee Farm, ULUM creates its menu using fresh produce and vegetables from local farms.
Start your day with an espresso or matcha drink by their on-site barista, try a made-to-order smoothie for a mid-day refresher, or sip on a specialty cocktail or mocktail, each inspired by local flora such as juniper, sage and prickly pear.
To complement your stay, awake with a dip in the cold plunge pool or unwind and relax in the soothing hot plunge pool. And while you certainly could spend your days lounging by the pools or communing with locals at the breakfast table, you would be missing out on the main attraction: the great outdoors.
Outdoor adventures
On property, at this glamping resort near Moab, your adventure can begin as soon as you un-zip your tent with the iconic Looking Glass Arch a few steps away. While you can hike to Looking Glass Arch on your own, a guided hike and rock-climbing adventure elevate your outdoor experience. Climb to the top of Looking Glass Arch via three pitches of a technical climb with a trusted guide. From the summit, enjoy beautiful 360-degree views and finish with a 120′ free hanging rappel back to the ground.
Off the property, you’re 40 minutes from Arches National Park, an hour’s drive to the second least visited area of Canyonlands National Park, the Needles District and Dead Horse Point State Park. ULUM’s Adventure Concierge can set you up with any kind of adventure, whether that’s whitewater rafting down the Colorado River, canyoneering in slot canyons, or hiking through national parks and monuments.
Couple your hard-core outdoor adventures with one of ULUM’s complimentary wellness programs; from crystal sound baths and guided yoga on the resort’s deck to wellness walks, live acoustic music and more.
ULUM Moab opens on March 27 for the 2025 season. Book your stay today!