Sometimes, the best vacations aren’t the longest—they’re the ones packed with beauty, adrenaline, and just enough downtime to soak it all in. That was certainly the case for Lake Forest residents Meredith and Brant Stewart, who recently traded their daily routines for three sun-soaked days in Moab, Utah over Memorial Day weekend.

Their destination choice wasn’t random—it was intentional and inspired. After falling in love with Glacier National Park during a previous trip, the Stewarts discovered a shared passion for visiting National Parks. “Brant is the planner,” Meredith explains. “He always has a running list of spots that would be a good fit for us. With our busy schedules, weekend trips are ideal—quick flights, lots to do, and great accommodations.”

Moab checked all the boxes. An easy flight to Salt Lake City and a scenic three-hour drive brought them to a town known for its rugged landscape, outdoor adventures, and striking red rock formations. “Neither of us had ever been before,” says Meredith. “But Moab offers sunshine, adventure, and thrill-seeking sports—from hiking and biking to rafting, off-roading, and even skydiving.”

In true Brant fashion, their weekend was well-curated and action-packed. Day one included a visit to Moab Distillery for lunch, poolside relaxation, and an adrenaline-pumping off-road trip through Hell’s Revenge. The next day was spent hiking through Arches National Park, sampling local eats at the Moab Food Truck Park, and exploring nearby Canyonlands National Park before unwinding by the pool. Day three included more Canyonlands exploration, lunch at Dewey’s Grill, spa time, and a final dinner to toast the adventure.

One of the most unexpected highlights was the jaw-dropping sunset views stretching from the La Sal Mountains through Arches and down into the Moab Valley. And during their off-road excursion, they even got to glimpse prehistoric dinosaur tracks—an awe-inspiring reminder of the land’s ancient past.

Moab isn’t just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—it’s also a delicious destination. The couple sampled local favorites, including burgers and the must-try Beer Cheese Soup at the Moab Brewery, and enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere and variety at the Moab Food Truck Park, where they indulged in barbecue, quesadillas, and gelato.

While they didn’t get to check off the famous Moab Rope Swing this time (Meredith ended up on the waitlist), the trip still delivered everything they hoped for—plus a strong desire to return.

For anyone planning a visit to Moab, Meredith offers this advice:

When asked if they’d return to Moab, Meredith’s answer was simple: “Yes!”