New Element Moab by Arches National Park

Looking for a clean, family-friendly hotel near Arches National Park? Element Moab is a new hotel by Westin. Expect heavenly beds and heavenly views of The Portal, with the Colorado River nearby. The hotel is not located in downtown Moab, but its location is mere minutes by car and even closer to the entrance to Arches National Park. 

Opened March 2021, the 118 room Element Moab by Arches National Park is clean and modern. If you are traveling with kids or you like hanging out by a swimming pool, you’ll be happy at this hotel. We were staying overnight in Moab before a departure on the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train to Denver, Colorado. I had enough time in the morning to take a horseback ride with Red Cliffs Lodge into Castle Creek Canyon. If you enjoy horseback riding, this is a great way to experience the red rocks. I’m not going to focus on the laundry list of things to see and do in Moab, or where else to stay in Utah. Instead, lets focus on the different room categories and what the Element has to offer.

The hotel lobby is bright and airy. We visited in September, but I imagine the summer months can get quite hot in Moab. The check-in process was quick and efficient. To the right of the front desk was a small grab and go area with snacks for sale. There was also a large water container with fruit-infused complimentary ice water. Note that there were no nearby stores or restaurants in the area during our visit. You’ll want to have a car to dine in downtown Moab, or for the adventurous couple, there are complimentary bicycles for rent in front of the hotel. Ask hotel staff if it is safe to ride bikes the 1.5 miles into downtown Moab as we did not take the bikes for a spin.

Our king hotel room was on the third floor and was accessible via stairs or elevator. We had a suite with a full kitchen, great if you are traveling as a family. The new Element Moab is a hotel by Westin and a member of Marriott Bonvoy. If you are a fan of the heavenly bed, Westin has your back. If you are a points person, the Element Moab is a member of Marriott Bonvoy so use those hotel reward points during your stay. 

I was being clever when I referenced the heavenly view of The Portal and the heavenly bed. In truth, the hotel rooms do not look out to the Colorado River. Our room overlooked the swimming pool and had a view of The Portal, (the entrance to the Colorado River) as well as the RV park next door. Our room was pleasant and clean, with all the expected hotel amenities such as Pharmacopia shampoo and conditioner. Our room had a walk-in shower without a bathtub. We also appreciated the full-size refrigerator, stove-top and microwave oven in our room with a kitchen, dishes and utensils. 

Rise breakfast is included with your stay. The signature Westin breakfast includes a hot item, fresh fruit, pastries, cereal, yogurt, juice, coffee and tea. The breakfast is served in the downstairs lobby area, next to the front entrance to the hotel. Espresso, lattes, hot chocolate and mochas are also available for those who enjoy specialty coffees.  A lobby bar offers signature cocktails and light bites. 

If we had had more time in Moab, I would have enjoyed spending time by the outdoor swimming pool. I liked the look of the brand new pool area and the private cabanas. As is typical of hotel pools, there is no lifeguard on duty. 

Rates fluctuate depending on time of year. Rates start at $159 and up, with March through June being peak season. Holidays and fall are also popular times to visit Moab. Check the hotel website for specials. Or compare rates at an online booking site such as Expedia or Hotels.com. There is an additional pet fee. Laundry facilities are available on property. There is also a small workout studio.

Oregon-based Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown stayed at Element Moab by Westin while researching additional articles. Text and all photography are her own. As always, all opinions are her own.