ULUM Moab: Redefining Luxury Glamping in Utah’s Iconic Desert
Experience high-end glamping at ULUM Moab, where innovative design, curated adventures, and natural splendor converge near Utah’s national parks.
Nestled among the red rock canyons and mesas of the American Southwest, ULUM Moab represents a new evolution in luxury camping. As the high-end, design-forward spin-off from Under Canvas, a trailblazing glamping brand, ULUM combines immersive nature experiences with thoughtfully curated comfort and programming. Open seasonally from late March to late October, this distinctive resort offers unparalleled access to Southern Utah’s stunning natural wonders, including Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the protected wilds stretching beyond Moab.
A New Benchmark for Glamping: The AFAR Take
Utah’s Moab region has long beckoned adventurers, hikers, and stargazers. Traditionally, lodging options catered more to hardy campers and no-frills motor lodges—until the arrival of ULUM, which raises the bar on glamping with inventive design, elevated amenities, and a focus on well-being and connection. Since opening in May 2023, ULUM has rapidly made waves, earning a position on both AFAR Magazine’s Best New Hotels of 2024 and other top hospitality lists.
Who ULUM Moab Is For
- Adventurous couples and solo travelers seeking exploration by day and refined comfort by night.
- Outdoor-loving families eager to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing modern conveniences.
- Dog owners looking for pet-friendly luxury accommodations surrounded by wild beauty.
- Travel groups and celebration seekers wanting memorable, outdoor-focused gatherings.
- Seasoned glampers or Under Canvas devotees who crave more amenities, design elegance, and sophisticated dining.
Immersive Desert Location
Set 25 miles south of Moab on 221 acres of protected SITLA (School and Institutional Trust Land Administration) land, ULUM enchants guests with a panorama of Utah’s wild tapestry:
- Surrounded by protected BLM lands, national parks, and monuments—including the sacred Abajo Mountains and Elk Ridge of Bears Ears National Monument.
- The resort hugs 100-foot rust-colored cliffs, forming a natural amphitheater with Looking Glass Arch—a signature regional landmark—just minutes away by foot.
- Local flora include juniper trees, desert sage, pinyon pines, rabbit brush, black-eyed susans, and native tumbleweeds. The land lease supports Utah’s public education system.
Guests enjoy sweeping views, tranquil seclusion, and easy access to outdoor adventures—while supporting environmental stewardship and local communities.
Design and Atmosphere: Blending Nature and Comfort
The air-conditioned main lodge is a centerpiece of design, embracing the site’s natural elements. Standout features include:
- Quartzite rock chandelier crafted from materials gathered onsite, reflecting the colors and textures of the desert.
- Floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the ochre landscape, casting daylight and sunset hues indoors.
- Locally-inspired decor blends minimalism with warmth, spotlighting sustainable materials and open spaces that encourage guests to mingle or simply unwind.
The relaxed yet sophisticated environment sets the tone for both adventure and restorative moments, whether on the expansive patio, by a cozy firepit, or within the curated lounge spaces.
Elegant Tented Suites: Where Comfort Meets Wilderness
ULUM offers 50 spacious tented suites, each curated for a harmonious balance between rugged immersion and modern hospitality:
- Bedroom with a plush king-size bed for restful sleep after days of adventure.
- Lounge area featuring a queen-size sofa bed, perfect for groups or families.
- Private 70-square-foot deck with sunrise and sunset views.
- En suite bathroom complete with a rain shower for a touch of spa-like indulgence.
- Wood-burning stove warms up chilly desert evenings.
In a bold (and intentional) departure from conventional resorts, tented suites feature no televisions or Wi-Fi, creating space for guests to truly disconnect and reconnect with themselves, others, and nature. As May Lilley, ULUM’s Chief Marketing Officer, observes: “We really encourage guests to connect with themselves and with others and with nature.”
Thoughtful Amenities and Social Spaces
ULUM Moab goes far beyond a place to rest your head, delivering a wealth of amenities and activity hubs that balance adventure with restoration:
- Main Lodge with Adventure Concierge desk, well-curated gift shop, and a full-service restaurant along with a café offering packaged lunches for days on the trail.
- Hot and cold dipping pools for soothing post-hike muscles or invigorating your senses.
- Yoga deck with guided morning classes and panoramic views.
- Firepits and a sprawling patio where local musicians perform under the stars most nights, fostering community and relaxation.
- Dedicated spaces for exclusive events, retreats, or celebrations, making ULUM an ideal destination for weddings or group gatherings.
Sustainable, Elevated Dining
Dining at ULUM Moab is a major part of the experience, with a keen emphasis on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced fare:
- Full-service alfresco restaurant serving offerings such as short rib tacos and bison burgers.
- Espresso and smoothie bar for morning energy or a cool midday break.
- Packaged lunches tailored for take-away adventures.
- Focus on sustainability: Menus highlight regional produce and responsibly sourced ingredients, with an eye toward eco-conscious practices.
Evening programming often features artisanal s’mores—with gourmet chocolate—and craft cocktails by the fire. Meals are enjoyed beneath vast, starry skies for an unforgettable setting.
Curated Programming & Adventure Concierge
ULUM distinguishes itself with programming designed to nurture connection and inspire exploration:
- Guided yoga and mindfulness sessions each morning to start the day with grounding energy.
- Live music performances by local acoustic artists, infusing evenings with the magic of the desert night.
- Onsite hiking trails and a wealth of information from the Adventure Concierge to help guests plan excursions into Arches, Canyonlands, or off-the-beaten-path wilderness.
- Special event programming: Celebrate milestones, retreats, or wellness weekends with exclusive group activities, culinary events, and more.
- Evening s’mores and stargazing that tap into Moab’s renowned International Dark Sky status for celestial viewing.
Nearby Natural Attractions
| Destination | Distance | Main Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Arches National Park | ~30 minutes | Sandstone arches, scenic drives, hiking trails |
| Canyonlands National Park (Needles District) | ~50 miles | Buttes, mesas, slot canyons |
| Bears Ears National Monument | Visible from lodge | Petroglyphs, indigenous history |
| Looking Glass Arch | Short hike | Natural stone arch, sunset vistas |
Why ULUM Stands Out
ULUM Moab distinguishes itself in several ways:
- Design-forward luxury that remains approachable and never ostentatious.
- Commitment to disconnection: No screens, no Wi-Fi in the tents, and a focus on human connection and mindfulness.
- Stewardship: A portion of resort rent funds Utah’s public schools, and sustainable operations minimize environmental impact.
- Recognition: Selected as one of AFAR’s Best New Hotels of 2024 and noted in leading travel publications for redefining upscale outdoor hospitality.
Guest Experience: What to Expect
ULUM strives to create a sense of welcome, wonder, and well-being for every guest. The staff prioritize warm, authentic hospitality, with a genuine love for the region’s environment and culture. As cited by both guests and experts, this spirit of connection is at the core of ULUM’s appeal:
- Personalized service: Adventure Concierge crafts unique itineraries and meets the needs of individual guests, whether they crave solitude or social engagement.
- Community atmosphere: Common spaces and nightly programming encourage guests to exchange stories and relax together.
- Quiet and privacy: Sprawling grounds ensure every tent and group can enjoy solitude, serenity, and a deep sense of immersion in nature.
Seasonality and Booking
ULUM Moab operates seasonally—from late March through October—to ensure an optimal glamping climate. Outside this window, desert temperatures make camping less comfortable. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak spring and autumn months when the Utah desert reveals its most dramatic colors and temperate weather. Rates, while reflecting the level of luxury and exclusivity, also include many complimentary activities and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is ULUM Moab suitable for families?
A: Absolutely. The spacious suite tents and a variety of onsite activities—combined with ULUM’s outdoor focus—make it an excellent escape for families.
Q: Can I bring my dog to ULUM Moab?
A: Yes, dogs are welcome, and the property is designed to accommodate canine companions comfortably.
Q: Are there options for private or group events?
A: ULUM is ideal for group celebrations, weddings, family reunions, and retreats, with bespoke programming and ample space for exclusive events.
Q: Is Wi-Fi or cellular service available in the tented suites?
A: Tents are intentionally designed without Wi-Fi or televisions in order to promote digital disconnection and deeper engagement with nature, though limited cell service is typically available in common areas.
Q: Does the resort operate year-round?
A: No, to ensure the best guest experience, ULUM Moab operates seasonally from late March through October.
Plan Your Stay at ULUM Moab
ULUM Moab invites you to experience new possibilities in desert hospitality—through design, sustainability, and a return to what matters most: nature, adventure, and authentic connection. Whether your passion is hiking, biking, stargazing, or simply unwinding beneath canyon skies, ULUM offers a unique and unforgettable base to explore Southeastern Utah’s legendary landscape.
