Winter Vacations in Moab

Winter in Moab

Winter season is the ideal time to experience Moab without the crowds. While winter is slower than other times of year, Moab is by no means shut down for the season. Find a place to stay and enjoy the bounty of the public lands all around the area. Delight in red rock paradise, find limitless snow in the La Sal Mountains, and save lots of time for shopping and dining around town. Moab is the best winter season vacation.

Moab’s winter weather is frequently sunny and cold. Winters generally see daytime highs in the 40s and 50s, with nighttime lows dropping well below freezing. Bundle up – layers are best – and get ready for a fantastic journey. While it can be cold, there generally isn’t excessive snow, so there’s abundant opportunities for lower elevation fun like hiking, biking and even golfing. Outdoor lovers can head into the mountains to take pleasure in winter sports like backcountry snowboarding and snowshoeing. Moab sees about a foot of snow a year, but the mountains receive far more of the fluffy white stuff.

Things to Do in Moab in Winter

For most tourists, Southern Utah winters prevent comfy outdoor camping, and periodic snowfall can make outside adventure a little more challenging. With a little additional planning, excellent layers, and the right devices, you can take pleasure in Moab’s national forests in the solitude of winter.

WINTER HIKING

Immerse yourself in red rock by opting for a winter season hike. One preferred spot to check out is Dead Horse Point State Park where 7 miles of trails connect to areas along the rim. There isn't much elevation modification along the path, and it has spectacular views of the Colorado River, La Sal Mountains and incredible surroundings all around.

Canyonlands National Park's Island in the Sky district is just 45 minutes from Moab and has a plethora of hiking options. Take a hike on a relatively simple path along the mesa top or get ready for a difficult winter season hike. With any winter hike, prepare for winter conditions and think about traction add-ons for your boots if ice or snow is present.

MOAB BIKING IN WINTER

Winter season is still mountain biking season in Moab, and the Amasa Trail network is a fun winter season option. Be aware of slippery patches on any winter trek, and ensure your bike is ready for the conditions you'll come across. Stop by one of the area bike shops for recommendations and to ensure your bike is ready for the experience ahead.

WINTER IN ARCHES

Located just outside the city, Arches National Park is a must-see location on any trip to Moab. Opt for a picturesque drive or walking and enjoy intense red rock arches, in some cases dusted with snow. Explore a wide array of routes, from easier paths like the Nature Path by the visitor center to more difficult paths like Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and beyond. Spend time snapping spectacular images of the park's arches by day, then come out at night for stargazing and celestial views.

BACKCOUNTRY SNOWBOARDING IN LA SALS

The La Sal Mountains provide Moab with a snowy backdrop and a fantastic winter playground. Lots of winter season adventures await, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Delight in everything from short part-day experiences to multi-day expeditions like snowboarding between backcountry yurts. Make certain to examine weather and roadway conditions as well as the avalanche forecast and pack everything you require for a winter season experience. Be aware you will require strong route-finding skills, particularly if you venture off the primary trails. You may need four-wheel drive or chains to reach some trailheads, and always be prepared for winter season driving conditions.

WINTER SHOPPING AND DINING IN MOAB

Indulge in scrumptious meals at an array of Moab dining establishments, consisting of Thai, BBA, pizza, coffee shops, traditional diner-style meals, pizza, Mediterranean, vegetarian options and more. Always check a dining establishment's hours prior to making plans given that some reduce operations in the winter season.

Lots of shopping options are also available, so you can stroll around searching for books, ceramics, equipment, art, cycling accessories, rocks, photography, tee shirts and far more.