If youre lucky enough to have snow on the ground, make the most of it and rent a fat bike for the journey from Poison Spider bike shop in town. Monument Valley is about a 2 to 2 hour drive from Moab. Gemini Bridges is popular if you have a little bit of clearance, or wander the shoreline of the Colorado River along Potash Road. Unlike Moab, the snow in Bryce Canyon tends to stick around, so snowshoeing is a cool way to experience the area. Canyonlands is a little bit further out, but not by much. The best part? At one point there were families who were sledding. Arches National Park is breathtaking any time of year, but when the low winter sun illuminates the snowy white icing atop Moabs velvety red rocks, you get a scenery that is unlike anything else on this planet. Minnesota is home to an abundance of lakes, trails, parks, and natural spaces that offer many exciting adventures and activities! If you really want to beat the crowds in Moab in winter, opt for a sunirse hike or drive. Mountain biking in the winter just means a little extra preparation and having a positive mindset. To access the main point of Delicate Arch (the view shown below) you have to hike to it. Visiting Monument Valley is about a 2 3 hr drive day trip drive from Moab, but is totally worth it. Crave the snow-capped mountains? moab Totally not P.C., but totally cool. moab thejoubertden sedona We chose to self-drive and I am so glad we did! The dance of contrasting colors, brilliant oranges, and reds against pure white snow patches is a photographers dream. What is there to do in Moab in the winter? Its hard to go wrong with winter photography in Moab. Yes, that is the name. If going on a ranger-led hike is more your speed, you can review your options and sign up for one, Just north of Canyonlands, down 2 miles on a relatively quiet dirt road are the spectacular theropod and. Don't go right on 14 unless you can fly! Base Camp is open all winter long, and usually stays pretty dry: Any snowfall melts within the first hours of daylight. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Some climbs, like Silly Wabbit (V3+), are so sun-baked in the summer that you can really only spend time on them come winter. Visit Discover Moab for more information on the local businesses in Moab. Be smart, take your time and this is something the whole family can enjoy! Pack a little lunch, and make a whole afternoon of it. The dirt road winding through the red rocks, viewpoints, and buttes was a blast. It is cool, unique, and super easy to visit. Sunsets in Moab are simply unbelievable. Yep, us too. For me, this is a must-do when visiting Moab, and is a great way to introduce yourself or your children to ancient US history and art. The sun is harsh in the desert no matter what time of year it is. This means that there will be ice and snow for days on northern faces. How to Have a Killer Time Visiting Moab in Winter! Yes! Moab can get snow. Click to see the post here The Complete Winter Moab Packing List. Some dirt roads may be closed due to weather conditions, water sports may be too chilly, and camping is certainly a cold experience, but otherwise there are an array of amazing winter activities in Moab. Moab in December. If you are traveling in winter, 4-5 days is perfect! Dead Horse Point features dramatic views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Ive got you covered with these expert resources. However, because of the snow, we were told the road conditions were a bit dodgy and to consider a lighter and easier trail. This perfectly situated viewpoint was my second favorite thing we did in the park! The cooler weather makesthe rubber on yourclimbing shoesextragrippy, and your hands won't have to be as reliant on chalk to stay dry. Stick to marked trails and tread lightly. But you can still enjoy classic rides such as Captain Ahab, Amassa Back, and Porcupine Rim are still open in the winter. Just dont. There are spots where people have marked their names and dates on the rock face. It was the perfect trail. It was a super easy walk from the parking area, and there is plenty of space to walk around and get some of the prettiest views! Photographers will love the Island in the Sky District, where you can get that iconic shot of Mesa Arch at sunrise, or experience the incredible viewpoints along Grand View Point Drive. As always, make sure to Recreate Responsibly during your winter visit to Moab. Id recommend a range of lenses, from wide angle (for really getting a sense of vastness to tighter lenses that let you hone in on detail. Be respectful. Highs are around 45 degrees, lows are 22 degrees Farenheit. Leave the desert better than you found it. Inside this experts guide to exploring Moab, Utah in winter youll find: The weather in Moab in winter can be quite cold. Many of the privately-owned campgrounds and the more touristy shops and restaurants in Moab close for winter. We suggest spending at least one full day in each park and then saving some time at the end of your trip where you can go back to the sites you maybe didnt get to explore as much as you wanted. Sunrise, sunset, and evening/morning hours are the best for photography in Moab. Please explore responsibly! Then add Moab to your list of winter destinations. Check out these areas in winter: Pro Tip: NEVER climb wet sandstone, its exceptionally dangerous as the rock becomes brittle and breaks easily (bolts and gear can pull out). Situated on the southern edge of Grand County in Southeastern Utah lies a dramatic landscape of red rocks, spires, and mesas. There are some really fun hikes you can do. The quick little hike (less than a mile) to Mesa Arch was hands down my favorite thing we did all day in Canyonlands. Before you visit Moab in winter, there are several things you should know. Stick to marked trails and durable surfaces whenever possible so you dont trample fragile wildlife. Dress warm, be prepared, and a little bit flexible with the weather, and have an absolute blast! I was surprised by how cool I thought they were (I have some conflicted feelings regarding the Dinosaurs but that is neither here nor there hahah). A quick note about visiting Newspaper Rock-. Thats how I saw Delicate Arch with virtually no one else around. Sure, you may be bundled up, but with super-thin crowds and a magical red-rock landscape dusted in snow, this place is pure heaven during the winter months. and hot tubs of Moabs lodging options enticing as well. Because they are not as well known, when we stopped for a visit, we had the whole area to ourselves! 13 AMAZING Things to do in Moab in Winter to have a Killer Time, The Best of Arches National Park in Winter, The Best of Canyonlands National Park in Winter, This single-lane winding road down into the canyons of Canyonlands National Park is both extraordinary and exhilarating. moab rappelling Kids and adults alike can walk around and on this super cool geological formation. Trip Report: Big Four Ice Caves in Granite, WA, Cat Skiing in Colorado: What to Know and Where to Go, The Best Way to See the Entire Country in One Day. When you think of Moab, you probably dont think of skiing as an activity you can do. For visiting times, rules, and prices you can find out more on the Navajo National Website, 11. moab This hike and visiting the arch is something I can, without a doubt, suggest for littles and adults alike. Backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and simply enjoying the mountains are just a few things on offer in the La Sals. With deep gorges, towering cliff faces, arches, and hikes galore Canyonlands is a blast in the winter. Rock art, historical artifacts, and a delicate ecosystem make the desert a special place. This article may contain sponsored content or affiliate links. It's time to Hemplify! Take traction devices, like microspikes for slippery, snowy terrain. It should be noted that any sort of moisture really any time of the year jeeping and ATV riding on the slick rock is discouraged. Also, 4 wheel drive is not in any way required but we were glad we had it since it allowed us to go faster and get muddy. Neatly manicured, and perfectly wide for hiking. The La Sals are infamous for their unstable avalanche conditions. We have listed three of our absolute favorite things to do! Virtually all of the hiking trails in Moab are open year-round. Arches National Park sits five miles north of Moab and is famous for containing the highest density of natural arches in the world. As you climb up through aspen forests, be sure to look back occasionally to take in spectacular views of the red desert dropping away behind you. High is 44 and lows are 20, with temperatures frequently in the teens. If it wasnt for a nice man out walking with his dogs who directed us we would have been so lost and turned around. Just north of Canyonlands, down 2 miles on a relatively quiet dirt road are the spectacular theropod and sauropod tracks. moab 3 days of precipitation (usually snow) on average. Similar to mountain biking, Moab is well-known for rock climbing. Mid-day lighting tends to be quite harsh. I am a married mom of two children, ages 14 and 17, living near Salt Lake City, Utah. twomonkeystravelgroup The Top Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park, Your Arches Weekend Itinerary to Beat the Crowds, Information about the weather in Moab during the winter, Green River Overlook in Island in the Sky. Depending on where you start, Porcupine Rim can offer 9to16 miles of glorious descent. In fact, many of Moabs best rock climbing areas have winter options. Also along Kane Creek road is the Base Camp disc golf course, known as one of the three most extreme disc golf courses in the world. The hike in winter was awesome. Tastes Like Chicken (5.7) is a great climb to warm up on. The snow was super fine and powdery. Sunny southern and western faces typically melt quickly. Unlike the uber-packed spring, summer, and fall, winter in Moab is a tranquil paradise. moab Something to note about Moab is that it is really dry. On average, Moab gets 244 days of sun and only gets about 9 inches of snow a year. Guys, it is so so so awesome! However, dont let this get you down. It is not to be missed, but it is also not to be taken lightly. My top suggestion is the Wildcat Trail. Absolutely! From the spectacular views along Arches Scenic Drive to visiting Delicate Arch at sunrise there are plenty of ways to enjoy Arches National Park in winter. The overlook soars 2000 feet over the Colorado River. Yes! For food, there are several options, but no trip to Moab in winter is complete without a trip to the Moab Garage. In winter, its probably best to rent (or bring) your lifted, off-road ready Jeep to the occasion. So, while it does snow in Moab, it is highly possible you wont get much snow on your visit. https://www.discovermoab.com/winter-activities/, The BEST Rides at Disneys California Adventure, 8 Ways to Avoid Crowds at Zion National Park, 15 Tips for Perfect Cruise Ship Shore Excursions, Tips for Your First Trip to Denali National Park. Morocco Travel Tips EVERYTHING You Need to Know Before You Go. The vibe in Moab in winter is very local and low-key. Newspaper Rock is a flat rock face with hundreds of scratched out petroglyphs dating back to possibly over two thousand years ago. Neatly manicured, and perfectly wide for hiking. It has super hot summers and cold winters which makes the spring and fall seasons really busy. It was astoundingly beautiful in the snow, easy, fun, and the reward at the end was next level. Ive been to Moab countless times and my winter visits are always a special treat. They are really impressive, especially considering the fact that you are able to take in the sites of the goosenecks and the silhouette of the buttes of Monument Valley in the background. I promise that with a little prep, and a good coat that Moab in winter is an absolute blast! Lysianne Peacock One thing to note about snow in Moab is that it will melt quite quickly. Good at both Arches and Canyonlands, youll want this pass if you plan on visiting the national parks for more than three days. Here are some tips to help you enjoy winter rock climbing: Another way to spend your time in Moab in the winter is to support the local businesses. A popular destination in the sweltering heat of summer, and even more popular in the spring and fall when the temperatures become reasonable, many dont know that one of the best times to visit this hub to outdoor recreation is in the winter. This pass is good for a 12-month period so if you have a lot of national parks on your bucket list, a pass is worth it. Planning a trip to Moab? So heres how to make the most of Moab in winter. I have saved the very best for last! From the paved drives that carve their way through the desert to multi-day 44 adventures, you can find a driving adventure that suits your mood. If you want to try mountain biking, then youve got to check out trails at Dead Horse Point State Park. All Rights Reserved. It has some of the best views and is one that you can do unguided. It is because of this reason you NEED to consider visiting Moab in the winter and you shouldnt let Moab in winter stress you out! We had planned on going jeeping on some pretty intense slickrock around Moab while we were there. A few hikes you cant miss include: Keep in mind youll still want to bring plenty of water (the desert is still dry), layers, and sturdy hiking shoes or boots. This post is going to cover the best things to do in Moab in winter and how to make your visit a smashing success. This is Moab, UT. It is so cool. We spent a full day at both Arches, Canyonlands, and Monument Valley and had a blast at each! However, if the sun is out and the wind isnt blowing, the rocks will heat up the surrounding air and it will feel warmer than it actually is. slickrock moab You cannot get right up close to it without hiking. IT IS SO COOL! planetware 12 Places to hike, bike, and camp near Chicago, Chasing sunsets and silver linings in Marin. Here are some must do hikes for your winter trip: Dead Horse Point State Park is a hidden gem just a few short miles outside of the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park. Quick note: We had a hard time finding these. Go Explore the Monument Valley Buttes , My most favorite thing we did was drive the Valley Road within Monument Valley. Alright, Im going to let you in on a little secret. moab Moab in winter is absolutely incredible. Here are some tips for trying out winter mountain biking in Moab: Moab does not feature any rock climbing gyms because the surrounding red rock landscape is the gym. In fact, backcountry skiing in the La Sals even rivals the Wasatch Range. moab If youre truly hardcore, youll leave the car behind and ride the rim as a loop or an out and back. Moabs busy season is fall, when visitors from all over the world flood its canyons, parks, and campsites. concurrent trail conditions and make sure youre experienced enough (if not, hire a guide) for these rough rides. It was beautiful and fun. Heres the thing, Moabs weather is intense. It is a private course, with an entry fee of $5, plus another $5 if you want to camp therean ideal way to make a weekend getaway out of it. arches Pro Tip: Bring traction for your feet, such as microspikes, so you dont slip and fall in shady areas. It is super easy, more like a walk honestly, the views are amazing, and this is something even the littlest of kids would enjoy and have a blast. As long as the trails are dry and free of mud, they are open for bikers. AMMMAAAZZZIIIINGGG!! moab With winter comes the storage or bikes but it doesnt have to be that way, especially during your trip to Moab. First, a few Common Questions about Visiting Moab in Winter. Moab is open for tourist year-round and winter is a excellent time to visit Moab if youre looking for a quieter experience. Either way, regardless of if you can either hike or drive the Shafer Trail and all its viewpoints are at the top of our list! As I mentioned, we visited both parks when Moab had just gotten a massive snowstorm the day before we arrived. However, the Northern faces of rock and some eastern faces stay in the shade for longer. Moab in January. If you have little kids in your group, I highly suggest this! For more information on the La Sal Mountain Loop visit the USDA Forest Service website. Hi there! Moab is world famous for mountain biking trails and the winter is an excellent time to hit the single track. It would be so fun to bring paper and some crayons and make some fun dinosaur tracks rubbings. But you can also rent OHVs at deeply discounted prices too. After lots of fun-filled adventure, why not relax in downtown Moab? Be prepared to bundle up for this place, as sunlight can be sparse, and the brisk wind whistles through the hoodooswhich only adds to the winter-y feel of this uniquely Moab adventure. But be sure to bundle up! Just be sure to read up. Mountain biking in Moab is legendary. Some popular locations in Moab include the bouldering field across from Big Bend campground on State Highway 128 or Wall Street five miles down Potash Road. Follow the signs and keep going until you get to a little dirt road. We decided to take our own truck out and hit the easier muddy trails on our own. Make sure to keep an eye out for businesses with Green and Gold signs. We chose to hike, even with the snow, and I am glad we did. Even if it doesnt snow, it could still be chilly, so be sure to be prepared (I will go over this in just a minute). Canyonlands is the younger, neighboring national park. moab thetravelersway traveler canyonlands travelworldonline scenery pinnwand sedona The favorites topping with loads of winter hikes, visiting the National Parks, seeing the prehistoric petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock, and a day trip to Monument Valley. Pro Tip: Be in the know about desert hiking. There's an abundance of outdoor adventure in and around the Windy City. It does snow in Moab, although typically not in huge amounts. The Goosenecks are similar to the famous Horseshoe Bend but not as well known. For visiting times, rules, and prices you can find out more on the Navajo National Website here. moab We have a whole post dedicated to the best gear, coats, and what you might need to pack in the off chance that it snows and is super chilly when you visit! Note: Our car was destroyed with red mud after, so a car wash is a must. Honestly, we had the best time visiting Moab in Winter! Wall street is sun-bathed from early morning until mid-day. These signs are a city-sponsored initiative to encourage businesses to establish sustainable practices. Winter is truly the goldmine to visiting Moab because you will be greeted with less tourists and will get to experience the high desert in a different way. There were tons of cute little families bundled up in all of their snow gear making the hike as well. So cool! We took our first child on a two-week road trip when she was four weeks old and we have been traveling as a family ever since. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. It begins 8 miles south of Moab and winds up to 10,140 feet before dropping down to Castle Valley and ending at Highway 128 bringing you back to Moab. Yes, it is totally, totally worth it! It is about 5 minutes off the main road on the way to Monument Valley. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Note: Our car was destroyed with red mud after, so a car wash is a must. It is totally drivable and easy and then you will see a massive sign that says Willowcreek Dinosaur Tracks. If youre looking to explore Moab like a local, not a tourist, then youre in the right place. There are no food options an any of the parks near Moab and the nearest food is in town and outside of park boundaries (meaning youll pay twice). The world famous, 12 mile Slickrock Bike Trail is said to be the ultimate mountain biking experience. moab Mountains stand as a backdrop to this wondrous landscape. Keep in mind that the suns rays reflect off of snow so cover the bottom of your chin and nose to stay protected. This made pictures SO AWESOME!! Consider getting an America the Beautiful Parks Pass. An Eddie Bauer review. Moab is the gateway to two national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonland National Park. Looking to "ice" up your adventures this winter? Pro Tip: New moons are a great time to hit up Arches National Park for astrophotography. Created by an entrenched river meander cut out from the San Juan River, they are breathtaking. Many of the same things to do in Moab throughout the year are still options for winter fun. One of the best things about the drive is it is full of cool stops and formations on the way! One of the best things about visiting Canyonlands in the winter is that it was nearly dead and was not busy in the least. Kids could run around and play in here forever! However, you can drive to Delicate Arch if you want to see a really pretty viewpoint from below the arch by car. A few hours outside of Moab on the way to Monument Valley is a unique valley called Indian Creek. However, you can still find a few amazing, locally-crafted souvineers. A few cant miss sights include: Pro Tip: There is still a line to get into the park, even in winter, if you arrive after 9 am. If you have little kids in your group, I highly suggest this! The beauty of these parks is only intensified by the blanket of glittering snow that lies on the red rocks in the winter. Many of the shops have reduced hours (sometimes only open on weekends). Canyonlands is often overlooked by its more famous National Park competitor Arches, however, Canyonlands should not be missed. Pack a little lunch, and make a whole afternoon of it. Enter places like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park before sunrise to have plenty of solitude. But with the 12,000 foot high peaks that sit southeast of the town comes backcountry skiing. The dirt road winding through the red rocks, viewpoints, and buttes was a blast. So cool! The mountains that frame Moab are known as the La Sal Mountains, and there is a 60-mile paved road that loops through these mountains that can be your gateway to alpine winter adventure or just a scenic drive.