When is the "BEST" time to travel to Moab, Utah?

The best time to travel to Moab, Utah, largely depends on what kind of activities you’re interested in, but here’s a breakdown of the ideal seasons to visit...

4/7/20252 min read

a large rock formation in the middle of a desert
a large rock formation in the middle of a desert

1. Spring (March to May)

Why It’s Great: Spring is one of the best times to visit Moab. The weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and off-roading. The desert blooms with wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the scenery.

Why Visit: Temperatures are comfortable, and the crowds are not as heavy as in the summer months. This is ideal for visiting national parks like Arches and Canyonlands without the extreme heat of summer.

Special Events: The Moab Jeep Safari in March is a popular off-roading event.

2. Fall (September to November)

Why It’s Great: Fall is another fantastic time to visit Moab, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The weather is still warm but not too hot, and the crowds start to thin out after the summer rush.

Why Visit: Fall provides pleasant conditions for outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing. The foliage in some parts of the region also turns vibrant shades of yellow and orange, creating beautiful landscapes.

Special Events: The Moab Arts Festival in October is a great time to explore local culture.

3. Summer (June to August)

Why It’s Popular: While summer offers longer days (with up to 14 hours of daylight), temperatures can soar into the 90s and 100s°F (32°C to 40°C), especially in July and August.

Why Visit: If you love heat and don’t mind the summer crowds, this is the time when everything in Moab is open, and there are more activities and events. However, it's important to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM).

Special Events: The Moab Music Festival and Moab Adventure Center offer seasonal activities in the summer.

4. Winter (December to February)

Why It’s Quiet: Winter in Moab is quieter, and temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). It can get quite cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, and some of the higher elevation trails may be snowy or icy.

Why Visit: Winter is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds. If you don’t mind the cold, you can enjoy fewer visitors and the serenity of the parks. You can still do off-roading, sightseeing, and hiking in lower elevations, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.

Special Events: Winter brings more availability of hotel rooms and tour guides at discounted rates, but it’s generally a quieter time in Moab.

So, when is the Best Overall Time to Visit?

April to May and September to October: These months offer the best weather (comfortable temperatures and lower chances of rain) with fewer crowds than the summer months, making them perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Spring and fall are the best times to visit Moab for ideal weather and fewer crowds, but summer is still great if you’re prepared for the heat and want to take advantage of the extended daylight hours. Winter is perfect for those looking for a peaceful experience and fewer tourists.