When Is the Best Time to Visit Moab?
Spring
Springtime in Utah is the quintessential time to explore this blushed landscape. The best spring activities are rafting, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The Colorado River fills with snowmelt this time of year, churning up the frothiest rapids of the season (especially in Cataract Canyon). Meanwhile, the temperatures over the Slickrock and along the canyons are pleasant enough to climb and ride the whole day.
There’s not much that is off-limits this time of year, just book a tour well in advance when planning your trip.
Moab, UT Rafting: Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park
Summer
Things get a tad less busy once Moab’s heat rolls in, which makes for some welcoming room in the national parks and around town. Get the most out of a summer stay with kayaking or rafting, canyoneering, and skydiving or ziplining. The Colorado River keeps its chill even while the surrounding rock bakes, and slot canyons that rarely see the sun are super cool— both in temperature and sentiment. When in need of a breeze, catch one in a harness!
Heads up, the temperatures climb up to 100°F by the early afternoon this time of year. So hiking, biking, climbing, or anything other strenuous activity should be planned accordingly. Getting out on the water is the best way to beat the heat in our opinion!
Moab, UT Rafting – Castle Valley
Fall
While the temperatures drop into comfort, Moab’s cottonwoods and wildflowers completely saturate this already vibrant landscape. Enjoy the area’s equinox to the fullest by paddle boarding and canoeing, horseback riding, and hang gliding. As the Colorado River simmers down, the flat water through Castle Valley is pristine for leisurely floats. Also, the mild weather makes for great trodding through the valleys or flying over them on autumn winds.
Just about any activity is open for business this season, just book a tour well in advance when planning your trip.
Winter
Moab is active year-round, and the colder season has just as much to offer from winter sports to off-roading. The La Sal Mountains offer beautiful runs for backcountry skiing and snowmobiling. Or take a scenic flight for a rare, soul-stirring sight of the mountains and red canyons coated in white. For groundwork, off-roading is great year-round, but the trails this time of year become less crowded and offer a little more excitement in the snow.
There is no rafting during winter a la hypothermia. Also, various tour companies take this season off, so there will be fewer options when booking an adventure. For mountain bikers, consider a phat or snow bike for extra grip on the Slickrock.