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Moab, Utah is renowned for its stunning national and state parks, making it a premier destination for adventure seekers. While many travelers associate Moab with summer activities, the winter season offers unique benefits that are often overlooked.
During winter, visitors can enjoy fewer crowds, budget-friendly hotel rates, and the chance to enter parks without timed entry reservations. The sight of sunlight reflecting off snow-dusted red rock formations at Arches National Park is breathtaking, and long winter nights provide excellent opportunities for dark-sky stargazing. To learn more about planning a winter trip to Moab, read on.
Accessibility Made Easy
Contour Airlines offers daily flights to Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY), conveniently located near Moab. Travelers can choose direct flights or connect easily through American Airlines, all while enjoying the same baggage allowance for their journey.
Photo Credit: Manu Manuti
The flight itself is a scenic experience. With Contour’s Embraer jets featuring a unique two-on-one seat configuration, passengers can take in impressive aerial views of attractions such as Lake Powell and Canyonlands National Park, all while enjoying complimentary snacks and beverages. The absence of middle seats and ample legroom adds to the comfort of the journey.
The Allure of Nature
Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination. Spanning 120 square miles just north of Moab, the park welcomes visitors to traverse its scenic road, offering numerous viewpoints or to explore one of its numerous hiking trails.
During peak seasons from April to June and August to October, a reservation is required for entrance between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., and spots can fill up quickly. However, from November through March, visitors can enter the park without reservations, highlighting one of the many advantages of visiting in winter.
Photo Credit: E Merk via Unsplash
As Utah’s largest national park, Canyonlands National Park covers 527 square miles and is accessible year-round, although visitor centers may close in winter. The park features several districts, with the Island in the Sky District being only 32 miles from Moab. This area offers a user-friendly way to explore, complete with scenic drives, overlooks, and a variety of trails for hikers of all levels. Those eager for a challenge might even consider backpacking, as the park is known for its rugged terrain.
Photo Credit: Kush Dwivedi via Unsplash
Just a stone’s throw from Moab is Dead Horse Point State Park, renowned for its breathtaking views 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. Recognized as Utah’s first International Dark Sky Park, it provides an ideal setting for stargazing, with minimal light pollution. Visitors can check out the park’s website for special nighttime events, such as ranger-led Moon Hikes and their Stars and Stories program. Both Arches and Canyonlands are also designated International Dark Sky Parks, alongside Moab itself.
Photo Credit: Utah DNR
For winter sports enthusiasts, the La Sal Mountains provide opportunities for cross-country skiing. While the snow enhances the landscape, travelers are advised to check conditions on the park’s websites before setting out, as winter weather can affect trail accessibility.
Beyond Natural Wonders
When you’re not out exploring the parks, Moab’s downtown area has much to offer. Main Street is lined with restaurants, shops, and breweries, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure. Visitors can also take a stroll along an outdoor sculpture trail, which features rotating artwork available for purchase, with updates each September. Learn more about this initiative through Moab ArTTrails.
Photo Credit: Ali Harford
A beloved local eatery, the Moab Diner, located on Main Street, serves up diner favorites and all-day breakfast, perfect for refueling after a day spent in the elements. Be sure to sample their renowned green chili sauce. Downtown also features the Trailhead Public House and Eatery, known for hearty dishes such as fish and chips and Reuben sandwiches.
Cactus Jacks Moab – Photo Credit: Mark Finley
As winter rolls in, Moab hosts a variety of indoor events, including the 9th annual Winterlude Moab Music Festival from January 25 to February 1, which features public performances from guest ensembles, including several free events. Additionally, the Moab SyFy Film Festival will return in February with screenings that pair well with a night under the stars.
Photo Credit: Discover Moab
A range of outdoor sporting events awaits runners and cyclists in Moab during the winter months, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. With running events scheduled from January to April, including the Moab Red Hot Ultra in February and the Canyonlands Half Marathon in March, participants can enjoy stunning views while pushing their limits. The Skinny Tire Festival, happening over four days in March, will take cyclists through some of the region’s most picturesque landscapes, including routes alongside the Colorado River. For mountain biking aficionados, April’s TransRockies Moab Rocks offers a grueling challenge across 76 miles and an elevation gain of 7,800 feet.
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www.travelzoo.com