How to...Moab...in the off season!

Moab is the ultimate outdoor playground, and truly does offers something for everyone. From the high adventure mountain biking on the infamous Portal Trail, to an afternoon stroll in the Park, Moab is the epicenter for “all things adventure.” Some of the best mountain bike trails, national parks, hikes, climbs, OHV trails, photography, landscapes….and the list just keeps going …are all found here.  

In the high season, Moab is a victim of its own success; most hotels, campgrounds, and Airbnb’s are booked out weeks (if not months) in advance. Arches National Park is having to reevaluate their visitor management plan to accommodate the influx in visitation. And finding solitude on the popular hikes or bike trails is increasingly rare. Moab is truly in a class of its own, and the mystic has spread far and wide. Every year visitors are coming from around the globe in hopes of seeing what all the hype is about, and they usually leave with just a glimpse of the wonders of this magical desert oasis…already planning their next Moab adventure trip.  

Here are some of our favorite ways to Moab…if you are looking for a bit less of the hustle and bustle of the high-season.

Wintering

When you think of winter in Utah, images of skiing the deep powder of Greatest Snow on Earth may come to mind. But consider for a minute: the pure magic of a white layer of glistening snow accenting the vibrant colors of the desert. It is a beautiful sight to see. The off-season (Nov-Feb) in this outdoor paradise offers a unique and slower paced retreat. The average daytime temps during these months are usually in the 50’s. The top winter friendly hikes in Arches National Park are Windows, Park Avenue and Devil’s Garden. Delicate Arch is stunning this time of year with the snow-covered La Sal Mountains in the background, but this hike can be icy and it is recommended to check in with the park rangers to get updated trail conditions.

One of Canyonlands National Park’s most iconic vistas, Mesa Arch, is a must see and even more breath taking during the winter months. This incredible arch is on the bucket list of photographers around the world for consistently-amazing sunrise shots. The trail is fairly flat and just a half mile, and be sure to pack a camera on this one.

Did you know that many of Moab’s biking trails can ridden year-round?  Depending on the temps and snowfall, there are almost always a few good options for riding during winter.  The locals may not like us sharing this secret as it’s their time to be out riding, but it’s always a good idea to check in with the local bike shops for trail updates this time of year.  

Out of the Park hikes we love include:

At 140-feet tall, Corona Arch is a massive beauty that is a must-see. The hike is 3 miles round-trip and easily accessed. Longbow Arch trail is 2.5 miles round-trip, and be sure to look for the dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs along the way. The Grandstaff Trail is 4 miles round-trip and leads to the massive, 243-foot long Morning Glory Natural Bridge.  Fisher Towers is 4 miles round-trip and winds through amazing red rock fins, pinnacles and spires. The Portal Overlook trail is 4 miles roundtrip offering unparalleled views of the Moab Valley. Hidden Valley is 4 miles round-trip and leads to a beautiful meadows and petroglyphs.

Check out these properties for winter lodging deals –

Hampton Inn

Holiday Inn Express

Comfort Suites

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