Winter Activities in Moab
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Backcountry Skiing at La Sals
The La Sal Mountains provide Moab with a snowy backdrop and a fantastic winter playground. Plenty of winter adventures await, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Enjoy everything from short part-day adventures to multi-day excursions like skiing between backcountry yurts. Be sure to check weather and road conditions as well as the avalanche forecast and pack everything you need for a winter adventure. Be aware you will need solid route-finding skills, especially if you venture off the main trails. You may need four-wheel drive or chains to reach some trailheads, and always be prepared for winter driving conditions.
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Mountain Biking
Winter is still mountain biking season in Moab, and the Amasa Back trail network is a fun winter option. Be aware of slippery patches on any winter ride, and make sure your bike is ready for the conditions you’ll encounter. Stop by one of the local bike shops for recommendations and to make sure your bike is ready for the adventure ahead.
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Winter Hiking
Immerse yourself in red rock by going for a winter hike. One favorite spot to explore is Dead Horse Point State Park where seven miles of trails connect eight overlooks along the rim. There isn’t much elevation change along the route, and it provides stunning views of the Colorado River, La Sal Mountains and incredible scenery all around. Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district is just 45 minutes from Moab and it offers a plethora of hiking opportunities. Take a hike on a relatively easy route along the mesa top or gear up and get ready for a challenging winter hike. With any winter hike, be prepared for winter conditions and consider traction devices for your boots if ice or snow may be present.
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Winter in Arches
Located just outside city limits, Arches National Park is a must-see destination on any trip to Moab. Go for a scenic drive or hike and revel in fiery red rock arches — sometimes dusted with snow. Spend time hiking a wide variety of trails, from easier paths like the Nature Trail by the visitor center to more challenging routes like Balanced Rock, Double Arch and beyond. Spend some time snapping stunning images of the park’s array of arches and then come out at night for stargazing and celestial views.
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Winter Shopping & Dining
Indulge in delicious meals at an array of Moab restaurants, including Thai, barbeque, pizza, coffee shop delights, classic diner-style dishes, pizza, Mediterranean, vegetarian options and more. Be sure to check a restaurant’s hours before making plans since some reduce operations in the winter. Plenty of shopping options are also available, so you can stroll along Main Street searching for books, ceramics, gear, art, biking accessories, rocks, photography, t-shirts and much more.
"Revel in red rock paradise, find endless snow in the La Sal Mountains and save plenty of time for shopping and dining around town."
Arches National Park, a Dark Sky Park, is recognized for its commitment to preserving some of the darkest night skies in the Southwest.
Winter in Canyonlands National Park
Backcountry Skiing in the La Sal Mountains
Yurt under the Milky Way at Dead Horse Point State Park
Photo: Bret Edge
Winter Lodging in Moab
While some lodging options close for the winter season, many more remain open year-round. Stay in a hotel, motel, resort, lodge, B&B, cabin or vacation rental during your winter visit. Or opt for a camping or glamping experience. While some campgrounds close for winter, many others remain open. If you’re camping, be sure to find out if the campground will have water available or if you’ll need to bring your own since many water systems shut down when temperatures drop below freezing. Winter campers should be well-prepared with all the gear, equipment and supplies they will need, in addition to the skills and experience to safely camp in winter conditions.
Be sure to check if your preferred accommodation is open or closed in the winter, and know that even if your first choice is shuttered for the slow season, there are plenty of other options to choose from.
Winter Inspiration
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A Winter’s Desert: Visiting Southern Utah in the Slow Months
Experiencing the peace of canyon country in the winter is an attraction of its own.
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Across a Snow-Covered Desert
Follow this itinerary for a week-long winter road trip across the snow-covered desert of Southeastern Utah.
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Find a Winter Refresh in a Utah State Park
The best Utah state parks will entice you with ice fishing, white sand and snow-dusted scenery. Take a winter break to refresh with a visit to a few of these places.
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How to Slow Travel in Utah
Avoid the mad scramble and consider slow travel as a better approach to your Utah trip.
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Walking The Line Between Risk and Responsibility
Why a Hawaii-based highliner and influencer hasn't returned to Utah — yet.
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Winter in Southeastern Utah: Arches and Canyonlands
Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? Plan a winter Southeastern Utah trip. Experience more peace, quiet and solitude.
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Winter in Southern Utah Like a Local
Southern Utah comes alive in winter with unexpected experiences for those who are well-prepared and solitude for those who want to expand their view.
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Yurt Camping in Utah: How To Have a Wintertime Yurt Excursion
Whether you’re glamping or choosing a simpler option, yurt camping in Utah during the wintertime is a fun, unique experience you won’t want to miss out on.
