Moab in March: Weather Info, Travel Tips, and Things to Do for 2024
Are you planning a trip to Moab in March? Look no further! From the stunning sunrises that light up the rocky landscape of red deserts to the mesmerizing sunsets that bring out the stars, Moab is sure to take your breath away and a must-see on anyone’s bucket list!
This article on visiting Moab in March will provide you with all the essential details to help you plan a thrilling journey to this beautiful region filled with outdoor adventures. We’ll cover the best time to visit, weather conditions, travel tips, and all the wonderful things you can do in Moab.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Moab?
Yes, March is a great time to visit Moab, Utah! This time of year is usually warm enough to be comfortable outside. The area is alive with outdoor activities perfect for the season.
March also offers some of the best mountain biking, road biking, and hiking of the year due to the snow melt. Rafting trips usually start up around this time of year as well.
Although you might get some occasional showers, there are plenty of outdoor and indoor activities to enjoy in Moab. Visiting in March is also a great time to observe Arches National Park’s red-rock formations and the desert wildflowers that start to bloom in late winter.
The postcard-perfect landscapes and scenery are a sight to behold during this magical time of year. With so much to explore and enjoy, Moab is an ideal destination for any traveler looking to get away from the haste of the city and experience some of nature’s most stunning offerings.
Weather in Moab in March
In the month of March, the weather in Moab is generally mild. You can expect daily high temperatures ranging from 55°F to 64°F. The daily low temperatures in Moab in March range from 32°F to 39°F. This means that it can still be quite cool, especially at night.
However, it is not uncommon for the average temperature to reach 75°F during the day or fall below 24°F at night.
Overall, the weather in Moab in March is pleasant and comfortable. It is a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. By comparison, the weather in July, the hottest month, has daytime temperatures around 95°F, while the weather in January is much colder, with daily an average high ranging from 20°F to 38°F with low humidity.
There can be some flash floods in the Spring in Moab. Be sure to check weather conditions and the weather forecast in this part of Utah.
Average Temperature in Moab in March
- Average high temperature in Moab in March: 55°F
- Average low temperature in Moab in March: 37°F
- What are the hottest months in Moab? July-August, with an average high of about 90°F
- What are the coldest months in Moab? December-January
Average Wind Speed in Moab in March
March through June are the windier months in Moab. In March, the average windspeed is 7 mph.
Average Rainfall in Moab in March
March is one of the rainier months in Moab. You can expect about 0.71″ of rain. Moab is in the desert, so although it is a high month for rain, it is still relatively little rain.
Things to do in Moab in March
If you are thinking of what to do in Moab, Utah, in March, you will find plenty of outdoor activities to fill your Moab itinerary. With numerous attractions, outdoor recreation, and camping spots nearby, there is plenty to do and explore. It is a great place to enjoy a short hike, a scenic drive, or mountain bike on a slickrock trail.
Here are the top activities you can enjoy in Moab during March.
Arches National Park in March
For stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities, Arches National Park is the place to be in Moab in March. With more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches and dramatic red rocks, visitors have plenty to explore that is often less crowded than during peak summer months. Bring a camera to capture the area’s breathtaking beauty.
Tip: Book this Self-Guided Audio Tour for Arches to get the most out of your trip through this beautiful national park!
Hiking trails, rock climbing, and off-roading are among the most popular activities at Arches. It is also home to Delicate Arch, one of the best hikes in Utah. We also enjoyed visiting Sand Dune Arch with our kids and exploring the Queens Garden Trail.
If you don’t want to drive yourself through the park and want to see the less visited parts of the park, there is a great Arches National Park 4×4 tour that will take you along the backroads in the park where hardly anyone visits with many stops including Eye of the Whale Arch and Tower Arch.
Canyonlands National Park in March
Located near Arches, Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most amazing views of the Utah desert. With over 300 miles of trails, visitors have plenty of opportunities to explore. It is a good place for mountain biking and Jeep trails that offer the thrill of navigating through precarious terrain like on the Shafer Trail switchbacks.
Tip: Book this Self-Guided Audio Tour for Canyonlands to get the most out of your trip through this beautiful national park!
Moab temperatures in March are comfortable enough to enjoy a full day of hiking and sightseeing amidst the picturesque canyons. We absolutely loved the time we spent in Canyonlands during our last trip to Moab.
We rented a jeep through Moab Adventure Center and explored the White Rim Trail, and spent another day visiting the different viewpoints and hikes throughout the park.
If you’re interested in exploring the White Rim Trail, you can either rent a jeep and drive yourself or go on a guided tour. This is a great way to beat the crowds in the national park and enjoy the beautiful views down in the Canyon. You can read more about our experience in our White Rim Trail Guide.
▶ BOOK Canyonlands Half-Day Tour
Mountain Biking in Moab in March
Mountain biking is one of the best activities in Moab during March, with numerous trails for every type of biker. Whether you’re an experienced expert or a first-timer, Moab has something for everyone and is truly a paradise for mountain bikers. Pack enough gear with you to enjoy a full day of riding.
One of the best places to go mountain biking in the area is Dead Horse Point, State Park, and the Sand Flatts Recreation Area. The views from this state park are gorgeous. If you don’t have your own mountain biking gear but want to give it a try, you can join a Moab mountain biking tour, which provides trail guidance and gear.
Hiking in Moab in March
Aside from mountain biking, visitors can explore Moab’s extensive trail network on foot. Many trails span from the Arches and Canyonlands National Park to the edge of the Colorado River. Take a 3–4-hour hike for an invigorating day exploring the great outdoors and marvel at the stunning scenery of the area.
Make sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, sun protection, and other essentials with you. Corona Arch and Jeep Arch are two of our favorite hikes in the area if you want to stay out of the national parks.
Jeep Tour
For a unique look at desert scenery, go on a Moab jeep tour and discover the hidden gems in this area. These tours will take you to some off-the-beaten-path sites and breathtaking viewpoints, all while sharing the stories and history of the local area.
You can either rent a jeep with a driver, or you can book a tour where you get to drive. Either way, you will have a great time exploring the 4×4 trails in Moab.
Camping in Moab in March
Moab offers a great opportunity for camping out in the wilderness, whether you’d like to set up a tent off the beaten path or in a more established camping area. Many camping spots offer amenities like fire rings, lakes, and picnic tables.
Popular camping areas include Dead Horse Point, Arches National Park, and Grandstaff Canyon. There is also tons of dispersed camping in Moab!
Off-Roading Near Moab
Adventurers looking for a thrill can explore the rugged off-road trails that wind through Utah’s landscape. During March, there are plenty of off-road trails close to Moab, from novice routes to daredevil courses.
Many of the trails can be navigated with relatively modest vehicles, while some require an off-road vehicle, such as an ATV or Jeep. Make sure to adhere to off-road safety precautions and respect the environment when riding or driving. This is one of our favorite things to do in Moab, and we can’t recommend exploring these trails for at least a couple of hours.
We have explored a good number of the trails there and always enjoy driving Hell’s Revenge, Poison Spider, and Fins and Things. You can read more about these trails in our Moab Off-Road Trails Guide.
▶ BOOK a 4×4 Tour of Hell’s Revenge
Participate in a Special Event
In March, Moab is host to several special events that cater to a range of interests and activities.
- The Skinny Tire Festival is a 4-day cycling event that takes place on March 11 and features amazing scenery and bucket-list-worthy routes through Arches National Park and along the Colorado River.
- The Canyonlands Half Marathon and 5 Mile takes place on March 18, attracting thousands of runners who come to enjoy the scenic red rock formations and winding Colorado River in Moab.
- On March 25, the Behind the Rocks Ultra takes place, starting and finishing at the Behind the Rocks Trail and taking runners through the beautiful Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study Area.
- The Moab Rocks Mountain Bike Race is a fun-filled 3-day mountain bike stage race that takes place on March 25–27 in Moab, which is famed as one of the world’s most iconic mountain biking destinations.
Whether you are an avid runner, cyclist, or mountain biker, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Moab in March.
Is Moab busy in March?
Moab tends to be fairly busy in March, especially on weekends when many people visit to take advantage of the pleasant weather and outdoor activities. March is a popular time for visitors to come to Moab to enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and visiting the national parks.
In addition, the special events that take place in Moab in March, such as the Skinny Tire Festival, Canyonlands Half Marathon and 5 Mile, Behind the Rocks Ultra, and Moab Rocks Mountain Bike Race, can also attract large crowds to the area.
However, Moab is a large and expansive area, so even if it is busy, it is still possible to find solitude and enjoy the beauty of the area. It is a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations if you are planning to visit Moab in March, as accommodations can fill up quickly during this time.
What to Bring to Moab in March
March can be unpredictable in terms of weather in Moab, and the weather can range from warm days to freezing nights. So, it’s best to be prepared with layers of clothing and the proper rain gear, along with water bottles. The following are some chilly weather essentials to bring along with you when planning a trip to Moab in March:
Women’s Classic-Fit Long-Sleeve Full-Zip Fleece Jacket
The Women’s Classic-Fit Long-Sleeve Full-Zip Fleece Jacket is a great choice for Moab in March because it will keep you warm and comfortable in cooler weather. It’s made from soft, fuzzy polar fleece fabric and has a full-length zipper closure for added protection from the elements.
Men’s Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket
The Men’s Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket is another excellent choice for Moab in March. It’s easy to wear, with a relaxed fit through the chest and a tapered waist for a more flattering silhouette. The soft, warm, and fuzzy polar fleece fabric will keep you comfortable in cooler temperatures.
Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket
The Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket is a must-have for Moab in March because it’s made from waterproof nylon shell material that will protect you from rain and drizzle. It’s lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great layering piece for any outdoor activity.
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes
The Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a great choice for Moab in March because they are designed to provide superior cushioning and support on rough terrain.
They are waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about wet feet, and the advanced traction rubber soles provide slip-free movement.
▶ SHOP Columbia Men’s Hiking Shoes
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes
The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes are perfect for Moab in March because they are made from a combination of supportive leather and suede that is waterproof.
The TECH LITE lightweight midsole provides long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return. This makes these shoes perfect for treacherous days on the trails.
▶ SHOP Columbia Women’s Hiking Shoes
How to Get to Moab
By Air
The nearest major airport to Moab is the Salt Lake City International Airport. It is about a 4-hour drive from Moab. From the airport, you can rent a car and make the drive to Moab, or you can take a shuttle service.
There are also a few smaller airports in the area, such as the Grand Junction Regional Airport, which is a 2-hour drive from Moab. The Canyonlands Field Airport is a 10-minute drive from Moab.
By Car
Driving is a popular way to get to Moab, Utah. The city is easily accessible by car from many major cities in the Southwest.
From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south to I-70 east and then south on US-191. Alternatively, you can take a more panoramic route by heading south on I-15 and taking US-6 southeast to I-70 east, then south on US-191 to Moab. The drive from Salt Lake City takes approximately 3.75 hours.
From Denver, take I-70 west to US-191 south to Moab. For a scenic route, take I-70 west to UT-128 Southwest to Moab. If you are coming from southwestern Colorado, take CO-90 west/UT-46 west to US-191 north to Moab. The drive from Denver takes approximately 5.5 hours.
From Las Vegas, take I-15 north to I-70 east to US-191 south to Moab. Many scenic byways pass through southeastern Utah. The drive from Las Vegas takes approximately 6.5 hours.
From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Flagstaff, Arizona, and then take I-40 east to US-191 north to Moab. The drive from Phoenix takes approximately 7.25 hours.
From Reno, take I-80 east to I-15 south and go through Salt Lake City. Take exit 258 to US-6 east/US-89 south and follow US-89 south to I-70 east. Head south on US-191 to Moab. The drive from Reno takes approximately 11 hours.
Where to Stay in Moab in March
La Quinta by Wyndham Moab (Rating: 8.5/10)
La Quinta by Wyndham Moab is a convenient and comfortable choice for travelers. Located west of the La Sal Mountain Range in the Moab Valley, the hotel is just a 15-minute drive from Arches National Park.
The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, and free WiFi. Guests can start their day with a hearty breakfast buffet before relaxing in the hot tub or working out in the fitness center. The hotel also has a business center for those who need to catch up on work.
“We only had an overnight stay. Everything was fine, they gave us a discount coupon for the restaurant next door.” – James (Booking Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: La Quinta by Wyndham Moab
Aarchway Inn (Rating: 9.2/10)
Aarchway Inn is a unique and charming inn located off Highway 191. This is just a 5-minute drive from the Arches National Park Entrance Station. The inn offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness course, and free shuttle service for guests. There are spacious rooms with cable TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, and iPod docking stations.
The sandstone-themed rooms also include ceiling fans, seating areas, and en suite bathrooms. The inn also has a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor basketball court, and barbecue equipment with picnic tables. It is close to a range of outdoor activities.
“This was our first time traveling with our dog, and there was a specific area outside for dogs that made us feel very welcome!” – Adrianna (Booking Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Aarchway Inn
Moab Comfort Suites (Rating: 9.2/10)
Comfort Suites Moab near Arches National Park is a great choice for travelers looking for a hotel with modern amenities. Located in Moab, the hotel features a hot tub and offers free hot breakfast daily.
The guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, work desks, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, small refrigerators, and en suite bathrooms. The hotel also has a fitness center, business center, laundry facilities, and free parking.
It is just a 5-minute drive from Arches National Park and a 40-minute drive from Corona Arch.
“Great sized room and incredibly comfortable. Staff on reception were really friendly and helpful. Location is perfect for acces to arches and shops/restaurants” – Peter (Booking Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Moab Comfort Suites
FAQ: Moab in March
Is March a good month for Moab?
Absolutely! March is the perfect time to experience the beauty of the Moab desert without the scorching summer temperatures.
Is there snow in Moab in March?
While snow is possible in March, it’s more likely you’ll find pleasant sunshine and mild temperatures. It’s always wise to check the Moab weather in March in advance for accurate forecasts.
Is March a good time to visit Arches National Park?
Yes! March is an optimal time to visit Arches National Park thanks to the good weather and attractions that open up. It’s a great time to experience the park’s breathtaking views and unique formations.
How warm is Moab, Utah in March?
In March, Moab generally has comfortable average temperatures in the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit during the day and in the mid-30s at night.
Conclusion: Moab in March
Moab, Utah, in March can be a great time to visit for those looking to experience the beauty of the Moab area without the crowds of the high season. From taking a hike and catching the setting sun from Delicate Arch to mountain biking throughout the area, you’ll find plenty of ways to occupy your days and make your stay in Moab a memorable one!
From morning coffee to late afternoon adventures, you can experience all that the Moab area has to offer and make memories that will last a lifetime.
