Moab in December: Weather Info, Travel Tips, and Things to Do for 2023
WONDERING IF VISITING MOAB IN DECEMBER IS A GOOD IDEA?
You’ve landed on the right article! We have spent months traveling around Southern Utah and I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about visiting Moab in December, one of our favorite places to visit in Utah!
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 December 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 December a Good Time to Visit Moab?
Yes, December is a great time to visit Moab, Utah in the United States if you don’t mind cooler weather. December and January are the coldest months in Moab as the cooler temperatures from November continue.
We had it snow on us in Moab in late October so snow, rain, and cooler temperatures are likely in December.
Although you might get some occasional snow showers, there are plenty of outdoor and indoor activities to enjoy in Moab. Visiting in December is also a great time to observe Arches National Park’s red-rock formations, especially if you are looking to avoid the crowds.
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 December
By September through November, you can expect these daily high temperatures to be cooling. November is when the temperatures really start cooling down for winter. By the time you get to December, you should really expect winter conditions.
You can expect daily high temperatures ranging from 35°F to 40°F. The daily low temperatures in Moab in December range from 20°F to 25°F.
Overall, the weather in Moab in December is pleasant if you don’t mind bundling up when you go outside. You should plan on overnight freezing temperatures almost every night.
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 average highs ranging from 20°F to 38°F with low humidity.
Average Temperature in Moab in December
- Average high temperature in Moab in December: 38°F
- Average low temperature in Moab in December: 24°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 December
March through June are the windier months in Moab. The average wind speed in December is 3.9 mph. This is one of the least windy months in Moab.
Average Rainfall in Moab in December
In terms of rain, you can expect one of the wettest months compared to the rest of the year. You can expect about 0.63″ of rain.
Things to do in Moab in December
If you are thinking of what to do in Moab, Utah, in December, you will find plenty of outdoor activities and things to do in Moab with kids. 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. However, in December some seasonal closures may start, so if you are camping, you may want to make sure your campground is still open.
Here are the top activities you can enjoy in Moab during December.
Arches National Park in December
For stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities, Arches National Park is the place to be in Moab in December. With more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches and dramatic red rocks, visitors have plenty to explore, especially on the Windows Trail.
One of the great things about visiting Arches National Park in December is you don’t need a reservation to visit. You can come and go at any time of the day without the worry of long lines to get in or needing a reservation.
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.
If you are concerned about the heat or cold, this is a great option for staying cool or warm in a vehicle with climate-controlled temperatures.
If you have found it is too cold for hiking, you should still take the time to drive through the national park. The scenic drive in Arches National Park is a lot of fun and has great scenery.
Canyonlands National Park in December
Located near Arches, Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most amazing views of the Utah desert. When comparing Arches vs Canyonlands, you can expect large scenic views in Canyonlands.
With over 300 miles of trails, like the Mesa Arch trail, 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 December are usually sunny but chilly. You can enjoy the hiking trails and viewpoints in the Island in the Sky section of the park anytime throughout the day. We absolutely loved the time we spent in Canyonlands during our last trip to Moab.
We rented a jeep through Moab Adventure Center, explored the White Rim Trail, and spent another day visiting the different viewpoints and hikes throughout the park. This is a great way to spend a day in Canyonlands National Park. Driving the White Rim Road in a vehicle with a heater is a great way to escape the colder weather.
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.
The White Rim Road may close during wintery conditions, so if there has been a lot of rain or snow, it is a good idea to make sure it is open before heading over to Canyonlands.
▶ BOOK Canyonlands Half-Day Tour
Mountain Biking in Moab in December
If you want to do a lot of mountain biking, December may not be the most ideal time to visit. You can expect cold temperatures during the day with wetter trails. The spring and fall have more favorable conditions.
However, if you’re dead set on visiting, you will find great trails here. Whether you’re an 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 December
Aside from mountain biking, visitors can explore Moab’s extensive trail network on foot. Many trails span from 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.
Even though it isn’t hot outside, make sure to bring plenty of water, 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.
There is a possibility for some ice and snow on the trails, so keep that in mind before heading out on the trail. It is still a good idea to bring plenty of water with you.
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 December
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!
The weather in December is really cold and may not be the best time to go camping. If you do go camping, make sure you are prepared with the needed gear for camping in the cold.
Freezing temperatures overnight are likely almost every night in December. There are also some seasonal closures of some of the campgrounds in December.
Off-Roading Near Moab
Adventurers looking for a thrill can explore the rugged off-road trails that wind through Utah’s landscape. During December, there are plenty of off-road trails close to Moab, from novice routes to daredevil courses.
A number of the trails can be navigated with relatively modest vehicles, while some require an off-road vehicle, such as an ATV, OHV, 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 recommend exploring these trails for at least a couple of hours or on a tour if needed. If you have the time and equipment, you could spend days or weeks and love every minute of it.
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
Check out what Moab in December has to offer!
- Winter Sun 10K is taking place on December 2nd. Take in the beauty of Moab during the off-season.
- Electric Light Parade on December 2nd. – DETAILS TO COME
Is Moab busy in December?
December is part of the slower season in Moab. Conditions start getting a little cooler which keeps some people away. Because of this, if you’re comfortable wearing a warm coat, this can be a great time to visit Moab.
What to Bring to Moab in December
The weather in Moab in December is cooler, with warmer temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. If you are going to be outdoors during the day, you should be prepared with plenty of water and good hiking shoes.
You will want to make sure you bring warm layers with you.
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes
The Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a great choice for Moab 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 to bring 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 adventurous days on the trails.
▶ SHOP Columbia Women’s Hiking Shoes
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 December 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 December. 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 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.
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, taking US-6 southeast to I-70 east, then south on US-191 to Moab. The drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park is 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 to Moab 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 December
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 and a great option if you’re looking for hotels near Canyonlands.
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 and a great downtown Moab hotel. This is just a 5-minute drive from the Arches National Park Entrance Station. The inn offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. 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 near Arches 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 December
Is December a good month for Moab?
December is a great time to experience the beauty of the Moab desert if you don’t mind colder temperatures and want to visit Moab when it isn’t as crowded. The warm summer temperatures are gone, but because of this, you will see a decrease in crowds in the national parks.
Is December a good time to visit Arches National Park?
Yes! December is a good time to visit Arches National Park because you don’t need a reservation, and it will not be nearly as busy as the other times of the year. However, it is cold so you will need to be prepared with warm clothing. The lodging is also way cheaper.
How warm is Moab, Utah in December?
In December, Moab is experiencing winter conditioners. Winter in Utah is cold, but you can expect the high temperature to be in the mid-30s Fahrenheit in Moab. Overnight lows are around 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion: Moab in December
Moab, Utah, in December can be a great time to visit for those looking to experience the beauty of the Moab area. 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 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.
