Moab in May: Weather Info, Travel Tips, and Things to Do for 2024
WONDERING IF VISITING MOAB IN MAY 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 May. As one of the best months to visit, you’re sure to have a great vacation in Moab, Utah in May.
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 May 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 May a Good Time to Visit Moab?
Yes, May is a great time to visit Moab, Utah in the United States! This time of year is usually warm enough to be comfortable outside. The area is alive with outdoor activities perfect for the season.
May 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 May 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 May
In the month of May, the weather in Moab is generally mild. You can expect daily high temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F. The daily low temperatures in Moab in May range from 48°F to 55°F. This means that it can still be cool, especially at night; however, there should not be freezing temperatures.
Overall, the weather in Moab in May 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 average highs 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 May
- Average high temperature in Moab in May: 72°F
- Average low temperature in Moab in May: 51°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 May
March through June are the more windy months in Moab. In May, the average windspeed is 8 mph.
Average Rainfall in Moab in May
May is one of the drier months in Moab. You can expect about 0.47″ of rain.
Things to do in Moab in May
If you are thinking of what to do in Moab, Utah, in May, 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.
Here are the top activities you can enjoy in Moab during May.
Arches National Park in May
For stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities, Arches National Park is the place to be in Moab in May. With more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches and dramatic red rocks, visitors have plenty to explore that is often less crowded than in the peak summer months.
Although it is less crowded than in the summer months, you will still need to make a reservation for the park. Tickets will be required from 7 am to 4 pm daily.
Reservations for the month of May start on February 1st at 8 am MST. Tickets are available three months in advance in monthly blocks. You can make your reservation here. If you aren’t able to get tickets ahead of time, a few tickets are available one-day before at 6 pm MDT through Recreation.gov.
If you aren’t able to get tickets, you can enter the park after 4 pm. We went to the park one evening after 4 pm and had a great time.
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 May
Located near Arches, Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most amazing views of the Utah desert. 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 May are comfortable enough to enjoy a full day of hiking and sightseeing amidst the picturesque canyons in the Island in the Sky section of the park. We absolutely loved the time we spent in Canyonlands during our last trip to Moab, especially the Mesa Arch hike.
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.
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 May
Mountain biking is one of the best activities in Moab during May, with numerous trails for every type of biker. 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 May
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.
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.
Enjoy The Wildflowers
Wildflowers spring to life in late spring in Moab. If you’re lucky, you will be able to spot several different varieties while exploring the trails throughout Moab in May!
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 May
Moab offers a great opportunity for camping 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 May, 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
May is a popular time for special interest groups to gather together and enjoy the best of what Moab has to offer!
- The Bronco Safari 2023 is a week-long 4×4 event for Bronco enthusiasts, taking place May 2-6. Bronco owners gather to socialize, show off their vehicles, and enjoy group trail rides.
- Gran Fondo Moab is a road cycling race taking place on May 6th. The route will cover 60 miles of canyon country scenery, via the La Sal Mountain Loop.
- Raptors on the Rocks is a weekend 4 x4 off-road event taking place May 12-14. Raptor enthusiasts from all over the globe converge in Moab to enjoy the trails, scenery, and camaraderie.
- Thelma and Louise Marathon, Half Marathon, and 15K – On May 13th, level up a ladies’ weekend with this exciting challenge! This women-only trail race will be a mix of dirt roads, slickrock, and some sandy washes.
- goneMOAB is taking place May 21-26. This is the premier Nissan off-road event. Nissan owners will gather for group trail rides and other happenings.
Whether you are an avid runner, cyclist, or mountain biker, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Moab in May.
Is Moab busy in May?
Moab tends to be fairly busy in May, especially on weekends when many people visit to take advantage of the pleasant weather and outdoor activities before the temperatures heat up in the summer.
May is a popular time for visitors to come to Moab to enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and visiting the national parks.
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 April or May, as accommodations can fill up quickly during this time.
What to Bring to Moab in May
May can be unpredictable in terms of weather in Moab, and the weather can range from warm days to cooler 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 May:
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 May 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 May. 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.
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
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 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 May
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 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 May
Is May a good month for Moab?
Absolutely! May is the perfect time to experience the beauty of the Moab desert without the scorching summer temperatures.
Is there snow in Moab in May?
While snow is possible in May, it’s more likely you’ll find pleasant sunshine and mild temperatures. It’s always wise to check the weather in advance for accurate forecasts; however, you shouldn’t expect snow.
Is May a good time to visit Arches National Park?
Yes! May 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 May?
In May, Moab generally has comfortable average temperatures in the mid to upper-60s Fahrenheit during the day and in the upper 40s at night.
Conclusion: Moab in May
Moab, Utah, in May can be a great time to visit for those looking to experience the beauty of the Moab area without the hot summer temperatures. 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.
