A tent on the shore of the river in Moab, Utah

Moab Weather Guide: Best Times to Visit & Local Expert Forecast Tips

What is the weather in Moab, Utah like? Moab features a high-desert climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot (90°F–100°F+), winters are cold but sunny (30°F–50°F), and spring and fall offer the most temperate conditions for outdoor adventure. The best time to visit Moab for rafting is May–June, while climbing and canyoneering peak in March–April and October–November.

Ah, the weather of Moab, Utah! Ask me if I thought I had to be a weather forecaster when I started Red River Adventures, and my answer would have been a resounding NO.

That, however, is not the case. I am constantly asked: “What’s the weather like in [Month]?” or “Will it rain tomorrow?” As it turns out, the weather is a massive part of the job. My “weather geekiness” goes back to my childhood surfing on the East Coast, where I’d spend hours glued to the Weather Channel and NOAA radio. Now that I ski, climb, and raft professionally, understanding the sky is vital for safety and fun.

 

How to Check Moab Weather Like a Pro

Beyond looking out the window, here are the professional tools we use to track the Moab forecast:

  • National Weather Service (NWS): The gold standard. Enter zip code 84532. I bypass the “at a glance” view and go straight to the 4k infrared satellite loop to see the strength of incoming systems.
  • NWS Forecast Discussion: This is the “raw” version of the forecast. It’s the head forecaster’s best guess at the why and when. It’s a “forecast of the forecast” and essential for timing storms.
  • Windy.com: An incredible visual tool for tracking wind gusts—crucial for rafters and climbers.
  • Weather.com: I use their 10-day Moab forecast for long-range planning, though anything beyond 7 days should be taken with a grain of salt.

Seasonal Weather in Moab, Utah

If you’re seeking a picturesque destination to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, Moab, Utah, is a must-visit. Boasting abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures, Moab experiences all four distinct seasons. While it’s essential to be ready for the ever-changing weather in Moab, this diversity also opens up numerous possibilities for engaging in a wide array of activities. Curious about what the weather is like in Moab, Utah, during different seasons of the year, read on!

summer and winter season in moab

Winter Weather in Moab, Utah

The winter weather in Moab, Utah tends to be mild. Furthermore, this is also a slow season for tourism. If you want to check out some unique scenery, the winter is a great time to go hiking, as temperatures are still relatively mild; however, it does snow occasionally.

If the cold weather has you visiting Salt Lake City check out our ice climbing tours. If you have never gone ice climbing before, this is one of the top ways to experience the beauty that Utah has to offer.

Some stats on the weather in Moab, Utah include:

  • December: Temperatures are usually in the 30s and 40s with 70 percent humidity and 0.16 inches of precipitation.
  • January: Temperatures are usually in the 30s and 40s with 73 percent humidity and 0.18 inches of precipitation.
  • February: Temperatures usually range between the 40s and 50s with 61 percent humidity and 0.16 inches of precipitation.

Spring Weather in Moab, Utah

As the temperature starts to warm up once again, spring is a great time to go rock climbing. With tons of unique rock formations and world class climbing in Moab, this is a great opportunity to try out a guided rock climbing tour.

Some stats on spring weather in Moab include:

  • March: Temperatures usually in the 50s and 60s with 44 percent humidity and 0.14 inches of precipitation.
  • April: Temperatures usually fall in the 60s with 35 percent humidity and 0.2 inches of precipitation.
  • May: Temperatures usually fluctuate between the 70s and 80s with 31 percent humidity and 0.19 inches of rain.

Summer Weather in Moab, Utah

The summer weather certainly heats up in Moab! This is the time to jump into the water. Moab has exceptional opportunities when it comes to white water rafting and kayaking. With the mighty Colorado River flowing right by town why not enjoy natures swimming pool! Spending time on the water is a great way to cool off on a hot day!

Some stats on summer weather in Moab, Utah include:

  • June: Temperatures in the 80 and 90s with 22 percent humidity and 0.07 inches of precipitation.
  • July: Temperatures can get close to 100 degrees with 28 percent humidity and 0.22 inches of rain.
  • August: Temperatures usually crest at 95 degrees with 34 percent humidity and 0.32 inches of precipitation.

Fall Weather in Moab, Utah

With the fall weather in Moab, it starts to cool off again, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. For example, this is the time to go canyoneering or rock climbing.

Fall weather in Moab includes:

  • September: Temperatures in September hover in the 70s with 0.28 inches of rain and 37 percent humidity
  • October: Temperatures drop to the 60s in October with 0.27 inches of rain and 46 percent humidity
  • November: November cools off temperatures in the 50s, 55 percent humidity, and 0.14 inches of precipitation

Plan Your Next Trip To Moab

Moab has adventure for everyone! If you are interested in taking advantage of everything that Moab has to offer, contact us or book your tour with Red River Adventures today!

Moab Weather FAQ

When is the best time to visit Moab for outdoor activities?

  • The “shoulder seasons” of Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to October) are widely considered the best times to visit. You’ll enjoy daytime temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, perfect for rock climbing and canyoneering.

Does it snow in Moab during the winter?

  • Yes, but it’s usually light. Winter weather in Moab is mild and sunny, making it a “secret season” for hikers who want to avoid crowds. If the desert gets too cold, many locals head north for ice climbing tours near Salt Lake City.

How hot does Moab get in the summer?

  • July and August often see temperatures exceeding 100°F. This is the best time to be on the water. With the Colorado River flowing right through town, whitewater rafting is the primary way to stay cool in the “nature’s swimming pool.”

What is the rainy season in Moab?

  • Moab is arid, but it experiences a “Monsoon” season in late summer (August and September). Afternoon thunderstorms can be brief but intense, often causing spectacular waterfalls off the red rock cliffs—and potential flash floods in canyons.