While Moab is renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes and outdoor adventures in the warmer months, the winter season unveils a whole new side of this desert paradise. Read on for tips on how to embrace the serene beauty and unique charm that Moab has to offer during the winter months.
Tranquil Beauty
Our nearby national parks do not require timed entry reservations during the off-season months of November to March. These months typically see the least amount of visitation, meaning any visitors will find quieter and less crowded landscapes. There are still entry fees to enter the parks, but remember that national parks are open 24/7!
Mild Temperatures
Winter in Moab brings cooler and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities than the summer months, when temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees. Moab’s mild winters also provide warm respites for our regional neighbors.
Cozy Accommodations
Many hotels and lodging accommodations offer deals in the winter months.
Shopping
Many people are surprised to discover that a large number of Moab’s retail shops and galleries are open throughout the year. Explore locally owned boutiques and art galleries throughout the winter!
Stargazing Extravaganza
Moab is a stargazer’s paradise. The clear winter skies reveal a dazzling display of stars, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Bring your telescope or join a local stargazing tour for an awe-inspiring celestial experience.
Night Sky Above Delicate Arch in Winter
Shops & Restaurants Closed in the Winter
Retail/Guides
Raven’s Rim - Closed Nov 23-Feb 27
Moab Giants - Closed January; open weekends only in Feb
Moab Rock Shop - Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Years Day
Chile Pepper Bike Shop: Closed Dec 22 - Jan 4
High Point Hummer - Closed Dec 14 - Jan 6
Desert Dreams & Raindance: Closed Dec 1 - mid February
The Sundry - Closed Jan 1 - Feb 13
Moab Adventure Center - Closed Dec 13 - Feb 1
Indigo Alley and Desert Wild - Closed Jan 4 - Feb 10
Restaurants
Ye Ol' Geezer Meat Shop - Closed Nov 27-Dec 1, Dec 25-29, Jan 11-26
Sabaku Sushi - Closed Jan 4-Feb 13
98 Center - Closed Jan 5 - Feb 13
Horsethief Coffee - Closed Dec 1 to March 1
Gloria's Cafe - Closed Jan 5 - Feb 5
Spitfire Smokehouse - Closed Jan 12-30
Moab’s Holiday Restaurant Scene
Winter hours for restaurants in Moab can be a challenge, but fortunately, numerous dining establishments in Moab remain open throughout the year, albeit with modified schedules.
Restaurants and Coffee Shops Open on Thanksgiving
Arches Thai • Bangkok House Too • Bonjour Bakery Cafe • Broken Oar • Cafe Italiano • Desert Bistro • Dewey’s • Gelateria & Espresso Bar • Giliberto’s • Hidden Cuisine • Indo Grill • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Brewery • Moab Coffee Roasters • Moab Garage Co • Moab Grill • Proper Brewing Co • Red Rock Bakery • Singha Thai • Spitfire Smokehouse • Street Dogs • Sultan Mediterranean Grill • Sunset Grill • Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro • Thai Bella • The River Grill at Sorrel • WabiSabi Thanksgiving Dinner • Wicked Brew •Zax Restaurant
Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve
Arches Thai • Bon Jour Bakery Cafe • Cactus Jacks • Cafe Italiano • Domino’s Pizza • El Tapito • Gloria’s Cafe • Fiesta Mexicana • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Grill • Pasta Jay’s • Red Rock Bakery • Singha Thai • Snake Oil Coffee Company • Spitfire Smokehouse • Sunset Grill • Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro • Thai Bella • The Spoke on Center • Wendy’s • Zax Restaurant
Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Arches Thai • Bonjour Bakery Cafe • Indo Grill Indian Cuisine • Josie Wyatt's Grille • Moab Grill • Red Cliffs Lodge • Rooted Vine • Singha Thai • Sorrel River Grill • Sultan Mediterranean Grill • Thai Bella • Village Market
Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve
Arches Thai • Blu Pig • Bonjour Bakery Cafe • Cactus Jacks • Cafe Italiano • Canyon Pizza Co. • Domino’s Pizza • El Tapito • Fiesta Mexicana • Gilberto’s • Gloria’s Cafe • Josie Wyatt’s Grille • McDonald’s • Moab Grill • Pasta Jay’s • Proper Brewing Co. • Red Rock Bakery • Rooted Vine • Singha Thai • Sunset Grill • Snake Oil Coffee Company • Spitfire Smokehouse • Tey’s • Thai Bella • The Spoke on Center • Wendy’s • World Famous Woody’s Tavern • Zax Restaurant
Located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, the La Sals offer many areas open to cross-country skiing, sledding and a small amount of snowmobiling.
Winter hiking in Moab offers a unique experience, transforming the iconic red rock landscapes into a winter wonderland. As the temperatures drop, the crowds thin out…
