Visiting Moab in February
If you’re considering a trip to Moab in February, we think it’s a terrific time to go!
Use this Moab Utah Vacation Guide to plan a trip in February: weather, activities, what to pack, where to stay and more!
February is the off-season so you avoid the crowds and the hot temperatures of the other seasons.
We live close enough to visit at various times of year and have put together this list of things to do in Moab in February.
Keep reading for more information about the weather, services, what to pack and where to stay!
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What To Pack for a Trip to Moab
- Hiking shoes
- Darn Tough hiking socks
- WATER: Hydration packs or carry refillable water bottles in your backpack.
- Healthy snacks – there may be NO services on the trails you’ll hike or drive.
- Lip balm with sunscreen and hydrating lotion – Utah’s high elevation and dry air can be hard on your skin.
- Summer – High temperatures, unrelenting sunlight, and low humidity. To keep cool, wear light colored, loose fitting UV protection clothing that does not absorb sunlight. Also avoid sun burn by wearing a sunhat and by generously applying sunscreen to any parts of your body that are exposed to the sun.
- Winter – Pack winter clothing to stay dry and warm.
- Fleece jacket
- Buff headbands
- Hand sanitizer
- Flashlight or headlamp
- First aid kit
- DOWNLOAD – Camera gear checklist
A Photo Tour of Moab, Utah
Take a visual tour through the Moab, Utah area to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!
Visiting Moab in February
One of the best places to visit in Utah for budget travel is Moab. The off season rates make it much more affordable than the other times of the year.
Moab during the busy season gets a bit crowded. There may be traffic getting into the town, long waits at restaurants and lines to get into the nearby national parks.
During Moab in the winter the town slows down a bit. The stores and eateries are still open, but you can let yourself enjoy the town without worrying about the crowds!
What is the Best Time of Year to Go to Moab?
Winter may NOT be the best time to visit Moab for YOU. It’s important to know what to expect when visiting Moab in February.
Spring and fall are great times to visit Moab when the temperatures are perfect for long days of hiking, mountain biking and most outdoor activities.
But the winter will offer fewer crowds if you can be flexible if a winter storm rolls through.
Moab Weather in February
The Moab weather in February is still cold and can be unpredictable if a storm rolls through. The average highs are near 50 degrees with the lows in the mid 20s. Remember that Moab is about 4,000 feet above sea level so it does get cold in the winter, even if the sun is out.
Dress in layers when visiting Moab in February. Take warm winter clothing so you’ll actually want to get out of the car and enjoy the outdoor activities! Your hiking boots should be warm and waterproof. No one wants soggy feet!
After a snow storm, the Arches and Canyonlands roads might be closed for plowing for a few hours. Keep in mind that the roads, parking lots, and pullouts in the parks can still be icy, especially in shaded areas.
You can see current weather conditions at Arches or Canyonlands with updated photographs of trail conditions at the visitor center.
Does Moab Get Snow?
Snow storms can happen in February in Moab. When it does snow, it’s not usually large amounts. When a storm rolls through, the area can get a dusting of snow, or even a few inches. The landscape is beautiful in the snow!
Do the Roads Close in Moab?
The Arches and Canyonlands park roads might be closed after a snowfall for several hours for plowing. For road conditions, check the Utah Road Weather Forecast or call 1-866-511-UTAH (8824).
Things to Do in Moab in February
Here’s a fun list ways to get to know the history and geology of the area by visiting museums and searching for petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks!
- Moab Giants Museum
- Moab Museum
- Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage
- Amazing Petroglyphs in Moab
- Dinosaur Sites Near Moab
National and State Parks in February Near Moab
One of our favorite things to do in Moab is visiting the National Parks and the Utah State Parks by Moab. These guides can help you plan your visit to these parks in February:
Hiking Trails in February Near Moab
The Moab Utah hiking trails are the best way to explore the area. And you definitely want to include the trails in the National and State Parks near Moab where you will find trails for all hiking levels.
February is a terrific time to when the sun is out. It’s quite different from summer when you’re sweating and worrying about heat exhaustion.
Remember it’s still important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen in the winter!
Most of the trails in Moab are fully exposed to the sun, which is perfect for your visit in February. Keep in mind you may encounter ice, snow and mud in shady areas of the trails because February is still cold and the wet areas may not dry out.
You may need traction devices on some trails. Check with the Moab Information Center or the park visitor’s centers for the most current trail conditions.
- Day Hike Checklist
- What to Bring on a Hike
- Photography Gear for Hiking
- Hiking Gear for Kids & Tips for Hiking with Kids
Biking Trails Near Moab in February
With so many outdoor activities to do there, Moab is considered the adventure capital of the US!
February is a great time to enjoy the Moab mountain bike trails, even if there’s been a recent snow storm. The Moab landscape is filled with “petrified” sand dunes and slick rock that have become famous for bike rides.
During the summer the parking lots are full and the trails are lined with riders, but not in February! You could have the lot and trail to yourself, or there may only be a handful of other bikers!
Multiple bike shops stay open in the winter to rent gear, tune a bike, or recommend a trail.
Photography in February Around Moab
Snow may not be the best for hiking or jeeping, but it makes for amazing photos! We love to photograph the landscape of red rocks with the contrast of the the white snow.
Be prepared for all types of winter photography at Arches, Canyonlands or Dead Horse Point due to weather. You can still capture amazing photos with rain, snow and fog.
The best times to photograph the areas around Moab are sunrise and sunset. The colors are vibrant and the light creates a spectacular glow on the red rocks that cannot be missed.
CHECK OUT our 3 day photography guide for Arches National Park to capitalize on all the best places and times to take pictures in the Moab area! We share some of our favorite ‘lesser known’ places to take pictures in Moab!
And since February will be cold in the morning and evening, we like to use photographer gloves and keep rechargeable hand warmers in our coat pockets.
Stargazing in February Near Moab
Definitely take one evening to get away from the Moab city lights, go outside and LOOK UP!
Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point are internationally recognized as one of the best places for stargazing because of the remote location, accessibility, altitude and clear skies.
In February, if you’ve got a clear sky, you can try to capture a photo of the Milky Way!
Moab Off-Roading in February
Off-roading in Moab in the winter can be enjoyed by jeep, side-by-side or other such vehicles. In February we recommend you wear, or at least have packed in your vehicle, warm clothing and waterproof boots.
If you opt to do a guided tour, the jeeps are heated, but you’ll want to dress in layers so you can get out and explore the scenic stops along the way.
Local tour companies offer 4×4 rentals, but for inexperienced drivers, it’s best to join a tour or have a guide ride along with you to navigate and teach.
Moab Utah Tours and Resources
Where to Stay in Moab
There are many types of accommodations to choose from in Moab: budget-friendly hotels to higher-priced resorts. You’ll also find vacation rentals, a hostel, campgrounds and RV parks in Moab.
