Explore Southeastern Utah’s backcountry with fewer crowds, crisp desert light, and the best Jeep rental rates of the year
Every summer we hear the same question from guests: “What do you do in the winter?”
The truth is simple. Winter is one of our favorite seasons for getting outside and exploring the red rock backcountry of Southeastern Utah. Yes, the days are shorter and the temperatures are cooler, but the trade-offs are significant. Winter in Moab brings solitude, perfect trail conditions, dramatic lighting, abundant wildlife and a completely different kind of magic you will not find in the peak season.
And if you want to experience Moab’s trails in comfort and at the lowest cost of the year, winter is the time to do it.
Why Jeeping in Winter Is So Special
1. Cool temperatures and stunning winter light
Winter sunlight in Moab hits the canyons at low angles, creating warm tones, deep shadows, and scenery that feels straight out of a postcard. Photography lovers consider this the best season of the year to capture the desert.
2. Trails are in excellent condition
Winter moisture often firms up the dirt, minimizes dust, and makes for some of the smoothest trail conditions. While the backcountry around Moab is uncrowded year-round, winter takes solitude to another level.
3. More wildlife sightings
Cooler months often mean more active deer, bighorn sheep, foxes, and other desert animals. Many guests report that winter is the only time they’ve seen wildlife right from the Jeep.
The Best Jeep Rental Deal of the Year
$200 per day – November 25 through March 1
At Canyonlands Jeep Adventures, we offer our lowest rates of the entire year during winter.
Our winter rate is just $200 per day, which is $130 off our 2026 pricing.
You get the same off-road-ready, trail-equipped Jeep or Bronco, just at a winter-only discount.
Crank up the heater, load your maps, and head out in comfort while enjoying one of the quietest and most peaceful times to explore Moab.
Winter Is Also the Cheapest Time to Stay in Moab
Another huge perk of visiting in winter is the lodging. Many hotels drop to their lowest rates of the entire year, sometimes as low as $60 per night.
That same room in July could run well over $200. It is one of the few times when both Jeep rentals and lodging are at their most affordable.
Restaurants remain open, parking is easy, and downtown has a laid-back, relaxed feel that locals love.
What Trails and Parks Are Open in Winter?
While major snowstorms can briefly impact access, most backcountry trails remain open throughout winter. You can still experience all the classics.
Arches National Park
Winter is one of the best times to hike to Delicate Arch or explore the Windows Section. Cooler temperatures make hiking comfortable, and the contrast of red rock against snow is unforgettable.
Canyonlands National Park
The Island in the Sky overlooks take on an entirely new personality when framed with the snowcapped La Sal Mountains. The park’s winter silence adds to the sense of scale.
Dead Horse Point State Park
This is one of the best winter viewpoints in the entire region. The sweeping canyons and dramatic drops look even more striking with winter light and the occasional dusting of snow. The views easily rival the Grand Canyon.
Experience a Completely Different Side of Moab
If you have never visited Moab in winter, you are missing out on one of the most underrated seasons of all. The solitude, the savings, the scenery and the soft quiet of the desert make winter an incredible time to explore.
Whether you want to hit the trails, photograph winter landscapes or enjoy the National Parks without the summer crowds, this season delivers.