spaper Rock is a flat rock face

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Newspaper Rock is a flat rock face with hundreds of scratched out petroglyphs dating back to possibly over two thousand years ago. There were moms carrying babies on the chest and we saw several families with young children hiking. The road which people usually drive was closed while we were there for winter weather conditions, however, hikes were allowed down on it. Just north of Canyonlands, down 2 miles on a relatively quiet dirt road are the spectacular theropod and sauropod tracks. I promise that with a little prep, and a good coat that Moab in winter is an absolute blast! Kids could run around and play in here forever! We took our first child on a two-week road trip when she was four weeks old and we have been traveling as a family ever since. Sunrise, sunset, and evening/morning hours are the best for photography in Moab. Winter is truly the goldmine to visiting Moab because you will be greeted with less tourists and will get to experience the high desert in a different way. Ive got you covered with these expert resources. Its no secret that there are countless stunning hikes in Moab. 2022 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Pro Tip: Be in the know about desert hiking. With winter comes the storage or bikes but it doesnt have to be that way, especially during your trip to Moab. Ask any of the professional climbers who live in Moab year-round where and when to boulder, and theyll point you to Big Bend in the winter. We chose to self-drive and I am so glad we did! As you climb up through aspen forests, be sure to look back occasionally to take in spectacular views of the red desert dropping away behind you. Unlike Moab, the snow in Bryce Canyon tends to stick around, so snowshoeing is a cool way to experience the area. Ummm heck yes, you can and you should! There are spots where people have marked their names and dates on the rock face. Canyonlands is the younger, neighboring national park. First, services in a lot of the parks are limited. Moab in December. Check out these areas in winter: Pro Tip: NEVER climb wet sandstone, its exceptionally dangerous as the rock becomes brittle and breaks easily (bolts and gear can pull out). We drove the trail twice and loved it both times. It will make for the BEST pictures. For visiting times, rules, and prices you can find out more on the Navajo National Website here. Hoodoos, those cool-looking formations that are left behind when wind, frost, and running water create gaps within small cracks and slits of large plateaus, are commonplace in Moab. So cool! This post is going to cover the best things to do in Moab in winter and how to make your visit a smashing success. Bike shops offer rentals (but very few shuttles you can call and ask) throughout winter. Before you visit Moab in winter, there are several things you should know. Some popular locations in Moab include the bouldering field across from Big Bend campground on State Highway 128 or Wall Street five miles down Potash Road. Mountain biking in the winter just means a little extra preparation and having a positive mindset. Either way, regardless of if you can either hike or drive the Shafer Trail and all its viewpoints are at the top of our list! It is not to be missed, but it is also not to be taken lightly. There werent any steep drop-offs and there was tons of snow when we were there. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. In winter, its probably best to rent (or bring) your lifted, off-road ready Jeep to the occasion. My top suggestion is the Wildcat Trail. The beauty of these parks is only intensified by the blanket of glittering snow that lies on the red rocks in the winter. 2022 RootsRated, Inc. All rights reserved. All Rights Reserved. The Goosenecks are similar to the famous Horseshoe Bend but not as well known. On average, Moab gets 244 days of sun and only gets about 9 inches of snow a year. If youre looking to explore Moab like a local, not a tourist, then youre in the right place. The massive red rock buttes jutting out from a flat landscape makes me giddy. But come winter, Moab returns to its natural state: a desolate and otherworldly wilderness ripe for exploration. 3 days of precipitation (usually snow) on average. It's time to Hemplify! Click now to access our printable and digital Utah Coloring Book! If you happen to be in Moab when there is snow, consider yourself lucky! The road which people usually drive was closed while we were there for winter weather conditions, however, hikes were allowed down on it. Rock art, historical artifacts, and a delicate ecosystem make the desert a special place. And because its winter, you can expect to share the entire park with only a handful of people, rather than the endless parade of visitors that Arches sees during summer and fall. It is about 5 minutes off the main road on the way to Monument Valley. I was surprised by how cool I thought they were (I have some conflicted feelings regarding the Dinosaurs but that is neither here nor there hahah). 13 AMAZING Things to do in Moab in Winter to have a Killer Time, The Best of Arches National Park in Winter, The Best of Canyonlands National Park in Winter, This single-lane winding road down into the canyons of Canyonlands National Park is both extraordinary and exhilarating. These signs are a city-sponsored initiative to encourage businesses to establish sustainable practices. A few hours outside of Moab on the way to Monument Valley is a unique valley called Indian Creek. Plan to be there before the sun gets up to get ahead of the crowds. Good at both Arches and Canyonlands, youll want this pass if you plan on visiting the national parks for more than three days. It is super easy, more like a walk honestly, the views are amazing, and this is something even the littlest of kids would enjoy and have a blast. Click to see the post here The Complete Winter Moab Packing List. Pro Tip: Go for a sunset drive to really soak in the beautiful magic of the Moab in winter. Moabs busy season is fall, when visitors from all over the world flood its canyons, parks, and campsites. However, you can still find a few amazing, locally-crafted souvineers. The best part about a sunrise adventure in winter is that the sun rises later, meaning youll have a little more time to sleep in. But you can still enjoy classic rides such as Captain Ahab, Amassa Back, and Porcupine Rim are still open in the winter. Log in. MY WIFE, INFANT DAUGHTER, AND I ARE VISITING MOAB FOR NINE DAYS IN DECEMBER SO YOU GAVE US LOTS OF IDEAS. Thats how I saw Delicate Arch with virtually no one else around. Take an easy and leisurely walk through massive megaliths that is perfect for families. The best part? In fact, backcountry skiing in the La Sals even rivals the Wasatch Range. The overlook soars 2000 feet over the Colorado River. Crave the snow-capped mountains? Of course, top attractions like Arches National Park still see plenty of people, especially during the day, but its a far cry from the long lines and insane waits you find during other times of the year. If you are traveling in winter, 4-5 days is perfect! I am the founder of Tips for Family Trips. I was surprised by how cool I thought they were (I have some conflicted feelings regarding the Dinosaurs but that is neither here nor there hahah). Downtown Moab in winter is a sleepy place, but its nice to see the town with a local vibe. With steep buttes and cracks, Indian Creek is a rock climbers paradise. If you want to try mountain biking, then youve got to check out trails at Dead Horse Point State Park. It is a private course, with an entry fee of $5, plus another $5 if you want to camp therean ideal way to make a weekend getaway out of it. We decided to take our own truck out and hit the easier muddy trails on our own. Backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and simply enjoying the mountains are just a few things on offer in the La Sals. There are several must-see sunset spots in and around Moab that you cant miss. But you can also rent OHVs at deeply discounted prices too. Yes, it is totally, totally worth it! While it wasnt the slick rock experience we were hoping for, it was still REALLY fun. Youll want to bring plenty of warm layers to bundle up when its cold and quickly shed as you warm up on trails or in the sun. We hiked and tramped through the snow all day and were totally dry. Do not graffiti rocks, touch any rock art, or take home/destroy any artifacts. Some climbs, like Silly Wabbit (V3+), are so sun-baked in the summer that you can really only spend time on them come winter. However, that just means youre missing the tourist traps. Kids and adults alike can walk around and on this super cool geological formation. Just like winter mountain biking, climbing in the winter can be fun especially in this rock climbing hub. Be prepared to bundle up for this place, as sunlight can be sparse, and the brisk wind whistles through the hoodooswhich only adds to the winter-y feel of this uniquely Moab adventure. Winter in Moab meansyou can easily sport a T-shirt and shorts, as long as the sun is shining (cloudy days will require a few more layers). However, we suggest getting out and walking to at least a few of these things! Unlike the uber-packed spring, summer, and fall, winter in Moab is a tranquil paradise. When you think of Moab, you probably dont think of skiing as an activity you can do. By: Wall Street (Potash Road) shares Big Bends sun exposure, but offers epic sport and trad climbing instead of bouldering. © Our Family Passport. This perfectly situated viewpoint was my second favorite thing we did in the park! An Eddie Bauer review. Stick to marked trails and durable surfaces whenever possible so you dont trample fragile wildlife. Visit Discover Moab for more information on the local businesses in Moab. We had the whole viewpoint pretty much to ourselves. Yes, that is a lot of driving in one day. Minnesota is home to an abundance of lakes, trails, parks, and natural spaces that offer many exciting adventures and activities! sauropod tracks. The best part of the arch looking through the arch out into the deep canyon and rock formations below as the sun peers through. Famous bike routes like The Whole Enchilada have closed sections at the higher elevations until after the snow melts. There are no food options an any of the parks near Moab and the nearest food is in town and outside of park boundaries (meaning youll pay twice). There are countless scenic drives near Moab. Quick note: We had a hard time finding these. Wall street is sun-bathed from early morning until mid-day. How we created a new family tradition during some pretty rough times. Keep in mind, there are no amenities along the way so make sure you have all the gas, food, and water you will need for your trip. Youll find plenty of shopping, cheaper lodging options, and the more lucrative restaurants (ie better food) stay open in winter. It isnt hard but there are some steep parts and some drop-offs in a few areas. It was astoundingly beautiful in the snow, easy, fun, and the reward at the end was next level. Pack a little lunch, and make a whole afternoon of it. This hike and visiting the arch is something I can, without a doubt, suggest for littles and adults alike. Honestly, we had the best time visiting Moab in Winter! It does snow in Moab, although typically not in huge amounts. One of the best things about visiting Canyonlands in the winter is the chance to see the red rock canyons juxtaposed with the bright white snow. We chose to hike, even with the snow, and I am glad we did. For one day in the park, we suggest sticking to the Island in the Sky area and visiting the different walks, trails, and lookouts. One of the best things about the drive is it is full of cool stops and formations on the way! If youre new to mountain biking and want to check out these areas: Pro Tip: Pack gloves for the cold and always wear your helmet! Then add Moab to your list of winter destinations. Ive been to Moab countless times and my winter visits are always a special treat. Neatly manicured, and perfectly wide for hiking. The cooler weather makesthe rubber on yourclimbing shoesextragrippy, and your hands won't have to be as reliant on chalk to stay dry. If you dont make any stops, plan on 2-3 hours of driving. However, dont let this get you down. Sure, you may be bundled up, but with super-thin crowds and a magical red-rock landscape dusted in snow, this place is pure heaven during the winter months. This pass is good for a 12-month period so if you have a lot of national parks on your bucket list, a pass is worth it. Hi there! You must visit these 4 places on a Minnesota road trip! We chose to self-drive and I am so glad we did! Yep, us too. We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. A popular destination in the sweltering heat of summer, and even more popular in the spring and fall when the temperatures become reasonable, many dont know that one of the best times to visit this hub to outdoor recreation is in the winter. Neatly manicured, and perfectly wide for hiking. We visited in early January and the little town of Moab was totally functional and fun! Famed as one of the top national parks to visit in winter, Arches National Park is a real winter wonderland. Yes, please :). Inside this experts guide to exploring Moab, Utah in winter youll find: The weather in Moab in winter can be quite cold. The sun is harsh in the desert no matter what time of year it is. It has some of the best views and is one that you can do unguided. How to Have a Killer Time Visiting Moab in Winter! Pro Tip: Bring traction for your feet, such as microspikes, so you dont slip and fall in shady areas. Morocco Travel Tips EVERYTHING You Need to Know Before You Go. Canyonlands is about 31 miles from Arches and it takes about 25-30 minutes by car to access Canyonlands from Arches. Backcountry skiing is not for the faint of heart or those new to skiing. A good place to start is Corkscrew Glades on Tuk No Mountain. This was one of my favorite hikes (walks) of the whole trip! If going on a ranger-led hike is more your speed, you can review your options and sign up for one here. Not more needs to be said, if you are driving around Canyonlands, this spectacular viewpoint needs to be on your list. Guys, it is so so so awesome! We love to get out of the house to see and do fun things, both far away and in our own neighborhood. So heres how to make the most of Moab in winter. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. If youre looking to beat the crowds in Moab, then theres no time like winter visit. Porcupine Rim is the classic mountain bike ride in Moab, combining Moabs best canyon overlooks with technical riding atop slick rock. Mountains stand as a backdrop to this wondrous landscape. Planning a trip to Moab? Most hotels and major restaurants are operating and the parks are open every day year-round. But be sure to bundle up! After lots of fun-filled adventure, why not relax in downtown Moab? If you are considering visiting Moab in winter DO IT! Totally not P.C., but totally cool. You can ski/snowshoe up to their yurts and spend a few days shredding the slopes of the La Sals. Gemini Bridges is popular if you have a little bit of clearance, or wander the shoreline of the Colorado River along Potash Road. Arches National Park sits five miles north of Moab and is famous for containing the highest density of natural arches in the world. The dirt road winding through the red rocks, viewpoints, and buttes was a blast. It was a super easy walk from the parking area, and there is plenty of space to walk around and get some of the prettiest views! It has super hot summers and cold winters which makes the spring and fall seasons really busy. There is an 8-mile hiking trail that connects the East and West Rim trails. In the tiny town of Mexican Hat, Utah is this unique stone that looks just like a sombrero tipping off a head. We drove the trail twice and loved it both times. But with the 12,000 foot high peaks that sit southeast of the town comes backcountry skiing. In fact, Bryce Canyon has more hoodoos then anywhere else in the world, making for an epic snowshoeing playground. Have you visited these 5 urban green spaces? Youll need to bring your own gear (or hire a guide which may be difficult) but if youre looking to climb famous desert splitter cracks or just hop on a slabbly sport route for some sunshine, theres a climb out there for you. Just be sure to read up. Note: Our car was destroyed with red mud after, so a car wash is a must. It would be so fun to bring paper and some crayons and make some fun dinosaur tracks rubbings. I have been wanting to go see Monument Valley for as long as I can remember. This made pictures SO AWESOME!! Yes, that is the name. Canyonlands National Park in winter is a real treat. If this doesnt scare you off, then keep reading. If youre into hitting the trails, then youve got to head to the Needles District about a 1.5 hour drive from Moab to enjoy some of Canyonlands best hikes. It is totally drivable and easy and then you will see a massive sign that says Willowcreek Dinosaur Tracks. + Save to a List. Id recommend a range of lenses, from wide angle (for really getting a sense of vastness to tighter lenses that let you hone in on detail. Enter places like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park before sunrise to have plenty of solitude. https://www.discovermoab.com/winter-activities/, The BEST Rides at Disneys California Adventure, 8 Ways to Avoid Crowds at Zion National Park, 15 Tips for Perfect Cruise Ship Shore Excursions, Tips for Your First Trip to Denali National Park. Typically there are there days of moisture. Moab Made is a must-see shop. My most favorite thing we did was drive the Valley Road within Monument Valley. Here are a few must-see spots in Island in the Sky: Along the way to the Island in the Sky of Canyonlands National Park, youll pass Dead Horse Point State Park. As long as the trails are dry and free of mud, they are open for bikers. Don't go right on 14 unless you can fly! Base Camp is open all winter long, and usually stays pretty dry: Any snowfall melts within the first hours of daylight. A popular destination in the sweltering heat of summer, and even more popular in the spring and fall when the temperatures become reasonable, many dont know that one of the best times to visit this hub to outdoor recreation is in the winter. Also along Kane Creek road is the Base Camp disc golf course, known as one of the three most extreme disc golf courses in the world. It gives you at least one full day to visit each of the major National Parks nearby as well as gives the right amount of time for some jeeping, hiking, exploring, and taking a day trip out to Monument Valley. However, outside of the rock climbing community, Indian Creek is relatively unknown and unvisited. However, you can drive to Delicate Arch if you want to see a really pretty viewpoint from below the arch by car. Many of the shops have reduced hours (sometimes only open on weekends). Be smart, take your time and this is something the whole family can enjoy! Absolutely! Lysianne Peacock concurrent trail conditions and make sure youre experienced enough (if not, hire a guide) for these rough rides. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Monument Valley is about a 2 to 2 hour drive from Moab. Cell phone service can be hard to come by outside of town. Click now to see our digital and printable Utah Coloring Page and Utah Coloring Book! Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. The La Sal Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to Moabs red towers and cliffs. Why? and hot tubs of Moabs lodging options enticing as well. Moab is open for tourist year-round and winter is a excellent time to visit Moab if youre looking for a quieter experience. Dress warm, be prepared, and a little bit flexible with the weather, and have an absolute blast! Consider getting an America the Beautiful Parks Pass. It is cool, unique, and super easy to visit. Arches National Park is a stones throw from Moab (5 miles in total) and takes, at most, 9 minutes to get from the center of the town to the parks entrance. Some dirt roads may be closed due to weather conditions, water sports may be too chilly, and camping is certainly a cold experience, but otherwise there are an array of amazing winter activities in Moab. Also, 4 wheel drive is not in any way required but we were glad we had it since it allowed us to go faster and get muddy. Be respectful. Note: Our car was destroyed with red mud after, so a car wash is a must. Mid-day lighting tends to be quite harsh. Knowledge of avalanche safety and having the proper avalanche safety gear such as a beacon are necessary. The Goosenecks are just 30 minutes away from Monument Valley and are on the way when visiting from Moab. Stick to marked trails and tread lightly. Seeing Delicate Arch needs to be on everyones list! Pro Tip: New moons are a great time to hit up Arches National Park for astrophotography. AMMMAAAZZZIIIINGGG!! Sunny southern and western faces typically melt quickly. The dance of contrasting colors, brilliant oranges, and reds against pure white snow patches is a photographers dream. Many of the same things to do in Moab throughout the year are still options for winter fun. Yes! This single-lane winding road down into the canyons of Canyonlands National Park is both extraordinary and exhilarating. We have listed three of our absolute favorite things to do! There is a 20 dollar fee to drive the trail. With close proximity to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, and a plethora of other activities and sites it isnt a wonder that it is one of the most sought after destinations in the United States. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox. There were tons of cute little families bundled up in all of their snow gear making the hike as well. It is so cool. Be sure to check out Hells Revenge, Fins and Things, Metal Masher, and Poison Spider Mesa for a few classics. If youre lucky enough to have snow on the ground, make the most of it and rent a fat bike for the journey from Poison Spider bike shop in town. Weve touched on all of the top spots already from scenic drives to state and National Parks. There's an abundance of outdoor adventure in and around the Windy City. I am a married mom of two children, ages 14 and 17, living near Salt Lake City, Utah. The favorites topping with loads of winter hikes, visiting the National Parks, seeing the prehistoric petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock, and a day trip to Monument Valley. Looking to "ice" up your adventures this winter? For me, this is a must-do when visiting Moab, and is a great way to introduce yourself or your children to ancient US history and art. The mountains that frame Moab are known as the La Sal Mountains, and there is a 60-mile paved road that loops through these mountains that can be your gateway to alpine winter adventure or just a scenic drive. Talking Mountain Yurts offer the ultimate backcountry winter experience. Live like a Moab local whenever, wherever, Outdoor destinations + local stories & exclusive outdoor events. Photographers will love the Island in the Sky District, where you can get that iconic shot of Mesa Arch at sunrise, or experience the incredible viewpoints along Grand View Point Drive. This means that there will be ice and snow for days on northern faces. 10. Many of the privately-owned campgrounds and the more touristy shops and restaurants in Moab close for winter. Pack a little lunch, and make a whole afternoon of it. One of the best things about visiting Canyonlands in the winter is that it was nearly dead and was not busy in the least. Canyonlands is often overlooked by its more famous National Park competitor Arches, however, Canyonlands should not be missed. Because of this, there really isnt a best time to visit Moab because each of the seasons has pros and cons. Even if it doesnt snow, it could still be chilly, so be sure to be prepared (I will go over this in just a minute). This is a great stop for photographers. If you have little kids in your group, I highly suggest this! While there are four districts to Canyonlands that are separated by the Colorado River, the Island in the Sky District is the closest district being a 45 minute drive from Moab. The quick little hike (less than a mile) to Mesa Arch was hands down my favorite thing we did all day in Canyonlands. It would be so fun to bring paper and some crayons and make some fun dinosaur tracks rubbings. At one point there were families who were sledding. Something to note about Moab is that it is really dry. With one day in Arches, I have come up with a list of MUST do things if you are visiting in the winter. Arches vs Canyonlands, Whats Right for Me? It's a photographer's dream, whether you're a pro or just adding some brag-worthy shots to your Instagram feed. Here are some must do hikes for your winter trip: Dead Horse Point State Park is a hidden gem just a few short miles outside of the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park. Camping is idyllic, too, although you may find the off-season pricing ($30-$50 per night, anyone?) Heres a look at a few personal favorites: If youre up for a rugged ride, you can enjoy some of the top Jeep trails in the world right near Moab. Moab in January. The snow was super fine and powdery. Its hard to go wrong with winter photography in Moab. Moab, Utah rocks, literally! Most riders shuttle Porcupine Rim, driving one car up top and leaving one car in town. It is not to be missed, but it is also not to be taken lightly. The visual culture of the ancient people who once inhabited southern Utah is exquisite and distinctive to early Native American history. Here are some tips to help you enjoy winter rock climbing: Another way to spend your time in Moab in the winter is to support the local businesses. Make sure to keep an eye out for businesses with Green and Gold signs. Leave the desert better than you found it. And in the winter, they come alive as a destination in themselves, offering scenic backcountry skiing that can accommodate every skill level. Wait 24 hours after precipitation to climb. There are some weather limitations but it reduces the crowds and allows from some other experiences that otherwise wouldnt have been possible. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. What is there to do in Moab in the winter? Winter mountain biking can help you learn how to navigate snow, ice, and mud as well as provide you with a more intense workout. She'd rather be dirty than done up. High is 44 and lows are 20, with temperatures frequently in the teens. Youll find an array of beginner biking routes that feature all of the incoinc Moab landscapes. Think you cant mountain bike in winter? As always, make sure to Recreate Responsibly during your winter visit to Moab. Sunsets in Moab are simply unbelievable. In fact, many of Moabs best rock climbing areas have winter options. However, because of the snow, we were told the road conditions were a bit dodgy and to consider a lighter and easier trail. Just remember, the tops of canyons can be windy places, so certainly pack in layers to bundle up if you need to. Keep in mind that the suns rays reflect off of snow so cover the bottom of your chin and nose to stay protected. Either way, regardless of if you can either hike or drive the Shafer Trail and all its viewpoints are at the top of our list! Remember, there is not a lot of cell phone service around Moab so be sure to pack items like a tire kit, tool kit, first aid kit, and all the things youll need with you while you ride. For more information on the La Sal Mountain Loop visit the USDA Forest Service website. Go to Indian Creek and View Newspaper Rock-. To access the main point of Delicate Arch (the view shown below) you have to hike to it.

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