How to Plan an Epic Spring Break in Moab

Ahhh, spring break – one of the most anticipated weeks of the year. It’s like Christmas but with better weather! Spring break – that precious moment of free time to do whatever you want before school, work, or life sets back in.

Spring is one of the most popular times of the year for a proper road trip, and Moab is at the top of the list for many desert adventurers. And thanks to the great weather, fun activities, and stunning views to discover, we don’t blame them.

Here’s how you can plan a Moab adventure that gets you away from the crowds and into the best of the nature around Moab!

• Reasons to Plan a Moab Spring Break
• Things to Do in Moab
• Where to Stay on Spring Break

Why Plan a Moab Spring Break

• The weather is ideal for outdoor fun (with caveats, of course): Springtime is one of the best times to visit Moab. The temps sit right around 60–70 degrees, and the wildflowers are absolutely stunning. You can get caught in the rain at times, and the evenings can get chilly, but for the most part, it’s ideal!
• It’s a fun town to explore: Ready to get out of the rugged nature and feel a touch more desert comfort? Moab has some great options for a nice glass of wine or a great massage. You can choose the best dirt-to-luxury ratio for your needs!
• You can easily get lost (in the best way): Moab may be popular during spring break weeks, but there is always a chance to feel like the only person in the world with just a little bit of creativity. It only takes a short drive and a look past the most popular areas to have a view or trail all to yourself. 

What to Do in Moab on Spring Break

Explore Moab State and National Parks

This is what most people come to Moab for: the world-renowned national and state parks! You can fit several stunning hikes and overlooks into just a few days, but there is always more to explore. You can wander through Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse State Park, and several other lesser-known areas with scenery just as beautiful. 

If you want to see endless views of multiple state parks, an aerial helicopter tour or airplane tour is the best way to make the most of your time and soar over countless stunning vistas.

Enjoy Hot Springs Near Moab

The mild weather (compared to freezing winters and roasting summers) makes spring break a fantastic time to explore some Moab hot springs. 

Mystic Hot Springs is a 2-hour drive from Moab and has natural hot spring pools with quirky accommodations, like refurbished pioneer cabins and vintage buses. It’s the perfect overnight trip!

Fifth Water Hot Springs in Diamond Fork Canyon includes a scenic hike leading to stunning terraced hot springs along a picturesque river, perfect for soaking in the midst of Utah’s natural beauty.

Plan a Backpacking Trip

A desert spring backpacking trip is the best way to get away from the crowds and live with the brush, red rocks, and stars. 

The Needles District in Canyonlands National Park: Don’t let the name scare you! This features a network of trails winding through colorful rock spires, arches, and canyons to provide a create-your-own remote backpacking adventure.

Island in the Sky: This area has a few great options for more experienced backpackers. Try the Murphy’s Point trail for a less strenuous overnight trip.

Plan a Monument Valley Weekend

March is one of the best times to visit Monument Valley—the notoriously hard-to-reach and absolutely stunning tribal park near the Utah/Arizona border. You can even skip the long drive and plan a memorable day trip or overnight experience from Moab to Monument Valley. We have a fully-planned Monument Valley adventure that includes lodging, food, and activities. 

If you’re lucky, you may even catch the famous Mitten Shadow! 

Plan a Raft Trip

With the Colorado River snaking through Canyonlands National Park, Moab is a popular landing pad for rafting trips. Kicking your rafting adventure off in Moab means you can have an exciting raft trip with maximum convenience by booking an airplane charter! No more confusing car logistics – an airplane charter can drop you off at the put-in and pick you up at the take-out. 

Attend a Moab Event

Moab isn’t just your average small town – it’s a hub for exciting events, especially in Spring! Many bike or trail races wave through the memorable red rock scenery. The Moab Happenings Calendar is already full of exciting community celebrations to fill your day. 

Here are some of our favorite annual Spring events:

The Canyonlands Half Marathon and 5k is a famous and fun race that has some of the best views of the red rock and Colorado River. The first race in 1976 had only 22 finishers and a dog! Today, thousands fill the route.

The Moab Rocks Mountain Bike Race is a popular race that welcomes professionals and weekend warriors alike for 76 miles of fantastic bike trails.

The Moab Arts Festival is in late May and features some talented artists and desert-style art pieces. With several food vendors, children’s activities, and live music, it’s a fantastic way to spend a Spring weekend. 

Where to Stay on a Moab Spring Break Trip

Springhill Suites Moab

That perfect formula that creates rustic desert luxury can easily be found at Springhill Suites. This resort-style hotel reflects the red rock surroundings with rock formations around the multiple pools in the main outdoor area. The hotel suites are spacious and clean, and there are several amenities that will make your spring break feel like a true escape. 

Willow Flats Campground

Location: Canyonlands National Park

Fees: $15/night

Reservations: First-come, first-served

Willow Flats Campground is a fantastic option for no-reservation tent camping if you can snag a site. We highly recommend getting there as early as possible to land a spot. These campsites are a short stroll from the famous Green River Overlook and have a good amount of privacy and space to enjoy. 

These spots offer paved parking and spacious sites for cars, tents, and RVs, ideal for a picturesque and tranquil camping experience. However, there’s no access to toilets or potable water.

Needles Campground

Location: Canyonlands National Park

Fees: $20/night

Reservations: Depends*

If you don’t catch a spot in Arches National Park, the Needles Campground in Canyonlands is a fantastic alternative option. This spot gives you access to toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and some long and lovely trails to explore. 

*Loop A is always first-come, first-served. Loop B has some reservable options. 

With so many bucket list adventures in Utah to tackle, planning a Moab spring break may seem daunting. If you don’t know where to start, reach out to our team for help planning the perfect aerial overview for your Moab adventure!