Moab weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 5 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Moab brings crisp desert winters with daytime highs around 6°C (43°F) and nighttime lows dropping to -3.5°C (26°F). You'll experience about 23mm of precipitation spread across 5 rainy days, though snow is possible at higher elevations. With nearly 8 hours of sunshine daily, clear skies dominate despite the cold temperatures, making for stunning visibility across the red rock landscape.
December is Moab's quietest season. Tourist crowds thin considerably as families prioritize warmer destinations, though the town maintains its vibrant outdoor culture. The holiday season brings festive decorations to downtown, and locals enjoy the peaceful solitude of winter hiking and biking. You'll find fewer tour groups on popular trails and easier access to camping spots.
This month suits travelers seeking solitude and lower prices in 2026. Pack layers and waterproof gear for sudden cold snaps or rare precipitation. December works best for hiking, mountain biking, and photography when crowds vanish and the light is exceptional. Book accommodations early despite low season, as some lodges close for maintenance.
What to pack for Moab in December
December's cold desert climate demands layered clothing. Temperatures fluctuate between freezing nights and mild afternoons, so you'll need versatile pieces that adapt quickly. Waterproof outerwear is essential for unexpected rain or snow, especially at higher elevations around the parks.
- Merino wool thermal base layers
- Insulated winter hiking boots
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Fleece-lined beanie and gloves
- Warm hiking socks (wool blend)
What to pack for Moab in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
- →Anti-theft crossbody bagAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Moab
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Moab across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Desert hiking on clear days, mountain biking trails with minimal crowds, landscape photography at sunrise and sunset, rock climbing in protected canyon areas.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Moab. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Moab
While December has its own character in Moab, the data-backed best months to visit Moab are March, April, May, October. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for MoabOther places with a similar climate right now
Moab in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Moab?
Is December a good time to visit Moab?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Moab averages a high of 6°C (43°F) and a low of -4°C (26°F), with 23mm of rainfall across roughly 5 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Moab in December?
What is the average temperature in Moab in December?
The average high temperature in Moab during December is 6°C (43°F), with an average low of -4°C (26°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Moab have in December?
How many rainy days does Moab have in December?
Moab averages approximately 5 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 23mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Moab in December?
What should I pack for Moab in December?
For Moab in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Moab in December?
How crowded is Moab in December?
Tourist crowds in Moab during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.