Fall in Moab
Once the fall months come, Moab is in its full glory.. The river has had time to warm, the higher elevation trails are defrosted, and temperature levels drop back down to a comfy 70ºF. Fall is a great time of year to head outdoors, check out the national forests, and camp along the Colorado River under Moab Canyon’s commanding red cliffs. Plus, up in the Manti-La Sal National park, the trees start to show their vivid fall colors.
Fall Colors in Moab
For an experience you can’t find any other time of year, make sure to take a beautiful drive on the La Sal Mountain Loop Roadway. It’s 63 miles in length, and takes nearly two hours to drive. Load up a picnic and take your time, the forest is extraordinary throughout the fall months. It’s likewise a good time for hikers to explore the trails, and for mountain cyclists to access all of the popular Whole Enchilada Trail, along with other higher elevation trails. A few other great experiences include:
- La Sal Mountain Loop Road Scenic Byway: Just 20 miles south of Moab are the La Sal Mountains, part of Manti-La Sal National Forest. At almost 13,000 feet, these pine and aspen covered mountains develop the second greatest mountain range in Utah. Unique here are expansive views of the red rock landscape below. The loop takes about three hours to drive and covers over 60 miles. Hairpin curves on the Castle Valley side are unsuitable for big recreational vehicles. Family automobiles are welcome.
- Gemini Bridges Trail: Checking out the area in between Highways 191 and 313 is encouraged, for its grand vistas and access to many trails. The magnificent twin arches, called Gemini Bridges, sits on the rim of an arm of Bull Canyon. A jeep is required to travers there 48 miles with 14 miles on 4wd road.
- Poison Spider Mesa Trail looks over the colorful Colorado River and Moab Valley. Stretches of unbroken slick rock and views of the Behind the Rocks area and the La Sal Mountains make it one of the most appealing drives in Moab. Jeeps are required on these 36 miles with 16 miles on 4wd roadway.
- Moab Rim Trail climbs up slanted rock strata along the south side of the Colorado River to reach a rim view over Moab, with impressive views of the river, Spanish Valley and the La Sal Mountains. This 4wd trail is the border of the Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study location; the area west of the path is closed to vehicle travel to keep this beautiful area safe. A jeep is required on these 15 miles with 7 miles on 4wd roadway.
