Moab in Summer

It can get pretty hot in Moab in Summer. The sun moves high in the sky and high pressure ridges over the inter-mountain west can lead to long stretches of hot weather. This week we anticipate temperatures to exceed 100F pretty much everyday.

Fortunately, the desert does not hold the heat very well. So, when the sun goes down the temps tend to drop fairly quickly. If you come to Moab in summer be prepared for wide swings from sunrise to sunset.

The mornings tend to be pleasant and are a great time for a hike or bike ride. There are so many activities you can enjoy in Moab in Summer. If you like to play golf, start early and finish before noon for the most enjoyment. Off road enthusiasts will want to pack plenty of water along with food and extra fuel. River rafting is in prime season with all of the rivers running higher and faster than normal this year.

So, far we have been lucky to not have smoke from any wildfires invading our area. But, farther north and east in the US the fires in Canada have been wreaking havoc on air quality. It looks like the Canadian wildfires will continue on their record pace until it starts snowing in the fall.

If you come to Moab in Summer you can expect much smaller crowds than in the Spring and Fall. Prime time for visitors to Moab is March through June then September through October. So, while summer visitors endure more heat, they get the benefit of short lines everywhere they go.

The condo in Moab is currently listed for sale on the MLS. If you are interested in learning more about the property please contact my broker Dave Bierschied at Moab Realty. He can provide you with all the information you need and arrange a showing of the condo.

If you come to Moab in Summer just remember to stay out of the mid-day heat. By planning your outdoor activities for the morning or evening you’ll stay cooler and enjoy the experience more!

Moab in Summer

Moab Lodging Availability

Moab Lodging Availability

If you are looking for Moab lodging availability there are many places to begin your search. And if you have arrived at this webpage then you have found 1 of the nicest condos in Moab. The spectacular view of the La Sal Mountains and the red rock scenery is rarely duplicated here. Every room in the condo provides you with gorgeous views of the surrounding area.

It can sometimes be a challenge to find a nice condo in Moab. During the peak spring and autumn months Moab lodging availability can disappear pretty quickly. If you plan to visit during those times, it’s best to book a place at least 3 to 6 months in advance.

Some of the newer properties such as this condo complex (Rim Village and Rim Vistas) have swimming pools, hot tubs, tennis courts and other outdoor recreational amenities. There is a lot more to enjoying the great outdoors in the great Southwest than going off-road in the countryside.

But, if 4 wheeling is your thing there is no shortage of amazing challenges awaiting you in and around Moab. There is so much national forest land along with BLM land that it would take many years to explore. And that’s not to mention the overnight trips available in Canyonlands National Park. Just make sure that you bring plenty of supplies including water and travel with a buddy or two.

The amount of Moab lodging availability increased slightly in the past few years with the addition of a few hotels on the north side of town. Due to zoning restrictions and height limitations these nice properties fit in with the scenery. One thing locals in Moab don’t want are a bunch of high-rises.

If the condo in Moab is booked for the dates you want, then check out my property manager at McKenna’s Gold Rentals. They manage a lot of properties in Moab and will likely have something that meets your needs.

Moab lodging availability can be limited when it’s peak season to enjoy Arches National Park

Moab Lodging in Autumn

Looking for Moab lodging in Autumn can be a challenge unless you start planning far in advance. September and October are two of the busiest months of the year. The weather is exceptionally pleasant making it a wonderful time to visit Moab. Things tend to slow down a bit in November, but personally that is our favorite time of autumn to visit Moab.

The high season crowds have thinned out and prices drop as you move deeper into autumn. Early December is actually a great time to explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Generally, there is little to no snow, the skies are clear and the temperatures cool. If you dress in layers you will be really comfortable. While the mornings start out quite chilly, you get the benefit of not having other people in your photographs.

If you are looking for Moab lodging in autumn the condo in Moab is a great place to make your home base. There are 3 nice sized bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a fully stocked kitchen that any chef would love. The dining room table seats 6 and there are 3 seats at the breakfast bar. Enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and / or red rock scenery from every room in the condo.

Please keep in mind that overnight temperatures can drop well below freezing this time of year. That means there could be black ice on the roads early in the morning. If you are going to be driving before 10 AM be extra careful and leave lots of room between you and the cars around you.

There is a very pleasant walk you can do this time of year that starts in the center of Moab. This particular trail follows the creek in 2 different directions. Whether you go East or West is a personal choice but you can’t get lost on this little stroll which seems more woodsy than desert like.

Moab lodging in autumn is often booked many months in advance. Now is a good time to start your trip planning for the fall of 2023.

Moab Lodging In Autumn - View from Master Bedroom
Moab Lodging In Autumn – View from Master Bedroom

Flash Flood in Moab

There was a spectacular flash flood in Moab recently. We typically get some heavy monsoon type rainstorms during the summer months. But this particular downpour shocked even longtime residents. A tremendous amount of rain fell in a very short time. This resulted in creeks overflowing their banks with water, mud and debris flowing through the center of town.

Fortunately, the condo in Moab is at a slightly higher elevation than the downtown area. So, there were no problems or water damage at the condo. The entire complex remains in great shape. This is good news because it can be difficult to clear mud from the swimming pool.

Many parts of the desert Southwest along with Texas have experienced significant rainfall in the past week. Dallas Texas suffered through a thousand year flood. Roads were inundated and some sections of the freeway had to be closed temporarily.

It’s very important to keep an eye on the sky this time of year. Rainstorms that are 20 or 30 miles away can still cause flash floods and take you by surprise. If you see lightning or hear thunder it’s best to find shelter in a safe place.

If you are caught in a flash flood in Moab the most important thing is to race to higher ground immediately. This could mean scrambling up a very steep hill to escape the floodwaters. If you are in a narrow canyon things can get treacherous very quickly. Look for a place where you can safely ascend out of the canyon. In a worst-case scenario you might have to hunt around for a large log. This will become your flotation device in the event you are caught in rushing water.

The downtown area was particularly hard hit by this latest flash flood in Moab. Shopkeepers and restaurant owners will be cleaning up for a while. It’s just one of those aspects of desert living that can make life adventurous.

Flash Flood in Moab - Moonflower Canyon
Flash Flood in Moab – Moonflower Canyon

Moab Summer Activities

Moab summer activities generally require an early morning start to avoid the midday heat. While it’s nice to spend time hanging out at the swimming pool, there is so much beautiful scenery to enjoy nearby. In the desert, temperatures tend to drop quite a bit at night. This makes the early morning a wonderful time to head out and enjoy some Moab summer activities.

Getting an early start on your 4 wheeling off-road adventure is a lot more fun without the blazing sun overhead. Daytime temperatures often reach triple digits. This means you need to bring a lot of water even if you’re going on just a short journey. If you don’t have a roof or canopy on your vehicle, make sure to wear a hat that has a neck strap. You don’t want your hat flying off and exposing your bare head this time of year.

Don’t forget to bring an ample supply of food in your cooler. Once you venture out into the backcountry or even to a place like Arches National Park, there won’t be any concessions or stores. Even Canyonlands National Park has little to no food available for purchase. Try to avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar or salt. While they might taste good, they are not the best thing for your bloodstream this time of year.

Rock climbing enthusiasts will definitely want to start around the time the sun comes up. Planning shorter trips on the red rocks will be to your advantage.. Save the longer routes for spring and fall so you won’t bake in the sun.

Golf is another one of the Moab summer activities that is best started early in the day. You might want to plan on playing only 9 holes instead of 18. Think about taking a cart instead of walking this time of year. Even though we love to walk when playing golf, the summer sun can drain your energy quickly.

Moab Summer Activities Like Hiking are Best Started Early in the Day
Moab Summer Activities Like Hiking are Best Started Early in the Day

Moab Real Estate

The Moab real estate market has been in a solid uptrend for the past several years. With demand high and supply low, prices continue to move in the upward direction.  This has been especially true for the condo in Moab. After enjoying this beautiful property and earning significant vacation rental income I’ve decided it’s time to sell.

Why am I selling you may ask? My travels around the world have taken me to Europe and Asia numerous times in the past 4 years. I was hoping to stay at the condo more frequently. But the strong bookings and my travel schedule have limited my ability to enjoy the property with its spectacular views of the red rock scenery.

The property has been beautifully maintained along with receiving some nice upgrades since it was 1st constructed. The incredible views of the red rock scenery and La Sal Mountains are not going away. And this property has arguably the finest views of any condo in the complex, which is why I purchased it in the 1st place.

The condo in Moab is being offered fully furnished including all of the art and decorations. Everything in the kitchen (which is extremely well-stocked) goes along with the sale of the property. You can literally show up with your suitcase and the only thing you will need to do is stop at the supermarket.

My property manager at Makenna’s Gold Rentals has done a fabulous job with marketing and managing the vacation rentals. A big thank you to Nicole and Lacie for all of their hard work and diligence to stay on top of things and keep the vacation renters happy.

My real estate broker Dave Bierschied also deserves a shout out for everything he has done over the years to make the property a success. I met him before the condo was ever constructed and we walked the raw land together. After looking at the architectural plans I decided on this particular unit specifically because it has such a spectacular view and great location in the complex.

Situated just a stone’s throw away from the pool, spa, tennis and basketball court for easy access to everything. The oversized two-car garage and spacious storage room are bonuses that any owner would appreciate. If you are interested in purchasing the condo in Moab please contact Dave directly at Moab Realty.  I’ll miss enjoying this fine piece of Moab Real Estate.  But I know that I can always return to the area when I want to partake of a slice of the red rock scenery.

Moab Real Estate A Walk Through Arches National Park
Moab Real Estate – A Walk Through Arches National Park

Moab and National Parks

When you think of Moab and national parks the amazing red rock scenery and spectacular canyons come to mind. The unique rock formations in Arches National Park are unlike anything seen elsewhere in the world. In just one day you can see dozens of uniquely shaped Arches. The road through the park provides easy access to beautiful viewpoints and short walking trails.

But Arches National Park is being loved to death. As a result of enormous visitor lines, the National Park Service has instituted a timed entry system. Anyone arriving between April 3 and October 3, 2022 will need to make a reservation in advance. Click Here to Read the NPS Info

Weather this time of year has been all over the place. High temperatures will range from in the 60s on Tuesday up to near 90 at the end of the week. The sun is getting higher in the sky every day. And there is not a lot of shade to be found outside of town. The desert is beautiful but a person can easily get dehydrated this time of year. Always have water with you when you are visiting the parks. It’s not readily available like in many other national parks.

This Moab and National Parks update would not be complete without a friendly food reminder. You’re not going to find any food available for purchase in Arches National Park. Occasionally you might find very limited snack and lunch items in one location in Canyonlands National Park.

It’s a good idea to bring all the food you will need for the day with you when departing the Condo in Moab. If you haven’t already stocked the fridge, the city market is on the right-hand side of the highway as you head north to the national parks. You’ll find everything you need to feast on during your travels each day through red rock country. Make sure you stock up on plenty of liquids and don’t forget ice for the cooler.

This Moab and National Parks update would not be complete without mentioning Spumoni. On May 10 it will be 16 years since he passed away.  There will be a dedication ceremony of his new statue at UC Davis on May 10th.  Enjoy the photos below and say a prayer for Spumoni on the 10th of May at 10 a.m.

Moab and The National Parks Will Never
Be The Same Without Spumoni

Moab Vacation Planning

When you are doing Moab vacation planning there are a number of things to consider. What are the primary activities you are hoping to enjoy? What time of year do you want to visit red rock country? Are you looking for peace and quiet or coming for 1 of the big events?

There are so many variables that Moab vacation planning takes a little bit of time if you want to have the best experience. We are now coming into the busiest time of year. Most properties are fully booked for the month of April and dates are disappearing rapidly in May. The ideal situation is to make lodging reservations as far in advance as possible. Then you can always plan your activities as you get closer to your arrival date.

Moab Activities

When it comes to river rafting, Moab vacation planning takes on a whole new dimension. You sometimes need to make reservations for trips down the Colorado River anywhere from 1 to 4 years in advance. This all depends on the type of journey you are planning along with entry and exit points.

If going off road is your thing, there are a couple of weeks every year with big festivals. Mid to late April brings the annual Jeep Week. So, if you are hoping to attend this event it’s not uncommon to see people book their Moab lodging one year in advance.

Where you are coming from also makes a big difference in doing Moab vacation planning. There is a local airport. But it does not operate all year-round. Sometimes it’s easier and cheaper just to fly into Grand Junction Colorado and rent a car. It takes about 90 minutes in normal traffic to get to the condo in Moab from the Grand Junction airport. But you should add a little bit of time if you are coming shortly before or during 1 of the big events.

If you want to enjoy the red rock scenery without the crowds then your best bet is to come to Moab between November and early March. Be advised that snow occasionally dusts the landscape during the winter months. Canyonlands and Arches National Parks will still be open, but some of the hiking trails could require winter traction on your footwear.

If you are totally undecided about what to do when you arrive in Moab, the local visitor center has some great resources. Staff is very friendly and can provide tips and information on recreational activities.

Moab Vacation Planning - Hiking among the red rocks
Moab Vacation Planning – Hiking Among the Red Rocks

Spumoni in Moab

The Spirit of Spumoni in Moab will be here for a couple of weeks. After 7 weeks of skiing at Alta, Snowbird, Park City and Steamboat Springs it’s time to warm up a little bit.

The 1st 2 weeks of March are a wonderful time to be in Moab Utah. The little bit of snow has pretty much melted off and springtime weather is upon us. The red rock scenery is absolutely spectacular this time of year. And tourists are few and far between. This means you don’t have to suffer from the roar of ATVs, UTVs or other types of off-highway vehicles.

If you have never visited Moab it’s hard to describe the rugged beauty that permeates everywhere. There are 2 fantastic national parks Arches and Canyonlands. But you also get a fabulous contrast with the snowcapped LaSal Mountains.  This is a scenic wonder unlike anything else in America. Dramatic snow-covered mountains with green foothills rising up to 12,000+ feet with the red rock scenery below.

This is the time of year when Moab starts to come alive. Many businesses that were shuttered during the wintertime re-open during the beginning of March. Local service businesses are in full swing preparing vacation rental properties for the coming onslaught of visitors. It’s a rare time that I can enjoy the condo in Moab without having to wait in line at the supermarket, gas station or local stores.

I think living with Spumoni in Moab would have been a great experience. He would have really liked living at the condo in Moab. It has all the things that he wanted in a nice home. Big windows with lots of sunshine, stairs to run up and down and a spacious great room to play in. There is also a comfortable king-size bed in the master suite that provides a great view of the red rock scenery.

Thinking about Spumoni in Moab brings back so many good memories. Next week I will go to Canyonlands National Park and do the hike to Spumoni Point. Sitting in that peaceful spot overlooking the vast canyon is a very special place to remember Spumoni and honor his memory.

Spumoni in Moab Would Have Been a Wonderful Experience
Spumoni in Moab Would Have Been a Wonderful Experience

Activities in Moab

There are a wide variety of activities in Moab to choose from when planning a trip to red rock country. Many visitors just come to see the sights in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. There are a lot of short hikes you can do to reach fabulous viewpoints. It’s almost a misnomer to call many of these short walks hikes. Because there are a number of places where you can park your car and walk less than 200 yards to enjoy spectacular views.

If you have time, the hike to Grand View in Canyonlands is quite rewarding. It’s a little over 1 mile one-way to the end of the trail. You will be treated to a spectacular birdseye view! This trail is relatively flat and easy to follow.

One of our favorites in Arches National Park is the area called Devil’s Garden. It’s located at the end of the road about 22 miles from the entrance station. You will find a large parking area, restrooms and a handful of picnic tables. The main path takes you to several different arches. You can wander as long as you want but doing the full trip to the end of the trail and back to the parking lot will take several hours.

Many visitors plan their activities in Moab around motorized trips into the backcountry. Whether you have a 4 wheel drive car, SUV, ATV, UTV or other recreational vehicle there are a huge variety of routes to choose. We recommend that you research and plan off road trips very carefully. Some of the backcountry roads are extremely challenging. The best analogy is similar to skiing. You have beginner, intermediate, advanced and expert trails. Please be careful to stay within your skill set and slowly increase the level of challenge. Cell phones don’t always work in the backcountry and you might find yourself stuck in some remote spot waiting a very long time for help.

Other activities in Moab that are very popular include river rafting, zip lining, golf and mountain biking. People come from all over the world to go mountain biking in Moab. Whether you are looking for a casual cruise in the desert or extreme challenges on the slick rock you won’t be disappointed. There are several local shops that provide sales, rentals and service for mountain bikes. They can also tell you about the latest trail conditions and other helpful information.

Activities in Moab - Arch in Devil's Garden
Activities in Moab – Hiking to Arches in Devil’s Garden