Cooler days, fewer crowds and fiery fall colors make autumn the ultimate season to explore the legendary landscapes of Moab, Utah. While spring and summer steal the spotlight, Moab in autumn is the season when the desert truly shines. With crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons and golden cottonwoods lighting up the canyons, autumn transforms Moab into a breathtaking playground, and it just might be the region’s best-kept secret.

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Fewer crowds at Arches and Canyonlands mean more room to explore

Temperatures, along with crowds at Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, begin to decline here in September. October’s sweater weather coincides with the gold of willows and cottonwoods captivating river rafters along the banks of the Colorado River and come evening, the Golden Hour lures visitors into Hummer safaris for breathtaking sunset tours into the rugged backcountry.

“Everyone thinks of summer when they picture Moab, but fall is when locals love it most. The red rocks glow deeper in the softer light, the riverbanks shimmer with golden cottonwoods, and the crisp air makes every adventure—from rafting to hiking—more comfortable and memorable,” says Amanda Moore, general manager at Moab Adventure Center.

Fall adventures include rafting, hiking, Hummer tours and ziplining

Cooler temperatures mean more enjoyable hikes, canyoneering adventures and scenic full-day river rafting trips suitable for those as young as five. Moab Adventure Center offers guided rafting, off-road Hummer safaris, scenic flights, ziplining, horseback riding and national park tours, all available throughout the fall season (September into November). With peak tours filling quickly, travelers are encouraged to reserve now to secure their spot for Moab’s most magical season.

Ways to explore this fall with Moab Adventure Center:

• Arches National Park Tours – Be amazed by the most iconic of the park’s 2,000 arches, the largest concentration globally.
• Fall Colorado River Rafting Adventures – Spend a full or half-day navigating the Colorado River, with some adventures offering a BBQ lunch stop. Take in views that have graced the silver screen in many Hollywood films.
• Moab Horseback Adventures – Ride cowboy-trained quarter horses on trails once trodden by John Wayne. Morning rides last three hours, with shorter 90-minute afternoon options.
• Off-Road Hummer Tours – Experience the backcountry in the world’s most advanced 4×4, visiting hidden gems and breathtaking overlooks. Options range from two to four hours, including a sunset safari.
• Moab Zipline Tours – Glide over sandstone cliffs on Moab’s exclusive zip line, The Raven’s Rim. It promises heart-pounding excitement with six thrilling sections.
• Mountain Bike Tours – Dedicate 4.5 hours to understand why Moab is the global hub for mountain biking enthusiasts. Whether beginner or advanced, the Moab Adventure Center offers professionally guided mountain biking tours on all of Moab’s classic rides.

Festivals, art walks and live music add to Moab’s fall charm

After adventure-filled days, cool evenings may call for sweaters and light jackets while enjoying the monthly (fall-only) Moab ArtWalk. Visitors also enjoy traditional music and diverse food offerings during Moab Folk Festival and Celtic Festival.

To learn more, click here visit, Moab Adventure Center.