Moab in March: A 12-Part Series

Planning a trip to Moab in March means dealing with a desert that changes fast from season to season. Weather, crowd levels, trail conditions, and even park rules can look completely different depending on when you visit. This 12-Part Series breaks down what Moab is really like month by month so you can plan with confidence instead of guesswork.

Below you’ll find practical details on weather, what’s open, photography conditions, and how these factors shape your time in the parks. Whether you’re chasing sunrise light in Arches or heading out for longer hikes in Canyonlands, this month-specific guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect and how to make the most of your trip.

Moab in March

Moab in March is when the season wakes up. Days are longer, trails begin to dry out, and crowds start trickling in. For photographers and adventure travelers, Moab in March gives you a spring feel without full spring chaos.

Weather in March

Average highs in March climb into the low 60s °F, with average lows around 32 °F. Most days are cool to mild, but cold snaps with rain or light snow are still possible.

Expect 12 hours of daylight by late March, with noticeably stronger sun. Wind can be a factor, especially in the afternoons, kicking up dust on dry days.

How this plays out:

• Hiking: Many south facing trails feel like perfect jacket weather, while shaded canyons stay chilly.
• Driving: Paved roads are generally dry; unpaved routes may be muddy after storms.
• Photography: Stronger sun means higher midday contrast, so aim more strongly for early and late sessions.

What’s Open in March

By March, Moab is gearing up.

• Arches: Typically no timed entry reservations in March, although this can change year by year, so always check the latest NPS guidance. The full main road and headline trails are usually open, with only spot closures for maintenance or weather.
• Canyonlands: Island in the Sky visitor center begins lengthening its hours. Trails are mostly open, with some lingering snow or mud on north facing slopes. The Needles can still see snow in early March, but access improves as the month goes on.Visit Utah
• Dead Horse Point and state parks: Fully open with longer hours and more staff.
• Guided tours: Off road, canyoneering, and climbing guides come back into full operation, and outfitters begin offering more regular half day and full day trips.

Crowds start to rise, particularly during spring break weeks.

Crowd Levels in March

Moab in March is the start of high season.

• Weekends and school breaks can feel busy at Delicate Arch, Windows, and Mesa Arch.
• Parking lots can fill midmorning. Early starts make a big difference.
• Lodging prices climb compared with winter, but you can still find reasonable midweek rates.

With a sunrise to midafternoon or midafternoon to after dark schedule, you can avoid the worst of the crowds.

Photo Plan for Moab in March

March is all about fresh color and dynamic weather.

Key March subjects

1. Early wildflowers and fresh greens
   • Desert primrose, paintbrush, and small blooms begin in lower elevations late in the month.
   • Cottonwoods and shrubs along the Colorado River show the first flush of green.
2. Storm light and rainbows
   • Passing showers create dramatic light, especially over the La Sals and Canyonlands mesas.
3. Milky Way season begins
   • By late March, the Milky Way core rises in the pre dawn hours. Plan early morning sessions at easily accessible locations like Balanced Rock, the Windows, or Dead Horse Point.

Daylight plan for Moab in March

• Sunrise:
  • Delicate Arch for softer temperatures than winter and a higher chance of dry trail.
  • Mesa Arch remains a classic, but arrive early since crowds resume.
• Midday:
  • Use the strong light for graphic textures at Park Avenue, Devils Garden, and pothole filled slickrock.
  • Explore Island in the Sky overlooks for deep shadow and highlight patterns in canyons.
• Sunset:
  • Turret Arch framed through the North Window.
  • Grand View Point for last light on canyon walls.

Recommended gear

• Standard 2 lens kit: wide zoom and midrange zoom
• Telephoto for compressing distant snow capped La Sals
• Tripod and remote for sunrise, sunset, and night
• Polarizer to cut glare on wet rock and cloud filled skies
• Light rain cover or dry bag for your camera in passing showers

Sample 3-Day Itinerary for March

Packing and Gear List for March

• Transitional layers that work from 30s to 60s °F
• Light gloves, hat, and buff for mornings
• Light rain jacket
• Gaiters if you expect muddy trails
• Ample water and snacks as days get longer

Safety and Road Conditions in March

• Spring storms can hit quickly. Always bring an extra layer and rain protection, even if the forecast looks sunny.
• Do not enter narrow canyons or washes if storms are possible, especially later in the month as convection picks up.
• Continue to be cautious on unpaved roads, which may remain wet and rutted for days after storms.

Visit Moab in March

Visiting Moab in March comes with its own mix of challenges and rewards, and knowing what the month brings helps you travel smarter, safer, and with better photos to show for it. Use this guide as your starting point, then build an itinerary that matches your comfort level, the weather, and the type of adventure you want most.

If you’re still deciding when to visit, or you want to compare conditions across the seasons, check out the other articles in the series. Each guide breaks down the same key details so you can quickly see how the desert shifts from winter to spring, summer, and fall. Exploring a few different months will help you pick the perfect time for your next Moab trip.

If you’re still choosing the perfect season for your trip, take a look at the other guides in this series.