Summer in Moab is nothing short of magical. As the sun stretches across the iconic red rocks and the desert landscape comes alive in brilliant color, it’s no wonder visitors flock to this corner of Utah. But when midday temperatures soar, the smart adventurer knows the real Moab magic happens in the mornings and evenings.
If you're planning a summer trip and want to make the most of your time without melting in the heat, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through how to take advantage of cool mornings and golden evenings with unforgettable activities, scenic views, and guided tours from Outlaw Adventure Tours.
Moab’s summer days can easily climb into the 90s or higher, especially from late June through August. While this heat adds to the rugged feel of the desert, it’s not always ideal for outdoor activity in the middle of the day. The best way to enjoy Moab without sacrificing comfort is to plan your adventures for early or late in the day.
Morning offers cool air, gentle sun, and a peaceful stillness before the crowds hit. Evening rewards you with golden hour lighting, breezy temperatures, and vibrant colors that make the red rocks glow.
At Outlaw Adventure Tours, we’re early risers for a reason. Morning UTV and Jeep tours are one of the most rewarding ways to experience Moab, especially in summer.
Our morning tours kick off before the sun reaches its peak, letting you hit the trail when temperatures are still manageable. You’ll breeze through trails like Hell’s Revenge or Fins and Things, with the benefit of shaded canyons and crisp morning air.
Morning light brings the desert to life in a way that’s hard to describe. Shadows stretch across the slickrock, birds chirp, and the distant peaks of the La Sal Mountains shimmer in the background.
One of the biggest perks of a morning tour is the solitude. Trails that fill up later in the day are often quiet early in the morning, giving you a more personal and peaceful experience. This is also the best time to spot wildlife, like desert cottontails, mule deer, and even bighorn sheep.
Once you've wrapped up your adrenaline-filled ride, you still have plenty of time left in the day. Take a break and recharge before heading back out for evening adventures.
When the desert starts to cool and the sun begins its slow descent, it’s time to get back out there. Evenings in Moab are pure magic, and they offer a different kind of adventure—one that’s calmer, more scenic, and perfect for photos.
Evening tours with Outlaw Adventure Tours are among our most popular options. We time these rides to catch the golden hour, when the entire landscape seems to glow. There’s no filter that compares to the natural light bouncing off red cliffs, deep canyons, and sandstone trails.
Some of the best trails for sunset tours include:
Our guides know exactly where to go to give you the best chance of catching that perfect sunset moment. We’ll even pause for a few minutes so you can take it all in with a drink or snack.
Your evening doesn’t have to end when the engine turns off. Moab has a lively but laid-back food scene and some great places to wind down.
Moab is also a certified International Dark Sky Community, meaning the stars here are jaw-droppingly bright. After sunset, the show continues above.
To make the most of your early and late adventures, here are a few pro tips from our guides:
At Outlaw, we do more than drive—we deliver experiences. Our expert guides are locals who know the land, the legends, and the best photo spots. Whether you’re here for the views, the thrills, or the stories, we’ll make your morning or evening unforgettable.
We offer a variety of vehicles, including UTVs for hands-on adventure and Jeeps for those who prefer a guided ride. You don’t need off-road experience to ride with us—just a sense of adventure and a love of nature.
Summer in Moab isn’t about sweating through the day. It’s about waking up with the desert and winding down under a glowing sky. Morning and evening are your golden windows for adventure, and there’s no better way to experience them than with Outlaw Adventure Tours.
Whether you’re here for one day or one week, our team is ready to show you the best of Moab—on your schedule, at your pace, and with your comfort in mind.
Ready to ride?
Book your morning or sunset adventure with Outlaw today and discover what makes summer in Moab so unforgettable.
