Weather & Forecast
Real-time conditions and trip-planning data for Grand Canyon National Park
Hourly Forecast
Hour-by-hour outlook for the next 48 hours
Extended Forecast
16-day outlook for Grand Canyon National Park
NWS Detailed Forecast
Official narrative forecast from the National Weather Service
Sunny. High near 70, with temperatures falling to around 67 in the afternoon. East wind around 9 mph, with gusts as high as 16 mph.
Clear, with a low around 47. East wind 2 to 7 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 71. East wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 17 mph.
Clear, with a low around 49. East wind around 7 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 71. East wind 5 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
Clear, with a low around 49. East wind around 9 mph, with gusts as high as 17 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 68. East wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.
Mostly clear, with a low around 51. Southeast wind 0 to 6 mph.
Source: weather.gov
Sunrise & Sunset
Plan your hikes and photography around the light
This Week's Sun Times
What to Pack Right Now
Personalized recommendations based on the current forecast
Clothing
- Shorts and breathable hiking pants
- Comfortable hiking socks (wool blend)
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (desert sun is intense)
- Wide-brim hat for sun protection
- Polarized sunglasses
Hydration & Nutrition
- At least 2 liters of water per person per day
- Trail snacks (salty + sweet for energy)
Footwear
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Safety & Gear
- Headlamp (for early starts or if hikes run long)
- First aid kit with blister care
- Trail map or downloaded offline maps
Seasonal Guide
What to expect each season at Grand Canyon National Park
Spring
Spring is one of Zion's most beautiful seasons. Wildflowers bloom across the canyon floor, waterfalls run at peak flow from snowmelt, and temperatures are ideal for hiking. Weather can be unpredictable — warm, sunny mornings can give way to afternoon rain showers. The Narrows typically opens mid-to-late spring depending on snowmelt and flow rates.
- Layers for temperature swings
- Rain jacket
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Sturdy hiking boots
Summer
Summer brings intense heat to Zion's canyon floor, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Early morning hikes are essential — canyon walls radiate heat, making afternoons feel 10–15°F hotter than reported temps. July and August bring monsoon season with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that create flash flood risks in slot canyons. The Narrows and river walks offer refreshing relief from the heat.
- Minimum 1 gallon water per person per day
- Electrolyte packets
- Wide-brim hat
- Lightweight, light-colored clothing
Fall
NowFall is arguably Zion's best season. Temperatures drop to comfortable hiking ranges, crowds thin after Labor Day, and the canyon transforms with stunning fall foliage — cottonwood trees along the Virgin River turn brilliant gold against the red sandstone walls. September can still be warm, but October and November bring crisp, cool air and crystal-clear skies. Flash flood risk decreases as monsoon season ends.
- Layers (warm mornings, mild afternoons)
- Light jacket or fleece
- Sunscreen
- Sturdy hiking boots
Winter
Winter in Zion is a hidden gem. The park sees far fewer visitors, offering a peaceful experience rarely found during other seasons. Snow dusts the canyon rims and higher elevations, creating stunning contrast with red sandstone. Lower elevation trails remain accessible, but higher trails like Angels Landing and the West Rim can be icy and dangerous — microspikes are essential. Shorter days mean earlier sunsets but also gorgeous golden light on the canyon walls.
- Warm layers and insulated jacket
- Microspikes for icy trails
- Gloves and warm hat
- Hand/toe warmers
Historical Monthly Averages
Typical conditions by month at Grand Canyon National Park
🌡️ Average Temperature (°F)
🌧️ Average Precipitation (inches)
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month ratings for planning your trip
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Activities | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Feb | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Mar | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Apr | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| May | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Jun | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Jul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Aug | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Sep | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| OctNow | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Nov | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Dec | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Trail Weather Considerations
Essential safety information for Grand Canyon National Park trails
Canyon Floor vs. Rim Temperature
Temperatures can differ 10–20°F between the canyon floor and the rim. The canyon floor is sheltered from wind but traps heat in summer, while the rim is cooler but more exposed. Plan your layers accordingly, especially for trails that gain significant elevation like Angels Landing or Observation Point.
Flash Flood Danger
Slot canyons like The Narrows are extremely dangerous during rain — even rain falling miles away can funnel into deadly flash floods with little warning. Always check the flash flood potential forecast before entering any narrow canyon. If the forecast shows ANY chance of thunderstorms, do not enter slot canyons. Water levels can rise from ankle-deep to chest-deep in minutes.
Summer Heat Safety
Canyon walls radiate absorbed heat, making actual conditions feel 10–15°F hotter than reported temperatures. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are real risks from May through September. Carry a minimum of 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day, start hikes before 7 AM, and avoid strenuous activity between 10 AM and 4 PM. Know the signs: dizziness, nausea, confusion, and cessation of sweating are emergencies.
Winter Trail Conditions
Ice and compacted snow can make trails like Angels Landing extremely dangerous in winter — the chain section becomes treacherous when frozen. Microspikes are essential for any trail above the canyon floor from December through February. Trekking poles add stability. Check trail conditions at the Visitor Center before heading out, and be prepared to turn around if conditions are beyond your comfort level.
Monsoon Season Storms
July through September brings monsoon season with sudden, intense afternoon thunderstorms. These storms develop rapidly — a clear morning sky can produce lightning and heavy rain by 2 PM. Avoid exposed ridgelines and high points during storms. Lightning is a serious risk on Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the West Rim Trail. Plan to be off exposed trails by early afternoon.
Wind in Exposed Areas
Rim trails and exposed overlooks can experience strong, gusty winds that are not felt on the canyon floor. Wind gusts exceeding 40 mph are common on the rim, especially in spring. This is particularly dangerous on Angels Landing's narrow spine and chain section. Check the wind forecast before planning exposed hikes.
Grand Canyon National Park Weather FAQ
Common questions about Grand Canyon National Park weather, seasons, and forecast
What is the weather like in Zion National Park?
Zion has a high-desert climate with large day-to-night temperature swings. Summers are hot — often 95–105°F on the canyon floor — while spring and fall are mild and winters are cold with occasional snow. The canyon floor runs noticeably warmer than the rim and the higher Kolob Canyons section.
What is the best time to visit Zion National Park for good weather?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking. Summer is hot and brings afternoon monsoon storms, while winter is quiet and cold with possible ice and snow on the trails.
How hot does Zion get in the summer?
Daytime highs on the canyon floor frequently reach 95–105°F (35–40°C) in July and August. Start hikes early, carry extra water, and avoid strenuous, exposed routes like Angels Landing during peak afternoon heat.
Does it snow in Zion National Park?
Yes. The canyon floor sees occasional light snow from December through February, and the higher elevations — including Kolob Canyons — get more. Some trails become icy in winter, so traction devices are often useful.
When is monsoon season in Zion, and why does it matter?
Monsoon season runs from roughly mid-July through September and brings sudden afternoon thunderstorms. These storms create flash-flood danger in slot canyons such as The Narrows, so always check the forecast and ranger flash-flood warnings before entering narrow canyons.
What is the current weather forecast for Zion National Park?
This page shows a live 16-day forecast, an hourly outlook, and the official National Weather Service narrative for Zion, updated continuously. Conditions can differ sharply between the canyon floor and the rim, so check both before heading out.