Seasons in Zion
The Park Changes. The Magic Never Fades.
Planning your Zion adventure and wondering when to go? Here’s the honest truth: there’s no wrong time to visit. Every month brings something wildly unique to the table—from frozen waterfalls and solitude in the off-season, to warm canyon breezes and river hikes under the summer sun.
Zion isn’t just a destination. It’s a living, breathing place that shifts with the seasons—and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
Use this guide to plan smarter, pack better, and pick the right gear for the season. As always, check current conditions and water levels before your hike—nature makes the rules.
What It’s Like to Work Here
Quiet Trails, Snowy Peaks, Total Solitude
This is Zion at its most peaceful. With fewer crowds and snow dusting the canyon walls, winter is ideal for travelers who crave space and silence. The Narrows is open, and with proper gear, you’ll practically have it to yourself.
| MONTH | AVG. TEMP (HIGH/LOW) | WATER TEMP | VISITATION | RECOMMENDED GEAR | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | 48°/23°F | 40–45°F | Low | Dry Bib Package | Ice may close Riverside Walk. Avoid canyon walls due to falling ice. |
| January | 48°/23°F | 40–45°F | Low | Dry Bib Package | Ice may close Riverside Walk. Avoid canyon walls due to falling ice. |
| February | 48°/23°F | 40–45°F | Low | Dry Bib Package | Ice may close Riverside Walk. Avoid canyon walls due to falling ice. |
Spring in Zion (March – May)
Blooming Colors, Rising Crowds, Unpredictable Waters
Zion wakes up in spring. Waterfalls flow, flowers bloom, and the park begins to hum with activity. But beware—spring runoff can raise river levels and temporarily close the Narrows. Pack layers and flexibility.
| MONTH | AVG. TEMP (HIGH/LOW) | WATER TEMP | VISITATION | RECOMMENDED GEAR | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 56°/30°F | 40–45°F | Medium | Dry Bib + Dry Top | Spring break crowds arrive; watch for Narrows closures above 150 CFS. |
| April | 59°/36°F | 45–50°F | Medium | Dry Bib Package | Still runoff season. Conditions change fast. |
| May | 69°/43°F | 50–55°F | High | Warm Weather Package | One of the busiest months. Book early and check flow levels. |
Summer in Zion (June – August)
Sunshine, High Adventure, and Flash Flood Watch
This is Zion in full swing. Early mornings are golden. The Narrows is a favorite escape from the heat, with warm temps and river fun. Just remember—monsoon season starts mid-July, so flash flood awareness is critical.
| MONTH | AVG. TEMP (HIGH/LOW) | WATER TEMP | VISITATION | RECOMMENDED GEAR | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June | 82°/49°F | 55–60°F | High | Warm Weather Package | Ideal Narrows conditions—warm, lower flood risk. |
| July | 87°/57°F | 60–65°F | High | Warm Weather Package | Monsoon season begins. Daily rain = potential flash floods. |
| August | 85°/55°F | 60–65°F | High | Warm Weather Package | Flash flood risk remains high. Always check forecast. |
Fall in Zion (September – November)
Crisp Air, Changing Leaves, Sweet Spot for Hikers
Fall is Zion’s best-kept secret. Temperatures mellow, the light gets golden, and the canyon walls glow with autumn color. Crowds thin after Labor Day, and conditions for hiking the Narrows are ideal.
| MONTH | AVG. TEMP (HIGH/LOW) | WATER TEMP | VISITATION | RECOMMENDED GEAR | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September | 78°/48°F | 55–60°F | High | Warm Weather Package | Monsoon season ends mid-month. Great hiking weather. |
| October | 66°/39°F | 50–55°F | High | Dry Bibs or Warm Weather | Fall foliage in full effect. Cooler mornings, perfect afternoons. |
| November | 56°/31°F | 45–50°F | Medium | Dry Bibs Package | Fewer crowds. Ideal for peaceful canyon exploration. |