Zion National Park Weather

Zion National Park is considered a cool, semi-arid climate. The weather in Zion is therefore typically dry and hot, although the Park is known to experience occasional, heavy rainstorms. The landscape of the park is mostly shrubbery, forest, and grassland areas set against geological wonders.
Generally, people think of deserts as being hot but it gets quite cold during winter months, especially during the night. Based on what activities interest you, you should come at different times of the year. To make the most of your visit you should consider the season, temperature, precipitation, and sunrise and sunset times. These factors affect the adventures you can partake in at Zion National Park and are a big part of your overall experience.

Seasons

Zion National Park is a part of the United States that experiences all four seasons. This constant climate change means the park is always changing as well. If you live in an area with all four seasons you already know how drastic the difference in the weather can be. You may feel as though you’ve experienced all four seasons in just one day.
The different seasons allow for a different visit depending on the time of year you would like to come. A visit in the winter and summer would be like exploring two totally different places
In addition to considering what activities you would like to do, you should also choose the timing of your visit based on your personal capabilities. If you have never been exposed to frigid temperatures, you should avoid visiting the park in the winter. Alternatively, if the hottest temperature you’ve experienced is a summer in the north, consider seeing Zion National Park in the spring or fall.

Winter

Zion National Park weather is no stranger to snow. In fact, the winters here are very similar to winter in many areas of the US. The weather and precipitation are not terribly extreme but can get very cold and snowy at times. Ice and snow may make hiking difficult unless your are very experienced with winter hiking and have the proper equipment.
Temperatures can vary by more than 30 degrees F in one day from the afternoon to night so you must be prepared if coming to the park during the winter.

Spring

Sometimes the spring in Zion offers a lot of rainfall. Since a portion of the spring is considered to be the rainy season you should anticipate at least a few showers during your visit, especially if you are planning a visit in March which is the rainiest month of the year. The temperature during spring is comfortable with cool mornings and nights with the warmest temperatures occurring midday.
Melting snow and water from rainfall leads to high water levels and mild flooding making water activities slightly more challenging. While the weather may be hit or miss, the beautiful blooming plant life and abundance of wildlife are not to be missed. As birds nest and hatchlings arrive and new wildlife is born you will have plenty of beautiful things to see so don’t forget your binoculars and camera!

Summer

While summer is the hottest season it is generally unusual for temperatures to be above 100 degrees F for extended periods. Summer monsoons raise the risk of flash flooding from the months of July to September because water is not quickly absorbed into the ground making for potentially dangerous conditions. This is not the norm and most summer days are hot but pleasant.
The summer months may be too hot for those not used to warmer weather. Make sure to prepare yourself for temperatures as high as 110 degrees F. Always pace yourself and stay hydrated to avoid illness and dehydration. You should also be sure to protect yourself from harsh UV rays by covering up and using high SPF products like sunscreen and UPF clothing. If you take care to know your limits in the summer months your trip to Zion National Park will be an enjoyable one!

Fall

Fall is the best, most temperate time to visit the Park. In the Fall, Zion National Park weather is a relief after a hot summer and there is far less rainfall than spring and summer. The changing season brings beautiful fall foliage for an aesthetic delight.
The river is colder which can make water activities a bit riskier. There is a very low risk of snow or ice meaning for hikers and explorers this is a great time to visit. When visiting Zion National Park in the fall be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking colors of autumn.

Average temperatures by month

Temperatures at Zion National Park vary greatly from low teens up to 100 degrees F. It is warmest from June to September and coldest from November to February. Use the average temperature guide to plan your trip and activities.

January

The average high temperature is 44 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 21 degrees F.

February

The average high temperature is 47 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 24 degrees F.

March

March brings the end of a harsh, cold winter and the promise of a warmer spring season. The average high and low temperatures increase by about 10 degrees F during this time.
The average high temperature is 55 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 29 degrees F.

April

The average high temperature is 62 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 34 degrees F.

May

A wet spring turns into a hot summer with the passing of the month of May. Temperature highs and lows increase by nearly 15 to 20 degrees F on average.
The average high temperature is 73 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 42 degrees F.

June

The average high temperature is 83 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 51 degrees F.

July

The average high temperature is 89 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 58 degrees F.

August

The average high temperature is 86 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 57 degrees F.

September

September brings with it a break in the sweltering heat. The relief of fall and the most pleasant season is upon us. High and low Temperatures begin to drop by about 10 degrees F on average.
The average high temperature is 79 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 48 degrees F.

October

The average high temperature is 67 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 38 degrees F.

November

The average high temperature is 54 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 28 degrees F.

December

The comfortable temperatures of fall are short-lived as winter rears its head. Temperatures drop another 10 degrees F on average for both the high and low readings.
The average high temperature is 43 degrees F.
The average low temperature is 21 degrees F.

Rain

Rain is a concern in spring and fall and can lead to flash flooding during heavy precipitation. Heavier rainfalls can make hiking and other activities less enjoyable. Warmer seasons are more likely to experience thunderstorms but light rain is also likely throughout the warm seasons. If you’d like to avoid wet weather be sure to check the local forecast before your trip.

Snow

Snow during winter is common but the biggest issue is ice since there is a low chance of high snow accumulation. A dusting of snow makes the landscape beautiful but also slightly more dangerous.
Experienced outdoorsmen and women who are comfortable in colder weather should fair well in Zion National Park’s snowy season

Humidity

If you’ve been to a humid area, like Florida, you know how miserable high humidity can be. Luckily, the warmest months in Zion National Park experience lower humidity and it is most humid in winter months. The low humidity during the summer makes higher temperatures more bearable so don’t worry about humidity ruining your trip!

Wind

Wind is rarely an issue in Zion National Park. Generally, you will feel a light breeze to a mild gust. If winds are unusually high look out for falling branches. The highest wind speeds are in the spring and the lowest are in the winter. The local forecast includes wind speed so be mindful of the wind but don’t worry about it affecting your visit!

Sunrise and Sunset

Knowing average sunrise and sunset times is important to make the most of your day. The duration of daylight varies greatly throughout the year.
Winter months see about 10 hours of daylight on average and summer months see about 14 hours of daylight. Those extra hours make a big difference when you have a busy day planned! More importantly, you should always be sure to be aware of sunset times and get to a safe location to avoid being lost at night.

Plan your trip today

There is a lot to consider when it comes to the weather. The main concerns should be to know your limits and what you are comfortable with. Also, consider what you want to get out of your trip. Bird and wildlife watching in spring are best in the spring while water activities are best during the summer. Most activities can be done throughout the fall months. Those with a lot of experience can hike and enjoy other activities in the winter. No matter what you’re planning to do in Zion National Park, be sure to check the Zion National Park weather to make the most of your stay!