Best Time of Year to Visit Zion National Park (Season-by-Season Guide)
Best Time of Year to Visit Zion National Park (Season-by-Season Guide)
One of the most common questions visitors ask is: When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
The honest answer? There’s no bad time to visit Zion, every season offers something different. From quiet winter mornings to long summer days in the canyon, the “best” time really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Here’s a breakdown of Zion by season, including what to expect, who each season is best for, and a few local insights along the way.
Winter (December–February): Quiet, Peaceful, and Underrated
Explore Zion Tours Today
Winter in Zion is calm, crowd-free, and surprisingly beautiful. Occasional snow dusts the canyon walls, creating a dramatic contrast against the red rock. Mornings are cold, but afternoons are often mild and comfortable, especially for hiking in the main canyon. Shorter days bring soft, golden light that photographers love.
Best for: Solitude, photography, easy to moderate valley hikes, wildlife sightings
What to know:
- Some higher-elevation trails may be icy or closed
- A common myth is that you can't hike The Narrows, but trust us you can and do it comfortably
- Fewer services and shuttles operate on limited schedules; check shuttle schedules here
Average temps (low/high):
- December: 30° / 54°F
- January: 30° / 54°F
- February: 34° / 59°F
Spring (March–May): Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Ideal Hiking Temps
Spring is one of Zion’s most popular seasons and for good reason. Snowmelt brings waterfalls to life, wildflowers start popping, and temperatures are ideal for long hikes. That said, the Narrows often runs high in spring due to runoff, and crowds ramp up quickly, especially by April and May.
Best for: Classic Zion views, all-day hikes, waterfalls, wildflowers
What to know:
- The Narrows may close during high water flow. Here are closure dates in recent years: 2021: Open Most of Spring, 2022: Open Most of Spring, 2023: Closed April 8-June 19 (record snowmelt), and 2024: Closed April 11-May 1.
- Expect increasing crowds as the season progresses
Average temps (low/high):
- March: 39° / 66°F
- April: 45° / 75°F
- May: 54° / 86°F
Summer (June–August): Hot Days, Long Light, and Water Adventures
Summer in Zion is hot, there’s no way around it, but it also offers some of the most memorable experiences. Early morning and sunset hikes are magical and keep you comfortable, the Narrows also becomes a favorite since it acts like nature’s air conditioning. Long daylight hours mean more flexibility, but July and August bring monsoon storms and peak crowds in the canyon.
Best for: Water hikes, long daylight adventures, early-morning explorers
What to know:
- Plan hikes early or late to avoid heat
- Watch weather forecasts closely during monsoon season
- A great time of year to check out Kolob Canyon or Kolob Terrace at higher elevations
Average temps (low/high):
- June: 63° / 95°F
- July: 70° / 100°F
- August: 68° / 99°F
Fall (September–November): Consistent Weather and Iconic Zion Days
Fall delivers some of Zion’s most reliable and beautiful conditions. Expect crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and changing colors along the Virgin River. It’s an ideal season for bucket-list hikes, but it’s also one of the park’s busiest times due to perfect weather and fewer closures.
Best for: Big views, classic Zion hikes, bucket-list trails
What to know:
- High demand for permits and lodging, get a guaranteed Angels Landing permit as part of our guided tour
- Popular trails fill quickly
Average temps (low/high):
- September: 61° / 91°F
- October: 48° / 79°F
- November: 37° / 64°F
So… When Is the Best Time to Visit Zion?
The truth is, Zion shines year-round. Every season comes with trade-offs. Crowds vs. solitude, heat vs. snow, flowing rivers vs. accessibility, but there’s no wrong time to experience this park.
The best time to visit Zion is simply the time that matches your travel style.
If you’d like help choosing hikes, avoiding common mistakes, or experiencing Zion with local insight, a guided hike can make all the difference, no matter the season.
One Day in Zion: How to Make the Most of Limited Time
Explore the 4 sections of Zion National Park. Main Canyon, East Zion, Kolob Canyons, and Kolob Terrace with top hikes, access tips, and unique highlights.
Discover why a guided hike in Zion National Park enhances your visit with expert insight, stress‑free planning, safety, and local storytelling with Explore Zion Tours.
2026 national park pass updates: new fees, residency pricing, digital passes, and tips to plan your visit.
Everything you need to know about hiking The Narrows in Zion, including gear, water levels, flash flood risk, what to bring, and why going guided helps.
Planning to hike Angels Landing? Learn about permits, trail conditions, safety, what to bring, and how a guided hike can boost confidence.
Discover the top 10 reasons to visit Zion National Park, from iconic hikes and stunning scenery to wildlife, adventure, and year-round beauty.