Best Time to Visit Zion National Park (All Season Guide)

Are you trying to figure out when to plan your trip to Zion National Park? It’s tough to know exactly what time of year to take off of work and hit up this awesome park. And, it also depends on personal preferences as well.

I’ll give you a month to month overview as well as breakdown all the pros and cons for each season to help you make an informed decision (no one likes to waste PTO days).

That way you’ll have the right expectations for visiting this super popular US National Park no matter which time you choose to go.

Quick Facts

When to Plan a Trip to Zion

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. With that being said, the park’s popularity also means that it can get crowded (like REALLY crowded), especially during summer’s peak season.

Personally, I think you can visit Zion year-round because each season will give you a totally different experience but keep in mind, the park’s high desert location means that temperatures can vary greatly from month to month and even from day to night (I learned that the hard way!).

Also, as with any national park road trip or outdoor adventure, there are lots of things to consider and prepare for when deciding to visit during certain times of year and exposure to various weather conditions.

Temperature & Weather in Zion National Park

One of the most important things to consider when planning your trip to Zion (or any national park) is the weather. Weather conditions can change dramatically from month to month, which in turn effects road closures and hiking trail availability.

Here’s a quick recap of average temperatures and expected rainfall in Zion for each month:

Month	Average High (°F)	Average Low (°F)	Precipitation (in)	Best Time to Visit
January	50	20	1.1	Winter (Quietest, Snowy)
February	54	23	1.0	Winter (Quietest, Snowy)
March	63	30	1.1	Spring (Wildflowers)
April	71	36	0.7	Spring (Wildflowers)
May	80	43	0.6	Spring (Warm Weather)
June	92	51	0.3	Summer (Busiest, Hot)
July	99	58	0.5	Summer (Busiest, Hot)
August	97	56	0.6	Summer (Busiest, Hot)
September	89	48	0.5	Fall (Cooler, Fewer Crowds)
October	73	37	0.7	Fall (Fall Foliage)
November	59	26	0.9	Winter (Quietest, Chilly)
December	51	21	1.0	Winter (Quietest, Snowy)

*Info provided by nps.gov/zion.

Spring in Zion National Park

Spring is the perfect time to visit Zion. We found the temps to be just right – think comfortable hiking weather in the 60s and 70s. Plus, you won’t be fighting the intense summer crowds, which means more peaceful moments to soak in those incredible canyon views.

What’s neat about visiting in springtime is that you’ll start to see the desert wake up from winter and wildflowers will slowly start to pop up everywhere.

The weather can be a bit tricky during this time of year so you’ll need to pack layers. It’ll be chilly in the morning when you first head into the park. By the afternoon, you’ll be ready to peel off the layers after being warmed up from all the hiking. Just check the forecast before you head out, and you’ll be good to go.

On that note, remember there are less hours of daylight in spring and winter so make plans to get up early and enjoy the park in the early morning hours.

Summer in Zion National Park

Summer is extremely busy and we learned quite a few tricks after tackling Zion during summer peak season. Number one, it gets HOT (we’re talking 90+ degrees). Number two, it’s packed with visitors.

With some smart planning, you can still have an amazing time. All you need to do is set your expectations accordingly.

Tips for Using the Shuttle System in Summer:

The shuttle system is actually a blessing in disguise – you can hop on and off to do shorter hikes during the hottest parts of the day, then tackle longer trails when it’s cooler.

We love using the morning for challenging hikes like Observation Point, then cooling off with the riverside walk in the afternoon.

Hiking in the summer will make you sweaty so pack a change of clothes in a dry bag. Having fresh clothes to change into before heading to dinner in Springdale will give you that extra boost needed after a long hiking day.

Plus, you can use that dry bag to keep your electronics safe if you decide to hike The Narrows!

Keep in mind, summertime is also monsoon season and flash floods can come out of no where. These torrential rainstorms are extremely dangerous so always check the NOAA Forecast for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Even with the crowds and heat, summer in Zion is my favorite time to visit. Super long days of sunshine and seeing those red rocks glowing in the sunset light makes it all worth it.

Fall in Zion National Park

Autumn is a great time to visit Zion National Park if you’re looking for a quieter and more tranquil experience. The leaves turn to shades of red, orange, and gold, making for stunning views.

Temperature swings are no joke! Pack a small stuff sack with layers – it takes up minimal space in a daypack and will keep comfy all day long.

Mornings can be chilly (think 40s-50s) but it warms up nicely to the 70s-80s by mid-day which means you’ll need to pack layers like this:

Mid-October is great because the cottonwoods along the Virgin River turn this amazing shade of gold, and the crowds thin out significantly. Plus, you can often skip the shuttle and drive your own car through the park (major win for photo ops!).

Fall room rates in Springdale tend to drop after peak season. You can save as much as 30% on your hotel stay compared to summer travel. More cash for post-hike treats at Oscar’s Cafe, right?

Some facilities start reducing their hours in late fall, so always check the park’s website before heading out. And don’t forget to download offline maps because cell service is spotty in the canyon!

Winter in Zion National Park

Visiting Zion in winter will transform your entire perspective. While summer crowds often exceed 10,000 daily visitors, you’ll encounter only a fraction of that during a winter trip.

The park’s red rock formations are dusted with snow, making for a beautiful sight. Temperatures are cold, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s, but the park is less crowded during this time.

Pack strategically for winter temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F (-6°C to 10°C). We recommend wearing layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell.

Don’t forget micro spikes for your hiking boots. It’s a non-negotiable hiking essential when dealing with icy sections of the park like the Emerald Pools Trail.

While most popular trails remain accessible in the winter, the park service occasionally closes Angels Landing and sections of the Narrows due to ice.

We suggest following these winter-friendly trails:

👉 Related Article: Do you love visiting National Parks as much as we do? Find out when is the best time to visit Olympic National Park.

Springdale is considered the “gateway town” to Zion National Park so we recommend booking accommodations there for easy access to the park with significant winter discounts.

Also, you’ll want to rent or drive your own car because the free park shuttle runs less frequently in winter. Having your own vehicle gives you more flexibility so you can park at the visitor center.

Visiting Zion in January and February

January and February are the coldest months in Zion National Park, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F. While the park is much quieter during this time, many of the trails can be icy or covered in snow, making hiking more difficult. However, this is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful, snowy getaway.

Visiting Zion in March, April, or May

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Zion National Park, with wildflowers blooming and temperatures warming up. March and April can still be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 70°F, but May brings warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 80°F. This is a popular time to visit, so expect crowds and make sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

Visiting Zion in June, July, or August

Summer is the busiest season in Zion National Park, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 100°F. This is the best time to explore the park’s higher elevations, as the snow has melted and the trails are open. However, this is also the most crowded time to visit, so be prepared for long lines and limited parking.

Visiting Zion in September and October

Fall is another beautiful time to visit Zion National Park, with cooler temperatures and changing leaves. September still brings warm weather with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 90°F, but October can be chilly with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 70°F. This is a great time to visit if you’re looking for fewer crowds and stunning fall foliage.

Visiting Zion in November and December

November and December are the quietest months in Zion National Park, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F. Many of the park’s facilities are closed during this time, but you can still enjoy hiking and exploring the park’s winter wonderland. Just make sure to check the weather and road conditions before you go.

How to Deal with the Crowds in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular parks in the country, attracting millions of visitors every year. While the crowds can be overwhelming, there are ways to navigate them and still enjoy the park. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Peak Visitor Times in Zion National Park

The peak season for Zion National Park is from March to October, with the busiest months being June, July, and August. During these months, the park can get very crowded, with long lines at the entrance, shuttle buses, and popular trails. If you plan to visit during peak season, it’s important to be prepared for the crowds and to plan ahead.

One way to avoid the crowds is to arrive at the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The park is less crowded during these times, and you’ll have a better chance of finding parking and avoiding long lines.

Another way to avoid the crowds is to visit the less popular areas of the park. While places like Angels Landing and The Narrows are popular for a reason, there are plenty of other areas of the park that are just as beautiful and less crowded. Consider hiking the West Rim Trail or exploring Kolob Canyons for a quieter experience.

Best Time To Visit Zion National Park To Avoid Crowds

If you’re looking for solitude and a more peaceful experience, consider visiting Zion National Park during the off-peak season. The park is less crowded from November to February, and you’ll have more opportunities to explore the park without the crowds.

One advantage of visiting during the off-peak season is that you’ll have more flexibility in your itinerary. You won’t have to worry about making reservations for popular activities or booking your accommodations months in advance. You’ll also have more opportunities to see wildlife and experience the park in a different way.

Dealing with the massive crowds at Zion can be super annoying. After all, you didn’t sign up to go to Disney World! Ugh. With a little planning and flexibility, you can still enjoy the park and all it has to offer.

Whether you visit during peak or off-peak season, be sure to plan ahead and be prepared for the crowds. Be patient, embrace that sense of adventure, and I promise you’ll have a great time exploring one of the most beautiful parks in the country.

Conclusion: Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Basically, the best time to visit Zion National Park all depends on what weather you want to deal with and what you’re looking to experience. Each season has its own personality and activities, so plan your visit based on what you want to see and do in this spectacular national park. No matter when you visit, you won’t be disappointed!

Frequently Asked Questions