Grand Canyon Weather Basics

When planning your Grand Canyon vacation keep in mind that the area experiences varying weather conditions during the year. Most vacationers make plans to visit from June to mid-September, but visiting the Canyon in May or October can make for cooler temperatures and thinner crowds. Tourism decreases considerably in the winter months. Spring at the Grand Canyon can be beautiful, with temperatures averaging 55-70 degrees, cooling to the 30's in the evening, and with clear skies. But wintry weather can also re-surface even into May, so be prepared to dress warmly if need be. Packing so that layering your clothing is possible is always a good idea for variable temperatures. A rain jacket or poncho is also a good plan.

Temperatures drop after sunset so bring a jacket and even gloves for late evening strolls to the Park's amenities. Though many of the Park's services are centered in the Grand Canyon Village area, your lodging may be a short distance away.

Be advised that weather conditions may sometimes be severe enough cancel some of the Grand Canyon tours offered. Guides will not lead rafting tours on rough water or in lightning conditions, or on hikes on surfaces that may be slippery.

If you are staying at one of the full service resorts in the area, you will have access to other ways of spending your time in bad weather, such as massages, spas, indoor pools, even bowling alleys.

If you are interested in visiting the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, be aware that the North Rim is closed until mid-May. The North Rim has fewer amenities and is much thinner crowds and so is made available to the public only when clear roads and safe conditions are assured.

Keep in mind that if you plan to visit the Grand Canyon during the summer months and wish to stay within the Park grounds, you must make your reservations as early as possible. There are a limited number of lodgings within the Park (only one at the North Rim). The lodging facilities in the Grand Canyon Village area, which has the most lodging accommodations and the most amenities, fill up quickly so make your reservations months in advance. Several campgrounds are available, but only two take reservations. The others are first-come, first-served. If weather conditions curtail your camping plans during the summer months, it is unlikely you will be able to find lodging in one of the National Park inns. Other hotels and resorts in the Grand Canyon area may have vacancies.