Arizona Map

Request Free Visitor Guides

Weathering the Seasons in Grand Canyon National Park

Description

Grand Canyon National Park is one of those places that only gets better with age. Counted as one of the world’s seven natural wonders, there’s good reason it’s the second most visited national park in the country. The downside, of course is that you might have to share the views in peak season with a crowd of like-minded visitors. And it’s still, absolutely, worth the trip. But there are a few things to know before you plan when to go.

First, keep in mind that unlike some national parks, Grand Canyon National Park has its seasonal side. The North Rim, at 8,000 feet elevation isn’t far from the South Rim (which tops out at 7,000 feet) as the crow flies. The big difference is that you’ll find the North Rim shuts down to all vehicular traffic from the first snow to mid-May; if you have the appropriate back-country permit you can enter on snowshoes or cross-country skis, but all facilities are closed. Even with heavy snow, the South Rim stays open for business 365 days a year, though depending on how icy the conditions you’ll want to think twice about tackling trails into the canyon.

Spring and fall are the fringe seasons, with highly unpredictable weather. Late snow flurries aren’t out of the question, neither are extreme temperature highs well into autumn on the canyon floor. Consequently, it’s a good idea to come prepared for a variety of weather conditions, particularly if you plan on spending any time in the canyon itself.

Summer temperatures are generally pleasant on both rims, with slightly cooler temperatures on the North Rim and starry crisp nights. Expect thunderstorms late summer, and much higher temperatures down by the Colorado River, where it’s not uncommon to see days above 100 degrees. Our advice? If you’re venturing much beyond South Rim facilities pack snacks, sun-screen and lots of water.

Importantly, rain or shine, know this: the Grand Canyon will give you chills, it’s that good.

Map + Directions

Arizona Grand Canyon National Park Gilbert

Copyright © 1997 - 2024 The Go Travel Sites. All Rights Reserved and.

Email Page Link

Complete the form below to email this page to a friend or family member's email. You can send yourself an email as well. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. See our full Privacy Policy for details.
:
:
:
 
 
 
:
Copy Yourself on the Email Yes No
:
:

1

Select one or more Free Visitor Guides below

2

Complete the form to receive your guides by mail

Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Grand Canyon National Park. More Visitor Guides are available in Arizona. Click here to view them all!

Zion National Park - North Rim Grand Canyon Zion National Park - North Rim Grand Canyon Zion National Park - North Rim Grand Canyon
Southern UtahTravel information on the North Rim Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Lake Powell, Kanab and Bryce Canyon Nation Park - Visit the Heart of the Parks.
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Arizona - The Grand Canyon State Arizona - The Grand Canyon State Arizona - The Grand Canyon State
ArizonaStart planning your Arizona vacation with the Official State Visitor's guide - available in print, electronically, or both. Fill out the form to request your free travel packet, which includes an Arizona Official State Visitor's Guide and an Arizona state highway map. The Arizona Office of Tourism ships domestically as well as the following countries only: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, Canada and Mexico.
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Bryce Canyon Country Bryce Canyon Country Bryce Canyon Country
Southern UtahBryce Canyon Country is home to several scenically diverse state/national parks. Visitors will want to spend at least a few days exploring this spectacular part of Utah.
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Arizona State Parks Arizona State Parks Arizona State Parks
State of Arizona
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.

Specialty Guides

Maverick Helicopters Maverick Helicopters Maverick Helicopters
Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and CaliforniaUnforgettable Tours Offered in Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California.
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.