WEATHER & FORECAST
Real-time conditions and trip-planning data for Zion National Park
Toxic Cyanobacteria in the Virgin River and the streams of Zion National Park
Do not submerge your head in or filter drinking water from still or moving water.
Hourly Forecast
Hour-by-hour outlook for the next 48 hours
Extended Forecast
16-day outlook for Zion National Park
NWS Detailed Forecast
Official narrative forecast from the National Weather Service
Mostly sunny. High near 81, with temperatures falling to around 79 in the afternoon. South southwest wind around 13 mph.
Mostly clear. Low around 41, with temperatures rising to around 45 overnight. West wind 2 to 12 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 79. West wind 2 to 8 mph.
Clear, with a low around 42. Northwest wind 2 to 8 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 80. South southwest wind 1 to 10 mph.
Mostly clear, with a low around 42.
Sunny, with a high near 78.
Mostly clear, with a low around 41.
Source: weather.gov
Sunrise & Sunset
Plan your hikes and photography around the light
This Week's Sun Times
What to Pack Right Now
Personalized recommendations based on the current forecast
Clothing
- Shorts and breathable hiking pants
- Comfortable hiking socks (wool blend)
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (desert sun is intense)
- Wide-brim hat for sun protection
- Polarized sunglasses
Hydration & Nutrition
- At least 3 liters of water per person per day
- Electrolyte packets
- Trail snacks (salty + sweet for energy)
Footwear
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Safety & Gear
- Headlamp (for early starts or if hikes run long)
- First aid kit with blister care
- Trail map or downloaded offline maps
Seasonal Guide
What to expect each season at Zion National Park
Spring
NowSpring is one of Zion's most beautiful seasons. Wildflowers bloom across the canyon floor, waterfalls run at peak flow from snowmelt, and temperatures are ideal for hiking. Weather can be unpredictable — warm, sunny mornings can give way to afternoon rain showers. The Narrows typically opens mid-to-late spring depending on snowmelt and flow rates.
- Layers for temperature swings
- Rain jacket
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Sturdy hiking boots
Summer
Summer brings intense heat to Zion's canyon floor, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Early morning hikes are essential — canyon walls radiate heat, making afternoons feel 10–15°F hotter than reported temps. July and August bring monsoon season with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that create flash flood risks in slot canyons. The Narrows and river walks offer refreshing relief from the heat.
- Minimum 1 gallon water per person per day
- Electrolyte packets
- Wide-brim hat
- Lightweight, light-colored clothing
Fall
Fall is arguably Zion's best season. Temperatures drop to comfortable hiking ranges, crowds thin after Labor Day, and the canyon transforms with stunning fall foliage — cottonwood trees along the Virgin River turn brilliant gold against the red sandstone walls. September can still be warm, but October and November bring crisp, cool air and crystal-clear skies. Flash flood risk decreases as monsoon season ends.
- Layers (warm mornings, mild afternoons)
- Light jacket or fleece
- Sunscreen
- Sturdy hiking boots
Winter
Winter in Zion is a hidden gem. The park sees far fewer visitors, offering a peaceful experience rarely found during other seasons. Snow dusts the canyon rims and higher elevations, creating stunning contrast with red sandstone. Lower elevation trails remain accessible, but higher trails like Angels Landing and the West Rim can be icy and dangerous — microspikes are essential. Shorter days mean earlier sunsets but also gorgeous golden light on the canyon walls.
- Warm layers and insulated jacket
- Microspikes for icy trails
- Gloves and warm hat
- Hand/toe warmers
Historical Monthly Averages
Typical conditions by month at Zion National Park
🌡️ Average Temperature (°F)
🌧️ Average Precipitation (inches)
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month ratings for planning your trip
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Activities | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Feb | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Mar | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Apr | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| MayNow | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Jun | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Jul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Aug | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Sep | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Oct | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Nov | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Dec | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Trail Weather Considerations
Essential safety information for Zion's trails
Canyon Floor vs. Rim Temperature
Temperatures can differ 10–20°F between the canyon floor and the rim. The canyon floor is sheltered from wind but traps heat in summer, while the rim is cooler but more exposed. Plan your layers accordingly, especially for trails that gain significant elevation like Angels Landing or Observation Point.
Flash Flood Danger
Slot canyons like The Narrows are extremely dangerous during rain — even rain falling miles away can funnel into deadly flash floods with little warning. Always check the flash flood potential forecast before entering any narrow canyon. If the forecast shows ANY chance of thunderstorms, do not enter slot canyons. Water levels can rise from ankle-deep to chest-deep in minutes.
Summer Heat Safety
Canyon walls radiate absorbed heat, making actual conditions feel 10–15°F hotter than reported temperatures. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are real risks from May through September. Carry a minimum of 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day, start hikes before 7 AM, and avoid strenuous activity between 10 AM and 4 PM. Know the signs: dizziness, nausea, confusion, and cessation of sweating are emergencies.
Winter Trail Conditions
Ice and compacted snow can make trails like Angels Landing extremely dangerous in winter — the chain section becomes treacherous when frozen. Microspikes are essential for any trail above the canyon floor from December through February. Trekking poles add stability. Check trail conditions at the Visitor Center before heading out, and be prepared to turn around if conditions are beyond your comfort level.
Monsoon Season Storms
July through September brings monsoon season with sudden, intense afternoon thunderstorms. These storms develop rapidly — a clear morning sky can produce lightning and heavy rain by 2 PM. Avoid exposed ridgelines and high points during storms. Lightning is a serious risk on Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the West Rim Trail. Plan to be off exposed trails by early afternoon.
Wind in Exposed Areas
Rim trails and exposed overlooks can experience strong, gusty winds that are not felt on the canyon floor. Wind gusts exceeding 40 mph are common on the rim, especially in spring. This is particularly dangerous on Angels Landing's narrow spine and chain section. Check the wind forecast before planning exposed hikes.