Grand Canyon Weather
Due to its high, varied elevation, Grand Canyon weather varies from season to season. At lower elevations, the Canyon experiences hot, dry summers and cool winters, while the higher elevations see cooler summers with frigid winters. The precipitation in the Grand Canyon is also varied, complete with summer showers and winter snowstorms. The Canyon is divided into three sections: the North Rim, Inner Canyon, and South Rim. Each portion of the Canyon experiences vastly different weather patterns due to their differences in elevation. Some parts of the Canyon may be temperate and seasonal, other parts are cold and extreme.
The North Rim has an elevation of about 8,000 feet above sea level, meaning it's the coldest section of the Canyon. The summers are cool, but the winters are often so cold and full of snow they are closed to the public for several months. The summer highs are usually around 75 degrees, while the winters can get as cold as 15 degrees. It generally sees the most precipitation throughout the year.
The South Rim has the next highest elevation, reaching heights of 7,000 feet above sea level. The elevation is similar to the North Rim; the two sections have common weather patterns. The area has very pleasant, moderate summers and cold winters, though they are not as extreme as the winters of the North Rim. Summers average around 84 degrees, while the winters range between 20-40 degrees.
Seasons in the Inner Canyon, on the other hand, experience much warmer weather. The Inner Canyon sits at about 2,000 feet above sea level, and has temperatures that are usually 20-25 degrees higher than the North and South Rims. The summers at the Inner Canyon are severe. Temperatures get as hot as 100 degrees, and there is little relief from the heat and sunshine. Winters are very mild, and generally range from 35-55 degrees even during the coldest winter months.
Keep the diverse Grand Canyon weather in mind when traveling to this national landmark. If hiking through the Inner Canyon to the North Rim, it's important to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated as well as layers due to the temperature variations. The best times to visit the Grand Canyon are during the more temperate months of October, November, March, and April, when weather is moderate throughout the Canyon. Whenever you visit, the Grand Canyon is a beautiful natural wonder and definitely worth the trip!
