The most visited section of Zion National Park, around the Virgin River, has a relatively low elevation and experiences semi-desert conditions hence summer temperatures are high - a maximum of 115°F has been recorded, which makes walking the steeper trails even more difficult. The days usually exceed 90°F for 4 months in summer though a breeze develops most afternoons which helps moderate the conditions somewhat. In winter the daytime highs are rarely less than 50°F, so hiking around the river valley is always pleasant.

Cooling summer afternoon thunderstorms are common, and can make exploration of some of the side-canyons hazardous, especially during July, August and September when the popular Narrows Trail is usually closed because of the large amounts of water and the danger of flash floods. Even these days usually start warm and clear; the clouds begin to form around midday, the cloudburst happens late afternoon then the storm clears by early evening.


Weather Forecast

Snow does fall in winter, but the park remains open and only the high backcountry is seriously affected, receiving 13 feet in a typical year. The Kolob Reservoir Road is normally blocked by snow from the reservoir northwards for several months, and the spur road to Lava Point is also closed. Most snow melts in spring although some may persist in isolated places such as the high peaks and floor of narrow canyons until July. The high country trails remain muddy and possibly icy for several months, until around May-June. Snowmelt causes most narrow canyons to be inaccessible in spring due to the volume of water and the cold conditions.

Average Zion National Park Weather Conditions (figures are for Springdale)