Summer
June through August on the rim
May to September in the canyon
Beautiful weather shines on the rims, but temperatures climb as you go into the canyon. Rafting trips are in full swing and some trips are even rapid-free so the whole family can participate. Frequent thunderstorms in July, August, and early September provide dramatic canyon vistas.
Winter
November through March on the rim
December into February in the canyon
The South Rim remains open year-round. Canyon views may be obscured during passing storms, but the canyon formations when highlighted by snow are unforgettable. South Rim roads are plowed, but temporary closures occasionally occur. Many people love to hike into the canyon during winter - it is a difference perspective than in any other season!
Spring and Fall
April, May, September, and October on the rims
March, April, October, and early November in the canyon
Come prepared for a variety of conditions during these changeable seasons. These can be the best times for hiking in the canyon, making overnight permits harder to obtain for popular camp spots. Spring is a great season to visit if you prefer smaller crowds or even a mule ride. Fall is the best time of the year to fish in the Grand Canyon’s section of the Colorado River.
Temperatures and Precipitation
| South Rim | Phantom Ranch | |||||
| High | Low | Precipitation | High | Low | Precipitation | |
| January | 44 | 17 | 1.58 | 57 | 37 | 1.05 |
| February | 47 | 20 | 1.67 | 64 | 42 | 0.99 |
| March | 52 | 24 | 1.95 | 73 | 47 | 1.08 |
| April | 60 | 28 | 1.07 | 82 | 54 | 0.51 |
| May | 70 | 35 | 0.63 | 92 | 62 | 0.37 |
| June | 81 | 42 | 0.47 | 103 | 72 | 0.21 |
| July | 84 | 50 | 1.96 | 106 | 76 | 0.91 |
| August | 81 | 49 | 2.04 | 103 | 75 | 1.28 |
| September | 75 | 43 | 1.4 | 96 | 68 | 0.94 |
| October | 64 | 33 | 1.35 | 83 | 57 | 0.90 |
| November | 52 | 24 | 1.28 | 67 | 45 | 0.83 |
| December | 45 | 18 | 1.10 | 57 | 38 | 0.70 |
*All temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit and precipitation in inches.
