Zion National Park is one of those rare places that’s spectacular in every season. The canyon walls glow in deep reds and greens as the sun moves across the sky, shift to golden cottonwoods in fall, sparkle with snow in winter, and burst with colorful blooms come spring. No matter when you visit, Zion offers something extraordinary. That said, every season brings its own personality, along with a few logistics worth knowing.
This guide walks you through Zion by the seasons, what to expect in terms of crowds and the park shuttle, and how to plan the ultimate Zion glamping trip so that you can make the most of your time in the desert Southwest.
Peak Seasons in Zion
Summer is the most popular time to visit Zion National Park. Warm weather, long days, and school vacations bring the highest visitor numbers of the year (along with holidays). Trails like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows see heavy traffic, and shuttle lines can grow quickly (especially between 8 a.m. and midday). Still, with a bit of strategy (think sunrise starts or late-afternoon adventures), you can enjoy everything Zion has to offer.
Shoulder Seasons in Zion
Spring, fall, and winter are beautiful times to visit without the summer crowds. These seasons offer cooler temperatures for hiking, photography, and exploring. Zion Canyon feels especially vibrant with wildflowers in spring, golden cottonwoods in fall, and snow-dusted red rocks in winter. Shuttle schedules differ in shoulder months, so always double-check availability before heading out.
Zion National Park By The Seasons
While Zion is known for its sun-baked desert scenery, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Even in midsummer, mornings and evenings are chilly while afternoons climb into triple digits. Packing layers is key, and so is keeping an eye on conditions.
Summer (May – September)
The park is completely open, the canyon floor is lush and green, you can see waterfalls, and the Virgin River feels refreshing as you wade through The Narrows. The desert is hot, with daytime highs between 85–100°F and lows between 54–60°F, but there are easy ways to beat the crowds and heat.
Start early. Like, before sunrise early. Catch the Zion Shuttle before 8 a.m., and you’ll experience cooler temps and quieter trails. Planning to hike Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, or Emerald Pools? Begin at dawn. Another tip: explore later in the day, after 3 p.m., when temperatures start to drop and crowds thin out. Stay through sunset or stargaze after dark (bring a headlamp), and you’ll see the starry side of the park. Here are some of the best stargazing spots in Zion.
Important: July to September is monsoon season. Flash flooding can happen quickly, especially in slot canyons. Always check the weather forecast and monitor NPS for current conditions before heading out. If there’s rain, save The Narrows or other challenging hikes for another day.
Looking for permit info? Our guide to Zion permits breaks down everything you need to know for The Narrows and Angel’s Landing hikes.
Spring (March – April)
Desert wildflowers pop across meadows and canyon floors, wildlife becomes more active, and temperatures are comfortable. Highs hover between 66–86°F and lows between 39–54°F, making it one of the best times to visit Zion for hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves exploring before the heat of summer.
Days are on the shorter side, so early starts are essential. The Zion Shuttle may run on a reduced schedule, so double-check times before heading out. Spring is also an incredible season for outdoor yoga, peaceful mornings, and desert glamping at Under Canvas Zion.
Check out our guides to Zion National Park wildlife and wildflowers to help you spot the season’s highlights.
Fall (October – November)
Autumn (and late September) is the Southwest’s “secret season.” Cottonwoods turn shades of gold, wildlife is active as temperatures cool, crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons perfect for experiences like hiking, canyoneering, or via ferrata. With summer crowds gone, it’s an ideal time for Zion glamping. Highs range from 64–79°F and lows dip into the 37–48°F range.
Fall foliage begins in the higher elevations and slowly cascades down into Zion Canyon. By late October, the lower canyon explodes into color, which can last into late November. It’s a great time to explore Zion’s lesser-known trails and enjoy an even more peaceful version of the park. Shuttle schedules may be reduced in the fall, so keep an eye on updates before heading out.
Winter (December – February)
Winter is Zion at its most serene. A dusting of snow transforms red rock cliffs into a breathtaking scene, and crowds drop to their lowest numbers of the year. Highs sit between 50–60°F, and lows dip to 30–35°F. Trails may have mud or icy patches, so sturdy hiking shoes with traction are must-haves.
Trails like the Watchman, Pa’rus Trail, and Riverside Walk are beautiful year-round. Photography conditions are exceptional thanks to soft winter light. Note that some restaurants and shops in Springdale take seasonal breaks, so check before you go or pack what you need. The Zion Shuttle runs in winter but with significant service gaps, so be sure to check the schedule.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
Discover the magic of the desert Southwest at Under Canvas Zion, a one-of-a-kind glamping resort near Zion National Park. Surrounded by sandstone cliffs and wide-open desert skies, Under Canvas Zion is a haven of natural beauty and solitude in the American Southwest, where you can enjoy casual dining with red rock views, daily camp programming, and nightly s’mores. Sleep under the stars in fully furnished tents featuring cozy beds, ensuite bathrooms, and upscale amenities – and experience outdoor lodging at its finest from March to November.
Experience the Night Sky Like Never Before
Under Canvas Zion is one of the world’s first DarkSky Resorts, where you can experience the wonders of the night sky like never before. Sleep under star-filled skies in our Stargazer Tent, enjoy celestial-themed culinary offerings, star parties, and more. With easy access to Zion National Park, a designated DarkSky Park, it’s the perfect place to explore the night sky.
Additional Tips for Visiting Zion National Park
- Accommodation: Book well in advance, especially during summer and around holidays.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, no matter the season.
- Respect the Environment: Stay on designated trails and leave no trace.
- Pack the Essentials: Know what to pack with our seasonal Zion packing list.