Bryce Canyon National Park Weather by Month
Bryce Canyon National Park sits at a high elevation (8,000–9,000 ft / 2,400–2,700 m), which means cooler temperatures year-round than many other national parks in Utah. Expect big seasonal swings, snowy winters, and mild summers.
Bryce Canyon National Park Weather Averages by Month
| Month | Avg High (°F / °C) | Avg Low (°F / °C) | Rainfall (inches) | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 36°F / 2°C | 10°F / -12°C | 1.3 | 17 |
| February | 40°F / 4°C | 12°F / -11°C | 1.2 | 15 |
| March | 47°F / 8°C | 18°F / -8°C | 1.4 | 12 |
| April | 54°F / 12°C | 24°F / -4°C | 1.1 | 5 |
| May | 65°F / 18°C | 31°F / -1°C | 0.9 | 1 |
| June | 75°F / 24°C | 39°F / 4°C | 0.6 | 0 |
| July | 80°F / 27°C | 47°F / 8°C | 1.7 | 0 |
| August | 78°F / 26°C | 46°F / 8°C | 1.8 | 0 |
| September | 71°F / 22°C | 38°F / 3°C | 1.3 | 0 |
| October | 60°F / 16°C | 29°F / -2°C | 1.0 | 2 |
| November | 47°F / 8°C | 20°F / -7°C | 1.0 | 7 |
| December | 38°F / 3°C | 13°F / -11°C | 1.2 | 13 |
Notes
- Snowfall is concentrated from November to April due to the park’s high elevation.
- Rainfall peaks during July–August monsoon season.
- Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night year-round.
January
- Avg High: 36°F (2°C)
- Avg Low: 10°F (-12°C)
- Conditions: Cold and snowy
January is deep winter. Snow blankets the famous hoodoos, creating stunning contrasts with red rock. Roads are usually open, but icy conditions are common.
👉 Best for: Snow photography, solitude
👉 Watch out for: Freezing temps, limited services
February
- Avg High: 40°F (4°C)
- Avg Low: 12°F (-11°C)
- Conditions: Snowy, slightly milder
Still winter, but with slightly longer days. Snowfall continues, and the park remains peaceful.
👉 Best for: Winter hiking, fewer crowds
March
- Avg High: 47°F (8°C)
- Avg Low: 18°F (-8°C)
- Conditions: Transition to spring
Snow begins to melt, though storms can still occur. Trails may be muddy or icy.
👉 Best for: Early spring visits with fewer tourists
April
- Avg High: 54°F (12°C)
- Avg Low: 24°F (-4°C)
- Conditions: Cool and unpredictable
Spring arrives slowly due to elevation. Expect a mix of sunshine, snow, and rain.
👉 Best for: Mild weather, blooming landscapes
May
- Avg High: 65°F (18°C)
- Avg Low: 31°F (-1°C)
- Conditions: Pleasant and dry
One of the best months to visit. Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.
👉 Best for: Hiking, scenic drives
June
- Avg High: 75°F (24°C)
- Avg Low: 39°F (4°C)
- Conditions: Warm days, cool nights
Early summer brings ideal weather. Skies are usually clear, and trails are fully accessible.
👉 Best for: Outdoor activities, photography
July
- Avg High: 80°F (27°C)
- Avg Low: 47°F (8°C)
- Conditions: Warm with afternoon storms
Monsoon season begins. Expect sunny mornings and thunderstorms in the afternoon.
👉 Best for: Summer trips
👉 Watch out for: Lightning, flash floods
August
- Avg High: 78°F (26°C)
- Avg Low: 46°F (8°C)
- Conditions: Stormy but warm
Similar to July, with frequent afternoon rain showers.
👉 Best for: Dramatic skies and fewer crowds than peak July
September
- Avg High: 71°F (22°C)
- Avg Low: 38°F (3°C)
- Conditions: Mild and stable
One of the best months overall—great weather and fewer visitors.
👉 Best for: Hiking, photography, comfortable exploration
October
- Avg High: 60°F (16°C)
- Avg Low: 29°F (-2°C)
- Conditions: Cool and crisp
Fall colors appear, and temperatures drop quickly, especially at night.
👉 Best for: Scenic views, fewer crowds
November
- Avg High: 47°F (8°C)
- Avg Low: 20°F (-7°C)
- Conditions: Early winter
Snow may start returning. Visitor numbers drop significantly.
👉 Best for: Quiet visits
December
- Avg High: 38°F (3°C)
- Avg Low: 13°F (-11°C)
- Conditions: Cold and snowy
A magical time with snow-covered landscapes and festive vibes.
👉 Best for: Winter scenery, peaceful atmosphere

Bryce Canyon National Park Weather FAQs
1. What is the weather like at Bryce Canyon year-round?
Bryce Canyon has a high-elevation climate, meaning cool summers, cold winters, and big temperature swings between day and night.
2. What is the best month to visit for good weather?
The best months are May, June, and September, offering mild temperatures and stable conditions.
3. How cold does Bryce Canyon get in winter?
Winter temperatures often drop below 10°F (-12°C) at night, with regular snowfall.
4. Does it snow a lot at Bryce Canyon?
Yes, snowfall is common from November through April, with winter storms covering the park in snow.
5. Can I visit Bryce Canyon in the snow?
Yes! Winter visits are popular for scenic views, but be prepared for icy roads and cold weather.
6. How hot does it get in summer?
Summer highs usually reach around 75–80°F (24–27°C), which is cooler than many other parks in Utah.
7. Is Bryce Canyon hotter than Zion National Park?
No, due to its higher elevation, Bryce Canyon is significantly cooler than Zion National Park.
8. Does it rain a lot at Bryce Canyon?
Rainfall is relatively low, but July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms during monsoon season.
9. What is monsoon season at Bryce Canyon?
Monsoon season occurs in mid to late summer, bringing short but intense afternoon storms.
10. Are thunderstorms dangerous at Bryce Canyon?
Yes, lightning and flash floods can occur, especially in exposed areas and slot canyons.
11. What should I wear in Bryce Canyon?
Dress in layers. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly.
12. How cold are nights in summer?
Even in July, nighttime temperatures can drop to around 40–50°F (4–10°C).
13. Is spring a good time to visit?
Spring can be unpredictable, with a mix of snow, rain, and sunshine—but fewer crowds.
14. Does Bryce Canyon have extreme weather changes?
Yes, weather can shift quickly due to elevation—sunny mornings can turn into snowy or rainy afternoons.
15. Is fall a good time to visit Bryce Canyon?
Yes, September and October offer cool temperatures and fewer visitors.
16. Does snow close the park?
The park remains open year-round, but some roads and trails may temporarily close during heavy snow.
17. What is the windiest time of year?
Spring and fall tend to have more wind, especially along exposed viewpoints.
18. How does elevation affect the weather?
At over 8,000 feet, the high elevation leads to cooler temperatures and thinner air, which can affect visitors.
19. Is Bryce Canyon good for stargazing weather?
Yes, the park is famous for clear skies and low light pollution, especially in summer and fall.
20. When are the least crowded months with decent weather?
Late spring (May) and early fall (September) offer the best balance of good weather and smaller crowds.
Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon
- Best overall: May, June, September
- Best for snow: December–February
- Best for fewer crowds: March, April, October
Final Tips
- Elevation matters: Even in summer, nights can be chilly.
- Weather changes quickly—layered clothing is essential.
- Afternoon storms in summer are common, so plan hikes early.






