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Weather and Average Temperatures
At The Grand Canyon South Rim

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon covers about 26 miles along Desert View Drive. Elevations range from about 6,900 to 7,600 feet depending on location, so average temperatures can vary slightly. There are four distinct seasons at the South Rim. It is strikingly beautiful at any season although temperatures can vary significantly. During winter months into early spring, the Canyon can be covered with snow creating outstanding views.

The following summarizes weather, climate and temperatures by each month during each season. If you plan on hiking into the depths of the inner canyon, temperatures can rise progressively as elevation diminishes. The gates to the South Rim are always open except for rare inclement weather conditions and road closures during extreme winter weather.

Average Temperatures By Month At The South Rim


Month January February March April May June July August September October November December	High (F) 41 45 51 60 70 81 84 82 76 65 52 43	Low (F) 18 21 25 32 39 47 54 53 47 36 27 20	High (C) 5 7 10 15 21 27 29 28 24 18 11 6	Low (C) -8 -6 -4 0 4 8 12 12 8 2 -3 7	Precipitation 1.3” 1.5” 1.4” 0.9” 0.7” 0.4” 1.8” 2.2” 1.6” 1.1” 0.9” 1.6”

Temperatures In The Canyon Floor


Month January February March April May June July August September October November December	High (F) 56 62 71 82 92 101 106 103 97 84 68 57	Low (F) 36 42 48 56 63 72 78 75 69 58 46 37	High (C) 13 17 22 28 33 38 41 39 36 29 20 14	Low (C) 2 6 9 13 17 22 26 24 21 14 8 2	Precipitation 0.7” 0.8” 0.8” 0.5” 0.4” 0.3” 0.8” 1.4” 1.0” 0.6” 0.4” 0.9”

Spring Weather and Temperatures At The South Rim

By mid-April, winter weather usually begins to break, and although snow is not uncommon in May, warm spells become more frequent. The cold winter temperatures give way to warming and a pleasant spring. This is a great time to visit the Canyon if you prefer smaller crowds since school's usually do not break for summer vacation until late May.

Summers At The South Rim

You will discover the largest crowds during the summer months. Summer temperatures are quite pleasant. If you plan on hiking or riding mules into the depths of the canyon temperatures can rise dramatically. You must dress accordingly in layers and carry an adequate supply of drinking water. Summer thunderstorms frequently occur during July, August, and early September with potential for torrential rains, frequent lightning, and sudden flash floods at the canon floor. Thunderstorms are variable in intensity and are more likely to occur mainly between 11 AM and 6 PM. Some of these storms can reach severe levels, with large hail and strong winds.

Fall Temperatures At The South Rim

Summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures during the fall months of September and October with progressively cooler temperatures into the later fall periods. Potential for summer rains typically diminish in early September. However, late summer thunderstorms or early winter snow storms have been known to take place during season transition creating sudden changes in temperature.

Winter Temperatures and Weather

Winter weather conditions on the South Rim can be harsh. However, the Grand Canyon is beautiful when covered with winter snow. Services and some facilities at the South Rim are open all year, but be prepared for cold temperatures, snow, icy roads and possible road closures. Dress in layers since very chilly morning hours become warmer as the day progresses.

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