Bryce Canyon National Park Weather

It’s all about the weather when deciding the best time to visit Bryce Canyon. This article details the Bryce Canyon National Park weather you can expect each season and month of the year.

Do your research to know what it’s like visiting Bryce Canyon National Park at various times of year so you can decide which season and month is best for you to plan your vacation to this stunning park!

weather at Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park sees a variety of weather conditions year-round, each offering its own unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty. Use this Bryce Canyon travel guide to know the expected temperatures and weather, services available, things to do, what to pack, and where to stay during the year.

We live close enough to the park to visit various times throughout year. This article about Bryce Canyon National Park weather is based on our experiences over the years!

One tip for visiting Bryce Canyon is to plan for the temperatures and weather for the time you’ll be at the park. Use our Bryce Canyon Packing List to make sure you have the right clothing and gear for visiting any time of year. Grab your free printable packing checklist by clicking the image below!

get the free Bryce Canyon National Park packing lists
This site contains affiliate links which means WE may receive commissions for purchases made through these links. We only provide links to products we actually use and/or wholeheartedly recommend! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read the full Disclosure Policy.

A Photo Tour of Bryce Canyon National Park

Take a visual tour through Bryce Canyon National Park to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!

What to Pack for Bryce Canyon

Hiking Shoes & Socks – Did you know the #1 and #2 causes of injury at Bryce Canyon is bad choice of footwear. Be sure to wear hiking boots with good ankle support and ample traction. Sport-sandals & “trainers” are NOT safe hiking footwear. We use and always recommend our Merrell Moab hiking shoes or Oboz hiking shoes worn with Darn Tough socks.

Hydration and Food – The #5 cause of injury at Bryce is dehydration. Drink 1 quart / liter every 1-2 hours. Always carry water with you during all hiking activities. Refill stations at Bryce Canyon: Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point and Bryce Canyon Lodge. We use hydration packs or carry Hydroflask bottles in our packs. Also eat plenty of healthy snacks and food. Remember it’s just as easy to become dehydrated in the cold as it is in the heat so carry plenty of water during the winter, and not just during the summer. 

Sun Protection – Sunburns also lead to dehydration. Wear a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses to protect from the sun overhead and reflected UV light. Utah’s high elevation and dry air can be hard on your skin so we always carry lip balm with sunscreen and hydrating lotion to apply as needed when we’re out exploring the trails.

Clothing – Bryce Canyon summers mean high temperatures, unrelenting sunlight, and low humidity. To keep cool, wear light colored, loose fitting clothing that does not absorb sunlight. During the winter, be sure to wear layers and winter clothing to stay dry and warm.

National Parks Pass – Before you visit Bryce Canyon National Park be sure to pack your The America the Beautiful Annual Pass.

Other items we recommend you pack for visiting Bryce Canyon:

Bryce Canyon sunrise is must-do Utah experience.
Bryce Canyon amphitheater

Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park

Most of the year you’ll enjoy fun outdoor things to do at Bryce Canyon National Park like scenic drives, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. During the winter, the activities are a bit more limited due to the cold and snow!

Due to the higher elevation at Bryce Canyon compared to the other Utah National Parks, the weather and temperatures will be different so it’s important to be up-to-date with current weather and road conditions!

Bryce Canyon National Park Weather

If you’re wondering the best times to visit Bryce Canyon, below you’ll find specific information about what it’s like at different seasons and months of the year to help you decide. You’ll also find links to different articles we’ve written about each season or month specifically: weather, services, and things to do that time of year.

Navajo Loop Trail at Bryce Canyon
Hiking at Bryce Canyon

Spring Weather at Bryce Canyon

Due to the elevation, Bryce Canyon in the spring will be cold, and may even be snowy, in early spring which usually means fewer (but steady) crowds.

It is especially important to pack for all types of weather because you never know when the weather will change. It is not unusual to get a heavy snowfall in March or April. We recommend you pack winter clothes when going to Bryce Canyon in March and April. 

Spring is one of the best times to explore the hiking trails at Bryce Canyon. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous trek, there are Bryce Canyon spring hikes for everyone!

Bryce Canyon horseback riding
Bryce Canyon horseback riding

Summer Weather at Bryce Canyon

At Bryce Canyon National Park in the summer, the temperatures aren’t as hot as the other Utah National Parks which is a welcome relief!

We recommend having a fleece jacket for the cooler mornings and evenings. Summer monsoon rain storms are common as well so check the weather to see if you may also need a rain jacket.

One of the best Bryce Canyon National Park tours is to explore the park on horseback! Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, our knowledgeable guides will ensure that your experience is safe and enjoyable.

Hoodoos-Bryce-Canyon-National-Park-Utah-Photo-Jeepers (1)
Bryce Canyon hoodoos

Fall Weather at Bryce Canyon

The weather at Bryce Canyon in the fall is cooler, and there are fewer people taking vacations this time of year, making it the perfect time for visiting this park.

Bryce Canyon National Park is designated as a Dark Sky certified park. You need to definitely take time to enjoy the night sky during your stay! This park is a popular location for astrophotography. In the fall, the milky way is visible in the sky during these times:

  • September – 8:30 pm to 11:30 pm
  • October – 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm

You’ll also find telescope tours and Bryce Canyon astronomy programs during the fall months!

Bryce Canyon in the Winter.
Bryce Canyon with snow

Winter Weather at Bryce Canyon

It will be cold and snowy when visiting Bryce Canyon in the winter, but the crowds are gone and you can truly appreciate this park in all its natural beauty. It is especially gorgeous with the white snow contrasting against the red orange hoodoos.

Don’t let these cooler temperatures deter you from visiting, with the winter clothes and gear you will have an amazing trip to Bryce Canyon in the winter months. 

You’ll enjoy fun snow activities like snowshoeing, sledding and cross-country skiing at Bryce Canyon during the winter months. Don’t discount Bryce Canyon winter camping for something unique to do when visiting!

The park does a great job of plowing the Bryce Canyon roads as well as the parking lots near the viewpoints. Always check the Bryce Canyon website for current conditions.

Bryce Canyon maps and guides

Check Amazon for: Bryce Canyon Guides and Maps

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon:

Bryce Canyon Itineraries

We’ve created some done-for-you itineraries for visiting Bryce Canyon depending on the time you have to spend at the park. Click the graphic below to get a free travel bundle that includes printable daily itineraries. Or click the links below to see detailed itineraries of the best things to do at Bryce Canyon!

Bryce Canyon Travel Bundle
bryce canyon weather everything need to know

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *