Canyonlands National Park Weather

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

Do your research to know what it’s like visiting Canyonlands 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!

Canyonlands sees a variety of weather conditions year-round, each offering its own unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty. Use this Canyonlands National Park 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 Canyonlands National Park weather is based on our experiences over the years!

One tip for visiting Canyonlands is to plan for the temperatures and weather for the time you’ll be at the park. Use our Canyonlands 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!

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A Photo Tour of Canyonlands National Park

Take a visual tour through Canyonlands National Park and adjacent Dead Horse Point State Park to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!

What To Pack for Canyonlands National Park

To get the most out of visiting this park, you must be prepared with the right clothing and gear.

Hiking Shoes – Injuries from improper footwear is a common problem that casual visitors and hikers encounter. To make your trip as safe and enjoyable as possible, avoid smooth-soled shoes and only wear sturdy shoes with ample tread. We always recommend Merrell Moab hiking shoes of course!

Hydration and Food – Due to the high desert and altitude in Southeastern Utah, you should drink at least one gallon of water per day, and always carry water with you during all hiking activities. Accordingly, be sure to eat plenty of healthy snacks and food. We use Camelbak hydration packs or carry Hydroflask bottles in our packs.

Lip Balm and Lotion – Utah’s high elevation and dry air can be hard on your skin. You’ll want to carry lip balm with sunscreen and hydrating lotion to apply as needed when you’re out exploring the trails.

Clothing – Summers in the park mean soaring temperatures, unrelenting sunlight, and low humidity. To keep cool, wear light colored, loose fitting UV clothing that does not absorb sunlight. Also avoid sun burn by wearing a wide brimmed hat and by generously applying sunscreen to any parts of your body that are exposed to the sun.

For the winter months, wear winter clothing to stay dry and warm. Take note that snow and ice can accumulate and make popular trails quite slippery. That’s why trekking poles and traction devices for your shoes are essential. It’s also just as easy to become dehydrated in the cold as it is in the heat. It’s important to carry plenty of water during the winter, and not just during the summer.

During spring and fall, it’s all about layers! The mornings and evenings will be cool so have a fleece jacket handy!

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

Other items we recommend:

• Darn Tough socks
• Fleece jacket
• Buff headbands
• Sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer
• Maps
• Sunglasses
• First aid kit
• Travel photography gear – FREE CHECKLIST DOWNLOAD

Visiting Canyonlands National Park

Most of the year you’ll enjoy fun outdoor things to Do at Canyonlands National Park like scenic drives, hiking, biking, and photography. During the winter, the activities may be a bit more limited due to cold or snowy conditions!

When planning a Utah National Park vacation it’s important to be up-to-date with current weather and road conditions!

Of all the districts, Canyonlands National Park Island in the Sky is the most accessible. It also offers fantastic, panoramic views of the park along the Island in the Sky scenic drive.

Take a short side trip to visit Dead Horse Point State Park near the entrance to Island in the Sky. It is a must-see location!

In contrast, when you visit Needles Canyonlands, you’ll experience a remote, backcountry experience with an assortment of natural geologic formations that can only be reached by using one of the many Canyonlands hiking trails or four-wheel driving trails.

Check out our article explaining Canyonlands Island in the Sky vs Needles!

Canyonlands National Park Weather

If you’re wondering the best time to visit Canyonlands National Park, 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.

Spring Weather at Canyonlands

Springtime at Canyonlands varies quite a bit from month to month. When visiting Canyonlands National Park in the spring, it’s important to pack for all types of weather because you never know when the weather will change.

• Canyonlands in March: Highs 59 | Lows 30 degrees F
• Canyonlands in April: Highs 67 | Lows 37 degrees F 
• Canyonlands in May: Highs 78 | Lows 46 degrees F

It is not unusual to get snowfall in March or even April. We recommend you watch the weather and pack a winter coat, winter hat, and winter gloves when going to Canyonlands in early spring. 

Spring is a wonderful time for Canyonlands National Park photography! It’s also a busy time so expect crowds!

Summer Weather at Canyonlands

At Canyonlands National Park in the summer the temperatures will be HOT! Since the temperatures are brutal this time of year, plan your outdoor activities for the cooler mornings and evenings!

• Canyonlands in June: Highs 93 | Lows 60 degrees F
• Canyonlands in July: Highs 100 | Lows 67 degrees F
• Canyonlands in August: Highs 97 | Lows 66 degrees F

With the hot summer temperatures, you’ll want to protect yourself from the sun by wearing a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. It’s important to stay hydrated and carry a hydration pack or a refillable water bottle in your backpack.

Summer is a great time to enjoy the AC as you explore the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive!

Fall Weather at Canyonlands

The weather at Canyonlands National Park in the fall starts to cool down making it a great time to explore the park because it will be cool in the mornings and evenings, and the daytime temperatures aren’t too hot compared to the summer.

• Canyonlands in September: Highs 84 | Lows 51 degrees F
• Canyonlands in October: Highs 74 | Lows 42 degrees F
• Canyonlands in November: Highs 56 | Lows 30 degrees F 

With the cooler temperatures at night, you will definitely want to bring a fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves for the nights and early mornings. 

There is not much shade to be found at Canyonlands, so fall is a nice time to be in the park on a sunny day when the air isn’t stifling! It’s a perfect time to explore the Canyonlands National Park fall hikes!

Winter Weather at Canyonlands

We love visiting Canyonlands National Park in the winter! But there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. Visitor services are reduced and you’ll need to be more self-reliant in the winter.  

BUT the cold winter weather may not be for everyone.

• Canyonlands in December : Highs 45 | Lows 23 degrees F
• Canyonlands in January : Highs 44 | Lows 22 degrees F
• Canyonlands in February: Highs 52 | Lows 28 degrees F

The roads may be snow-covered and icy or even closed after a storm at Canyonlands Island in the Sky and Needles Canyonlands… so always check the website for current conditions.

BUY AT AMAZON: Arches and Canyonlands Guides and Maps

Where to Stay Near Canyonlands

There are no lodging facilities in the park, but there are campgrounds:

• Island in the Sky Campgrounds
• Needles Canyonlands Camping
• Where to Stay Near Canyonlands
• Hotels Near Canyonlands National Park

•  Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Moab – we enjoyed our stay and highly recommend this hotel due to its location close to Canyonlands.
•  Purple Sage – our all-time favorite place to stay in Moab – walking distance to shopping, full kitchen, and only 8 units so you don’t feel lost in a large hotel.
•  Red Cliffs Lodge – rooms up to 6 people – located 17 miles from Moab, this lodge is known for its beautiful location, winery and activities like horseback riding, fishing and more!
• Townhomes south of Moab – we really like the townhomes in Spanish Valley with kitchen, washer and dryer in the unit and a swimming pool/hot tub (just a 5 minute drive south of Moab).

Canyonlands Itineraries

Check out our done-for-you 1, 2, and 3-day Canyonlands Itineraries to help you plan your vacation based on the time you have to spend at the park:

• Canyonlands National Park One Day Itinerary
• Two Days at Canyonlands National Park
• Three Days at Canyonlands National Park
• One Day at Needles Canyonlands National Park