Zion National Park in August
Are you planning a trip to Zion National Park in August but wondering if it’s the ideal time to visit or what the weather will be like? This guide provides everything you need to know about visiting Zion National Park, including typical August weather and the best activities to enjoy during this summer month.
August brings hot temperatures and occasional monsoon rains, making it a unique time to experience Zion’s dramatic landscapes. While the crowds remain though less than in June and July, early morning or evening hikes and the chance to see seasonal waterfalls make it a rewarding time to visit. This guide will help you decide if August is the perfect month for your Zion trip or if another time might better suit you.
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Zion National Park Weather in August
August in Zion National Park continues the summer heat, though generally slightly cooler than in July with average temperatures around 84°F (29°C). Daytime highs typically range from 88°F to 96°F (31°C-36°C), making it essential to wear clothing to protect you from the sun, sun screen and to stay hydrated during hikes. Make sure to take advantage of any water stations around the park to fill up your water bottles. Early mornings and evenings provide a break from the heat with cooler temperatures making hiking more enjoyable, with lows occasionally dropping to around 62°F (17°C).
August offers slightly shorter days than July, but still long days for exploring the park, with sunrise around 6:30 a.m. and sunset at approximately 8:15 p.m. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy hikes and activities, especially if you catch the first shuttle from the visitor center into the park at 6 a.m.
The monsoon season peaks in August, bringing a higher chance of sudden afternoon thunderstorms and flash floods. While there are only about 5 rainy days on average, conditions can change rapidly. If you’re planning to hike in areas like the Narrows, always check with the rangers at the visitor center for the latest weather updates. Flash floods can occur with little warning, and witnessing their power is very scary.
Is August a good time to visit Zion National Park?
August is another busy month at Zion National Park, with 472,000 visitors recorded in August 2024. Though these numbers are still lower than what we saw in April to July and September and October 2024!!
If you plan to visit Zion in August, you can expect queues for shuttles and busy trails, though during the hottest hours of the day, you may see fewer people on the trails. To avoid the heaviest crowds, aim to start your hikes as early as possible in the morning, but be aware that even the first shuttle at 6 a.m. can have long queues! If you are able to rent bikes in Springdale and cycle down the canyon before 6am then that is a good option.
Thanks to the Angels Landing permit system, this famous hike is now less busy and with fewer queues than it once had in summer, but it does mean that other hikes can be busier within the park. If you want to hike Angels Landing, then make sure to apply for your permit in advance.
Is the Zion Shuttle operating in August?
In August, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles, except for guests staying at Zion Lodge, who are able to drive to the lodge and park there. To explore Zion Canyon, you’ll need to use the park shuttle (which is free) or rent a bike.
In August 2025, the first shuttle departs from the visitor center at 6am, with the last bus heading into the ark at 7pm and the final return from the Temple of Sinawava at 8:15pm. Remember, that if the last bus is full, you might have to walk the 9 miles back to the visitor center, so it may be best to plan to get the second to last shuttle, which will be 5-10 minutes before the last shuttle. If the shuttle lines are long, consider walking to the stop before your current location to improve your chances of getting on the next bus, as that stop may be quieter.
Camping in Zion in August
In August, Watchman Campground, located near the visitor center, is the only open campground near the East Entrance to Zion National Park, as the South Campground is still closed for restoration work. Watchman Campground is reservation only, so be sure to book well in advance as it is will be booked up months in advance. Reservations can be made up to 6 months ahead, and the August spots fill up very quickly.
Lava Point Campground based on the Kolob Terrace Road entrance, around an hour and twenty minutes drive from the south entrance, is also open in August, offering a very secluded experience with just six primitive campsites. Amenities include pit toilets and trash cans, but there is no running water onsite or nearby, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you. Advance reservations are required, as cell reception is unreliable in the area, and rangers are not always present. Reservations can be made online or by phone, with two-week blocks released at a time.
Hiking Zion in August
Though August is not one of the busiest months of the year in Zion National Park, it is still quite busy with 472,000 visitors, so be prepared for crowds on a lot of the trails. Most trails should be open, including The Narrows, though Weeping Rock Trail remains closed due to a landslide.
Angels Landing is a popular hike in August, with generally good conditions for tackling this famous trail, though the higher you climb, the less shade there is. Be sure to apply for a permit in advance if you plan to hike beyond Scouts Overlook.
The Upper Emerald Pool and Canyon Overlook Trails are also excellent options for August, with the Canyon Overlook Trail offering a quieter experience, as you’ll need a car to access the trailhead and limited parking close by.
For an easier hike, consider the Riverside Walk, a scenic trail that leads to the start of The Narrows and offers stunning views along the way, also the lower emerald pool hike is relatively easy too.
If you plan to visit Zion in August, starting your hikes early in the day is a good idea to avoid the largest crowds. However, be aware that the first shuttle at 6 a.m. can still be very busy, with long queues.
Things to do in Zion National Park in August
In August, Zion National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, nearly all around its breathtaking outdoor natural landscapes. Hiking is the main attraction, with trails for all levels of experience, from easy walks to more challenging trails.
For shorter hikes, the Riverside Walk and Lower Emerald Pools Trails offer stunning views of the canyon without steep slopes or long hours of hiking. (Note: Weeping Rock another easy hike remains closed due to a rockslide, with no current estimate for reopening)
If you don’t want to hike, you can take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which offers spectacular overlooks and great photo opportunities.
You can also visit the Zion Visitor Center to explore outdoor exhibits and get tips from the rangers on exploring the park and the best hikes for you. Don’t miss the Zion Human History Museum, where you can watch a 22-minute film about the park’s landscapes and history to learn more about the area’s fascinating past.
Can you hike Angels Landing in August?
August is a popular time to hike Angels Landing, and you may encounter crowds up to Scout’s Landing, though it shouldn’t be as busy as Zion National Park in July. However, beyond this point, the experience becomes much more enjoyable thanks to the Angels Landing permit system, which has helped reduce the queues, particularly in the busy summer months.
Early mornings and late evenings can still be cooler due to the elevation, so be sure to wear layers that you can put on and take off when needed. If you plan to hike beyond Scout’s Landing, make sure to apply for your Angels Landing permit in advance online.
Before starting the hike, always check with the rangers at the visitor center for the latest weather conditions, to ensure a safe hike and that no storms are forecast.
Can you hike The Narrows in August?
Yes, you can hike the Narrows in August, but be prepared for cool water temperatures compared to the warm temperatures in the canyon, typically ranging from 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C). In August you’ll be comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt. However, it’s highly recommended to wear canyoneering boots or neoprene socks and use a hiking stick, all of which are available for rent in Springdale, if you do not already have.
During the summer months, flash flooding is a significant risk, even if there’s no rain within Zion itself. Flash floods can happen in an instant and have been deadly in the park in the past. Be sure to check with the rangers at the visitor center for flash flood risks before heading out on your hike to th Narrows.
What to wear to Zion National Park in August?
When visiting Zion in August, make sure to have light, breathable clothing to stay cool in the intense summer heat. You will need a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. Bring a small backpack to carry plenty of water, snacks, and an extra layer for cooler mornings or evening hikes.
For hiking The Narrows, water shoes and neoprene socks are essential to navigate the slippery riverbed. These can be rented in Springdale if you don’t already have them. For Angels Landing and other trails, sturdy footwear with good traction is crucial for safely tackling steep and exposed sections.
August falls within Zion’s rainy season, so pack a lightweight rain jacket to be ready for sudden summer storms. Be sure to visit the visitor center for the latest weather updates before starting your day.
