Zion National Park in November

Are you thinking about the best time for visiting Zion National Park and considering a trip to Zion National Park in November? This guide has all the details you need for planning your November visit.

November can be a beautiful time to explore the park, with fewer people and cooler temperatures, but it’s also when winter begins to set in. Some higher elevation trails may close due to snow or ice, and weather conditions can be unpredictable.

If you decide to visit Zion National Park in November, be sure to pack warm layers and sturdy hiking boots. While many trails remain open, be prepared for the possibility that some hikes may be inaccessible due to early winter conditions.

View of a narrow canyon in Zion National Park with tall red and orange sandstone cliffs on both sides, leafless trees along the valley floor, and a shallow river curving through the rocky landscape beneath a pale sky.

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Table of Contents

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Zion National Park Weather in November

November in Zion National Park, Utah, brings cooler temperatures as winter approaches, though it’s not as cold as December or January. Daytime highs can reach up to 60°F (15°C), but the average daytime temperature hovers around 50°F (10°C). In the evenings, temperatures drop significantly, with an average of 30°F (-1°C) and occasional lows dipping to 20°F (-6°C).

At the beginning of November the clocks go back and you days get shorter. At the beginning of the month sunrise is around 8:00am, but will be 7:30am by the end of the month. Sunset is at 6:30pm the first few days of the month, but will be 5:15pm by the end, giving you about 9 hours of daylight to explore the park.

November typically sees around 5-6 days of rain or an 11% chance of rain during the day, though generally snow does not arrive in the park until December. Always make sure to check at the visitors center for the weather forecast before deciding which hikes to do for the day.

Is November a good time to visit Zion National Park

November can be a great time to visit Zion National Park if you’re looking to avoid crowds, as it sees half the number of visitors compared to October. While it’s busier than other winter months, November still offers a much quieter experience, with significantly fewer people than June, the park’s busiest month.

Normally all of the trails are open in November, but can be closed due to extreme weather. If you’re planning to hike Angels Landing or The Narrows, check trail conditions ahead of time at the visitors center, as these hikes may not be accessible if weather impacts trail safety.

Camping in Zion in November

You can camp in Zion National Park in November at the Watchman Campground, located near the visitors center at the South Entrance. Reservations are required year-round, and you can book up to 6 months in advance.

Each campsite provides space for a tent or RV, along with a picnic table and fire ring. Electric campsites are available for $30 per night, while tent sites are $20 per night. Restrooms are provided on-site, but if you need showers, the nearest facilities are in Springdale, located just outside of the park.

Does the Zion Shuttle run in November?

In November, the Zion Shuttle continues to operate, but on a slightly reduced schedule compared to the summer months. The first shuttle departs from the visitor center at 7 a.m., and the last one leaves at 4 p.m. If you’re returning from the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop where you can hike the Riverside Walk and access The Narrows, the final shuttle departs at 6:15 p.m.

Be mindful that if the last shuttle is full, you’ll need to hike the 9 miles back to the visitor center, which may not be enjoyable due to the colder temperatures in the park

How busy is Zion National Park in November?

Visitor numbers to Zion National Park drop significantly in November, with around half the numbers in October!! In 2023, 286,000 people visited the park, a similar figure to that of 2022. As the temperatures cool further and fall transitions into winter, the park becomes quieter.

At the beginning of November you can still see the fall colors, making it busier at that time of the month. Though the weather may be cooler, it’s still a great time for hiking, especially with fewer people on popular trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows.

Hiking Zion in November

Hiking in Zion National Park in November can be a wonderful experience, even compared to October, as you will find half the numbers in November. While it’s not as quiet as the winter months, you’ll still enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Some trails may be closed depending on the weather, but this does not happen often in November.

If you’re planning to hike The Narrows, a dry suit is essential since the water temperatures are near freezing. Angels Landing can also be tricky, especially early morning when there is often ice making the final section from Scout’s Landing too dangerous to hike.

Here are some hikes that are usually open in November and great for winter exploration:

The Riverside Walk: A scenic and gentle trail, though it can be muddy after heavy rain.
Emerald Pools: A pleasant, easy hike. The Lower Pools are typically accessible, even in colder months.
Weeping Rock Trail: A short, paved trail, though it may become icy if there has been recent snow or rain. (THIS TRAIL IS CURRENTLY CLOSED, SINCE NOVEMBER 2023)
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail: A one-mile hike starting near the tunnel on the road to the park’s east entrance, offering stunning views.

Things to do in Zion National Park in November

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Zion National Park in November, and most of them are outdoors. Hiking is one of the primary activities, and there are trails for all skill levels, from leisurely walks to more strenuous hikes.

For those who want to limit their time in the cold, there are many shorter trails that still offer incredible views, such as the Riverside Walk, Weeping Rock (CURRENTLY CLOSED), and the Lower Emerald Pools.

These hikes allow you to experience Zion’s natural beauty without spending extended periods in the chilly air. The beginning of November also brings the stunning transformation of fall foliage, adding vibrant autumn colors to the landscape, making even the shorter hikes visually rewarding.

In addition to hiking, you can explore scenic drives like the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, offering spectacular overlooks and photo opportunities without having to leave the warmth of your vehicle. The quieter atmosphere in November also provides a more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the park’s majestic cliffs and canyons without the summer crowds.

You can also visit the visitor center, which features outdoor exhibits and offers the chance to speak with a ranger about what to do in the park. The museum too is open until after Thanksgiving, and you can watch an interesting 22-minute film about the park’s history and landscapes. It’s a great way to learn more about the park you are visiting.

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Can you hike The Narrows in November?

Hiking the Narrows in November is possible, but you’ll need to be well-prepared. By this time of year, the water temperature has really dropped to around 47°F (8°C), making a dry suit and proper footwear essential. Luckily, all the gear you need, including dry suits, waterproof socks, and canyon shoes, can be easily rented in Springdale, which is located just outside the entrance of the park.

Make sure to plan ahead, check the weather and water temperatures and make sure to have the correct clothing and equipment before attempting this hike in November. Make sure to have lots of layers with you too, as when you are in the shade it feels a lot cooler in the park.

Can you hike Angels Landing in November

You can hike Angels Landing in November, though be aware that the trail can be icy, especially after freezing temperatures during the night, in the early morning. If you plan on hiking past Scouts Landing, then you will need to apply for an Angels Landing Permit, which is required year-round.

Make sure to check with the rangers at the visitor center about the predicted weather conditions on the day you plan to hike it.

What to wear in Zion in November

When visiting Zion in November, be sure to wear layers and warm clothing and have a warm coat, hat and gloves, as temperatures can drop significantly in the early morning and evening, making it quite chilly. It can be quite pleasant during the day so make to have a rucksack to put your extra clothes in.

If you’re planning to hike The Narrows, you may want to consider renting a dry suit in Springdale due to the cold water, but check with the visitors center the predicted weather and temperature of the water beforehand.

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