Zion National Park in September
Planning a trip to Zion National Park in September but unsure if it’s the right time or what the weather will be like? This guide on visiting Zion National Park has everything you need to know, including typical September weather and the best activities to enjoy during this early fall month.
With cooler temperatures and the back end of the monsoon season, September is an excellent time to experience Zion’s stunning landscapes. Crowds start to pick up again after fewer in August, but still slightly less compared to June and July.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just soaking in the views, September offers more comfortable weather for hiking in, with slightly fewer visitors than the busiest summer months. Use this guide to decide if September is the perfect time for your Zion adventure or if another month might suit you better.
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Weather in Zion National Park in September
In September in Zion National Park we will see the change from summer to early fall, with more comfortable temperatures compared to the peak heat of July and August. Average temperatures hover around 77°F (25°C), with daytime highs ranging from 82°F to 90°F (28°C to 32°C). While the days are warm, mornings and evenings are cooler, with lows occasionally dipping to 48°F (9°C) at night, making it a pleasant month for hiking and other outdoor activities. Don’t forget sun protection, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your trip.
September brings slightly shorter days, but there’s still a lot of daylight to explore the park. Sunrise is around 7 a.m at the start of the month and will be around 7.25 a.m by the end of the month. Sunset is at around 8 p.m at the start of the month and will be 7.15 p.m by the end of the month. To maximize your time in the park, consider catching the first shuttle from the visitor center at 6 a.m until mid September.
The monsoon season of heavy rains, begins to wind down in September, but there’s still a chance of sudden afternoon thunderstorms and occasional flash floods. On average, there are about four rainy days in the month, and weather conditions can change quickly.
If you’re planning to hike areas like the Narrows, check with the rangers at the visitor center for up-to-date weather and safety information. Flash floods, while less frequent than in August, remain a risk and should be taken seriously when planning your visit.
Is September a good time to visit Zion National Park?
September is one of the busiest months at Zion National Park, with visitor numbers climbing after the summer heat begins to fall. In 2024, September saw even higher crowds than August with 508,000 people visiting the park, as cooler weather and stunning early fall scenery draw visitors to the park.
If you’re visiting Zion in September, be prepared for queues for shuttles and crowded trails, especially during peak hours. To avoid the largest crowds, start your hikes as early as possible. However, even the first shuttle at 6 a.m. can have long lines, so consider renting bikes in Springdale and cycling into the canyon before the shuttles begin operating for a quieter start to your day. Though take into account that at 6am it is still dark at Zion.
Thanks to the Angels Landing permit system, this popular hike is now less congested, but the system has also shifted more visitors to other trails, making them busier. If you’re planning to hike Angels Landing, remember to apply for your permit well in advance to ensure your spot.
Is the Zion Shuttle operating in September?
In September, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive remains closed to private vehicles, except for guests staying at Zion Lodge, who are allowed to drive to the lodge and park there for their stay. To explore Zion Canyon, visitors must use the free park shuttle or rent a bike.
Until September 15, the first shuttle departs from the visitor center at 6 a.m., with the last bus heading into the canyon at 7 p.m. and the final return from the Temple of Sinawava at 8.15 p.m. From September 16, the first shuttle departs the visitor center at 7 a.m., with the last shuttle from the visitors center into the canyon at 5 p.m. and the last shuttle back from the canyon at 7.15pm.
To avoid the risk of missing a ride back, plan to catch the second-to-last shuttle, which departs 5–10 minutes before the final one. If the last shuttle is full, you may have to walk the 9 miles back to the visitor center.
To beat the crowds, consider walking to a quieter shuttle stop ahead of your current location, improving your chances of boarding the next bus.
Camping in Zion in September
In September, Watchman Campground near the visitor center is the only open campground close to Zion National Park’s East Entrance, as the South Campground remains closed for restoration. Watchman Campground requires reservations, which can be made up to six months in advance. Since September is a popular month and one of the busiest, sites often fill up quickly and can even be booked as far as 5-6 months in advance, so it’s essential to book well ahead of your visit.
Lava Point Campground, located near the Kolob Terrace Road entrance about 1 hour and 20 minutes from the south entrance, provides a more secluded camping experience. This primitive campground has just six sites and limited amenities, including pit toilets and trash cans. However, there is no running water onsite or nearby, so ensure you bring plenty of water with you.
Advance reservations are also required here, as cell reception is unreliable and rangers may not always be available to take payment. Reservations can be made online or by phone, with spots released in two-week blocks.
Hiking Zion in September
While September is less crowded than the peak summer months of June and July, Zion National Park still attracts around 508,000 visitors, with popular trails remaining busy. Most trails, including The Narrows, will be open (though it can be closed if there is the risk of flash flooding), Weeping Rock Trail is currently still closed due to a landslide.
Angels Landing remains a popular hike in September, with generally good conditions in September for tackling this famous trail. As you ascend, however, the trail becomes less shaded, so be prepared for the sun and make sure you have sun protection. Remember 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 great choices in September. Canyon Overlook offers a quieter hike since it requires driving to the trailhead, and parking is limited near the trailhead.
For a more relaxed option, consider the Riverside Walk, a scenic trail that leads to the start of The Narrows and offers beautiful views along the way. The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is another easy and rewarding hike.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim to start your hikes early in the day. However, keep in mind that even the first shuttle at 6 a.m. can be busy, with long queues.
Things to do in Zion National Park in September
In September, 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 September?
September is a great time to hike Angels Landing, though you can still expect it to be busy. While you may still encounter some traffic up to Scout’s Landing, it will be less crowded than in June and July. Beyond Scout’s Landing, the experience becomes even more enjoyable, thanks to the Angels Landing permit system, which helps manage the crowds and reduce wait times.
Early mornings and late evenings remain cooler due to the height, so be sure to dress in layers that can easily be added and removed as needed. If you plan to hike beyond Scout’s Landing, make sure to apply for your Angels Landing permit in advance online.
Before you start your hike, always check with the rangers at the visitor center for the latest weather updates to ensure it is safe to hike and avoid any potential storms.
Hiking the Narrows in September
While hiking the Narrows in September, be prepared for cooler water temperatures compared to the warmer air in the canyon, typically ranging from 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C). The air temperature is usually comfortable for shorts and a t-shirt, but it’s highly recommended to wear canyoneering boots or neoprene socks, along with using a hiking stick, all of which are available for rent in Springdale if you don’t have your own gear.
Flash flooding remains a serious risk in September, even if there’s no rain within Zion itself. Flash floods can occur suddenly and have been deadly in the park, as I saw while I was visiting. Always check with the rangers at the visitor center for any flash flood warnings and safety updates before hiking the Narrows.
What to wear to Zion National Park in September
When visiting Zion in September, wear light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm weather. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. A small backpack is also helpful for carrying water, snacks, and an extra layer for cooler mornings or evening hikes.
For hiking The Narrows, water shoes and neoprene socks are essential for safely navigating the slippery riverbed. These can be rented in Springdale if you don’t have your own. For Angels Landing and other trails, sturdy footwear with good traction is necessary for tackling steep and exposed sections.
Since September is still within Zion’s rainy season, it’s wise to pack a lightweight rain jacket in case of sudden storms. Be sure to check with the visitor center for the latest weather updates before you head out.
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