Zion National Park in Summer

Visiting Zion National Park is a remarkable experience in any season. While Zion National Park in Summer draws many visitors, it offers unique advantages, including long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and easy access to water activities like hiking The Narrows.

Discover more about the summer season in Zion, what kind of weather to expect in Summer in Zion, and the top activities to enjoy in Zion, during this time of year, including the best hikes to do in Summer.

Don’t Leave for Zion Without This! Claim Your FREE Packing Checklist and Be 100% Prepared!

* This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on the link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Zion National Park Summer Weather

Summer in Zion National Park brings warmer temperatures, with daytime average temperatures in the 80s°F, though with highs often reaching into the 90s°F (32-37°C), making for hot conditions for outdoor adventures. Evenings offer some relief, with temperatures cooling to around 60°F (15°C), creating pleasant conditions for evening hikes.

Summer is the rainy season in Zion, when sudden storms can occur, especially in the afternoons, contributing to the park’s dramatic landscapes. The summer months also bring vibrant green landscapes, flourishing plant life, and an abundance of wildlife. The occasional thunderstorm can still affect trail conditions, so it’s important to be prepared and check the weather forecast at the visitors center before your hikes.

Is Zion busy in Summer?

Summer in Zion is the busiest season, drawing large crowds, meaning that you may need to wait to board the shuttles, the trails will be more crowded and it will be harder to get a permit to hike Angels Landing. During this time, Zion sees around 1.64m of its annual 4.65 million visitors, making summer the peak season.

While the park can feel crowded, summer offers longer days, warm temperatures, and diverse outdoor experiences like hiking, canyon exploration, and water activities.

TIP: Try to start your day early and get the first shuttle at 6am into the Canyon to avoid the larger crowds.

What to do in Zion National Park in the Summer

Nearly all activities in Zion National Park revolve around outdoor adventures, from taking in scenic views to hiking the park’s various trails. In summer, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is only accessible by the shuttle system, which operates daily to transport visitors through the canyon. Private vehicles are not permitted, except for those staying at Zion Canyon Lodge.

The Zion History Museum is open throughout the summer, as is the visitor center, which offers extended hours to accommodate the influx of visitors. If you’re planning a summer visit, be sure to stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and prepare for longer days of exploring Zion’s stunning landscapes.

Hikes in Zion in Summer

Summer is an exciting time to visit Zion, with warm temperatures and long days perfect for outdoor activities. Be prepared for hot weather, especially in the afternoons, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool. Most trails will be open, though some areas may be affected by afternoon thunderstorms and it has been known for the Narrows to be closed until late June.

While snow is no longer a concern, occasional summer rains can create dramatic changes in the landscape and cause flash flooding. As the season progresses, Zion’s stunning scenery and vibrant wildlife provide ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Hiking the Narrows in Summer

The Narrows is generally open in summer, though it has been known to be closed until late June due to the high water levels following the snow melt in Spring. Summer is the rainy season in Zion so it is still possible that flash floods can make it unsafe, leading to temporary closures. Be sure to check at the visitor center or on the National Park Service website for current conditions. Just because it is sunny doesn’t mean it isn’t raining further upstream, making a flash flood possible.

Hiking Angels Landing in Summer

Summer is the rainy season in Zion and heavy rain can make the trail slippery and more challenging. Normally the trail is not closed in summer, though you will need to make sure you have the Angels Landing permit if you want to hike past Scouts Lookout. Always check the trail conditions at the visitor center before setting out and the weather forecast to decide if you want to hike the trail or not.

Camping in Zion in Summer

Summer camping in Zion National Park is available at the Watchman Campground, located near the visitor center at the South Entrance. Reservations are required year-round, and it is possible to book up to six months in advance. It’s the only campground open at the South Entrance, as the South Campground is currently closed for renovations.

Each campsite has a space for a tent or RV and includes a picnic table and fire ring. Electric sites are available for $30 per night, while tent-only sites cost $20 per night. Restrooms are on-site, but for showers, you’ll need to visit nearby Springdale, which is just a short walk from the park.

Lava Point Campground, which is generally open from May to September, offers primitive campsites near the Kolob Entrance. There is no running water and pit toilets, so plan accordingly. The 6 sites here must be reserved in advance as there is very little cell service in the area.

What to Pack for Zion National Park in Summer

When visiting Zion in the summer, pack light and breathable clothing, as daytime temperatures can get very hot. A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential to protect you against the sun. Bring a small backpack to carry water, snacks, and any extra layers for early mornings or shaded hikes.

For hiking The Narrows, you will want water shoes and neoprene socks, which can be rented in Springdale if you don’t have, as the riverbed can be slippery and rocky. For those tackling Angels Landing and other hikes in the park, ensure you have sturdy footwear with good traction for the steep, exposed trail sections.

The rainy season in Zion is in Summer, so make sure to have a light rain jacket. Always check in at the visitor center for up-to-date trail and weather conditions before starting your hike.

Save for later