Zion National Park in Winter
Visiting Zion National Park is an amazing experience, no matter the time of year. While many visitors flock to Zion in the warmer months, Zion National Park in winter can be much more relaxing with quieter trails, crisp air, and stunning snow-dusted canyon views.
Discover here when winter begins in Zion, the type of weather to expect, and the best activities to enjoy in this mesmerizing season.
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Is Zion National Park open in Winter?
Zion National Park is open all year round, though in Winter it is possible that some of the trails are closed due to snowfall. Angels Landing with its higher altitude can be closed as it can be quite dangerous to hike after a large snowfall and the Narrows can be closed due to high river levels.
The visitors center has shorter opening hours during winter and the museum is closed throughout winter. The Zion shuttle does not run most of winter with it being closed from December 1 to December 21 and then again December 31 to March.
Zion National Park Winter Weather
December in Zion National Park often brings some of the coldest temperatures of the year, similar to those in January. Daytime highs average around 48°F (9°C), offering brisk, clear weather, while nighttime lows drop to about 23°F (-5°C), creating chilly, crisp evenings. By February, temperatures in Zion begin to warm up slightly compared to December and January. However, evenings can still be quite cold, with lows dipping to around 23°F (-5°C).
December typically sees around six days of either rain or occasional snow, with seven days in January and increasing to eight days in February. Though it does add a certain beauty to the landscape. Open trails depend largely on weather conditions; while many lower-elevation trails remain open, snow and ice can impact higher or steeper trails such as Angels Landing. Visitors are encouraged to check trail conditions at the visitors center and be prepared with appropriate gear for a safe, enjoyable winter hiking experience.
Do many people visit Zion during Winter?
Winter is the quietest time in the park with the three lowest number of visitors in the park in December, January and February. Around 484,000 people visit the park during the winter months out of around 4.65m visitors throughout the year.
What to do in Zion National Park in Winter
Nearly everything that you can do in Zion National Park is outside, enjoying the stunning views and hiking the trails in the park. It is possible during the winter months to drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in your car, as the shuttle is open in winter for a short time around Christmas before it starts running again in March. This means that you can stop throughout the canyon in designated spots to get out and take pictures if you don’t want to hike.
The Museum is closed throughout winter, though the visitors center is open but with shorter operating hours in that summer.
If you plan on visiting the park, make sure to wrap up warm and enjoy the trails that are open.
Winter Hikes In Zion
Winter can be a beautiful time to visit Zion, as long as you have the appropriate clothing to keep you warm. On a clear day you may need to add layers as you hike in and out of the shade. If there hasn’t been any snow then most hikes should be open for you to enjoy.
Zion Narrows in Winter
Hiking the Narrows in winter is still possible, but careful preparation is essential. By this time of year, water temperatures are around 38-47°F (3-8°C), so wearing a dry suit and proper gear is crucial for a safe experience. Fortunately, everything you need, including dry suits, waterproof socks, and canyon shoes can be easily rented from shops in Springdale, which is located just outside the park entrance.
Plan ahead by checking the latest weather and water conditions before your hike as the Narrows can be closed due to the water levels being too high. Ensure too that you have the right clothing and equipment. Layering is key, as shaded areas in the canyon can feel much colder in the winter months.
Angels Landing Winter
Hiking Angels Landing in winter is possible, but caution is advised as the trail can become icy, particularly in the early morning after freezing overnight temperatures. If you plan to go beyond Scouts Landing, be sure to secure an Angels Landing Permit, which is required year-round.
Before setting out, check with rangers at the visitor center for updated weather and trail conditions to ensure a safe hike. Crampons may be necessary if snow and ice are present, as the trail can be too dangerous without proper traction equipment.
Does the Zion Shuttle run in Winter?
Most of the winter, the Zion Shuttle does not run, meaning that you can take your car and drive down the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You will find that the shuttle does not between December 1 to December 21, it is operating between December 21 and December 30 for visitors to the park during the holidays.
December 31 the shuttle stops running again, until it opens again for the season in March.
Zion National Park Winter Camping
Winter camping in Zion National Park is possible at the Watchman Campground, located near the visitor center at the South Entrance. Reservations are required year-round, and you can book up to six months in advance. During the winter months, Watchman is the only campground that is open within the park.
Each campsite accommodates either 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 showers are available only in nearby Springdale, just a short walk outside the park.
What to wear to Zion National Park in Winter
When visiting Zion in winter, dressing in layers is essential. Be sure to bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves, as temperatures can be significantly lower in the early morning and evening. During the day, temperatures may warm up, so having a backpack for storing extra layers is helpful.
If you’re planning to hike The Narrows, renting a dry suit in Springdale is crucial due to the freezing cold water. If you are planning on hiking Angels Landing and there is snow or ice then you will need to make sure you have crampons for your shoes. Always check in at the visitor center for the latest weather conditions and water temperatures before beginning any hikes.
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