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Contents
- The climate of Grand Canyon National Park
- The best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park
- The worst time to visit Grand Canyon National Park
- Spring weather in Grand Canyon National Park
- Summer weather in Grand Canyon National Park
- Autumn weather in Grand Canyon National Park
- Winter weather in Grand Canyon National Park
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The famed Horseshoe bend at the iconic Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The climate of Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, USA, falls under the BSk or Mid-latitude steppe Köppen climate classification. This classification signals a semi-arid climate, characterized by moderate temperature and moderate rainfall. Weather patterns throughout the year vary, breaking up the annual climate into distinct seasons with unique attributes.
Temperatures in the Grand Canyon National Park range from a daytime high of 104°F (40°C) in July down to a nighttime low of 35°F (1.7°C) in January. As a reflection of the mid-latitude steppe climate, the temperature exhibits marked differences between summer and winter seasons. Rainfall models a pattern ranging from a high of 1.5" (38mm) in August to a low of 0.2" (5mm) in June. The park experiences rainfall throughout the year, with August yielding the most rain, in stark contrast to drier June.
Snowfall is not a primary feature of this climate classification, as the Grand Canyon National Park receives only minimal snowfall, 0.1" (3mm) in January and December each. Sunshine duration peaks at 14.6 hours in June, coinciding with the longest daylight hours of 14.6. The hours of sunshine drop to low of 7 in December and January, reflecting the shorter winter days. The UV index matches these shifts, registering highs in summer and lows in winter, reinforcing the differences of seasons posed by this stepping climate.
Temperatures in the Grand Canyon National Park range from a daytime high of 104°F (40°C) in July down to a nighttime low of 35°F (1.7°C) in January. As a reflection of the mid-latitude steppe climate, the temperature exhibits marked differences between summer and winter seasons. Rainfall models a pattern ranging from a high of 1.5" (38mm) in August to a low of 0.2" (5mm) in June. The park experiences rainfall throughout the year, with August yielding the most rain, in stark contrast to drier June.
Snowfall is not a primary feature of this climate classification, as the Grand Canyon National Park receives only minimal snowfall, 0.1" (3mm) in January and December each. Sunshine duration peaks at 14.6 hours in June, coinciding with the longest daylight hours of 14.6. The hours of sunshine drop to low of 7 in December and January, reflecting the shorter winter days. The UV index matches these shifts, registering highs in summer and lows in winter, reinforcing the differences of seasons posed by this stepping climate.
The best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park
Considering the weather elements on balance, the best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park would be from March to June. Delightfully pleasant temperatures, from 55°F (12.8°C) to 101°F (38.3°C) alongside the lowest average monthly rainfall of 0.5" (13mm) in April allow for easier outdoor exploration. Sunshine durations escalate from 9 hours in March to a peak of 13 in June, providing plenty of daylight for sight-seeing and hikes on the majestic trails of the park.
The worst time to visit Grand Canyon National Park
Conversely, the most challenging time for a visit could be pinned to the height of summer - from July to August. The searing top temperatures flirting with the 100°F (37.8°C) mark coupled with the highest rainfall of the year at 1.5" (38mm) in August might impose restrictions on outdoor activities. Yet even then, the park retains its charm, offering changeable vistas under the moving skies and splashes of wildflowers powered by the summer rains.
Spring weather in Grand Canyon National Park
Spring, from March to May, is a time of awakening and rebirth in the Grand Canyon National Park. Temperatures progressively warm from a high of 55°F (12.8°C) in March to 90°F (32.2°C) in May. Rainfall is minimal and steadily decreases from 0.9" (23mm) in March to a low of 0.3" (8mm) in May. With sunshine hours on the rise from 9 to 12 and ample daylight, Spring calls for robust outdoor exploration.
Summer weather in Grand Canyon National Park
Summers, June through August, are characterized by intense heat coupled with an increase in rainfall. High temperatures rev around 101°F (38.3°C) in June, escalating to 104°F (40°C) in July, and retreating slightly to 100°F (37.8°C) in August. Precipitation sees a considerable jump from 0.2" (5mm) in June to 0.9" (23mm) in July, hitting its peak of 1.5" (38mm) in August. Despite these variations, between 11 to 14.6 hours of sunshine keeps the landscape sparkling and vibrant.
Autumn weather in Grand Canyon National Park
Autumn in Grand Canyon National Park, observed from September to November, showcases a gradual cooling pattern with temperatures subsiding from 93°F (33.9°C) in September to a more bearable 66°F (18.9°C) in November. Rainfall follows suit with a decrease from 1 inch in September, eventually settling at 0.7" (18mm) in November. Daylight hours shorten, with sunshine reducing from 10 to 8 hours, mellowing the landscape with softer light.
Winter weather in Grand Canyon National Park
Winter, spanning December to February, presents cooler days with temperatures oscillating between highs of 55°F (12.8°C) to 62°F (16.7°C) and lows from 35°F (1.7°C) to 39°F (3.9°C). Rainfall is consistent, varying between 0.8" (20mm) in December and 0.9" (23mm) in February. The brief snowfall in December and January adds an extra layer of beauty to the park's spectacular landscapes. Shorter daylight hours with between 7 to 8 hours of sunshine cast lengthy shadows over the terrain, adding a touch of winter mystique.
Weather in January
In Grand Canyon National Park, January is often the coldest month with light rain. The temperature fluctuates from 35°F (1.7°C) to 55°F (12.8°C), providing a crisp, cold environment. Despite this, January presents a unique opportunity to witness the park's natural beauty unobstructed by foliage. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February heralds a slight increase in temperature, providing milder days than in January. Temperatures peak at 62°F (16.7°C), which is still relatively chilly. A slight decrease in rainfall days signals the transition to drier months. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March marks the onset of warmer weather in Grand Canyon National Park. With a further increase in temperature ranging up to 71°F (21.7°C), this month offers a mix of mild and warm days. A respite from heavy precipitation, the rainfall averages to 0.9" (23mm). Weather in March »
Weather in April
April undergoes a notable warmth, making the weather more suitable for visitors who prefer higher temperatures. This shift in weather results in drier conditions with an average rainfall of just 0.5" (13mm). The high UV index of 8 encourages sunscreen application to protect against potentially harmful rays. Weather in April »
Weather in May
The month of May brings the onset of summer weather in Grand Canyon National Park. The park basks in a soothing warmth with temperatures reaching 90°F (32.2°C). Sunny days and longer daylight hours enhance the beauty of the canyon's natural attractions. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Experiencing the peak of summer, June temperatures reach a scorching 101°F (38.3°C) in Grand Canyon National Park. As the driest month, rainfall is minimal at 0.2" (5mm). A distinct feature of June's weather is the considerable sunshine, benefiting from more than fourteen daily hours of sunlight. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July serves as the hottest month in Grand Canyon National Park, with temperatures soaring to 104°F (40°C). The month sees a spike in rainfall to 0.9" (23mm), a reminder that the rainy season is on the horizon. Extensive daylight hours extend the exploration time at the park. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Grand Canyon National Park witnesses a slight decrease in temperature in August. Despite this, it remains quite hot with peaks at 100°F (37.8°C). Marked increase in rainfall to 1.5" (38mm) hints at the onset of the rainy season. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings the transition from hot summers to milder autumns. Throughout the month, visitors witness temperatures easing off from the hot summer peaks to a more pleasant 93°F (33.9°C). Rainfall levels decline while daylight hours shorten, suggesting the end of summer. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October introduces cooler weather in Grand Canyon National Park. Fall coats the park in vibrant hues as temperatures average between 55°F (12.8°C) and 81°F (27.2°C). The rainfall levels continue to descend, and scarce instances of precipitation prevail throughout the month. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November temperatures continue to drop presenting a chilly climate in Grand Canyon National Park. Accompanied by average temperatures as low as 43°F (6.1°C), winter is on the horizon. This transition phase experiences slight rainfall and reduced sun exposure. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Wrapping up the year with a cold bang, December in Grand Canyon National Park frequently features temperatures dipping to 36°F (2.2°C). Winter officially begins with rainfall simulating the January pattern. Overall, it is a rather chilly and damp month with rare occurrences of sunshine. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year in Grand Canyon National Park?
The coldest period falls in January and December, when the average high-temperature reaches 55°F (12.8°C).
How much does it rain in Grand Canyon National Park?
Throughout the year, in Grand Canyon National Park, there are 33 rainfall days, and 9.69" (246mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Grand Canyon National Park?
January and December are months with snowfall in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.
When does it snow the most in Grand Canyon National Park?
January is the month with the most snowfall, with 0.16" (4mm) of accumulated snow.
How much does it snow in Grand Canyon National Park?
In Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 0.2" (5mm).
What are the months with the least sunshine in Grand Canyon National Park?
The months with the least sunshine in Grand Canyon National Park are January and December, with an average of 7h of sunshine.
When it does not snow in Grand Canyon National Park?
February through November are months without snowfall.
What is the driest month in Grand Canyon National Park?
June is the month with the least rainfall in Grand Canyon National Park. Rain falls for 1 days and accumulates 0.24" (6mm) of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Grand Canyon National Park?
With an average of 14h and 36min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.
What month has the most sunshine in Grand Canyon National Park?
With an average of 13h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.
When is the highest UV index in Grand Canyon National Park?
The months with the highest UV index are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 11.
What part of the year is the hottest in Grand Canyon National Park?
Grand Canyon National Park's July weather reaches an average high of 104°F (40°C) and an average low of 73.9°F (23.3°C), making it the warmest month.
What is the rainiest month in Grand Canyon National Park?
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 5 days and typically aggregates up to 1.46" (37mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Grand Canyon National Park?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 48min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Grand Canyon National Park?
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). MST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Grand Canyon National Park?
With an average maximum UV index of 2, December is the month with the lowest UV index.
Average temperature
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (104°F).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are January and December (55°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (74°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (35°F).
Average rainfall
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (1.5").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (0.2").
Average rainfall days
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
- Average rainfall days in January:
4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
1 days - Average rainfall days in June:
1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
2 days - Average rainfall days in November:
2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (5 days).
The months with the least rainy days are May and June (1 days).
Average snowfall
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
The months with the highest snowfall are January and December (0.1").
The months with the least snowfall are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0").
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 48min).
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 13h).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 7h).
Average UV index
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 11).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 2).
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA
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