Weather at the Grand Canyon's South Rim can include temperatures well below freezing and snow in December and January. It can also be warm and sunny, so make sure you bring a variety of gear.
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During the Christmas season, there are no crowds at vista points and on hiking trails. You will have time to reflect on the beauty of the Grand Canyon, take as long as you wish to compose photographs, and even drive through the park, unlike in peak tourist season when you may have to take the tram.
Grand Canyon is much less crowded in winterBut crowds are far smaller in the cooler months, allowing for a more leisurely pace when viewing overlooks, hiking trails like the Bright Angel Trail and driving scenic routes like Desert View Road.
Even with all of the winter sunshine, significant snowfall can be expected during the winter with an average snowfall of 50 to over 100 inches (1.3-2.5m) per year on the Rim, and occasionally snow will make it even to the river.
Average Temperature in Grand CanyonThe cold season lasts for 3.5 months, from November 20 to March 4, with an average daily high temperature below 50°F. The coldest month of the year in Grand Canyon is December, with an average low of 17°F and high of 43°F.
Distance from Las Vegas to the Grand CanyonThe West Rim is the closest rim to Las Vegas. It is located about 130 miles from the heart of Las Vegas. On average, the drive takes approximately two and a half hours. Both the North Rim and South Rim are located over 270 miles from the Las Vegas Strip.
The snowy period of the year lasts for 5.4 months, from November 8 to April 21, with a sliding 31-day snowfall of at least 1.0 inches. The month with the most snow in Grand Canyon National Park is January, with an average snowfall of 4.4 inches.
July and August are the worst months to visit the Grand Canyon due to larger crowds and hotter, wetter weather. You can get cheaper deals on lodging and activities between November and February.
The South Rim is no doubt the most popular destination to see the Grand Canyon in all its glory. For one, you get massive panoramic views from the viewpoints at the South Rim. And two, the South Rim is more convenient to get to and has more amenities (Grand Canyon Village) that can handle a larger influx of visitors.
Every visitor to Grand Canyon West is required to purchase a General Admission ticket. Optional activities, such as Skywalk, helicopter, boat tours and zipline tours can be purchased at an additional cost.
The biggest benefit of visiting Zion in December is the lack of crowds. Fewer crowds mean less irritation and more peace during the day. Many of the wildlife will be more willing to be out and about this time of year when there aren't hundreds of people craning to see them.