Weather & Climate Guide

Canyonlands National ParkWeather & Climate Guide

Canyonlands National Park in Utah receives an average of 7.2 inches of precipitation annually across 46 rainy days. The area also enjoys approximately 267 sunny days per year. The park is open Year-round, with the best conditions typically found in March and April and May and September and October.

7.2"
Total Precipitation
46
Rainy Days/Year
267
Sunny Days/Year
0.9"
Wettest Month (October)

Monthly Weather Charts

Monthly Precipitation (inches)

Temperature Range (°F)

Monthly Breakdown

MonthHigh (°F)Low (°F)Precipitation (in)Rainy DaysSunny Days
January41°19°0.5"421
February49°26°0.5"419
March60°34°0.7"520
April70°42°0.7"421
May81°51°0.6"325
June94°60°0.3"227
July99°67°0.7"424
August96°64°0.7"523
September86°53°0.7"423
October70°40°0.9"422
November54°28°0.5"322
December41°19°0.4"420

Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park

Based on weather data, the best months to visit Canyonlands National Park are March and April and May and September and October. During this period, you can expect comfortable temperatures and favorable trail conditions for exploring the park.

October is typically the wettest month, with an average of 0.9 inches of precipitation and 4 rainy days. Temperatures during the best visiting months range from highs in the 60s to 86s °F.

For the best combination of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months at the edges of peak season. Weekdays generally offer a more peaceful experience on popular trails and at key viewpoints.

Packing Tips by Season

Spring (Mar-May)

  • Layered clothing for variable temps
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Muddy trail boots with good traction
  • Quick-dry hiking pants
  • Light fleece or insulating midlayer
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Waterproof day pack

Summer (Jun-Aug)

  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen SPF 50+)
  • Plenty of water (hydration pack)
  • Light layers for altitude changes
  • Breathable moisture-wicking shirts
  • Lightweight hiking shoes
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunglasses with UV protection

Fall (Sep-Nov)

  • Layering system (base, mid, shell)
  • Warm jacket for cool mornings
  • Long pants for brush and cooler temps
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm hat and gloves for early starts
  • Headlamp (shorter daylight hours)
  • Rain shell for unexpected showers

Winter (Dec-Feb)

  • Heavy insulation (down or synthetic)
  • Traction devices (microspikes/crampons)
  • Cold weather gear (thermal layers)
  • Insulated waterproof boots
  • Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
  • Hand and toe warmers
  • Gaiters for snow-covered trails