Know Before You Go: Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter
If you’re planning a winter trip to the Grand Canyon, you’re in for a treat. Though winter experiences in the Grand Canyon may not be as numerous as their summer counterparts, they come with one rare prize: a fraction of the crowds. With a winter visit, you’ll get far more one-on-one time with this UNESCO site and world wonder—and some even say, in a blanket of white, the canyon is at its most beautiful. Here’s what you need to know for Grand Canyon winter travel tips.
Can I visit the Grand Canyon in winter?
Yes, you can visit the Grand Canyon in winter—just stay on the South Rim.
Between December and mid-May, the Grand Canyon’s North Rim is closed to vehicles. It’s 1,000 feet (304 meters) higher than the South Rim and experiences wilder weather. That’s OK, though—the South Rim is where you probably planned to explore anyway. It has the park’s vast majority of infrastructure, including hiking trails, restaurants, attractions, and sightseeing opportunities.
If you’re driving in, the South Rim’s main roads are open year-round (including Hermit Road), though you might run into temporary closures during inclement weather. Bring a snow shovel and a windshield scraper just in case—you’ll be happy to have them if you need them.
What is there to do at the Grand Canyon in the winter?
The Grand Canyon’s South Rim is open during winter; the only difference is the snow.
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is closed in winter; the South Rim stays very open. Apart from that, the Grand Canyon’s list of winter and summer experiences isn’t all that different—you can still hike, attend ranger demonstrations, ride the Hikers' Express buses, take a scenic drive, and more, regardless of season. You’ll do the same activities, just in a jacket and winter boots.
Winter visitors do get one bonus. During December, January, and February, Hermit Road—a scenic, 7-mile (11-kilometer) drive along the canyon rim—opens to private vehicles. While the Hermit Road shuttle ceases operation, all other shuttles remain in service.
Is the Grand Canyon Skywalk open in winter?
Yes, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is open for year-round adventure.
Yep, folks bold enough to take on the vertiginous Grand Canyon Skywalk—a glass platform that dangles over the canyon—can visit in winter. That being said, hours are reduced compared to summer and mirror the canyon’s shorter days, opening roughly from sunrise to sunset.
Can I hike in the Grand Canyon in winter?
Yes, you can hike in the Grand Canyon in the winter, as long as you’re prepared for snow.
Winter hiking at the Grand Canyon can be spectacular, with crowds a fraction of their summer size. That being said, some trails will be more treacherous than others: The Hermit Trail tends to get the least amount of snow and ice, and as you descend into the canyon, conditions improve. The South Kaibab Trail is another decent option—it follows the ridgeline and receives considerable sunshine. The initial section can be snowy, but it typically improves from there.
What ticket and tour options are available for the Grand Canyon?
Lots! If you can dream it, you can do it at the Grand Canyon—with a tour or a ticket.
Grand Canyon National Park runs free daily ranger-led tours, most starting at the South Rim Visitor Center. They don’t require a ticket—simply check the day of your visit to see what’s on. In addition, tons of companies run their own Grand Canyon tours, from naturalist-led hikes to wild helicopter rides to sunset sightseeing sessions. For those seeking a bit of adrenaline, rafting through the canyon on the Colorado River is easily the most epic way to tour the park. (Bonus: No rafting experience required.)
What should I wear to the Grand Canyon in winter?
Temperatures vary from day to day, so pack accordingly.
Average temperatures in Grand Canyon National Park can be anywhere from 30º–60ºF (-1º–15ºC) during winter—quite the range. Every day can be different, so pack in layers, bring your snow boots (and gloves and a hat), and be ready for driving in snow or on ice. Hikers will want to bring trekking poles or traction devices, like ice cleats, to be comfortable on the trails.
Is the Grand Canyon in winter accessible for people with disabilities?
If the weather cooperates, yes, the Grand Canyon can be accessible in winter.
The beauty of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is that the majority of it is paved—it’s not uncommon to see folks using wheelchairs and scooters wandering the rim and taking in the view. That being said, inclement weather is common in the Grand Canyon come winter, and the rim’s paved path can get snowy and icy. If that’s not for you, perhaps take in the view from somewhere fabulous like the El Tovar Hotel. Alternatively, the park’s shuttles still run, and scenic drives are a good option, too.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about visiting the Grand Canyon in winter.
Is it worth visiting the Grand Canyon in winter? Yes, it’s absolutely worth visiting the Grand Canyon in winter. If there’s fresh snowfall, the red rocks of the canyon can look even more spectacular.
Which part of the Grand Canyon is best to visit in winter? Be sure to visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in winter—the North Rim closes from December to mid-May. From there, where you go is up to you.
Is Christmas a good time to visit the Grand Canyon? Christmas is not a great time to visit the Grand Canyon, as the canyon sees far more visitors during the holidays than it will even just a week before or a week after.
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