Grand Canyon Climate Conditions Many people mistakenly think that the climate in the Grand Canyon is consistently warm and dry because of its location in north-central Arizona. The truth is that there are many different climates, some even consider them microclimates, throughout the canyons and valleys of the Grand Canyon. The incredible changes in elevation at this location reach up to 8,000 feet above sea level and go all the way down to 2,000 feet above sea level, each of which see drastic differences in the weather on the very same days. If you are planning on taking a Grand Canyon tour, make sure to understand the weather at that time of year at the elevation that you will be visiting. The Climate Changes The highest point, which is the North Rim at 8,000 feet above sea level, is the coolest area of the Canyon. This area can see snow almost year round, and in the heart of the winter it can even be closed down due to excessive snow. The main road into the North Rim, Highway 67, is often closed due to icy and snowy conditions. As you move down deeper into the Grand Canyon, at just 1,000 feet lower, (7,000 feet above sea level) you reach the South Rim, where the winters are harsh, but the summers are pleasant with temperatures ranging between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The change in elevation as you reach the Inner Gorge, which is 2,000 feet above sea level, dramatically changes the temperature. This area is known to reach temperatures of 105 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, sometimes reaching even higher than that. Precipitation and Snow Snow is a common problem in the Grand Canyon, mostly at the North Rim. What starts as snow typically turns to rain by the time that it hits the bottom of the Canyon, but at the highest point, it is not unusual to receive more than 140 inches of snow per year. The South Rim receives almost 60 inches of snow and the Inner Gorge receives less than 1 inch. There are definite rainy and snowy seasons in the Canyon due to its location. The best times to visit without the threat of precipitation are during the later spring and early summer months. Once summer hits, the moisture returns, creating what is known as the “monsoon� season, bringing with it tremendous thunderstorms and the threat of forest fires from the extreme amount of lightning. When to Visit the Grand Canyon You can take a Grand Canyon tour year round, but if you want to make the most of your trip, you will want to schedule it around the drastic climate changes.
● March through May is generally a good time to visit if you are not too keen on dealing with crowds. This time, right before the peak of summer hits, provides rising temperatures in most areas of the canyon. The North Rim might still be filled with snow, so remember to pack layers of clothing to account for any type of weather. ● June through August offers the most pleasant temperatures in the canyon, yet also bring the largest crowds. You can expect the temperatures to range from the mid 50s to mid 80s, with it getting cooler the further north that you travel. ● September through November brings cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery to the canyon. It is not an overly crowded time of the year either, making it easy to navigate your way around the area with ease. ● December through February is definitely the coldest time of the year. These months are not without their incredible beauty and peaceful serenity, but prepare for plenty of snow, especially in the Northern Rim, which could get closed off if there is excessive snowfall. The climate changes in the Grand Canyon are a part of its natural beauty, though the best times to take a Grand Canyon tour will vary from tourist to tourist. As long as you are prepared for the anticipated climate, your trip should be one that is enjoyable for everyone. \ Company Bio: Papillon Helicopters offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see the Grand Canyon on foot or by horseback, helicopter, or river. They have been providing professional tours of the area for several years, and now serve more than 600,000 visitors on a yearly basis. They offer a wide variety of tours that ensure that you will never see the same Grand Canyon twice.