Fascinating geological structures traced back millions of years, a rich history, and viewpoints where you can see countless stars in the night sky. What is there to not like about Canyonlands National Park? Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this expansive land stretching over 337,598 acres has much to offer. Canyons, arches, spires, and buttes. Canyonlands National Park has many captivating landforms you do not want to miss. But how do you plan a travel itinerary to Canyonlands National Park in winter? What is the best time to travel there? Is Canyonlands National Park open in winter? This article will answer all of your questions and more.
We also guide you on the activities you can do when you get there. So, let’s get started!
Is Canyonlands National Park Open in Winter?
Yes, Canyonlands National Park is open during winter. However, the operating hours of the visitor center get reduced from 9 a.m – 4 p.m. Some roads and places, including the entire North Rim, are closed for the winter.
Does It Snow in Canyonlands National Park?
Yes, there is snowfall in Canyonlands National Park in winter. Be sure to check weather conditions prior to your trip.
What Is Canyonlands National Park Weather Like in December?
Winters in Canyonlands start from November 23 and last till February 18. Thus, December marks the start of dropping temperatures and cool winds.
Temperature:
December commences with a 46° F temperature in Canyonlands National Park. It slowly drops as the month progresses and falls to 38° F by the end of the month.
It is very cold, and the nights are even more unforgiving in Canyonlands National Park. They fluctuate between 26° F to 20° F throughout the month.
Cloud Cover:
There is essentially constant cloud cover throughout December. The clouds overshadow the horizon around 40 percent of the time.
Snow:
Winter arrives with the promise of snow-covered mountains. As the month progresses, the snowfall also increases. The accumulated snow at the start of the month is 0.7 inches, which rises to around 1.6 inches by the month’s end.
What Is Canyonlands National Park Weather Like in January?
January is the coldest month of the year in Canyonlands National Park. January 4th is the coldest day.
Temperature:
The temperature ranges from 38° F to 43° F in January. The weather during the day is cold, but the nights are freezing. They can get an icy 20° F to 24° F as the sun descends and the moon takes over the sky.
Cloud Cover:
Cloud cover increases in January as compared to December. It rises to 41 percent from the previous 40 percent, a moderate cloud cover for Canyonlands National Park in winter.
Snow:
The start of January marks the most accumulated snow at 1.6 inches. However, there is a reduction in snowfall as time passes. It decreases to 0.7 inches as the month ends.
What Is Canyonlands National Park Weather Like in February?
Temperature:
As January ends, temperatures only increase in February. It is 43° F at the start of the month. Though this is still quite cold, it is relatively warmer than in January. By February 28, the average temperature rises to 54° F.
Moreover, the nights are still freezing. The nighttime temperature fluctuates between 24° F and 32° F.
Cloud Cover:
Cloud cover increases in Canyonlands National Park in February. The sky remains cloudy around 44 percent of the time.
Snow:
There is no recorded estimate of snowfall in Canyonlands during February. However, snowfall becomes less constant. There are only five days of snowfall, and It stops snowing as March arrives.
What To Do in Canyonlands National Park in the Winter
Years of erosion by the Green and Colorado rivers have sculpted Canyonlands National Park into the beautiful landscape it is today.
The landscape is divided into five districts. These include:
- Island in the Sky
- The Needles
- The Maze
- Horseshoe Canyon Unit
- The rivers
All these places share the same desert-like terrain and atmospheric conditions. However, there is a variety in the activities they offer.
Now we will list our favorite things to do in Canyonlands National Park in winter. The snow-covered peaks and gorges do not mean a compromise on the adventure. So, let’s get to it!
Hiking
Canyonlands National Park has numerous hiking trails that you can embark on. Each district has its hiking trails. We prefer the ones in Island in the Sky and The Needles as they are relatively better-maintained.
However, it is worth noting that the hiking trails in Island in the Sky are strenuous. You can switch between short, moderate, and longer hiking trails based on your experience. You will see the majestic view of the canyon from above, and you can also descend halfway into the canyon or walk to the river.
As for The Needles, the hiking trails are steep and uneven. You walk through various Slickrock formations, and the hiking trails form loops here. You can also make your journey longer by combining several different treks.
The Maze is conventionally considered a backpacking destination, owing to its remote location. Moreover, we do not recommend beginners trek here as they’re not well-kept. The terrain may be too rugged and slippery if you are inexperienced.
Water in all these regions is scarce. You must bring 1L to 4 gallons of water per person, depending on the length of the trail. Drink ample water to avoid dehydration.
Camping
There are two main campgrounds in Canyonland National Park. These include Island in the Sky Campground and The Needles Campground.
One of the advantages of camping in Canyonlands National Park in winter is the easy accessibility of campsites. That is because most of them are allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The minimal travelers in winter will result in less competition.
Island in the Sky Campground, also known as Willowflat, has 12-sites. You will need to pay $15 per camping site.
The Needles Campground has 26 individual sites that cost $20 per night. There are also 3 group sites available if you want to have fun with your peers.
Campgrounds are mainly reserved throughout spring and fall when there is a large influx of tourists. Moreover, the campgrounds are well-maintained. There are toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables on both campgrounds. Be sure to bring lots of water with you, as it will be unavailable at campsites.
Explore the Backcountry
Backcountry in Canyonlands National Park offers opportunities for exploration and learning. That is because they’re usually uninhabited and, thus, unaltered from any human intervention.
You will require a permit for overnight stays. You can get it from the visitor center or the Backcountry Reservation Office.
There is a strategic advantage to exploring the backcountry at Canyonlands National Park in winter. You can easily get a permit during this time as opposed to the peak season in spring and fall. You must make your reservations 4 to 5 months in advance if you want to come here during peak season.
Stargazing
Did you know that you can see thousands of stars from certain places in Canyonlands National Park? That is opposed to the mere 500 visible in the average city. How incredibly spectacular is that?
Canyonlands National Park is one of the International Dark-Sky Parks. That means you can clearly see the starry night due to the pollution-free environment.
Due to the Dark Sky regulations, artificial light is restricted here. Thus, you’re free to witness the sky unveil the starry night as soon as the sun descends. We recommend this once-in-a-lifetime experience to all travelers.
However, you must protect yourself from the cold, as the nights can be freezing in Canyonlands National Park in winter. Make sure to go through our list of travel essentials to help defend yourself from the cold.
River trips
How can you leave the captivating Canyonlands National Park without seeing the main reason for its origin: the river. While white water rafting may not always be available, depending on the season, there is another option. Local guides sometimes offer slow and steady boat rides down the river. These are very calming. Just sit back and observe the wildlife and plants as they pass by.
Travel essentials:
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good soles while trekking. Check out our guide to learn when you should replace your old hiking boots.
- You can also use cleats for better grip. We recommend the STABILicers Traction Cleats due to their excellent fit.
- Bring a flashlight or camping lantern to brighten up the dark areas during camping. It helps during overnight stays in the backcountry as well.
- A First Aid Kit is important during travel. Being prepared will help you remain calm in the unfortunate scenario of someone getting injured.
- Water is a scarce resource at Canyonlands National Park. Bring a considerable amount with you to avoid dehydration.
- A lightweight and spacious backpack is important to carry all your essentials. We recommend the Maelstrom Hiking Backpack as it is lightweight and waterproof.
- There are no phone signals at Canyonlands National Park. Bring a compass for assistance in navigation.
- Bring extra warm clothing to protect yourself against the cold. Make sure to wash them properly if required.
- Outdoor activities can be strenuous. Bring high-energy food for nourishment. Chocolate bars are an excellent choice due to their high caloric value.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent sprays are also essential during travel. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you won’t get sunburned.
What Is the Best Time of Year To Visit Canyonlands National Park?
There is no fixed approach for determining the best time to visit Canyonlands National Park. However, most people prefer spring or fall because of the mild and tolerable weather conditions. You don’t have to worry about feeling too hot or too cold. Moreover, a lot of places are open for exploration. The operating hours of the visitor center are also increased during this time.
However, this is peak season which means a substantial influx of travelers. That can be a problem if you do not like spending time in large crowds. Permits for hiking, camping, and exploring the backcountry also get highly competitive. You may be unable to obtain them due to the high demand and limited permits available.
Final Thoughts
Canyonlands National Park is open all year for tourists from around the world. You can visit it anytime you want. However, if you prefer solitude and do not mind freezing atmospheric conditions, Canyonlands National Park in winter is truly a sight to behold. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about getting permits, which can be a hassle during spring or fall.
However, in retrospect, spring and fall are peak seasons for a reason. The weather conditions are comparatively tolerable. And you can explore many roads and sites unavailable in wintertime.
Do not forget the travel essentials for whichever month you visit here. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you won’t regret it!