Preparing for a successful vacation or road trip takes some planning. When it comes to the Grand Canyon, there few other places that will leave such a lasting impression. The Grand Canyon is an amazing place to visit during any of the four seasons, but knowing ahead of time what works best for you and your family will make it that much better. Each season, though, brings certain elements to the forefront: heat or cold, rain or wind, snow or fog so thick and low that you wouldn't know a great gaping chasm lay beneath it.
According to azcentral.com, €The great range of elevations within the Canyon complicates a season-by-season comparison.€ "The thing about the Canyon that people have a hard time grasping is how different it is between the rim and the inner canyon," says Dan Hunting of Phoenix, who has hiked more than 800 miles in the Canyon and works as an analyst for the Arizona Joint Legislative Budget Committee. It was snowing when Hunting started a Memorial Day trek into the Canyon several years ago. By the time he reached Phantom Ranch a few hours later, the temperature was pushing 100 degrees. Although each season has its own attractions, as well as challenges, "all the trails are fabulous anytime of the year," Hunting says.
The National Park Service has a lot of great and informative tools for planning a trip to the Grand Canyon. The weather patterns of the area are interesting, and it is always helpful to know what to wear and what to bring during certain seasons. Summer is a popular travel season, and a lot of people hike the Canyon in summer simply because that's when they have time off. Although the rims can be cool and shady, "It can be 110 degrees at the river." Water, always an issue, is critical during the summer. So is food, particularly salty foods that help keep hikers' electrolytes in balance. Temperatures near the Colorado River usually are within a few degrees of those in the Valley. "It's hot, like walking through downtown Phoenix," Hunting says. Experts actually say to mimic desert animals: Get up early to take advantage of the cooler morning hours, then hang out or nap in the shade until it cools off again. Although monsoon storms can break the heat, they can also bring flash floods. The biggest summertime challenge is the heat, though. The best summertime hikes are down the Bright Angel or the South Kaibab trails. Rim trails, especially the sections with abundant shade, also are good choices for summer hiking.
In the fall, the colors and temperatures are peak for hikers. "October is one of the nicest times to be hiking in the Canyon," says Dave Baker, who owns the Summit Hut, an outdoor-equipment shop in Tucson. Temperatures are moderate and Arizona 67 to the North Rim, which closes with the first heavy snow (typically mid-November or early December), is most likely still open. Fall, of course, is when the aspen change into stunning shades of gold and amber. Baker revels in the contrast of the fall colors and chilly temperatures on the rim and the heat within the Canyon, where, he says, it's often so warm that he has to stop hiking and seek shade. Fall is probably the easiest time to hike the Canyon, says Dawson Henderson of Flagstaff. Hikers don't have to worry so much about heat, lack of water or flash floods, as in other seasons. The biggest challenge during the fall is said to be the unknown weather patterns. €Snow can hit the Canyon nearly any time of year, especially on the North Rim. That's an easy thing for Valley residents not used to thinking about snow in October to forget, says Hunting, who notes that fall hikers can enjoy beautiful weather below the rim and then come out and find their car under a foot of snow. Springs and creeks can run low in the fall. Hunting recommends double-checking the status of water sources when planning a backcountry hike, as well as having a backup plan should a source be dry. Fall hikers also must be aware of heat and hydration problems, as well as hypothermia issues, as late fall storms can spit sleet and snow.
Winter at the Grand Canyon is a nice time to visit. The temperature on the trails is perfect, once you get passed the snow laden areas. Another advantage to wintertime hiking is that, unlike during the commercial rafting season, which runs from late spring through early fall; there's a good chance you'll have the beaches along the Colorado River to yourself. It is important to note that heavy snows often close the road to the North Rim from late October to mid-May of each year.
Spring is another peak time to visit the Grand Canyon, no matter what your plans may be. Whether you are going out for a hike, rafting, or a guided air tour, the sights and attractions are booming at this point. The weather's generally good in spring and, thanks to winter snowmelt, most creeks and springs are flowing well, he says. The wildflowers on the Tonto Plateau can be spectacular. Spring is the only time to visit certain areas in the remote western part of the canyon, such as the Apache Terraces area (between the South Bass Trail and Havasupai) and the Esplanade (an area analogous to the Tonto Plateau, but in the western reaches of the Canyon), Hunting says, because that's when winter storms have left the tinajas (natural water holes, typically in slickrock) full of water. One of the challenges, according to experienced hikers, is that although it's spring within the Canyon, it may still feel like winter on the rim. March often brings heavy snow. Woolston notes that, if it's been a wet year, hikers may encounter quite a bit of water in the creeks, which can make crossings tricky.
Use clothing to protect your body from the dry atmosphere, harsh sunlight, and high temperatures in the summer. In the cool months, clothing provides protection from the sun and from the cool temperatures. Proper attire can make a big difference in your comfort when hiking the Grand Canyon. Consider these recommendations as you prepare for your trip. For example, a broad brimmed hat should top your head. This is absolutely essential - it will keep the sunlight off your head and neck. Avoid baseball hats because they don't protect your ears or neck. Make sure the hat has a chin strap and use it - strong winds can snatch your hat and carry it out of reach in an instant. During the cool months, also pack a knit hat to provide welcome warmth in the cool evenings and mornings or near the rims. Some experts recommend you wear your regular glasses when hiking in the Grand Canyon. The canyon is a very dusty place. The dust will quickly get under your lenses and irritate your eyes. It is always a good idea to leave an extra pair of glasses in your car.
As for clothing, one Grand Canyon website suggests a lightly colored long sleeved shirt which will reflect the sunlight and significantly reduce the amount of heat your body has to deal with. €Less heat, less cooling, less water lost.€ A waterproof windproof breathable shell when hiking the Canyon in the fall through early spring will work wonders. The shell will provide relief from the wind and protection from the occasional rain or snow shower. It is unlikely you will need a shell in the summer though you may appreciate one when near the rim. The shell should be light in weight and large enough to go over all your layers. Layered over your fleece sweater, you'll have about all the insulation needed to keep you warm below the rim during the cool months should you visit in the winter.
Benjamin Disraeli once said, €Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.€ Your visit to the Grand Canyon will create memories for a lifetime. USA Today says that €The Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning locations on earth. At 277 miles long and more than a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is perhaps America's best known national park. Fortunately, the Grand Canyon is accessible by road, which makes it the ideal location for a road trip. As you plan your Grand Canyon road trip, speak to friends and family who have seen the majestic canyon for add
According to azcentral.com, €The great range of elevations within the Canyon complicates a season-by-season comparison.€ "The thing about the Canyon that people have a hard time grasping is how different it is between the rim and the inner canyon," says Dan Hunting of Phoenix, who has hiked more than 800 miles in the Canyon and works as an analyst for the Arizona Joint Legislative Budget Committee. It was snowing when Hunting started a Memorial Day trek into the Canyon several years ago. By the time he reached Phantom Ranch a few hours later, the temperature was pushing 100 degrees. Although each season has its own attractions, as well as challenges, "all the trails are fabulous anytime of the year," Hunting says.
The National Park Service has a lot of great and informative tools for planning a trip to the Grand Canyon. The weather patterns of the area are interesting, and it is always helpful to know what to wear and what to bring during certain seasons. Summer is a popular travel season, and a lot of people hike the Canyon in summer simply because that's when they have time off. Although the rims can be cool and shady, "It can be 110 degrees at the river." Water, always an issue, is critical during the summer. So is food, particularly salty foods that help keep hikers' electrolytes in balance. Temperatures near the Colorado River usually are within a few degrees of those in the Valley. "It's hot, like walking through downtown Phoenix," Hunting says. Experts actually say to mimic desert animals: Get up early to take advantage of the cooler morning hours, then hang out or nap in the shade until it cools off again. Although monsoon storms can break the heat, they can also bring flash floods. The biggest summertime challenge is the heat, though. The best summertime hikes are down the Bright Angel or the South Kaibab trails. Rim trails, especially the sections with abundant shade, also are good choices for summer hiking.
In the fall, the colors and temperatures are peak for hikers. "October is one of the nicest times to be hiking in the Canyon," says Dave Baker, who owns the Summit Hut, an outdoor-equipment shop in Tucson. Temperatures are moderate and Arizona 67 to the North Rim, which closes with the first heavy snow (typically mid-November or early December), is most likely still open. Fall, of course, is when the aspen change into stunning shades of gold and amber. Baker revels in the contrast of the fall colors and chilly temperatures on the rim and the heat within the Canyon, where, he says, it's often so warm that he has to stop hiking and seek shade. Fall is probably the easiest time to hike the Canyon, says Dawson Henderson of Flagstaff. Hikers don't have to worry so much about heat, lack of water or flash floods, as in other seasons. The biggest challenge during the fall is said to be the unknown weather patterns. €Snow can hit the Canyon nearly any time of year, especially on the North Rim. That's an easy thing for Valley residents not used to thinking about snow in October to forget, says Hunting, who notes that fall hikers can enjoy beautiful weather below the rim and then come out and find their car under a foot of snow. Springs and creeks can run low in the fall. Hunting recommends double-checking the status of water sources when planning a backcountry hike, as well as having a backup plan should a source be dry. Fall hikers also must be aware of heat and hydration problems, as well as hypothermia issues, as late fall storms can spit sleet and snow.
Winter at the Grand Canyon is a nice time to visit. The temperature on the trails is perfect, once you get passed the snow laden areas. Another advantage to wintertime hiking is that, unlike during the commercial rafting season, which runs from late spring through early fall; there's a good chance you'll have the beaches along the Colorado River to yourself. It is important to note that heavy snows often close the road to the North Rim from late October to mid-May of each year.
Spring is another peak time to visit the Grand Canyon, no matter what your plans may be. Whether you are going out for a hike, rafting, or a guided air tour, the sights and attractions are booming at this point. The weather's generally good in spring and, thanks to winter snowmelt, most creeks and springs are flowing well, he says. The wildflowers on the Tonto Plateau can be spectacular. Spring is the only time to visit certain areas in the remote western part of the canyon, such as the Apache Terraces area (between the South Bass Trail and Havasupai) and the Esplanade (an area analogous to the Tonto Plateau, but in the western reaches of the Canyon), Hunting says, because that's when winter storms have left the tinajas (natural water holes, typically in slickrock) full of water. One of the challenges, according to experienced hikers, is that although it's spring within the Canyon, it may still feel like winter on the rim. March often brings heavy snow. Woolston notes that, if it's been a wet year, hikers may encounter quite a bit of water in the creeks, which can make crossings tricky.
Use clothing to protect your body from the dry atmosphere, harsh sunlight, and high temperatures in the summer. In the cool months, clothing provides protection from the sun and from the cool temperatures. Proper attire can make a big difference in your comfort when hiking the Grand Canyon. Consider these recommendations as you prepare for your trip. For example, a broad brimmed hat should top your head. This is absolutely essential - it will keep the sunlight off your head and neck. Avoid baseball hats because they don't protect your ears or neck. Make sure the hat has a chin strap and use it - strong winds can snatch your hat and carry it out of reach in an instant. During the cool months, also pack a knit hat to provide welcome warmth in the cool evenings and mornings or near the rims. Some experts recommend you wear your regular glasses when hiking in the Grand Canyon. The canyon is a very dusty place. The dust will quickly get under your lenses and irritate your eyes. It is always a good idea to leave an extra pair of glasses in your car.
As for clothing, one Grand Canyon website suggests a lightly colored long sleeved shirt which will reflect the sunlight and significantly reduce the amount of heat your body has to deal with. €Less heat, less cooling, less water lost.€ A waterproof windproof breathable shell when hiking the Canyon in the fall through early spring will work wonders. The shell will provide relief from the wind and protection from the occasional rain or snow shower. It is unlikely you will need a shell in the summer though you may appreciate one when near the rim. The shell should be light in weight and large enough to go over all your layers. Layered over your fleece sweater, you'll have about all the insulation needed to keep you warm below the rim during the cool months should you visit in the winter.
Benjamin Disraeli once said, €Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.€ Your visit to the Grand Canyon will create memories for a lifetime. USA Today says that €The Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning locations on earth. At 277 miles long and more than a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is perhaps America's best known national park. Fortunately, the Grand Canyon is accessible by road, which makes it the ideal location for a road trip. As you plan your Grand Canyon road trip, speak to friends and family who have seen the majestic canyon for add