We at Just Roughin’ It are always asked what the temperatures are like at Grand Canyon for any given month. And more often than not, we get the nonbelievers challenging us on this very issue.
For example, average temperatures in the inner canyon (i.e. Phantom Ranch) for March are lows in the high 40s and highs into the low 70s (Fahrenheit). But we always have someone tell us that they also checked temperatures and they are below freezing for the lows and highs into the mid 40s.
So why are we lying to so many unsuspecting people? While it is fun to mess with everyone, we aren’t…this time.
Since there are more people who hike mountains than canyons, let’s look at it this way. The temperatures are warmer at the base of a mountain and get cooler as you ascend, maybe taking you to some snow. Well, think of Grand Canyon as a reverse mountain; you start at colder temperatures and hike into warmer temperatures. Many Winter/early Spring trips have us starting our hikes in the snow (yes, it does snow in Arizona as well), but we end in sunbathing worthy temperatures.
As for climate, the rim of Grand Canyon is a pine forest but the bottom is the desert similar to what you would find in the Phoenix, Arizona area. When hiking to the bottom of the canyon, you are descending a vertical mile, which equates to about 20 to 30 degrees F difference in temperatures. This phenomenon has gotten many summer hikers into serious trouble as they start their hikes (going downhill) in temperatures in the 70’s/80’s and quickly find themselves hiking out of the canyon (going uphill) in temperatures exceeding 110 F in the sun.
Therefore, when preparing for your Grand Canyon trip to the bottom, you want to prepare for the inner canyon temperatures. This is what makes hiking the canyon so great in Fall, Winter and Spring. Summer is definitely doable if you know how to manage the dry desert heat.
Now, take in mind what I had said about hiking from a pine forest region to the desert. Not only does this effect temperature, it also effects weather patterns. For example, the inner canyon only averages 7 inches of precipitation per year, while the rims of the canyon average 18 inches per year.
And lastly, I know it is cliche, it really is a dry heat and cold.
For current Grand Canyon weather, go to this link. Notice there is a link for Grand Canyon Village (South Rim), North Rim and Phantom Ranch. Before your first (or next) visit, be sure to check the forecast for all three areas or else you may find yourself ill prepared.
Tags: Grand Canyon Backpacking Tours, Grand Canyon Day Hikes, Grand Canyon weather, hiking tours, North Rim Weather, Phantom Ranch weather, South Rim Weather
