Grand Canyon Weather and How to Prepare for It

You know that old nursery rhyme…

Whether the weather be fine,
Or whether the weather be not,
Whether the weather be cold,
Or whether the weather be hot,
We’ll weather the weather
Whatever the weather,
Whether we like it or not!

When you’re at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, weathering whatever weather comes is pretty much your only option! We can’t turn up the heat, crank the A/C, or go indoors to get out of the rain. The best we can do is make sure to prepare with tools and strategies that will help us in any weather we find ourselves in. 

Here are some resources to help you plan for whatever Grand Canyon weather you find yourself in when your next trip comes around.

Grand Canyon Weather Trends

• Grand Canyon Weather 

• • This page of our website includes an overview of typical weather conditions at different times of year and links you to an actual forecast you can use as you’re planning. 
• Hatch FAQs
  • We have additional weather info in our FAQs. Look for “What is the weather like in the Grand Canyon” under “What to Expect.”
• The Seasons in Grand Canyon
  • An overview of what to expect during each season in Grand Canyon. 
• What is the Best Month to Raft Grand Canyon
  • What conditions (weather and otherwise) you are likely to experience in each month of Hatch rafting season.

Cold Weather 

• Packing Suggestions for Guests on Cold Weather Trips
  • What you should bring to stay warm while you travel down the river. These tips will serve you best if you’re traveling in April or early May. 

Hot Weather

• How to Stay Cool on a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip
  • If you’re traveling in June, July, or August, you’re likely to see daytime temperatures that exceed 100°F. Use these tips to stay cool in the hot weather.

Rainy Weather

• Monsoons in Grand Canyon Make Rafting Even More Amazing
  • Wanna see something cool? This post isn’t so much about tips and strategies as much as it is telling you about the incredible place that Grand Canyon can become in a storm. 
• What If It Rains on Your Rafting Trip in Grand Canyon?
  • Tips for rainy weather in Grand Canyon. You’re most likely to need this advice in July and August during the desert’s monsoon season. 

Drought

• How Will Drought Impact My River Trip?
  • We get asked this question a lot whenever the news turns its attention toward the Colorado River. Here’s what we know. 

Wondering how to pack in for the weather on your trip? Review your the Gear Checklist in your trip packet, then check out How to Pack for a Grand Canyon River Trip for more info!