How hot does the Grand Canyon West Rim get?

In summer the desert West Rim regularly reaches 95 to 105°F with little shade. Spring and fall are far more comfortable in the 60s to 80s.

Is the South Rim colder than the West Rim?

Yes. The South Rim sits at about 7,000 feet, so it's cooler year-round and can get snow in winter, while the lower West Rim stays milder.

What's the weather like in winter at the Grand Canyon?

The West Rim is mild but cold in the morning (40s–50s°F); the higher South Rim can be near freezing with occasional snow.

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Grand Canyon weather by season (West Rim & South Rim)

Short answer: the West Rim is high desert — hot summers (95–105°F) and mild, cool-morning winters. The South Rim sits at about 7,000 feet, so it is cooler year-round (70s–80s in summer) and can get snow in winter. Spring and fall are mild and ideal at both.

Temperatures at a glance

Season	West Rim	South Rim
Spring	60s–80s°F	50s–60s°F
Summer	95–105°F	70s–80s°F
Fall	60s–80s°F	50s–60s°F
Winter	40s–50s°F	30s–40s°F, snow possible

What it means for your trip

The big takeaway: the West Rim is desert-hot in summer with almost no shade, so go early and carry water. The South Rim is cooler thanks to its elevation but can be genuinely cold — even snowy — in winter. Mornings are cool in every season, so layers are your friend.

Plan around it with the best time to visit and pack using what to bring.

Plan your trip

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