The days of summer are behind us. It’s cool weather from now until spring at the South Rim, with the coldest temperatures happening in January (average daytime high is 41 degrees!). Personally, I’m all for a respite from the heat. Summer of 2011 was like a furnace. So far this month (Nov.), I’ve been basking in the 50′s during the day; a mile plus below the rim, it’s been a sweet 70 degrees. Seriously, the weather couldn’t be finer, regardless the occasional snowstorm. See the National Park Service for up-to-date conditions.
Enjoy this heavenly weather now because by the end of Nov. we are going to enter true winter, which won’t let go of its grip until late February. Low temps will lollygag in the teens until the afternoon when they spike into the 40′s. Down on the river, temps range about between the 40s and 50′s, with lows mingling between the 30′s and 40′s. During this time, be on the ready for significant snowfall, slick roads and icy trails. But it’s all worth it when fog fills the chasm, only to be burned off by lunch (or a bit later).
Desert Watchtower amid the canyon's first snow.
The Grand Canyon receives more than 5 million visitors a year, the bulk in summer. I’m a people person and don’t mind the crowds. Others do. If you’re in the later category, do the canyon during winter. You will quite literally have it all to yourself. You will especially appreciate the sparseness at such famous lookouts like Mather Point and Yaki Point. This is also the time to do a sunrise and sunset (Hopi Point can get insanely packed during summer sunset).
Snowstorm passes, powders Grand Canyon National Park
Prices come down during winter, especially at for rooms inside one of the historic lodges at Grand Canyon Village, the South Rim’s commercial hub. I say shoot the moon and go for a night or two at El Tovar. Stop by Xanterra for availability. Mule rides, the IMAX Theater, helicopter tours and airplane rides, too, are all going strong. Winter is a special time at the canyon. If you can find the time to get up here, you will be richly rewarded!
Have a Grand day!
K. Kravitz, Travel Reviewer
