![]() ![]() Hiking is not particularly recommended, and experienced hikers can also backpack from the southern rim to the canyon’s enclosed northern rim, making it one of the most remote locations in the entire park. Sure, hiking the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails is well worth it, but make sure you have crampons for the ice trails (Grandview, New Hans, and Tanner trails in winter). In fact, most of the activities available at other times are your own choice. There is so much to do in the Canyon in January. ![]() There is not enough time to enjoy hiking and sightseeing. Another drawback is that not only is it colder than in summer, but the days are shorter. No chance to see reptiles or amphibians and some of the larger animals are less noticeable due to their lack of activity. Wildlife is still present in January, but many species are slowed down by the cold weather. The South Rim is beautiful and worth a visit, but many people feel they are missing out on not seeing the North Rim. This makes most of the park almost inaccessible and limits what you can see. The North Rim is also closed from early November to mid-May, so the South Rim is the only option. This can make this gear expensive and makes trails difficult to access for those who aren’t confident in their feet because they don’t want to hike, even with the increased traction this gear provides. Crampons and trekking poles are highly recommended for hiking in January. In addition to the potential for inclement weather, many of the South Rim hiking trails can be dangerous in winter, snow or not. When a blizzard hits, it closes roads, makes hiking very difficult, and usually halts activity in the canyon. Hypothermia is really dangerous and slipping on ice or snow can seriously injure you. It may also eliminate the need to use winter gear, and the extra shopping and packing seem like a waste of time. This means that visitors should prepare for The Grand Canyon weather which is winter, with more equipment and clothing than if they were traveling in the summer or off-season. The interior of the canyon is a desert environment, but the rim is a pine forested mountain ecosystem that receives several feet of snow each winter. Unsurprisingly, January’s biggest drawbacks to the Grand Canyon are the South Rim temperatures and the potential for winter storms. The canyon itself is majestic and worthy of a photo shoot at any time of year, but the recent snowfall gives it a completely unique look, with crimson and bloody orange rocks outlined only by white. The cold weather slows down many animals, but you can see mules and moose, condors, bighorn sheep, foxes, and bobcats. In winter, wildlife viewing and photography opportunities abound. Last minute reservations are also commonly available at Phantom Ranch. Hiking and backcountry camping permits are much easier to obtain in the winter. However, prepare for winter weather because you’ll experience the mild temperatures of the canyon’s bottom desert only after traveling through the mountains and forests of the South Rim. This is a break from the 110+ degree heat of the canyon in summer, making the hike dangerous and less than enjoyable. The South Rim can be very chilly (but not always), but once you reach the bottom of the canyon the temperature evens out and is mostly perfect for hiking. Fewer tourists mean less than the best room rates, especially if you book in advance.Īnother big advantage is the cool temperature in the canyon. If you try to book within 6 months, you are more likely to not find accommodation in the summer, but in the winter you are more likely to find availability within weeks or months of your trip. Of the six million annual park visitors, less than 15% of them visit in December, January, and February, according to National Park Service records.įewer visitors also mean more accessible and cheaper accommodation. Instead of crowded streets, long lines for service, and busy lookouts, the park is fairly quiet, calm, and probably snowy. In comparison, winter is idyllic and quiet. The South Rim is busiest in summer, and to a lesser extent in spring and fall. The main advantage of visiting the Grand Canyon in January is the lack of crowds. If January is the month you’ve chosen to visit, we highly recommend it! With proper preparation, you can have a great time exploring the canyons and taking in the breathtaking winter scenery.īenefits of Visiting the Grand Canyon in January While there are some great advantages to visiting at this time of year, there are also some drawbacks to keep in mind. Grand Canyon Weather in the winter is a magical time to visit the national park. ![]()
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