The Surprising Seasons That Make for the Best Time to Visit Utah National Parks

The best time to visit the national parks in Utah isn't likely what you are expecting. While scores of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts flock to the many national parks in the Beehive State throughout the summer, you can catch us shopping for eco-friendly hiking gear and preparing for the seasons ahead.

So just how many national parks are in the state of Utah, and when is the best time to visit them? Keep reading to learn how to beat the crowds, safely and respectfully observe majestic wildlife and breathtaking views, and enjoy the many adventures that await.

There are 13 national parks located in Utah that are listed by the National Parks Conservation Association, and the fall and winter seasons are unmatched when it comes time to visit them.

You might think that summer is the best time to visit these beautiful national parks; however, in my experience, several factors make the summer season the one to avoid.

Despite the ongoing drought in Utah, the fall and winter seasons bring beautiful waterfalls and lush green-yellow landscapes. Perhaps best of all, fewer tourists are leaving behind waste to dampen the allure of your visit to Utah'sstunning national parks.

The hourlong wait for sweaty shuttle bus rides with no air conditioning, exhaustion from high temperatures, and hoards of tourists make the summer season one that we recommend avoiding at Utah's national parks.

Whereas the average high temperature during the summer season in Bryce Canyon, per the National Park Service, is noticeably cooler thanks to its high elevation, temperatures reach triple digits in Zion National Park throughout the summer.

To summarize: hot, sweaty, packed, and nowhere to park. You'll also want to check the National Weather Service and contact the national park directly to ensure you're not at a greater risk that day for flash flooding.

Understandably, some hikers are less inclined to brave the winter temperatures at Arches National Park, for example, which typically hit lows in the 20s and may dip into single digits. Expect rainfall and snow, which add to the breathtaking and mesmerizing views of the gigantic mountain ranges throughout Utah's 13 national parks.

However, if you're willing to brave the colder temperatures on some of the country's more demanding hiking trails, you'll be rewarded by the state of Utah.

My fondest memory after joining the anti-Black Friday movement is driving unimpeded to Zion National Park, having an endless pick of parking spots close to the entrance, enjoying beautiful shuttle rides with family to our favorite trails, and experiencing unbelievably gorgeous encounters with the winter wildlife braving the snow.

If you plan on hiking through The Narrows, one of Utah's most famous and awe-inspiring attractions, be sure to avoid the trail when flash flooding is likely.

Prepare for breathtaking views of yellow, orange, and green leaves adorning the many trees beside chilly rivers alongside the mountains throughout Utah's national parks. 

If the winter weather proves too cold for your family, the later months of the fall season in Utah's national parks may be the happy medium that affords hikers cooling temperatures, reasonable midday sun, unbelievably gorgeous trees, and some snow-capped mountains.

According to the magazine AFAR, “Zion” means “promised land” in Hebrew. If you plan to bike across the 17-mile main road, walk alongside the Virgin River, or make it to the top of Angel's Landing for the eye-catching views, you are sure to enjoy the transcendent, healing, fulfilling experience that Zion in the fall brings to so many who visit.

You are poised to witness some of the most mystifying desert colors as wildflowers bloom against red and orange mountains in Utah during the spring. It's a charming and scenic month, though one packed with many photographers seeking to catch a glimpse of beautiful flora against colorful sunsets and sunrises.