United States, North America
Grand Canyon in March
Crowds build with spring break. Inner canyon temperatures are ideal for Phantom Ranch trips; upper trails can still be icy.
The straight answer
March is a good month to visit Grand Canyon. Crowds build with spring break. Inner canyon temperatures are ideal for Phantom Ranch trips; upper trails can still be icy.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 52F (11C), changeable
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What March is like in Grand Canyon
March is cool and changeable on the South Rim, with highs near 52F (11C) and the odd late snowstorm. Crowds build as spring break arrives, and prices start to rise. Inside the canyon, temperatures are ideal for hiking toward the river and Phantom Ranch, though the upper parts of trails can still be icy.
It suits hikers with reservations, homeschool families outside spring break weeks, and anyone who wants mild weather before summer. Families on spring break should book lodging early. If you want warmer, drier days with fewer icy patches, April is the safer bet.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Grand Canyon this month.
Prime inner-canyon temperatures
The bottom of the canyon is comfortable now, making it a good time for Phantom Ranch trips if you won a spot.
Hermit Road shuttle returns
From March 1, Hermit Road closes to private cars and the free shuttle takes you to the western viewpoints.
Short views below the rim
A hike on the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point gives a big view for a short effort, with ice-aware footing.
What to pack for March
- Layers for cold mornings and mild afternoons
- Traction devices for icy upper trails
- Hiking boots with good grip
- Plenty of water and salty snacks
Our timing tip
Start hikes after the morning ice softens but still early enough to beat the crowds, and check trail conditions at the visitor center first.
Book Grand Canyon for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Grand CanyonOpens a hotel search for Grand Canyon in March, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Grand CanyonWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Grand CanyonTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Grand Canyon for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Grand Canyon
South Rim viewpoints along Hermit Road
Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles from March 1 to November 30; ride the free shuttle to Hopi Point and Mohave Point for sunset.
Desert View Watchtower
The Mary Colter-designed tower at the east end of the South Rim, 25 miles from the village and less crowded at sunrise.
Bright Angel Trail
The classic below-rim trail from the village. Turn around at a sensible point; the park strongly warns against hiking to the river and back in one day.
South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point or Cedar Ridge
The best short below-rim view hike. Steep, exposed, and without water, so go early.
Rafting the Colorado River
Multi-day trips run roughly April through October and book a year or more ahead with licensed outfitters.
Grand Canyon Railway
Vintage train service from Williams to the South Rim, running year-round.
Beat the crowds
- Be at a viewpoint for sunrise. The rim is nearly empty at dawn in every month, and the light is better than at sunset.
- Enter through the East Entrance at Desert View rather than the South Entrance, where lines back up in summer mid mornings.
- Visit November through February for the emptiest South Rim; snow on the canyon is a genuine highlight, not a compromise.
- Stay inside the park or in Tusayan to avoid the drive from Flagstaff or Williams at peak entry times.
Know before you go
- The South Rim, including the South Entrance and the East Entrance at Desert View, is open 24 hours a day, all year.
- The North Rim traditionally operates from about mid May to mid October, with Highway 67 closing for winter snow. After the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire destroyed the Grand Canyon Lodge, the North Rim reopened for 2026 with its roads and viewpoints open but limited services and the North Kaibab Trail damaged; check the park's current North Rim status before you go.
- Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles from March 1 through November 30; use the free shuttle. In winter you can drive it.
- Phantom Ranch and in-park lodging book through lotteries or far-ahead reservations; summer rim lodging often sells out many months in advance.
Grand Canyon in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Grand Canyon?
March is a good month to visit Grand Canyon. Crowds build with spring break. Inner canyon temperatures are ideal for Phantom Ranch trips; upper trails can still be icy.
What is the weather like in Grand Canyon in March?
Cool, highs near 52F (11C), changeable.
Is Grand Canyon crowded in March?
Crowds in Grand Canyon are moderate in March; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Grand Canyon.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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