United States, North America
Zion in March
Shuttle season typically starts and spring break crowds arrive. Snowmelt often keeps The Narrows closed.
The straight answer
March is a good month to visit Zion. Shuttle season typically starts and spring break crowds arrive. Snowmelt often keeps The Narrows closed.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 63F (17C), changeable
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What March is like in Zion
March is mild and changeable, with highs near 63F (17C). Shuttle season typically starts, so the Scenic Drive closes to private cars, and spring break crowds arrive. Snowmelt often keeps The Narrows closed because of high water. Prices rise from winter lows.
It suits hikers and families who want pleasant temperatures and don't need The Narrows. Families on spring break should book lodging early. If you want warmer weather and greener canyons, April is even better, though just as busy. Outside spring break weeks, late March weekdays can be surprisingly calm, and the cooler air suits kids and older hikers.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Zion this month.
Comfortable hiking temperatures
Mild days make the Watchman Trail and Emerald Pools pleasant before summer heat sets in.
Shuttle season begins
The free shuttle makes getting around the canyon easy, so you don't have to hunt for parking at trailheads.
Angels Landing permits
Spring lottery permits give you a shot at the famous climb. Without one, Scout Lookout is a strong consolation.
What to pack for March
- Layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons
- A light rain jacket
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- Plenty of water
Our timing tip
Catch the first shuttles of the morning, since lines at the visitor center stop grow long by mid morning during spring break.
Book Zion for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ZionOpens a hotel search for Zion 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 ZionWhole 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 ZionTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Zion for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in March
Spring snowmelt and high water
Roughly March to June, varies with snowpack
The Narrows closes when the river flow is too high; big snow years can keep it closed into June.
Things to do in Zion
The Narrows from the bottom
No permit is needed to hike upstream from the Temple of Sinawava. Rent canyoneering shoes and a pole in Springdale; check the flash flood forecast first.
Angels Landing
Permits are required, through seasonal lotteries and a day-before lottery on Recreation.gov. Without one, hike to Scout Lookout for a strong consolation view.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by shuttle
The free shuttle runs most of the year; get on at the visitor center early to beat the lines.
Canyon Overlook Trail
A short hike off the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway with a big view. Parking is tiny, so go early or late.
Kolob Canyons
The park's quieter northwest section, with its own entrance off Interstate 15 and a scenic drive to red finger canyons.
Emerald Pools
An easy family trail to pools and seasonal waterfalls, best in spring.
Beat the crowds
- Ride the first shuttles of the morning. By mid morning in spring, summer, and fall, lines at the visitor center shuttle stop can run long.
- Stay in Springdale and walk or take the town shuttle to the park entrance; the park lots often fill by 8am in busy seasons.
- Hike The Narrows at first light and turn around before midday, when the crowds peak.
- Head to Kolob Canyons or Kolob Terrace Road for the same red rock with a fraction of the visitors.
Know before you go
- Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles during shuttle season, which typically runs from about March through late November and briefly over the winter holidays. Outside those periods, you can usually drive it.
- The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow is too high or flash floods threaten; spring snowmelt and summer monsoon storms both cause closures.
- Angels Landing requires a permit year-round through seasonal and day-before lotteries. The rules and application windows can change, so check the park's current permit page.
- Large vehicles need a paid tunnel escort through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, and some oversized vehicles are not allowed at all. Check size limits before towing or driving an RV.
Zion in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Zion?
March is a good month to visit Zion. Shuttle season typically starts and spring break crowds arrive. Snowmelt often keeps The Narrows closed.
What is the weather like in Zion in March?
Mild, highs near 63F (17C), changeable.
Is Zion crowded in March?
Zion is busy in March, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Zion in March?
Spring snowmelt and high water (roughly march to june, varies with snowpack).
Keep planning Zion.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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