United States, North America
Zion in November
Cottonwoods turn gold in the canyon early in the month. The shuttle usually runs until late November.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit Zion. Cottonwoods turn gold in the canyon early in the month. The shuttle usually runs until late November.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 63F (17C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Zion
November is cool, with highs near 63F (17C), and early in the month the cottonwoods in the canyon turn gold. Crowds ease and prices drop, except around Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday of November. The shuttle usually runs until late in the month, after which you can often drive the Scenic Drive yourself.
It suits photographers, couples and hikers who like crisp air and fall color. The Narrows is cold now, so it suits prepared hikers with the right gear, not casual waders. If you want warmer water and longer days, choose October instead.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Zion this month.
Golden cottonwoods
Fall color peaks along the Virgin River and in side canyons in the first half of the month.
Quieter trails
Emerald Pools and the Riverside Walk feel calmer than in spring or summer.
End of shuttle season
Once the shuttle stops in late November, you can usually drive the Scenic Drive at your own pace.
What to pack for November
- A warm jacket and layers
- A hat and gloves for cold mornings
- Hiking boots
- Dry suit or cold-water gear rental if you plan to hike The Narrows
Our timing tip
Come in the first half of November for the best fall color, and avoid Thanksgiving week for the quietest trails.
Book Zion for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ZionOpens a hotel search for Zion in November, 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 November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Fall color in Zion Canyon
Late October into mid November
Cottonwoods, maples, and oaks turn along the river and in side canyons.
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Zion?
November is a good month to visit Zion. Cottonwoods turn gold in the canyon early in the month. The shuttle usually runs until late November.
What is the weather like in Zion in November?
Cool, highs near 63F (17C).
Is Zion crowded in November?
Crowds in Zion are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Zion in November?
Fall color in Zion Canyon (late october into mid november).
Keep planning Zion.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.