United States, North America
Zion in October
Many regulars' favorite month. Comfortable hiking, low clear river, and fall color beginning late in the month.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Zion. Many regulars' favorite month. Comfortable hiking, low clear river, and fall color beginning late in the month.
- Weather
- Pleasant, highs near 77F (25C), cool nights
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What October is like in Zion
October is many regulars' favorite month. Days are pleasant, with highs near 77F (25C), nights are cool, and the Virgin River runs low and clear. Hiking is comfortable on every trail, and fall color begins along the river late in the month. Crowds and prices are still fairly high, especially on weekends.
It suits nearly everyone: hikers, families on fall break, couples and homeschoolers who can visit on weekdays. The only catch is demand, so book early. If you want the gold cottonwoods at their peak, plan for the last days of October or early November.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Zion this month.
Low, clear Narrows
Cooler weather and a low river make The Narrows a pleasure, though the water is chilly, so rent gear in Springdale.
Fall color begins
Cottonwoods, maples and oaks start to turn along the river and in side canyons late in the month.
Perfect weather for Scout Lookout
Comfortable temperatures make the climb far easier than in summer. Angels Landing still needs a permit.
What to pack for October
- Layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons
- Canyoneering shoes or rentals for chilly water
- Sturdy hiking boots
- A warm jacket for evenings
Our timing tip
Apply early for fall Angels Landing permits, since the seasonal lottery runs months ahead, and try the day-before lottery as a backup.
Book Zion for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ZionOpens a hotel search for Zion in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Zion?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Zion. Many regulars' favorite month. Comfortable hiking, low clear river, and fall color beginning late in the month.
What is the weather like in Zion in October?
Pleasant, highs near 77F (25C), cool nights.
Is Zion crowded in October?
Zion is busy in October, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Zion in October?
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 October
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