SPRINGDALE, Utah – July through September is an amazing time to visit Zion National Park but it may also include rapidly changing weather and the park just issued a reminder about safe recreation during monsoon season:
“Clear morning skies can quickly build into intense afternoon thunderstorms transforming the landscape and creating serious hazards. The National Park Service urges visitors to stay informed and be ready for sudden weather changes, including the potential for flash floods.”
Every summer monsoon season sweeps through the Southwest each summer bringing a dramatic weather shift that reshapes the region’s meteorological rhythm. From July through September, moist air fuels unstable atmospheric conditions that can spark sudden and intense downpours.
Flash floods are a powerful force in Zion National Park, reshaping canyons with sudden, fast moving water. During monsoon storms, intense rainfall can funnel into slot canyons and slickrock drainages, creating dangerous conditions even when skies nearby appear clear.
Because storms can form 15 to 20 miles upstream, visitors may never see the rainfall that sends water rushing through the 288 square mile watershed feeding the Narrows. Floodwaters can carry rocks, debris and tree limbs, and conditions can change rapidly. During rainstorms, visitors may also see streams of water flowing from the ledges and cliffs in various locations in the park. These temporary waterfalls can carry debris and should only be appreciated from a safe distance. The National Park Service urges visitors to stay alert and aware of upstream weather and remain prepared for flash floods that may occur without warning.
“For the health and safety of all visitors, Zion National Park provides numerous online tools and visitor center resources that can help visitors plan for a safe trip through the park. The park also offers many fun, free, activities like ranger talks, Zion Lodge evening programs, and junior ranger programs that provide visitors with excellent park experiences regardless of the weather.” -Zion National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh
Visitors are responsible for their own safety and are encouraged to check the weather forecast and flash flood potential before entering any canyon, including the Narrows. Be safe, be alert, be prepared and have fun. Find more information below:
Monsoon Season Safety @ Zion National Park:
Stay Informed
- Check the National Weather Service webpage for official daily weather reports.
- Check the park’s current conditions page for alerts.
- Read advisories. Alerts and advisories are issued for any canyon closures. Closures are continually evaluated in coordination with National Weather Service watches, warnings, and advisories.
- Learn about flash floods from the National Weather Service and Zion National Park webpages.
- Once you identify where you plan to recreate, check conditions for that specific trail or area, such as The Narrows. Visitors can also check the flow rate.Â
- Read about safety in Zion National Park. Â
Be Alert
- Maintain situational awareness of rapidly changing weather conditions. Conditions far away or upstream of your current location can change quickly and impact your trip.
- Be aware. For public safety purposes and depending upon conditions, the park may issue closures for the Narrows and all slot canyons.
- Follow posted closures. Signs are placed along the Riverside Walk and other locations, and wilderness permits are not issued for slot canyons during closures.
- Never cross flooded areas.
Adapt Plans and Enjoy the Park
- Be flexible. Have a backup plan to keep your group, friends, and family safe.
- Make it fun! Check Zion National Park’s Calendar of Events page to find fun, alternate activities. The park offers many free alternate activities to continue to enjoy the park even if the weather changes. Check out a Ranger Talk, Ride with a Ranger, Nature Center Youth Program, Junior Ranger Program, or Zion Lodge Evening program.
