Spring may come late as the rim sits at an elevation of 8,000' feet above sea level. Weather may be unpredictable, so bring warm clothing. The campgrounds open as soon as snow has cleared. Hiking routes into the Inner Canyon may still have some snow and ice in early May.

Summer brings a procession of color as wildflowers burst forth. Warm days (80 degrees F) and cool nights are the rule. A sweater or light jacket is usually needed by early evening. Late afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon from July into September.

Fall is a good time to visit. Summer crowds dissipate after Labor Day, and by late September autumn colors from oak, serviceberry and aspen abound. Days can still be warm, but nights are chilly. Campgrounds are usually free of snow until late November or early December.

Winter snow provides highlights on the canyon walls. The South Rim Road is plowed as far as Gunnison Point. Crosscountry skiing is usually good to Pulpit Rock (1.7 miles) and beyond. The North Rim Road is closed by snow.