Utah changes dramatically with the seasons, and the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

Winter: the ski season

Winter belongs to the mountains. Utah’s resorts claim The Greatest Snow on Earth®, with 500+ inches of annual snowfall. Resorts generally operate from late fall through spring, with the busiest travel around the holidays and Presidents’ Day. See the Utah Ski Resort Guide and Flying Into Utah.

Spring: the shoulder season

Spring is quieter. Lower-elevation trails open while snow lingers on the peaks, and the national parks begin their busy period as temperatures climb. Park services and conditions change through the season, so check each park’s official alerts before setting out.

Summer: sunshine season

Summer brings long sunny days — Utah averages 200 days of sunshine a year — and the full opening of hiking, biking, and water recreation. Southern Utah’s parks are hottest this season; mornings and evenings are the comfortable hours.

Fall: color and calm

Fall cools quickly, colors the mountain canyons, and empties the summer crowds. It is a favorite season for national park road trips and for the first snow dustings in the high country.

Plan the practical side with Planning Your Utah Vacation, and reserve private airport transportation for any season through Book by Destination.