Utah Weather & Climate

Utah is a land of four distinct seasons - with summer temperatures sometimes lingering into what are traditionally considered autumn months and winter snows often coming early or lingering late into spring.

However, regardless of the season, Utah's climate is temperate, but you should come prepared for extremes - especially if you plan on spending time in the outdoors. Packing for your trip to Utah is dependent on the season and the area where you will be visiting. Daytime temperatures for Utah's northern metropolitan areas range from 37° F in January to 93° F in July. In Southwestern Utah, St. George's temperatures are usually at least 10-15° warmer year-round.

What to Expect & What to Bring

In the summer, cool fabrics like cotton are the order of the day, but more important than what you wear is that you use plenty of sunscreen. Utah's mountain sunshine is different than that at the beach because the atmosphere is thinner at Utah's high altitudes. A water bottle is a necessary part of your summer attire in order to stay hydrated and avoid altitude sickness. It's actually a good idea all year-round.

Spring and fall are delightful seasons, but both have their share of inclement weather. Spring mornings and evenings are crisp, with occasional frost, but days can alternate between warm/sunny and cold/rainy or even snowy. Fall's blaze of color relies on a "cold-snap" to yield its most brilliant hues. Spring and fall usually call for at least a jacket, sweater or raincoat. If you are heading into the mountains, a good parka is still recommended, even if you wind-up not needing it.

In winter, a good coat is a necessity, as are layers of clothing that can be added or shed, depending on your activities and location. Also, don't forget the hat, gloves and sunscreen year-round! As always, check with the local authorities when traveling in the backcountry.