A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Grand Canyon this Christmas Eve. A Pacific storm system is bringing colder and unsettled weather to the Grand Canyon region through much of the holiday week.
Grand Canyon is going to have a White Christmas with snow accumulation above 5500 feet. Snow and fog are already causing hazardous conditions. Wintry conditions are expected throughout the week, and road closures are already in effect this morning.
As of 11:00 AM December 24th, SR 64 between Grand Canyon Village and Desert View is closed, as is Hermit Road.
Those traveling in the area can find current road conditions by calling (928) 638-7496 for recorded information or by visiting Grand Canyon’s Weather and Road Conditions page. You can also visit Grand Canyon’s Facebook page for recent updates.
If you will be hiking the trails, I HIGHLY recommend using hiking sticks and instep crampons or some other traction devices for your feet (Yaktrax, Kahtoolas, etc.) for walking on the icy upper sections.
It is not only very scary to be slipping and sliding on the trails but also very dangerous! Hikers can find useful tips on my Winter Hiking Tips page.
While winter conditions bring an added degree of difficulty in visiting the park, it also adds a magical quality to the Grand Canyon that you simply cannot get any other time of year.
It is hard to describe the beauty of the canyon walls dusted with snow and clouds hanging low in the gorge. It is sure to become a treasured memory for the rest of your life.
Happy Holidays everyone and may the New Year brings you much joy!