bushwacker

We will be hiking the south rim the last week of March.Should we expect snow and ice on the trails into the canyon? I have been watching their weather and it seems like it is not cold enough to keep snow on the ground for extended days. Has anyone hiked there lately that could share their experiences?Thank you

MmePerdu

"Lately" has no relevance. Weather & conditions on trails can vary wildly & change quickly.

You've likely read this from the Park Service website: Winter conditions on the South Rim can be extreme. Be prepared for snow, ICY roads and TRAILS, and possible road closures. Winter weather typically begins by November and becomes well entrenched by December and January, with frequent light to moderate snows and increasingly colder weather. Low temperatures are generally in the teens along the Rim; however afternoon high temperatures still average in the 40s (4-9°C), due to the amount of sunshine the area receives. Along the river, cold air typically becomes trapped in the canyon leading to high temperatures only in the 40s and 50s (4-15°C) and low temperatures in the 30s and 40s (-1C-+9°C). Even with all of the winter sunshine, significant snowfall can be expected during the winter with an average snowfall of 50 to over 100 inches (1.3-2.5m) per year on the Rim, and occasionally snow will make it even to the river. Between storms, when dry high pressure builds in, winds become light, and fresh snow cover is on the ground, minimum temperatures can plummet, especially on the Rim, with sub-zero temperatures likely. Snow continues to be possible at the higher elevations through April.
http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisi...-condition.htm

emalloy

Although we got snow at GC in April once, we had lovely weather in February and could hike down an hour or so on Bright Angel trail with just light jackets. You really won't know until a couple of days before you go what kind of conditions you will get.

That said, it is beautiful with snow, so as long as the roads have been plowed, go for it.

enzian

Whatever conditions exist there now will be completely changed by late March. Winter snows generally do not stick around that late, but they can always get a fresh dump of snow from a new storm. Min two recent visits the first week of April, we had glorious 70 degree weather one time, and cool and cloudy with a 6" snowfall as we hiked up from the bottom of the canyon on the second trip.

For hiking you need to be prepared for a range of conditions. If the trails happen to be snowy or icy, you should be able to manage with hiking poles and instep crampons or other traction devices on your boots.

WhereAreWe

If there's been recent snowfall, it's probably best to expect ice on the upper portions of any trails in the morning, then it will gradually thaw and turn muddy as the day warms up (and as you descend into the canyon).

If it's been dry with no snow for awhile prior to your trip, the trails 'should' be dry but no guarantees.