Best Time to Visit Lake Powell

Lake Powell is open all year, and every season feels different. Summer brings warm water and long days, fall brings calm water and fewer people, and spring and winter trade warm water for quiet canyons. Here is what to expect so you can pick the best time for your trip.

Lake Powell by Season

Warmest Water for Swimming

Lake Powell’s surface water is usually warmest from July through early September, when it reaches the upper 70s or low 80s. June and late September are also great swimming months, often with fewer people. Water deep in the canyons and near the dam stays cooler than the open bays. See Lake Powell water temperature by month for the averages.

Weather to Watch

• Heat: summer highs often pass 100 degrees. Bring shade, plenty of water and sun protection.
• Wind: afternoons can get windy, especially in spring, which builds chop in the main channel and big bays. Mornings are usually calmest.
• Monsoon storms: from about July to September, afternoon thunderstorms can bring lightning, sudden wind and flash floods in side canyons. Head for shore when storms build, and never enter a slot canyon if rain threatens.
• Lake level: the lake usually rises with snowmelt from about May to July and drops through fall and winter. See Lake Powell water levels.

Avoiding the Crowds

The busiest stretch runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with holiday weekends the busiest of all. Weekdays are quieter than weekends all summer. For warm water with more room to yourself, try early June or September.

The Best Time of Day

Early morning is the best time on the water almost any day of the year: the lake is glassy, the canyons are quiet and the light on the sandstone is soft. Late afternoon and sunset are beautiful too, once the midday heat and wind ease off. We are open every day from 7am to 10pm.

Plan Around Your Days

Coming for a weekend? Spend one day on a jet ski exploring canyons and the other on a MasterCraft boat with water toys. Staying a week? A weekly rental lets you ride whenever the weather is best. See daily vs. weekly rentals.