Places / Zion Canyon
UV index at Zion Canyon, Utah
Check another placeLoading today’s UV…
- Low 0 to 2
- Moderate 3 to 5
- High 6 to 7
- Very high 8 to 10
- Extreme 11+
Hour-by-hour numbers
| Time | UV index | Level |
|---|
The next few days
Each day’s UV curve and peak, drawn on the same scale so you can compare. The forecast reaches roughly four days ahead.
What to do today
About Zion Canyon
Zion Canyon is a deep sandstone gorge with its floor at roughly 4,300 feet (1,300 m). Big hikes such as Angels Landing and Observation Point climb the canyon walls, while The Narrows follows the river through the slot.
Elevation and your real UV
The forecast on this page covers the general area around Zion Canyon. Weather models don’t resolve individual peaks and valleys, so treat it as the level of Zion Canyon floor (about 4,300 ft). The WHO says UV rises by 10% to 12% for every 1,000 metres you climb. Using that rule of thumb:
| Place | Elevation | Compared with baseline |
|---|---|---|
| Zion Canyon floor | 1,300 m (about 4,300 ft) | Baseline |
| Angels Landing | 1,765 m (5,790 ft) | about 5% to 6% more UV |
| Observation Point | 1,983 m (about 6,500 ft) | about 7% to 8% more UV |
Read the peak UV from the chart above, then adjust it up for where you’ll actually be. There’s a worked example in UV at altitude, on snow and under clouds.
When UV is strongest here
Summers are hot with intense sun, and spring and autumn are the most popular seasons. Winter can bring snow to the higher trails. Clear, dry air means UV is strong in every warm month.
On the trail
Canyon walls block direct sun for part of the day in narrow sections, but a lot of light still reaches you as it reflects off the walls and water. Angels Landing and the trails up onto the rim are exposed and bright.
Sun protection tips for Zion Canyon
- In The Narrows, wet clothing gives less protection. Reapply sunscreen and consider quick-dry UPF layers.
- Do the exposed climbs early. The chains section of Angels Landing gets busy and hot by midday.
- Canyon shade shifts through the day. Check the chart rather than assuming you’re covered.
- Wear sunglasses even in the shade. Bright red rock reflects a lot of light.
Similar places
Related guides
- What to Wear Hiking for Sun Protection: A Practical Guide
- UV at Altitude, Snow and Clouds: Why You Burn Faster
- When Is UV Strongest During the Day? Best Times to Hike
Elevations are rounded published figures. UV forecasts are model estimates for the area and can differ from what you experience on the ground. This is general information about sun safety and isn’t medical advice. Last updated September 20, 2026.