May is a good month at Grand Canyon — it ranks 3rd of the twelve here. Expect about 5% fewer visitors than July, the park's peak — 506,406 visits on average. Days run around 70°F by afternoon and 36°F at night, with 14.1 hours of daylight.
May against the park's best
| Month | Verdict | Avg. visits | vs. peak | High | Low | Snow | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May (this page) | Good | 506,406 | −5% | 70°F | 36°F | 0.1" | 14.1 h |
| September (best) | Good | 429,427 | −19% | 76°F | 44°F | 0" | 12.4 h |
| July (peak crowds) | Good | 531,134 | peak | 85°F | 50°F | 0" | 14.4 h |
Weather figures are for the South Rim area (about 7,000 ft — the canyon floor runs 20–25°F hotter) — the Grand Canyon NP 2 station. Visits are 2021–2025 averages; climate normals cover 1991–2020. Conditions vary across the park; check current status before you go.
Common questions
Is May a good time to visit Grand Canyon?
Yes — a solid month, if not the very best. May ranks 3 of 12 at Grand Canyon on crowds, weather, daylight, and access together.
How crowded is Grand Canyon in May?
About 506,406 recreation visits on average — 5% below July, the park's peak.
How warm is Grand Canyon in May?
Average highs around 70°F and lows around 36°F at the Grand Canyon NP 2 station.
← Grand Canyon in April · All months at Grand Canyon · Grand Canyon in June →