In Cedar City, cold temperatures are fast approaching, but there is no shortage of adventures in Southern Utah during the more chilly months.
For some who haven’t experienced cold weather, snow and ice can be a culture shock. In Cedar City, it’s not far-fetched to say precipitation and winter weather lasts from October to March.
The average temperature from these 6 months is 51 degrees on the high to 28 degrees on the low, ranging anywhere from 66 degrees to 22 degrees.
Over the course of the calendar year, rain averages 13 inches per year (1/3 the national average) and 49 inches (twice the national average) of snowfall per year. The lowest recorded temperature in Cedar City was -26 degrees, recorded in February 1989.
The average temperatures in Zion National Park are about the same for October to March, with an average high of 54 degrees and an average low of 29 degrees. The temperatures traverse the thermometer variably, ranging from 66 degrees to 24 degrees.
Bryce Canyon National Park is far colder, with an average of 43 degrees high and 17 degrees low.
Along with the cool temperatures come even cooler colors. The Aspen leaves are changing from green to orange and yellow to vivid red before eventually falling off with the approach of winter.
The underrated forest splendor of southern Utah lies in the Dixie, Fishlake and Manti-La Sal National Forests.
SUU Outdoors frequently hosts trips for students in these areas and throughout Southern Utah, including visits to the Mighty 5 all the way to Moab and sometimes going as far as Lake Powell.
Regarding outdoor activities more locally, the Cedar City Visitor Center is available year-round with information and suggestions concerning outdoor recreation.
Story and photos by: Ryan Sunderman
outdoors@suunews.net
