Hoover Dam sits on top of Lake Mead,  in southern Nevada, about 30 miles from Las Vegas. You can’t go wrong with the weather at any time of year, especially when it comes to sunshine. And winters are mild, compared to many other places in the U.S. Lake Mead National Recreation Area actually spans 1.5 million acres in Nevada and Arizona, so the weather can vary 20-30 degrees from the northern portion to the south. 

If you had to choose a season to come, then the best time of year to visit both Hoover Dam and Lake Mead is, decidedly, in Spring. It’s sunny yet not too hot, and therefore you’ll be comfortable hiking or walking around Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. If you’re in it for the swimming as opposed to walking or hiking, then you’d probably like the summer when the water’s warm (85 degrees, 29C) because a dip in Lake Mead is about the only thing that could cool you off from a sweltering 110 degrees (43C) day. Let’s break it down by season (below.)

But first, if you’re looking for the best time of year to visit Hoover Dam based on tourist levels, with Hoover Dam being such a major attraction, then the least crowded time of year is January and February. And the last crowded time of day is before 10 am…or after 3 pm.

Nevada Way in Las Vegas / Photo by Lizzie Gerecitano

Hoover Dam/Lake Mead in Spring:

This is the most popular time to visit. With warm, sunny days (plus the bonus of spring wildflowers) hiking is in full swing! The average high temperatures in April, May and June are 80 - 98 degrees Fahrenheit (27-37C). Nighttime lows are 50 - 66 degrees Fahrenheit (10-19C).

Hoover Dam/Lake Mead in Summer:

Record high temperatures define summertime here. So if it’s water activities you’re looking for, with the picturesque mountains surrounding you, this is the time to come. Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating are all popular in the summer. But you should not hike in this hot weather because it could be downright dangerous. In fact, some hiking trails are closed down completely for public safety. The average high temperatures in July, August and September are 89 - 103 degrees Fahrenheit (32-40C). The nighttime low averages 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25C).

Hoover Dam/Lake Mead in Fall:

This is another great season, and a very popular one for camping. The weather is warm and pleasant, and hiking season starts back up with many trails reopening until summer rolls around again. The average high temperatures in October, November and December are 59 - 83 degrees Fahrenheit (15-23C). Nighttime lows are 32 - 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0-10C)

Hoover Dam/Lake Mead in Winter:

Winter sunsets are simply spectacular here, and you’ll see the occasional snow capped mountain, too. So this is a popular season for photographers, bikers and campers. The average high temperatures are 57 - 69 degrees Fahrenheit (14-21C). Nighttime lows are 30 - 40 degrees Fahrenheit (-1-4C)

RELATED: The Ultimate Hoover Dam Travel Guide and The Ultimate Lake Mead Travel Guide

Ready to explore everything Hoover Dam and Lake Mead have to offer? Check out Shaka Guide’s Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Tour.