Sunrise and Sunset Times at 24 National Parks

What each time means

The U.S. Naval Observatory defines these events by the Sun's position:

• First light (civil twilight begins): the Sun's center is 6° below the horizon. Before this, artificial light is normally needed outdoors.
• Sunrise and sunset: the Sun's upper edge is on the horizon.
• Last light (civil twilight ends): 6° below the horizon again in the evening.
• Full darkness (astronomical twilight ends): 18° below; scattered sunlight is fainter than starlight.

Time zones and daylight saving

Each park is set to its local time zone:

Daylight saving time in the US runs from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November; the tool applies it automatically. Some parks are large enough that a few areas sit near a time zone line, so check local signs.

The reference point

The NPS Data API gives a single latitude and longitude for each park. Big parks span a lot of ground: Yellowstone's sunset differs by a few minutes between its north and south ends. For a specific viewpoint, use the tool as a close estimate.

Terrain matters

In deep canyons such as Zion or the inner Grand Canyon, the Sun drops behind the walls long before sunset. On a mountainside facing away from the Sun, the same is true. USNO notes that local topography and observer height can affect what you actually see more than small calculation differences.

Planning ideas

• Sunrise viewpoints: arrive by first light. The sky often looks its best in the half hour before the Sun appears.
• Long hikes: pair sunset with the turnaround calculator.
• Stargazing: wait until full darkness, and check the Moon phase before you go.
• Summer heat: use the early hours, as Grand Canyon rangers advise; see hiking in the heat.

Example: November 14, 2026

Pick any date to see your own times.

Common questions

What time is sunset at the Grand Canyon?

It changes through the year. On November 14, 2026, at the NPS reference point, sunset is about 5:22 p.m. MST and civil twilight ends about 5:49 p.m. Pick your date in the tool.

Does Arizona change the clocks?

Arizona stays on Mountain Standard Time all year, so Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest times don't shift in March and November.

Why does sunset come early in the canyon?

Calculated times assume a level horizon. Canyon walls, ridges and mountains block the Sun before it reaches the true horizon.

How accurate are the times?

Usually within a minute or two of U.S. Naval Observatory values for a level horizon. USNO notes actual times vary with atmospheric conditions and that local terrain matters more.