March in Salt Lake City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

By the time March rolls around, Salt Lake City residents are ready for spring. And while it may still look very much like winter, temperatures are slowly warming and the snow is receding. This segue between winter and spring in the high-mountains makes it a perfect time to visit for those who want to both spend time outside and take part in the city's cultural events. Although the biggest draw to Salt Lake City in March is, without a doubt, spring skiing season at the unmatched local ski resorts.

Salt Lake City Weather in March

Tucked away in the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City is still quite cold throughout March, although temperatures are steadily rising throughout the month. Even though the nearby ski resorts make it seem like Salt Lake City is extremely cold, the climate within the city is actually relatively mild.

• Average High Temperature: 54 degrees F (12 degrees C)
• Average Low Temperature: 36 degrees F (2 degrees C)

Overcast days are the most common along with frequent periods of rain. Snow in Salt Lake City proper is very unlikely in March, although if you're visiting the ski resorts at higher elevations, you should be prepared for some end-of-season snowfall.

What to Pack

If you're staying in Salt Lake City, a heavy winter coat and some extra layers are the most important things to bring. Since rain is likely, you'll also want a waterproof jacket and water-resistant shoes. Pack some extra socks to carry around in case your feet get wet along with some other accessories to stay warm like a scarf and a beanie.

If your vacation involves going to the nearby mountains, you'll need all of the above plus a couple of extra layers. Skintight thermals to wear underneath your other clothes will help you stay warm if it's snowing or windy, and you'll also want some ski pants and snow boots for trekking around the mountain. Even though it's winter, don't forget to pack some sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the bright snow.

March Events in Salt Lake City

As the weather slowly starts warming up, Utahns begin to come out of winter hibernation to make the most of the first days of spring. The best events take place at the nearby ski resorts, where end-of-season spring skiing makes the perfect complement to festivals and concerts.

• Red, White, and Snow: Enjoy a weekend of skiing and wine—but not at the same time—at this annual wine festival in Park City. Premier bottles of wine are paired with curated meals by the area's most celebrated chefs, so whether you're a foodie, a skier, a wine lover, or some combination of the three, this is the event for you.
• St. Patrick's Day Parade: On March 17, the Hibernian Society of Utah hosts the biggest St. Patrick's Day celebration in the state. The day begins with the siamsa, the Irish word for folk entertainment, so you can expect upbeat music and fast dancing. Afterward, the parade begins near Pioneer Park and continues through downtown.
• Spring Grüv: This month-long music festival at Park City lasts nearly all of March, so whenever your spring break falls you can experience a part of Spring Grüv. Not only is there a full line-up of concerts, but you can also take part in some friendly competitions like pond skimming.

March Travel Tips

• With snow still prevalent in the mountains and a plethora of world-class resorts surrounding it, Salt Lake—hands down—is one of the best spring skiing destinations in the country. Some of the top-rated resorts in the area include Park City Mountain, Snowbird, Solitude Mountain Resort, Deer Valley, and Alta Ski Area.
• You probably wouldn't expect fresh and local produce in Salt Lake City in March, but the Winter Farmer's Market takes place every Saturday at The Gateway. Take a stroll and pick up some greenhouse-grown produce, local meat, fresh dairy products, and seasonal offerings. 
• March is a popular time to visit the city as skiers and snowboarders come from across the country during spring break. Most of them stay around the resorts, so you'll likely find better hotel deals by staying in Salt Lake City. If you need to get to the slopes, there are Ski Buses from the city center into the mountains.
• When it's too chilly to walk around, it's easy and inexpensive to travel around Salt Lake City on buses or the light rail system. If you plan to use it a lot, buy a day pass for unlimited rides throughout the day.
• Some of the best parts of visiting Salt Lake City are outside of the city limits. Don't forget about day trips to nearby sites with breathtaking nature, like Antelope Island State Park or the Bonneville Salt Flats.

For more about visiting Salt Lake City throughout the year, read up on the best time to visit Salt Lake City.