Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit. Spring brings the tea harvest and fresh green vegetation in the canyon; autumn gives good foliage and comfortable walking temperatures. The altitude of the Wuling Mountains moderates Hubei's summer heat significantly — Enshi is noticeably cooler than the Yangtze valley in July and August, which makes it a practical refuge from the summer furnace of the lowlands.
The canyon sites are busiest during Chinese national holidays (Golden Week in October and the National Day holiday in early October). If you want uncrowded trails in the Grand Canyon, aim for a weekday in May or September.