Daily temperature variations in the rocks and soils of Taylor Valley, Antarctica (77°40'S, 162°45'E) were recorded during December and January 1976–77. Two series of measurements were taken, each lasting three days. Under clear skies, daily temperature ranges of about 35°C are possible. Maximum temperatures reach +30°C. At greater depths, daily maximum and minimum peaks become less distinct and show delays of some hours. The permafrost table in the Nussbaum Riegel (Taylor Valley) lies at a depth of 70–100 cm in rock and at 20–30 cm in soil. Depending on albedo and relief situations in certain locations the permafrost table lies even closer to the surface. Temperature and moisture data were used to explain the physical weathering processes affecting rocks in Taylor Valley. Microclimate is a dominant factor in frost shattering and in temperature‐induced stress in the rocks. Temperature differences within the rocks and soil initiate salt weathering processes. High summer temperatures well above 0°C allow chemical weathering processes at the rock surface in Antarctica. Well‐preserved small‐scale features of glacial erosion on the top of the Nussbaum Riegel (850 m) in the center of Taylor Valley tend to contradict the theory that this part of the valley has been free of ice for a long time. (The translation is by William Barr of the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.)