April is a magical time to explore America’s national parks. As spring unfolds, these natural wonders come alive with blooming wildflowers, gushing waterfalls, and emerging wildlife. The mild weather and smaller crowds make it an ideal month for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, or diverse ecosystems, April offers the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of our national parks.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 14 best US national parks to visit in April, highlighting their unique features, weather conditions, and must-see attractions. From the towering peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the otherworldly landscapes of Petrified Forest National Park, we’ll help you plan an unforgettable spring adventure.
Why Visit National Parks in April
April is an excellent time to explore national parks for several reasons. First and foremost, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities. As winter recedes, many parks experience a rejuvenation of flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to witness nature’s rebirth.
One of the most significant advantages of visiting national parks in April is the reduced crowds. According to the National Park Service, while overall park visitation has been increasing, with a record 331.9 million recreation visits across all parks in 2024, April typically sees fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months. This means you can enjoy popular trails and viewpoints without the hustle and bustle of peak season.
Spring weather brings another spectacular feature to many parks: waterfalls. As snow melts and rainfall increases, waterfalls reach their most impressive flows, creating breathtaking displays of nature’s power. Additionally, April marks the beginning of wildflower season in many parks, painting the landscapes with vibrant colors and attracting diverse wildlife.
Best National Parks to Visit in April
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Located in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a stunning alpine landscape that comes to life in April. As the snow begins to melt, revealing lush meadows and cascading waterfalls, visitors can enjoy a unique blend of winter and spring scenery.
In April, daytime temperatures in the park typically range from the mid-40s to low 60s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for hiking and wildlife viewing. While some high-elevation trails may still be snow-covered, lower elevation areas become accessible, offering opportunities for early season hiking and photography.
One of the park’s most popular attractions, Trail Ridge Road, usually remains closed until late May. However, April visitors can explore other scenic drives like Bear Lake Road, which provides access to several beautiful lakes and trailheads. Keep an eye out for elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep, which are often more visible as they move to lower elevations in search of fresh spring vegetation.
2. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park in Arizona showcases the iconic saguaro cactus in its natural habitat. April is an excellent time to visit, as the desert comes alive with blooming wildflowers and cacti. The weather is pleasantly warm, with daytime highs averaging in the low 80s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for hiking and exploring before the intense summer heat sets in.
The park is divided into two districts: the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East). Both offer unique experiences, with the western district featuring denser saguaro forests and the eastern district providing more diverse vegetation and higher elevations.
In April, visitors can enjoy scenic drives, such as the Bajada Loop Drive in the western district or the Cactus Forest Drive in the eastern district. For hikers, the Douglas Spring Trail in the eastern district offers beautiful views and the chance to see a variety of desert plants and wildlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the saguaro cacti in bloom, typically occurring from late April to early June.
3. Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is a must-visit destination year-round, but April offers particularly favorable conditions for exploration. According to Earth Trekkers, the South Rim experiences daytime highs in the 60s (°F) with low rainfall in April, creating ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
While the North Rim remains closed until mid-May, the South Rim provides ample opportunities for adventure. The Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail offer challenging day hikes with breathtaking views of the canyon. For a less strenuous experience, the Rim Trail provides easy walking paths with numerous viewpoints along the canyon’s edge.
April visitors benefit from smaller crowds compared to the peak summer season. In 2024, the Grand Canyon received 4.92 million visitors, making it one of the most popular national parks in the country. By visiting in April, you can enjoy this natural wonder without the intense crowds of summer.
4. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park in California is renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. April marks the beginning of spring in Yosemite Valley, with waterfalls reaching their peak flow as snowmelt increases. The famous Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, and Vernal Fall are particularly impressive during this time.
Weather in April can be variable, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit. While some high-country trails may still be snow-covered, many valley floor trails are accessible, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing.
Don’t miss the chance to see the park’s diverse wildflowers, which begin blooming in April. The Cook’s Meadow Loop and the Wawona Meadow Loop are excellent spots for wildflower viewing. For a challenging hike with rewarding views, consider the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall, which offers close-up views of the powerful waterfall.
5. Channel Islands National Park
Off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park provides a unique island ecosystem that’s perfect for exploration in April. The mild spring weather, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, creates ideal conditions for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
April marks the tail end of the gray whale migration season, offering visitors a chance to spot these majestic creatures as they pass by the islands. It’s also an excellent time for birdwatching, as many species nest on the islands during spring.
Each of the five islands that make up the park offers distinct experiences. Santa Cruz Island, the largest, features diverse hiking trails and opportunities for sea cave kayaking. Anacapa Island is known for its lighthouse and nesting seabirds, while Santa Rosa Island boasts beautiful beaches and unique plant species.
6. Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona offers a fascinating glimpse into Earth’s prehistoric past. April’s mild temperatures, typically ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, provide comfortable conditions for exploring the park’s unique landscapes and ancient petrified wood.
The park is divided into two main areas: the north’s Painted Desert and the south’s concentration of petrified wood. In the Painted Desert, vibrant badlands showcase layers of colorful rock formations. The Blue Mesa Trail offers an excellent opportunity to experience these otherworldly landscapes up close.
In the southern section, don’t miss the Giant Logs Trail, which features some of the largest and most colorful examples of petrified wood in the park. April also brings the possibility of desert wildflower blooms, adding splashes of color to the stark landscape.
7. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington State encompasses diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests and alpine meadows. April marks the beginning of spring in the park, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit, making it an excellent time for exploration before the summer crowds arrive.
While some high-elevation areas may still be snow-covered, many lower-elevation trails become accessible in April. The Hoh Rain Forest, with its moss-draped trees and lush ferns, is particularly beautiful in spring. The Hall of Mosses Trail offers an easy walk through this enchanting ecosystem.
Along the coast, tidepooling opportunities abound at places like Ruby Beach and Second Beach. Inland, the Sol Duc Valley comes alive with spring wildflowers, and the short hike to Sol Duc Falls rewards visitors with views of the powerful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
8. Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park in California showcases unique rock formations created by ancient volcanic activity. April is an ideal time to visit, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit and wildflowers in bloom.
The park offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, and cave exploration. The Balconies Cave Trail and Bear Gulch Cave Trail are popular routes that combine hiking with cave exploration. For panoramic views of the park’s distinctive rock spires, consider the High Peaks Trail.
April is also a great time for wildlife viewing in Pinnacles. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered California condor. Keep an eye out for these massive birds soaring above the rock formations.
9. Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park on the Hawaiian island of Maui offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, from subtropical rainforest to alpine desert. April brings mild temperatures and relatively dry conditions, making it an excellent time to visit.
The park is best known for its massive dormant volcano, Haleakala, which offers spectacular sunrise views from its summit. Be sure to make reservations in advance for the popular sunrise experience. After sunrise, explore the otherworldly landscape of the crater, which resembles a Martian terrain.
In the coastal Kipahulu area of the park, April visitors can enjoy lush tropical vegetation and beautiful waterfalls. The Pipiwai Trail leads through a bamboo forest to the impressive 400-foot Waimoku Falls. Keep in mind that weather can vary dramatically between the summit and coastal areas, so come prepared for both cool and warm conditions.
10. Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park in Northern California is home to the tallest trees on Earth. April brings mild temperatures and the possibility of wildflower blooms, making it an excellent time to explore these ancient forests.
The park’s famous coastal redwoods thrive in the cool, moist climate. April temperatures typically range from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit, providing comfortable conditions for hiking and sightseeing. While rain is still possible, April generally sees less precipitation than the winter months.
Don’t miss the opportunity to walk among the giants on trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove or the Tall Trees Grove. For a scenic drive, take the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway through old-growth redwood forest. April also offers good opportunities for wildlife viewing, including Roosevelt elk and various bird species.
11. Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Utah is a wonderland of sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse plant and animal life. April brings comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for hiking and exploring before the summer heat sets in.
The park’s most famous hike, Angels Landing, offers breathtaking views for those who don’t mind a challenging climb. For a less strenuous option, the Riverside Walk leads to the entrance of the Narrows, a spectacular slot canyon. Keep in mind that water levels in the Narrows can be high in April due to snowmelt, so check conditions before attempting this hike.
Spring wildflowers begin to bloom in April, adding splashes of color to the red rock landscape. The Emerald Pools trails offer a beautiful showcase of spring vegetation and waterfalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic drive through Zion Canyon on the park’s shuttle system, which provides access to many trailheads and viewpoints.
12. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park in Utah offers a vast and rugged landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. April brings mild temperatures, typically ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, creating perfect conditions for exploring this dramatic desert environment.
The park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. Island in the Sky, the most accessible district, offers stunning overlooks and relatively easy hikes. Don’t miss the view from Grand View Point or the short hike to Mesa Arch, especially beautiful at sunrise.
For those seeking a more remote experience, The Needles district offers excellent backcountry hiking opportunities. April is an ideal time for these longer treks, as the weather is cool enough for comfortable hiking but warm enough for pleasant camping.
13. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloan people. April marks the beginning of the park’s main season, with most cliff dwellings opening for tours by mid-month. The weather is generally mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for exploring the park’s archaeological sites.
The park’s most famous attraction, Cliff Palace, is the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Guided tours of Cliff Palace typically begin in April, offering visitors a chance to explore this remarkable ancient structure up close. For those who prefer self-guided experiences, Step House and Spruce Tree House provide opportunities to see well-preserved cliff dwellings without a tour.
In addition to the archaeological sites, Mesa Verde offers beautiful desert landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Knife Edge Trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is particularly beautiful in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.
14. Arches National Park
Arches National Park in Utah is famous for its more than 2,000 natural stone arches, as well as massive fins, balanced rocks, and other unique geological features. April brings comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, ideal for exploring the park’s trails and viewpoints.
The park’s most iconic feature, Delicate Arch, is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the rich colors of the sandstone. The 3-mile round trip hike to Delicate Arch offers breathtaking views and is more enjoyable in the cooler April weather compared to the intense heat of summer.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the Windows Section of the park offers easy access to several impressive arches. The Devils Garden area provides opportunities for longer hikes and the chance to see multiple arches, including the impressive Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world.
Tips for Visiting National Parks in April
- Check park websites for current conditions and closures, as some areas may still be affected by winter weather.
- Make reservations early, especially for popular parks like Yosemite and Zion, as April can still be busy during spring break periods.
- Pack layers, as weather can be variable in many parks during spring.
- Be prepared for potential wildlife encounters, as many animals become more active in spring.
- Respect park rules and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
Planning Your National Park Trip
When planning your April national park adventure, consider the following:
- Research each park’s specific attractions and activities to align with your interests.
- Book accommodations well in advance, whether you’re camping or staying in lodges.
- Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple parks.
- Plan your itinerary with flexibility, allowing time for unexpected discoveries and weather changes.
- Engage with park rangers for insider tips and up-to-date information on trail conditions and wildlife sightings.
Preparing for Your April National Park Visit
To make the most of your April national park experience, proper preparation is key. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
What to Pack for Spring National Park Trips
- Layered clothing: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack a mix of light and warm layers.
- Rain gear: Be prepared for potential spring showers with a waterproof jacket and pants.
- Sturdy hiking boots: Many trails may still be muddy or slippery from winter moisture.
- Sun protection: Even in cooler weather, sun exposure can be significant at higher elevations.
- Binoculars: Great for wildlife viewing and taking in distant landscapes.
- Reusable water bottle and snacks: Stay hydrated and energized on your adventures.
- First aid kit: Always be prepared for minor injuries or ailments.
- Camera: Capture the beauty of spring in the national parks.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Changing Weather Conditions
- Check weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Inform someone of your hiking plans, especially if venturing into backcountry areas.
- Carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.
- Be aware of potential hazards like swift streams from snowmelt or unstable terrain.
- Start hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in some regions.
- Know the signs of hypothermia and heat exhaustion, as both can occur in variable spring weather.
- Carry extra food and water in case your hike takes longer than expected.