United States, North America
Grand Canyon in April
Great hiking weather from rim to river, and the Colorado River rafting season begins.
The straight answer
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Grand Canyon. Great hiking weather from rim to river, and the Colorado River rafting season begins.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 60F (16C), dry
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What April is like in Grand Canyon
April is one of the best months at the Grand Canyon. Highs on the South Rim reach about 60F (16C), the air is dry, and the hiking weather is good from rim to river. Crowds are moderate and prices sit in the middle. The Colorado River rafting season begins, though trips book far in advance.
It suits hikers, families and first-time visitors who want comfortable days and cool nights. Nights still dip near freezing on the rim, so pack warm layers. If your dates clash with a busy spring break week, early May is a good alternative.
Make the most of April
What is especially good about Grand Canyon this month.
Rafting season starts
Multi-day Colorado River trips begin roughly in April with licensed outfitters. Most sell out a year or more ahead.
Hiking below the rim
Mild temperatures make the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails far more comfortable than in summer. Turn around at a sensible point.
Sunrise at Desert View
The Watchtower at the east end of the rim is quiet at dawn, with wide views down the canyon.
What to pack for April
- Layers for chilly mornings and mild afternoons
- Sturdy hiking boots
- A hydration pack or several water bottles
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brim hat
Our timing tip
Book in-park lodging months ahead for April, and enter through the East Entrance at Desert View to avoid lines at the South Entrance.
Book Grand Canyon for April.
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- Hotels for April
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Grand CanyonOpens a hotel search for Grand Canyon in April, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Grand CanyonWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Grand CanyonTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Grand Canyon for April. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in April
Colorado River rafting season
Roughly April through October
Commercial trips fill well in advance; permit lotteries govern private trips.
Things to do in Grand Canyon
South Rim viewpoints along Hermit Road
Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles from March 1 to November 30; ride the free shuttle to Hopi Point and Mohave Point for sunset.
Desert View Watchtower
The Mary Colter-designed tower at the east end of the South Rim, 25 miles from the village and less crowded at sunrise.
Bright Angel Trail
The classic below-rim trail from the village. Turn around at a sensible point; the park strongly warns against hiking to the river and back in one day.
South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point or Cedar Ridge
The best short below-rim view hike. Steep, exposed, and without water, so go early.
Rafting the Colorado River
Multi-day trips run roughly April through October and book a year or more ahead with licensed outfitters.
Grand Canyon Railway
Vintage train service from Williams to the South Rim, running year-round.
Beat the crowds
- Be at a viewpoint for sunrise. The rim is nearly empty at dawn in every month, and the light is better than at sunset.
- Enter through the East Entrance at Desert View rather than the South Entrance, where lines back up in summer mid mornings.
- Visit November through February for the emptiest South Rim; snow on the canyon is a genuine highlight, not a compromise.
- Stay inside the park or in Tusayan to avoid the drive from Flagstaff or Williams at peak entry times.
Know before you go
- The South Rim, including the South Entrance and the East Entrance at Desert View, is open 24 hours a day, all year.
- The North Rim traditionally operates from about mid May to mid October, with Highway 67 closing for winter snow. After the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire destroyed the Grand Canyon Lodge, the North Rim reopened for 2026 with its roads and viewpoints open but limited services and the North Kaibab Trail damaged; check the park's current North Rim status before you go.
- Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles from March 1 through November 30; use the free shuttle. In winter you can drive it.
- Phantom Ranch and in-park lodging book through lotteries or far-ahead reservations; summer rim lodging often sells out many months in advance.
Grand Canyon in April, quick answers
Is April a good time to visit Grand Canyon?
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Grand Canyon. Great hiking weather from rim to river, and the Colorado River rafting season begins.
What is the weather like in Grand Canyon in April?
Mild, highs near 60F (16C), dry.
Is Grand Canyon crowded in April?
Crowds in Grand Canyon are moderate in April; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Grand Canyon in April?
Colorado River rafting season (roughly april through october).
Keep planning Grand Canyon.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in April
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