United States, North America
Zion in April
Waterfalls and seeps running, cottonwoods greening. The Narrows may be closed for high flow; the rest of the park is superb.
The straight answer
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Zion. Waterfalls and seeps running, cottonwoods greening. The Narrows may be closed for high flow; the rest of the park is superb.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 72F (22C)
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What April is like in Zion
April is one of Zion's best months. Highs reach about 72F (22C), waterfalls and seeps are running, and the cottonwoods along the Virgin River turn fresh green. The Narrows may still be closed because of high spring flow, but the rest of the park is superb. Crowds and prices are high, especially on weekends.
It suits hikers, families and homeschool travelers who can come on weekdays, especially late in the month. If The Narrows is your main goal, June through September gives you better odds of it being open. Book lodging in Springdale well ahead.
Make the most of April
What is especially good about Zion this month.
Emerald Pools at their best
Spring runoff feeds the seasonal waterfalls on this easy family trail.
Green cottonwoods
New leaves along the river make a bright contrast with the red cliffs.
Riverside Walk
This easy paved trail to the start of The Narrows is great for kids, even when the river itself is closed.
What to pack for April
- Layers for cool mornings
- Sun protection and a hat
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- A hydration pack
Our timing tip
Stay in Springdale and walk or ride the town shuttle to the entrance, since park lots often fill by 8am in spring.
Book Zion for April.
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- Hotels for April
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ZionOpens a hotel search for Zion 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 ZionWhole 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 ZionTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Zion for April. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in April
Spring snowmelt and high water
Roughly March to June, varies with snowpack
The Narrows closes when the river flow is too high; big snow years can keep it closed into June.
Things to do in Zion
The Narrows from the bottom
No permit is needed to hike upstream from the Temple of Sinawava. Rent canyoneering shoes and a pole in Springdale; check the flash flood forecast first.
Angels Landing
Permits are required, through seasonal lotteries and a day-before lottery on Recreation.gov. Without one, hike to Scout Lookout for a strong consolation view.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by shuttle
The free shuttle runs most of the year; get on at the visitor center early to beat the lines.
Canyon Overlook Trail
A short hike off the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway with a big view. Parking is tiny, so go early or late.
Kolob Canyons
The park's quieter northwest section, with its own entrance off Interstate 15 and a scenic drive to red finger canyons.
Emerald Pools
An easy family trail to pools and seasonal waterfalls, best in spring.
Beat the crowds
- Ride the first shuttles of the morning. By mid morning in spring, summer, and fall, lines at the visitor center shuttle stop can run long.
- Stay in Springdale and walk or take the town shuttle to the park entrance; the park lots often fill by 8am in busy seasons.
- Hike The Narrows at first light and turn around before midday, when the crowds peak.
- Head to Kolob Canyons or Kolob Terrace Road for the same red rock with a fraction of the visitors.
Know before you go
- Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles during shuttle season, which typically runs from about March through late November and briefly over the winter holidays. Outside those periods, you can usually drive it.
- The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow is too high or flash floods threaten; spring snowmelt and summer monsoon storms both cause closures.
- Angels Landing requires a permit year-round through seasonal and day-before lotteries. The rules and application windows can change, so check the park's current permit page.
- Large vehicles need a paid tunnel escort through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, and some oversized vehicles are not allowed at all. Check size limits before towing or driving an RV.
Zion in April, quick answers
Is April a good time to visit Zion?
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Zion. Waterfalls and seeps running, cottonwoods greening. The Narrows may be closed for high flow; the rest of the park is superb.
What is the weather like in Zion in April?
Warm, highs near 72F (22C).
Is Zion crowded in April?
Zion is busy in April, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Zion in April?
Spring snowmelt and high water (roughly march to june, varies with snowpack).
Keep planning Zion.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in April
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