Things to Do in Moab in April
Located in southeast Utah, going to Moab in April is like stepping into a world of breathtaking beauty and endless opportunities for exciting outdoor adventures. There are a variety of things to do in Moab in April like hiking, biking, rock climbing, photography, and scenic drives!
April is a popular time of year to plan a Moab vacation so the town, trails, and nearby National and State Parks will be crowded! Be sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance.
We live close enough to enjoy Moab at various times throughout year so we have lots of ideas and tips to share to help you plan your April vacation. This guide includes a list of things to do in Moab, April weather, what to pack, and where to stay!
Our most important tip is to have the right clothing and gear for the weather and temperatures for your April trip. Grab your free Moab, Utah packing list by clicking the image below!
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Packing List for Moab in the Spring
- Waterproof hiking shoes
- Darn Tough hiking socks
- WATER: Hydration packs or carry refillable water bottles in your backpack.
- Healthy snacks
- Lip balm with sunscreen and hydrating lotion – Utah’s high elevation and dry air can be hard on your skin.
- Fleece jacket
A Photo Tour of Moab, Utah
Take a visual tour through the Moab, Utah area to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!
Visiting Moab in April
Moab is a popular destination for spring break in Utah so expect crowds! The town, trails and points of interest will be packed with people.
The weather in Moab in April is perfect to explore the national parks and surrounding areas! It will be cool in the mornings and evenings, but it’s just right during the day when the sun in shining.
There is not much shade to be found around Moab so it’s nice to be outside on a sunny day when the air is cool! It makes hiking, biking and offroading so much more enjoyable!
And you’ll see waterfalls and desert flowers in the spring you won’t see any other time of year!
If the Moab Easter Jeep Safari takes place in April, you will want to avoid this week unless you are going there to specifically attend this event. The small town will be very crowded which means higher prices for accommodations and long lines at the restaurants!
If you’re wondering what it’s like to visit Moab at other times of the year, check out our article: Best time to visit Moab.
Moab Weather in April
The Moab weather is amazing because the temperatures are perfect to enjoy outdoor activities. The weather in April means highs near 73 and lows near 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. Though it’s generally a dry month, occasional rain showers can occur, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast. All in all, April’s pleasant weather makes it a popular month to visit Moab
Things to Do in Moab in April
In April, Moab transforms into a buzzing hotspot for outdoor lovers, offering a ton of exciting activities and experiences. Here’s a fun list of Moab spring activities to enjoy the outdoors, as well as ways to get to know the history and geology of the area.
Learn About Moab Dinosaurs and Petroglyphs in April
If you’re visiting Moab with kids, be sure to check out the Moab Giants Museum. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves dinosaurs! It’s a unique experience to walk along the outdoor trail of life-sized dinosaurs!
There are also lots of places to see dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs in Moab too!
Visit the National and State Parks Near Moab in April
Moab, Utah, serves as a gateway to two National Parks and one State Park. All three offer unique landscapes with spectacular views, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy!
Arches National Park in April – Beginning April 1 you’ll need an Arches Timed Entry Ticket to enter the park during the busy daytime hours. You can still visit the park as long as you enter before 6 a.m. We like to head in early enough to see and photograph the sunrise at Arches National Park and beat the crowds!
Canyonlands National Park in April – The must-see sights include the Island in the Sky scenic drive that provides panoramic views of the park. Iconic Mesa Arch at sunrise is a popular short hike. Don’t forget to visit The Needles, where you’ll find stunning, colorful sandstone spires.
Dead Horse Point State Park – Sunset at Dead Horse Point is truly breathtaking. As the sun goes down, it fills the sky with vibrant colors, painting a stunning picture on the horizon. The red and orange hues give the cliffs and canyons a magical glow,
Hike Around Moab in April
The Moab spring hikes are awesome, and one of the best ways to explore the area! Definitely check out the hikes at Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point. You will find trails around Moab for all hiking levels.
- Arches National Park Spring Hikes
- Canyonlands National Park Spring Hikes
- Dead Horse Point State Park Hiking Trails
Most of the trails in Moab are fully exposed to the sun so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!
Our favorite day hikes in Moab are:
Since the trails will be busy in April, we recommend hiking in the morning or late afternoon. Be sure to pack a headlamp if you plan a sunrise or sunset hike and will be on the trail at some point in the dark.
Bike in Moab in April
April is a popular time for people to explore the Moab mountain bike trails. Be prepared to share the trails. We recommend biking in the morning or late afternoon.
The stunning red sandstone landscapes, complemented by the challenging terrain, make it a top-notch destination for mountain biking. From the world-renowned Slickrock Trail to the lesser-known but equally engaging routes, there’s something for every skill level.
There are a myriad of bike tour operators in Moab that offer guided trips, including for beginners and seasoned pros. They often provide all the necessary gear, ensuring you’re well-equipped for the ride.
Photograph the Moab Landscapes in April
If you want to snap some amazing Moab photos, the best times of day are sunrise and sunset. The colors during the golden hour are mind-blowing, and the orange glow on the red rocks is absolutely mesmerizing!
Best sunrise photo spots in Moab – Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, Turret Arch, Delicate Arch, La Sal Viewpoint
Best sunset photo spots in Moab – Fisher Towers, Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, Dead Horse Point
Remember that if you want pictures at the most popular sites without people getting in the way, early morning is the best time to be out taking pictures.
CHECK OUT our 3 day photography guide for Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point to capitalize on all the best places and times to take pictures in the Moab area! We share some of our favorite ‘lesser known’ places to take pictures in Moab!
Stargaze Near Moab in April
Definitely take one evening to get away from the Moab city lights, go outside and LOOK UP!
Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point are internationally recognized as one of the best places for stargazing because of the remote location, accessibility, altitude and clear skies.
If you’ve got a clear sky, you can try to capture a photo of the Milky Way. The Milky Way is visible in April from 1:00 am to 4:45 am!
Explore Moab’s Scenic Drives in April
Moab, Utah is a scenic destination with many beautiful drives to enjoy the breathtaking views around the area.
Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway – the 34-mile round-trip drive is a terrific half-day excursion from the Moab area to see great views of the Colorado River, ancient rock art, and dinosaur tracks. Potash Road or the Lower Colorado Scenic Byway runs along the Colorado River and ends at the border of Canyonlands National Park. We recommend this drive in the late afternoon when the red rocks glow and reflect in the river!
Arches National Park Scenic Drive – the full 43-mile scenic drive, including the spur roads, takes 2 to 3 hours. Add more time if you plan to walk around and take photos or do any hiking at any of the stops.
Canyonlands Island in the Sky Scenic Drive – you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready to capture the beauty you’ll see at all 10 overlooks along this drive!
Located near Needles Canyonlands you’ll find two stunning places to see views of Needles, Island in the Sky, Dead Horse Point, and the Moab area!
- Scenic Drive to Needles Overlook
- Scenic Drive to Anticline Overlook
We recommend the Arches & Canyonlands GuideAlong App to hear fun behind-the-scenes stories and local tips that play automatically as you drive, based on your GPS location.
Off-Road in Moab in April
Many times the Moab Jeep Safari will take place in April. As the name suggests, it’s always scheduled around Easter each year. It’s a busy time in in town and on the off-roading trails. If you’re not participating in this event, you should probably avoid this week!
Local tour companies offer 4×4 rentals, but for inexperienced drivers, it’s best to join a tour or have a guide ride along with you to navigate and teach. We have used and recommend Outlaw Jeep Tours.
Join a Moab Guided Tour in April
Joining a guided tour in Moab is an excellent way to get the most out of your visit. These tours are led by experienced professionals who are well-versed in the region’s geography, flora, and fauna, as well as the local history and culture.
Most importantly, they know the trails like the back of their hand, ensuring you’re always on the right path, navigating the terrain safely and efficiently.
- Private Full-Day Moab Tour and Hike Combo
- Private Half-Day Canyoneering Tour in Moab
- Moab Half-Day Rock Climbing
- Day Photography in Arches, Canyonlands, & Moab
- Moab Back Roads, History, and Winery E-Bike Tour
- Hell’s Revenge UTV 4X4 Off-Roading Tour from Moab
Camp Around Moab in April
Camping in Moab offers a unique, immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature in an intimate way. Numerous campgrounds and RV parks are scattered across Moab, each offering its own unique charm.
- RV Parks in Moab
- Arches National Park Camping
- Island in the Sky Campgrounds
- Needles Canyonlands Camping
- Dead Horse Point State Park Camping
Moab Lodging
If camping is not your thing, here are many types of accommodations to choose from in Moab: budget-friendly hotels to higher-priced resorts.
Utah Bucket List
Don’t miss out on exploring the breathtaking landscapes and unique culinary experiences Utah has to offer! To make your vacation planning easier, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide that covers must-see sights, must-do activities, and must-taste foods across the state. Simply click on the graphic below to get your free download and start planning your next adventure!
