Fun Things To Do in Utah in the Spring
Utah is a beautiful state that offers something for everyone year round. There are a variety of fun activities and things to do in Utah in the spring like hiking, biking, scenic drives, landscape photography, festivals and events, and even late-season snow skiing!
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing day out, Utah in the spring is the perfect destination when the weather is just right – not too hot, and not too cold.
We have lived in Utah for over 20 years and travel around the state often. Spring break in Utah from late March through April is a popular time to visit. Be prepared for crowds at the Utah National Parks and many Utah State Parks.
Spring weather can be unpredictable in Utah – one day could be sunny and warm, the next could be windy or even snowy. So it’s always good to come prepared with layers of clothing.
Use our Utah Packing Lists to make sure you have the right clothing and gear for visiting during the spring months. Grab your free printable packing checklist by clicking the image below!
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Visiting Utah in the Spring
There are a lot of Utah spring break ideas to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, ranging from snow-covered mountains to red rock canyons and sandstone cliffs.
Utah spring weather and temperatures will vary vary depending on the month and location in Northern and Southern Utah. Also the higher elevation temperatures will be cooler than the lower elevations by 10 to 20 degrees.
Be sure to check the weather and temperatures for the month and location you plan to visit so you’re prepared with the right clothing and gear!
Utah weather in March – Average temperature in Northern Utah (Salt Lake City): highs 55 / lows 36 degrees F. Average temperature in Southern Utah (St. George): highs 68 / lows 39 degrees F.
Utah weather in April – Average temperature in Northern Utah (Salt Lake City): highs 62 / lows 42 degrees F. Average temperature in Southern Utah (St. George): highs 75 / lows 46 degrees F.
Utah weather in May – Average temperature in Northern Utah (Salt Lake City): highs 73 / lows 50 degrees F. Average temperature in Southern Utah (St. George): highs 85 / lows 56 degrees F.
Things to Do in Utah in the Spring
Here are some of our favorite things to do during the spring months in Utah. Add some of these activities and places to visit in Utah in the spring to your bucket list!
For a detailed list of things to do by month, check out these guides. Here are a few month-specific events in Utah in the spring:
Things to Do in Utah in March – Spring skiing, Salt Lake City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Spanish Fork Festival of Colors, and Moab Easter Jeep Safari.
Things to Do in Utah in April – Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival, Red Butte Garden Bulbs & Blooms.
Utah National Parks Activities in the Spring
We loving visiting Utah National Parks in the spring when the temperatures are starting to be warmer throughout the day and the nighttime temperatures are not so cold.
Due to the desert environment at all 5 parks be sure to stay hydrated, eat salty snacks, use sun protection, and if you’re not used to dry heat, you’ll want lotion and lip balm handy!
Remember that the crowds start to increase in the spring. If you can, avoid the holidays around Easter, spring break and Memorial Day. Those times are especially busy!
- Arches National Park in the Spring
- Bryce Canyon National Park in the Spring
- Canyonlands National Park in the Spring
- Capitol Reef National Park in the Spring
- Zion National Park in the Spring
With so much to do and see, Utah’s National Parks are a must-visit destination for an unforgettable springtime experience! Enjoy spring activities in Utah National Parks like hiking, biking, off-roading, rock climbing, landscape photography, stargazing, and more!
You’ll also find a variety of Utah National Parks guided tours if you want to learn more about the park you’re visiting, or you want to try a new activity. These tours are perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
Utah Scenic Drives in the Spring
Scenic drives are one of our favorite spring activities. From winding mountain roads to beautiful desert landscapes, Utah scenic drives have some of the most stunning views in the United States. Here are some good Utah scenic byways to explore in the spring:
You’ll find a variety of scenic drives in Utah National Parks that are must-do activities! One of the best ways to experience the National Parks in Utah is exploring the scenic drive in each park. All five parks have roads to explore the various points of interest with things to see, do and photograph at each stop.
We recommend the Utah National Parks GuideAlong App – it’s like having your own private guide to hear fun behind-the-scenes stories and local tips that play automatically as you drive, based on your GPS location.
Utah Photography in the Spring
Utah has some of the most beautiful places on earth. With breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find stunning photo spots around the state!
The best photography at Utah National Parks happens at sunrise and sunset when the stone structures glow from the golden hour light. At some locations, you won’t see the sun rising or setting along the horizon. Instead, you’ll capture the soft golden light on the landscape!
Sunrise Photo Spots in Utah National Parks – Some of our favorite locations are Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, Bryce Point, Canyon Overlook, and Panorama Point to name a few.
Sunset Photo Spots in Utah National Parks – Some of our favorite locations are Delicate Arch, Pa’rus Trail, Green River Overlook, Sunset Point, and Cathedral Valley.
Check out these other locations in Utah to capture stunning photos:
- Moab Photography
- Kanab Photography
- Dead Horse Point State Park Photos
- White Pocket Photos
- Valley of the Gods Photos
Utah Stargazing in the Spring
There are a total of 21 places in Utah designated as Dark Sky locations around the world. Visit one of Utah’s national parks or Utah State Parks on a cloudless night for some prime stargazing — no telescope required.
If you are lucky you might just get to see the Milky Way if you visit during a new moon (no moon in the sky). The Milky Way is visible in the spring during these times:
- March — 3:00 am to 5:45 am
- April — 1:00 am to 4:45 am
- May — 11:00 pm to 4:00 am
Utah Hiking in the Spring
Springtime in Utah provides a unique opportunity for hikers. The weather is just right, not too chilly and not too hot, perfect for hitting the trails.
You’ll find terrific hiking trails at these locations around Utah:
- Antelope Island State Park
- Dead Horse Point State Park Hiking Trails
- Goblin Valley State Park
- Lower Calf Creek Falls Hiking
- Moab Spring Hikes
- Snow Canyon State Park
Three are easy, moderate, and difficult spring hiking trails in five Utah National Parks. Keep in mind that trails in the parks can close at any time due to unsafe conditions in the spring due to rock slides or fast-moving water.
Here are a few of our favorite National Park hikes that we recommend during the spring months:
- Arches National Park Spring Hikes – Balanced Rock, The Windows, Double Arch, and Delicate Arch.
- Bryce Canyon Spring Hikes – Sunset to Sunrise, Bristlecone Loop, Mossy Cave, and Navajo Queen’s Garden Loop.
- Canyonlands National Park Spring Hikes – Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, Aztec Butte to the ruins, and Roadside Ruin.
- Capitol Reef National Park Spring Hikes – Sunset Point, Goosenecks, Grand Wash, Capitol Wash, and Hickman Bridge.
- Zion National Park Spring Hikes – Pa’rus Trail, Canyon Overlook, Court of the Patriarchs, Lower Emerald Pool, and Riverside Walk.
Utah Camping in the Spring
When preparing for a spring camping trip in Utah, check the weather forecasts regularly so you have the right equipment for the temperatures and any rain or snow storms that could roll through.
If you plan to camp in Utah National Parks you can find a secluded spot in nature or a bustling campground with plenty of amenities. There are campgrounds available at all five parks, as well as RV Parks and BLM campgrounds near each park.
- Arches National Park Camping
- Bryce Canyon National Park Camping
- Canyonlands National Park Camping
- Capitol Reef National Park Camping
- Camping in Zion National Park
Where to Stay in Utah
- Coolest Hotels in Utah
- Where to Stay in Utah National Parks
- Hotels in Utah
- VRBO Vacation Rentals in Utah
Utah Bucket List
To help make your trip planning easier, we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of must-do activities that belong on every Utah Bucket List: things to see, do and taste all around the state! Grab the free download by clicking the graphic below!
