Visiting Utah National Parks in the Spring

Are you planning a trip to Utah National Parks in the spring? One thing to note is the crowds start to increase during the spring months, especially April and May!

But spring is one of the best times of the year to visit the Utah National Parks to enjoy warmer daytime temperatures perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, landscape photography, and more!

Utah National Parks in the Spring

We live hours away from all the parks, and have visited them during all four seasons. The tips we share are based on our experiences visiting the parks in the spring: what to pack, spring weather and things to do for all five parks!

The National Parks are popular destinations for spring break in Utah so they will be crowded. We recommend visiting the parks in early March to avoid the spring break crowds.

Another tip we have is it be prepared for the temperatures and weather for the time you’ll be visiting. Use our packing list for Utah National Parks to make sure you have the right clothing and gear for a spring trip! Grab your free printable packing checklist by clicking the image below!

Utah National Parks packing lists
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A Photo Tour of Utah National Parks

Take a visual tour through all five Utah National Parks to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!

What to Wear at Utah National Parks in the Spring

The National Parks in Utah are located in the southern part of the state in a high desert climate. It’s important to stay hydrated, eat salty snacks, and use sun protection all year. If you’re not used to a dry environment, you may also need to use lotion and lip balm!

In early spring we recommend layers since the mornings and evenings will still be cold, and it could rain or even snow any time!

spring hiking gear

What To Expect at Utah National Parks in the Spring

If you’re looking for the best US National Parks to visit in the spring, the five Utah National Parks should be at the top of your list! You can’t beat the moderate weather this time of year.

But spring begins the busy season for the parks in Utah. Starting in March, the roads, hiking trails and parking lots typically fill to capacity. If you can, avoid the holidays around Easter, spring break and Memorial Day. Those times are especially busy!

Here are some guides that detail exactly what to expect at the Utah National Parks during the three spring season months:

hiking at Capitol Reef in the spring
Hiking at Capitol Reef in the spring

Spring Weather at Utah National Parks

The Utah National Parks spring weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. While visiting you will see warmer days, but with nighttime temperatures still getting fairly cool. You might see an occasional rainstorm, but nothing that will prevent you from exploring. 

Due to the high elevation, Bryce Canyon temperatures and weather will be cooler and more stormy during March and April with highs 50 degrees and lows 21 degrees F. By the time May rolls around you will see highs 77 degrees and lows 42 degrees F. 

At Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion you will find warmer temperatures in March and April with highs in the 60s and lows in the 30s degrees F. Once May hits expect highs 82 degrees and lows 40-50 degrees F. 

Be sure you know the expected weather and temperatures for the parks you’ll visit during the spring months:

Delicate Arch Utah National Park in the spring
Arches National Park in the Spring

Arches National Park in the Spring

You’ll find perfect temperatures for hiking, exploring, and taking pictures when you visit Arches National Park in the spring

Averages will hover around 64 degrees Fahrenheit in March with lows around 35 degrees. By the time May comes around you will find highs in the 80s with lows in the 50s. 

While visiting you will want to go and explore many of the Arches National Park hiking trails. Whether you are looking for an easy hike that is 15 minutes or an all day hike there is a trail perfect for you.

Arches National Park Activities in the Spring

Places to Stay at Arches National Park in the Spring

Mesa Arch sunrise at Canyonlands
Mesa Arch sunrise at Canyonlands

Canyonlands National Park in the Spring

There is a reason that Canyonlands National Park in the spring is one of the most popular times of the year to visit. The temperatures during the day range from 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 80 degrees and lows average between 30 degrees and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

With the park broken up into sections, you will want to plan your trip out accordingly to ensure that you see everything and do everything you would like on your trip.

The two popular districts to visit are:

Canyonlands Activities in the Spring

Places to Stay Near Canyonlands in the Spring

Bryce Point overlook at Bryce Canyon
Bryce Point overlook

Bryce Canyon National Park in the Spring

When you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in the spring you will want to be prepared for just about any weather. It is not unusual to have nights below freezing all the way through May. During the spring you may even still see snowstorms on your visit. For this reason, you will want to dress and plan accordingly. 

Attractions like ATVing, horseback riding, and rock climbing are beginning to open up during the spring months.   

Of course, you will want to bring your camera and take photos of the most mesmerizing Bryce Canyon must see viewpoints as well as hike the beautiful trails while visiting.   

Bryce Canyon Activities in the Spring

Places to Stay Near Bryce Canyon in the Spring

Capitol Reef scenic drive
Capitol Reef scenic drive

Capital Reef National Park in the Spring

Capital Reef is known as the hidden treasure that has all kinds of cliffs, canyons, and domes. With over 100 miles of adventure in the park, there is something for everyone at Capitol Reef National Park in the spring.

While visiting in the early part of the spring you can expect highs around 58 degrees Fahrenheit with the lows dipping to around 34 degrees. By May temperatures will be in the mid-70s and lows in the high 50s. With the park covering so much area and elevation, the temperatures can vary within the park. 

The Gifford Homestead opens on March 14 (Pi Day) – you’ll love the homemade pies and ice cream! Get there early because they will sell out by the end of the day.

The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is a must-do activity to see and photograph the cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges! If weather allows, and you have the right vehicle, check out these more remote drives:

Capitol Reef National Park Activities in the Spring

Places to Stay Near Capitol Reef in the Spring

Zion National Park
Zion National Park

Zion National Park in the Spring

Moderate temperatures is the reason why Zion National Park in the Spring is a great time to go! Temperatures in Zion in early spring will hover in the 60s and will be as high as the 80s by late Spring. Lows will be around mid-30s in the early spring months and will rise to the low 50s by the later Spring months. 

While visiting in the spring you will want to take the time to explore the Zion National Park Hikes. You’ll need an Angel’s Landing permit if you plan to hike past Scouts Lookout through the chains section.

The shuttle will be running, so you can’t drive your car into Zion Canyon. Here’s a handy list of Zion Hikes without the shuttle.

And of course explore all four Zion National Park Scenic Drives to take in and photograph all the scenic views that are all around you. 

Zion National Park Activities in the Spring

Places to Stay in Zion in the Spring

Utah Travel Guides & Maps

Utah guides and maps

Plan a Utah National Parks Vacation

utah national parks in the spring

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