Moab in April: A 12-Part Series

Planning a trip to Moab in April means dealing with a desert that changes fast from season to season. Weather, crowd levels, trail conditions, and even park rules can look completely different depending on when you visit. This 12-Part Series breaks down what Moab is really like month by month so you can plan with confidence instead of guesswork.

Below you’ll find practical details on weather, what’s open, photography conditions, and how these factors shape your time in the parks. Whether you’re chasing sunrise light in Arches or heading out for longer hikes in Canyonlands, this month-specific guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect and how to make the most of your trip.

Moab in April

Moab in April is prime time. Weather is pleasant, wildflowers bloom, and the national parks buzz with energy. For adventure travelers and photographers, Moab in April offers peak conditions and peak crowds.

Weather in April

Average highs reach the low 70s °F, with lows around 40 °F. Rain is modest, often arriving as brief showers or thunderstorms late in the month. Windy afternoons are common.

You will see 13 or more hours of daylight, which gives you ample time for long hikes and scouting.

• Hiking: April feels ideal on most trails, cool in the morning and warm but not oppressive in the afternoon.
• Driving: Roads are dry most of the time, though heavy rain can temporarily create mud and standing water.
• Photography: The light is stronger, so you will want to lean more heavily on sunrise, sunset, and golden hours.

What’s Open in April

Virtually everything in the Moab area is open by April, but Arches adds one key twist.

• Arches National Park: In 2025, timed entry reservations are required between 7 am and 4 pm from April 1 through July 6, and again August 28 through October 31. You can enter without a reservation before 7 am or after 4 pm. The park is otherwise fully open.
• Canyonlands: Island in the Sky and The Needles are in full swing with regular visitor center hours. All main trails and scenic roads are open, barring short term closures.
• Dead Horse Point and state parks: Operating on long spring hours with full services.
• Town and tours: This is a peak month for guides, events, and festivals. Expect full tour schedules.

Crowd Levels in April

Moab in April is busy. Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit.

• Expect full parking lots at popular trailheads by 9 am.
• Lodging sells out far in advance on weekends and holidays.
• Timed entry at Arches helps reduce gridlock but does not eliminate crowds at Delicate Arch or Windows.

For a more relaxed experience, combine early or late park visits with midday breaks or off the beaten path adventures.

Photo Plan for Moab in April

April is a showcase for fresh color and clear air.

Top April subjects

1. Wildflowers and fresh greens
   • Desert wildflowers bloom in lower elevations, including along the main park roads and river corridors.
   • Cottonwoods and shrubs fill in with bright greens that contrast against red cliffs.
2. Clear views with snow capped La Sals
   • The La Sal Mountains usually still carry snow, which makes an excellent backdrop from Arches viewpoints and Island in the Sky.
3. Milky Way core at reasonable hours
   • By mid to late April, the core rises in the middle of the night. Serious night photographers can center trips around a few “anchor” nights.

Daylight plan for Moab in April

• Early morning (before 7 am):
  • Use the timed entry rules to your advantage. Enter Arches before 7 am for sunrise at Park Avenue, Windows, or Balanced Rock.
• Midmorning to afternoon:
  • Explore less crowded corners: Tower Arch, Sand Dune Arch, or extended Devils Garden.
  • In Canyonlands, hike along the rim trails at Island in the Sky such as Murphy Point or Grand View Point.
• Sunset and night:
  • Delicate Arch, Turret Arch, or Dead Horse Point for classic sunset shots.
  • Night sessions at Balanced Rock or Panorama Point if you have energy left.

Recommended Gear

• Standard zooms and telephoto for compressed La Sal mountain backdrops
• Wide angle lenses for night sky and big foregrounds
• Tripod, headlamp with red mode, and multiple batteries
• Polarizer for midday work
• Light dust protection for gear on windy days

Sample 3-Day Itinerary for April

Packing and Gear List for April

• Light layers suitable for 40s to 70s °F
• Wide brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Plenty of water capacity as temps rise
• Sun hoodie or long sleeves for UV protection
• Small first aid kit and blister care

Safety and Road Conditions in April

• Heat is still moderate, but dehydration can sneak up on you. Aim for at least 3 liters of water per person per day on hikes.
• Most backcountry roads are dry, but high clearance 4WD and experience are still required on routes like Shafer Trail or Elephant Hill.
• Spring thunderstorms can bring lightning. If storms are forecast, avoid exposed rims during those times.

Visit Moab in April

Visiting Moab in April comes with its own mix of challenges and rewards, and knowing what the month brings helps you travel smarter, safer, and with better photos to show for it. Use this guide as your starting point, then build an itinerary that matches your comfort level, the weather, and the type of adventure you want most.

If you’re still deciding when to visit, or you want to compare conditions across the seasons, check out the other articles in the series. Each guide breaks down the same key details so you can quickly see how the desert shifts from winter to spring, summer, and fall. Exploring a few different months will help you pick the perfect time for your next Moab trip.

If you’re still choosing the perfect season for your trip, take a look at the other guides in this series.