How to Choose the Best National Parks to Visit in Spring
In bringing together this selection of the best National Parks to visit in March and April, I chose suggestions which considered the activities available in the parks, such as hiking or kayaking, and the nature of the park itself so you have a variety of parks to choose from, from beautiful mountains with spring flowers in bloom to sand dunes and breath-taking beaches.
Which you choose might depend on where you are located, so you may prefer a National Park near you that is close enough to visit for a day trip or a weekend break, or perhaps you want to explore somewhere further away for a proper vacation and go camping or backpacking in a National Park. You could even combine several National Parks on an epic road trip!
Bear in mind that if you are planning to visit any of these National Parks during Spring Break they are likely to be busier than usual springtime days. Try to avoid peak times if you can, or choose some of the lesser-known National Parks to visit so you can enjoy nature without the crowds.
Deciding on the best National Parks to visit by month will vary depending on all these factors and more, but the good news is that spring is an excellent time to get outdoors and explore most of America’s National Parks, so really there is no bad choice.
But do read on for our top recommendations and travel tips!
Don’t forget you may need to book permits to allow you to visit some National Parks or specific hiking trails within the parks. Once you’ve chosen where to go be sure to research that National Park in more detail before you travel.
Backpacking in March and April in USA’s National Parks
Spring is my favourite time to go hiking and backpacking, as the weather is usually warm enough to be enjoyable without the cold of winter or unbearable heat of summer making me miserable. Spring flowers also add colour and beauty to many April and March backpacking routes and the sign of new life in the plants and animals always brings me joy!
Some National Parks may have more rain in spring so make sure you have good-quality hiking and camping gear to keep you warm and dry while you’re walking and sleeping.
If you’re new to hiking or aren’t very experienced with backpacking in spring or any other time, these beginner hiking tips will help to get you ready for your backpacking adventure!
Save Money Visiting the National Parks
National Parks Money Saving Tip
If you plan to visit several parks in a year, don't forget to buy your National Parks Pass, which can save you a lot of money and gives you access to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands in the USA.The “America the Beautiful” National Parks Pass costs $80 for the whole family, which includes all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person (kids 15 & under get in free). If you are planning to visit more than two or three National Parks this spring, or during the whole year then it is definitely worth getting!
The Best National Parks to Visit in March & April
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located in Colorado’s rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Great Sand Dunes offer over 19,000 acres of breathtaking rolling dunes. With an average temperature of 60° during the spring, you can comfortably enjoy the park’s exhilarating sand sledding and hiking activities if you visit Great Sand Dunes National Park in March or April.
Start your spring National Park adventure by renting sand sleds at the store found near the entrance of the park. Next, head towards the Medano Creek bed, where the newly melted snow from the neighboring snow-capped mountains has just begun its seasonal stream. A path from the creek will bring you to the High Dune on First Ridge. Here you will find five dunes that are ideal for sand sledding and enjoying awe-inspiring views of the park’s entire dune field.
For a more secluded spot, drive your vehicle to the Point of No Return where you can hike along a 1.5-mile path to nearby Castle Creek. To reach the tallest dune in the park, head over to the Medano Creek bed and follow the pyramid-shaped Star Dune along its ridge to the summit. Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park in the springtime to truly experience the effect of rapidly melting snow on Colorado’s unique desert-like environment.
By Ellie, Ellie’s Travel Tips
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Yosemite National Park in March & April
If you are going to visit Yosemite National Park, spring is an excellent time to plan your trip. The waterfalls are rushing, and it makes the whole park feel alive and magical! Whether you take a day trip to Yosemite from San Francisco or spend a few days camping in the National Park you will love exploring Yosemite National Park in March and April.
With the waterfalls putting on such an awesome show, you will want to see as many as you can. We highly recommend the mist trail to Vernal Falls. Bring your raincoat; you are going to get wet as you walk up a set of moss-covered stairs right next to the waterfall. The mist will blow in your face, and the roaring of the waterfall will take your breath away.
If you have the energy, keep going up to the top of Nevada falls. This is no easy hike as you climb up 2000 feet total in elevation and cover 6 miles round trip, but the views on the way up and at the top make it all worth it.
For an off-the-beaten-path waterfall, head to the Hetch Hetchy part of Yosemite and do the 5.5-mile round trip Wapama Falls hike that takes you across a bridge and right next to a roaring waterfall. Be sure to be very careful on the bridge. The wildflowers are also in bloom in Yosemite during the spring and are a magnificent sight to see!
There are plenty more waterfalls to explore in Yosemite, and spring is a great time to see as many as you can, along with checking out all of the other amazing things to do in Yosemite National Park whenever you decide to visit this special place.
By Bryanna Royal, Crazy Family Adventure
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Saguaro National Park
If you’re wondering if Saguaro National Park is worth visiting in Spring, then the answer is definitely YES! Visit Arizona’s Saguaro National Park in the spring for the best chance to see giant cacti in bloom. These stately old giants can grow to be over 40 feet tall and live to the age of 200! And this National Park is one of the best places in the Sonoran Desert to find them.
Saguaro National Park’s 92,000 acres are divided into two different units separated by the city of Tucson. One of the great things about this park is how easy it is to combine its 165 miles of intersected paths and trails to create your own adventure hiking in Saguaro National Park.
The Douglas Spring Trail in the Rincon Mountain District is one of my all-time favorites. The entire out-and-back is 16.6 miles, but a popular endpoint is Bridal Wreath Falls, which makes for a nice 5.6-mile round-trip. You’ll get about 1,000 feet of elevation gain during that time. Be sure to time your hike so you are coming back down the mountain for sunset.
While temperatures here start to climb into the 100s by April, Spring is usually great weather for hiking but do check the weather before you set out. If you prefer to hike in the afternoon, half the park is open after dark thanks to the area’s pristine skies for stargazing – another reason why this is one of America’s best National Parks to visit in spring.
And if it gets too hot to hike, Tucson has plenty of great food and drink options to enjoy – check out Prep and Pastry for brunch and Borderlands Brewing’s many creative beers on tap.
By Sarah, The Wandering Road Blog
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Spring in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Not everyone knows Texas has two National Parks! If you’re looking to explore the one that is underrated, rarely crowded, and full of rugged outdoor opportunities, then check out Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
Visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park in March and April is a great time to explore all of the hiking, backpacking and camping opportunities the park offers. Texas’s summer sun is formidable, which makes Guadalupe off-limits to many during those months, while fall and winter can be surprisingly chilly in this high desert environment.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a true testament to the fact that there are real mountains in Texas! Many of the trails take full advantage of this, with some surprisingly challenging options. The “top” hiking trail in Guadalupe has to be the trek to the highest point in Texas at Guadalupe Peak.
This day hike is best enjoyed during spring when the wind has less bite, and the temperatures are moderate, even at higher altitudes. There are plenty of other hikes through Guadalupe’s diverse ecosystems, including the Chihuahuan Desert, McKittrick Canyon, and Devil’s Hall.
Top off your experience with some truly secluded camping. There are two campgrounds, both highlighting distinct environments, and both first come first served. Spring is the best time to camp at Guadalupe when the night temperatures are more agreeable for outdoor sleeping, so plan your spring trip to Guadalupe Mountains today!
Kristen, Yonderlust Ramblings
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Glacier National Park in March and April
Due to Glacier National Park’s high latitude and elevation, spring starts a bit later here, with warmer temperatures arriving only at the end of May. While that might seem like a downside, it’s actually a blessing for anyone wanting to enjoy Glacier’s majesty without the crowds.
While the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road isn’t open in the spring months, other areas of the park are accessible, even if they’re still blanketed in snow. Both St. Mary Lake and Lake McDonald are accessible throughout the spring and offer excellent opportunities for kayaking the crystal clear waters.
Spring run-off in the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, which runs along the southern edge of the park, makes for some seriously thrilling whitewater then, too. And a unique reason to visit Glacier Park in the springtime? Avid cyclists can pedal the partially plowed Going-to-the-Sun Road before it opens for the season.
The trails near Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake are also open in the spring – either for regular hiking or for snowshoeing, depending on the weather. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll feel like you have the park to yourself. Glacier gets seriously crowded during the summer months, so visiting this US National Park in the spring is a totally unique experience.
By Ryan, Montana Discovered
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Spring at Grand Canyon National Park
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Grand Canyon National Park. The north rim, which is at a higher elevation, opens mid-May, but the south rim is open year-round. In winter, the south rim gets very cold and icy, and in summer, it is hot and crowded. March and April at Grand Canyon’s South Rim, however, are just perfect.
The mild temperatures and melted snow and ice make this a great time to hit the trails and venture below the rim. Hike either of the two main trails from the south rim to the canyon floor, the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail.
Being inside the canyon surrounded by the towering canyon cliffs is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Visiting Grand Canyon National Park in spring also means you will see the desert flowers burst into bloom, and as you venture into the canyon, you will be surrounded by their pops of color.
Back up on the rim, you may see baby elk or mule deer wandering around in the early morning or late afternoon. This is also the best time for photography, and the crisp spring days make for especially beautiful photos of this incredible place.
By James, Parks Collecting
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Canyonlands National Park in Spring
If you’re looking for a scenic desert adventure from backpacking to epic scenic drives, Canyonlands National Park is definitely one of the best National Parks to visit in spring. The park itself is located near Moab, Utah and is divided into three districts.
The Needles District in the southern part of the park is famous for its incredible hiking trails. One of the must-see hikes, Druid Arch, takes you through impressively stunning red rock spires, also known as hoodoos. You’ll wind your way through canyons of these monoliths that pierce the sky like needles.
See the blooming cacti in late spring (mainly April and May) and enjoy the beautifully warm weather that’s perfect for hiking. This district is 1 hour and 30 minutes from downtown Moab.
The most accessible district, Island in the Sky, is popular for its bird’s eye viewpoints, easy hikes, and famous dirt road driving. Be sure to check out Grand Viewpoint, Mesa Arch, White Rim Road, and Shafer Canyon Road. Keep in mind, at just 40 minutes from Moab, this area of the park gets extremely crowded on spring weekends, so plan accordingly and visit during the week if you can.
Lastly, for a real backcountry adventure, snag some permits for The Maze District. As the most remote district in the park, it’s a 4 to 6-hour drive down 4WD, bumpy dirt roads just to access the first trailhead. This area is for serious adventurers only and often requires multi-day, rugged treks through canyons. However, you’ll be rewarded with awesome scenery and plenty of solitude.
Visiting Canyonlands National Park in April or March is the perfect plan for any kind of outdoor adventure in spring. Just be sure to make a reservation for permits or camping well in advance before you head out.
By Meg, Fox in the Forest
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With verdant greens in summer, eye-popping colors in autumn, and snow turning the Blue Ridge Mountains into a winter wonderland, Western North Carolina is a delightful place to visit all year round. However, if you want to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Spring is a particularly great time to explore the region.
Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, GSMNP is by far the most popular national park in the US, averaging nearly 13 million visitors a year (Grand Canyon National Park– #2 on the list, gets less than 6 million). And while summer and especially autumn are also great times to explore the park, they are considerably more crowded and increasingly plagued by the problems of mass tourism.
Arguably the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in March and April, and not just because of smaller crowds and discounted off-season rates. Temperatures in spring tend to be considerably cooler, which allows for hiking, mountain biking, or paddling without sweltering from the South’s oppressive heat and humidity during the summer.
For wildlife lovers, there are other good reasons to visit this national park in spring. In the southeastern section on the North Carolina side, you’ll find the famous Cataloochee Valley Elk herd. Wild Elk once roamed the region freely, but they’d been completely killed off by the late 1700s. Great Smoky Mountains National Park began an experimental Elk reintroduction program back in 2001, releasing a total of 52 animals in the span of one year.
Now they’re among the park’s main attractions, and in Spring you can see the males shedding their massive horns. By mid-May to early June, the females begin to give birth, so late spring visitors may have a chance to spot extremely young Elk calves. But please do remember that the mamas can be very aggressive if they sense any impending threat to their young so keep a safe distance.
While you’re in the area, be on the lookout for other wildlife such as Black Bears and White-tailed Deer, and hike the Little Cataloochee Trail to see a number of historic buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s.
By Bret and Mary, Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide
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Channel Islands National Park in March and April
Channel Islands National Park is truly one of the joys of the US National Park system. Although the park is located close to densely populated Southern California, it’s a bit difficult to get to. And so, there are not that many visitors, especially in Spring.
Unless you have your own boat, the way to get to Santa Cruz (the most accessible of the Channel Islands) is via a scheduled trip with Island Packers Cruises from Ventura. For many, the ferry ride will be the highlight of your visit and it’s very likely your boat will be surrounded by leaping dolphins for a good part of the voyage.
Once you get to Santa Cruz, if you’ve arranged in advance, you can snorkel or kayak around the many coves on the island.
Alternatively, you can take some of the hiking paths that will give you a sense of the island’s rugged geology, flora and fauna, as well as its history as a former farm. If you decide to go the hiking route, be sure to hook up with one of the Park Service volunteers who will give you a great orientation to all the aspects of the Park.
While obviously cooler than summer, visiting the Channel Islands National Park in spring can still get hot, so remember to take sun protection and plenty of water when you set out for your hikes.
By Tom, Travel Past 50
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Zion National Park
Zion National Park is one of the most spectacular US National Parks for hiking, especially during the spring. For me, it’s up there with the best places to hike in March in the world – it really is incredible.
The park climbs up out of the 15-mile long – and over 2,600 feet deep – canyon with a jaw-dropping, tan and red-colored sandstone as a backdrop to access endless forested plateaus. In ancient Hebrew, the word means sanctuary or refuge. In my mind, Zion means a little slice of hiking heaven.
Spring is the best time to visit Zion National park for several reasons. First, it’s less crowded than in the summer months. Up to 1.5 million people visit Zion every month in the summer! Secondly, the temperatures are not too hot, not too cold – just right for hiking. Days are warm and nights are cool which is a lovely combination.
Finally, wildflowers are starting to bloom in March and April. Watch for scarlet swaths of paintbrush and the brilliant fuchsia-pink or lemon-yellow flowers of prickly pear cactus as you set out on the trail to discover this special sanctuary on a pleasant spring day.
Some options for hiking in Zion include taking a sunset stroll up Watchman Trail for quiet beauty (3.3 mi roundtrip/~2 hrs). Alternatively, challenge yourself with a steep climb up to Angel’s Landing (5.4 mi roundtrip/~4 hrs), or escape the crowds with a jaunt up Observation Point via East Rim Trail (8.0 mi roundtrip/~6 hrs).
By Megan, Time.Travel.Trek.
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Badlands National Park in Spring
Whether you are interested in the fossils, wildlife and cultural history, or hiking, cycling and horseback riding, there are so many ways to experience what nature has to offer at Badlands National Park in March and April.
A springtime visit to South Dakota’s Badlands National Park avoids both the crowds and sweltering temperatures of summer and you can expect to see the colours of spring, as green grass covers the impressive prairie landscape.
Bird watchers can keep an eye out for migrating grassland species and spring is also a great time of year to see geese and ducks here too.
If you come to see the wildlife, springtime is also when prairie animals give birth, so you might spot a baby buffalo coming out to explore. Head out into the park with your camera at dusk and dawn if you are looking to photograph wildlife, as they tend to be most active at these times, and you might also catch a striking sunrise or sunset.
Try to allow at least two nights for your springtime visit to Badlands National Park, so that you can enjoy the stars shining in a clear night sky, as spring is also the best season for stargazing!
By Claire, ClairePins Travel
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Shenandoah National Park
One of the best and most underrated national parks to visit in March and April is Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The winter in Shenandoah can seem forever long, so when spring creeps up, it is welcomed by Virginians and those that live in DC.
Shenandoah becomes a paradise of wildflowers during the spring months of March and April. The bears are out of hibernation and the park comes back to life. During the spring, Shenandoah National Park offers comfortable temperatures, roaring waterfalls and streams from the snow melting, and greener views.
But, most importantly, the hiking season is back at Shenandoah and the park offers some of the most famous hiking and backpacking in the United States. A section of the park is also part of the famed Appalachian Trail that extends from Maine to Georgia (Virginia has the most ‘mileage’ of any state).
Old Rag Mountain is a popular hiking spot in Shenandoah and the 9-mile hike is ideal during spring as it is less trodden and one can take in the beautiful views without the noise of other hikers. Another great hike is Doyles Falls, a 3.2-mile hike to a waterfall in the park.
Finally, no visit to Shenandoah in spring is complete without taking a ride along Skyline Drive, one of America’s most famous drives, that meanders through the National Park.
Shenandoah may get written off by some of the west coast parks for its spring offerings but between its wildflowers, views, and hiking trails, it truly is one of the best national parks to visit during spring.
By Megan, Virginia Travel Tips
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Joshua Tree National Park in March & April
On average during the summer months, Joshua Tree National Park ranges from 99F-104F, making it far too uncomfortable for most people to visit. This is why travelers should visit Joshua Tree National Park in March and April when spring temperatures are much more bearable!
Visiting the otherworldly California National Park in the spring will give you the chance to comfortably enjoy your time there whether you spend one day in Joshua Tree or an entire week. The wildflowers are in full bloom and the trails are ready for hikers to enjoy.
During March and April, you have the opportunity to do all activities that exist in Joshua Tree, from rock climbing to camping to stargazing and more. In addition, the Joshua Tree Music Festival takes place in spring and is the perfect place to venture to as it involves camping combined with music.
One of the most popular trails to try when you’re in Joshua Tree is Barker Dam Nature Trail – the 1.3-mile loop trail is an easy trek for all visitors regardless of skill level. Be sure to also visit Arch Rock while you’re at Joshua Tree. This famous landmark is best seen underneath the starry skies at night.
There are so many reasons to visit Joshua Tree in spring and if you’re in the Los Angeles area and want a fantastic day trip option, it should definitely be considered!
By Megan, Megan and Aram
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Yellowstone National Park in Spring
Yellowstone National Park is one of the best National Parks to visit in the Spring. The weather is starting to warm up by March and April and you can expect highs of 50 degrees and lows in the 20s or 30s.
Yellowstone is one of the busiest National Parks in the United States but visiting in March and April will definitely give you a chance to explore the park with fewer crowds. Since the weather isn’t 70 degree sunny days yet, fewer people decide to visit the park during this time.
With fewer people milling about and the fact that it’s spring, your chances of seeing wildlife in the park are greatly increased! Spring is a great time to spot bears, moose, bighorn sheep, elk, and bison. It is also common to see bison calving in Lamar Valley during this time of year.
While beautiful weather isn’t guaranteed, come prepared and you can get the best out of Yellowstone in March and April, so don’t hesitate to plan your trip here.
By Jessica, Unearth the Voyage
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Petrified Forest National Park
In Northeastern Arizona, near Holbrook, is the beautiful Petrified Forest National Park, filled with petrified wood, beautiful landscapes, badlands and petroglyphs. In the North of the park is the Painted Desert, and petrified logs are everywhere, but mostly in the Southern part.
I’d recommend visiting Petrified Forest National Park in March and April since that’s when the wildflower season starts. It’s also not the busiest season, as Summer is the time when most visitors flock to the park. Spring is also a good season weather-wise as in Summertime violent thunderstorms can occur and it’s really hot.
When visiting Petrified Forest drive at least the main road, which is 28 miles long. This way you can see something of everything the park has to offer. Stop at the viewpoints and undertake a few of the hikes starting at the viewpoints. Make sure you visit the viewpoint with Newspaper Rock, which has over 650 petroglyphs.
From the 7 walking trails in Petrified Forest National Park, don’t miss the Agate House trail, the Longs Logs trail and the Painted Desert Rim Trail. On Agate House you can see a pueblo, on Long Logs petrified logs and badlands and on the Rim trail the Painted Desert. All in all, Petrified Forest has to be one of the best National Parks to visit in springtime.
By Cosette, KarsTravels
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Death Valley National Park in March & April
Whether you are visiting Death Valley on a day trip from Las Vegas or going for an extended stay, it’s definitely one of the best National Parks to visit in the spring.
Death Valley is the hottest and driest National Park in the United States, and springtime has Death Valley’s best weather. You’ll find average temperatures with highs in the mid 80’s and lows in the high 50’s. Contrast that with average summer highs which reach a volcanic 115’ and you’ll be packing the car for a March or April visit in a flash.
As well as temperature, Death Valley’s rainfall also should be taken into account when planning your visit. It’s a desert and it doesn’t get much rain, but what they do get happens in the winter, which also means it’s not a great idea to visit Death Valley in winter.
However, the rain fuels wildflower blooms that pop up in the spring. Time it right and you can spot marigolds, lupin, desert star, paintbrush and lilies. Keep an eye on the park’s wildflower watch for the best times and places.
That’s not all that Death Valley has to offer among its 3.2 million acres of wilderness. You’ll find sand dunes and slot canyons, rocky peaks and salt flats which all make Death Valley an amazing National Park to visit in spring.
By Carol, California Crossings
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Spring in Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park might not be the most famous national park in the United States, but it is a hidden gem to explore, especially in the spring. While the spring weather in Great Basin is very unpredictable, whatever the conditions, you’ll find some amazing things in the park, from hiking to cave tours to either snowshoeing or wildflowers blooming!
Hiking in Great Basin allows you to explore the rugged terrain of this unique place in eastern Nevada, near the Utah border. Hikes range from easy loops through conifer forests and bristlecone groves to the strenuous summit of Wheeler Peak at 13,044 feet. Be sure to check the weather forecast in the spring, and possibly bring traction to help you on snow and ice, which you will probably still find on the trails in March if not in early April.
One of the main attractions in the park is the Lehman Caves, which are open year-round (though they do require reservations for the ranger-guided tours). These incredible caves feature limestone formations and will provide shelter from a spring snowstorm.
By Allison, She Dreams of Alpine
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Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best places to visit in Spring in the United States. It’s at the very bottom end of Florida, so the weather is a bit hot and humid during summer, making March and April an ideal time to visit the park when the spring weather is milder.
To get to Dry Tortugas, you either have to get on a seaplane or a ferry boat from Key West. There are no concessions, but if you choose to go on the boat, a light lunch is included in the trip.
Once you’re in Dry Tortugas, you’ll have a few hours to explore the area. You can join one of two guided tours to learn more about the history of the fort, or you can bring your own gear and go snorkeling, where there are lots of fish and barracuda in the shallow waters.
Alternatively, you can just hang around at the small beach areas. Some people prefer to walk around the entire fort or just discover hidden nooks and crannies that are great for photos or go by the jetty area.
You will need to make reservations in advance for the boat, as there is only one official company offering the tours, and they only go on one trip daily. Expect to spend a whole day if you do plan to go – or you can also camp to stay longer and get on the next ferry the next day.
By Ruby, A Journey We Love
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White Sands National Park in March and April
White Sands National Park, located outside Alamogordo, New Mexico, is made up of miles and miles of bright white sand dunes that are open for exploring. Southwestern weather and all that sand reflecting the sun’s heat make springtime a fantastic time to visit White Sands without worrying about heat exhaustion; it is also the season for the native yucca plants to bloom and show off!
Plan to stop in at the gift shop and rent a sled before you head out to the dunes. Driving the full road loop is a must-do to get the full experience, and adventurous folks can camp out on the dunes for the night.
If you’d prefer to stay on your own two feet, try hiking the self-guided Dune Life Nature Trail with interpretive signs. Another trail option with steadier footing is the interdune boardwalk that allows strollers and wheelchairs to safely experience the white sand dunes as well.
By Stephanie, Explore More, Clean Less
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
A visit to Hawaii in spring is a fantastic time with most of the tourist crowds and families gone from the spring holidays and prices are good in terms of flights and hotels. Springtime on the Big Island of Hawaii is also ideal to visit Volcanoes National Park which is not as jam-packed with tourists as usual.
One of the main draws would be to visit the caldera with the active eruption of lava at the Halema’uma’u crater in the center of the caldera and it is impressive to witness day and night. Springtime wildflower blooms of native and tropical flowers infuse the entire park with a riot of hot colors, gorgeous scents and beautiful accents along the vista points, hiking trails and other points of interest to visit in the park.
You’ll love visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National park in springtime and really witnessing one of nature’s most impressive, raw and active volcanoes in the state.
An easy day trip or overnighter from the major cities of Hilo or Kona, you can do a guided tour or drive over yourself. An overnight stay in the nearby town of Volcano makes the park more accessible at night when the show of fumes, ash and lava combine to create a natural firework type of display that really impresses visitors to the park and is a highlight to visiting the island.
Make sure that you do the road trip through the Chain of Craters road all the way down to the ocean to witness all the lava devastation to the coastline with dramatic cliffs, arches and views that will make this a memorable trip and highlight to the park.
By Noel, This Hawaii Life
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Mt Rainier National Park in March
For a great spring national park in the United States, Mt. Rainier National Park is a fantastic choice! Depending on the weather, you may have some lovely snowfall or you may have clearer paths for hiking around Mt Rainier and enjoying the beautiful nature.
Near the end of spring, you might even start to see a few wildflowers peaking up in May and June, though due to the higher elevation of the park, you likely won’t see the wildflowers in the early spring months. However, visiting Mt Rainier National Park in March or April is still absolutely worth it, even if you miss wildflower season.
Mt Rainier in spring has tons of waterfalls and they are usually at their peak flow in spring. Mt Rainier is the most glaciated mountain in the Lower 48, and where there are glaciers, there are glacier-fed waterfalls, making Mt Rainier one of the most beautiful US National Parks to Visit in March and April.
A few of the coolest waterfalls to visit in the park are Christine Falls and Narada Falls, both of which are only a short walk away from the parking area at Paradise. Whether the falls are icy or rushing water, it’s a win-win: both frozen waterfalls and thundering falls are equally beautiful in totally different ways!
Depending on the conditions, you could also take a hike to one of the other waterfalls, such as Comet Falls, Carter Falls, Madcap Falls, or Myrtle Falls. All are an easy hike from Paradise, though snowpack or ice on the trail may make for difficult hiking conditions, so be prepared with Yaktrax or other shoe spikes to handle the ice, and be sure to ask a ranger before doing any hikes if there’s still lots of snow present.
By Allison, Small Town Washington
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Everglades National Park in Spring
Spring time in the Florida Everglades is a great time to visit, just at the end of the dry season before the summer rains begin. There are many things to do in the Everglades but exploring the “River of Grass” when the temperatures and humidity are still comfortable is ideal.
Hiking trails are still dry in the Spring so access on foot is easier than during the wet season. For biking enthusiasts, there are trails designated for cycling as well as hiking. Birdwatchers can fill their journals with sightings of the incredible number of nesting birds.
Most people visit with hopes of seeing alligators. Coming to the Everglades National Park in Spring will not disappoint. Gators tend to be more concentrated at this time of year due to low water levels, and airboat vendors target those pools while providing information on the ecosystem and other animals active in the Spring. An airboat ride through mangrove tunnels will not soon be forgotten.
Exploring by kayak or canoe is very popular along with camping at one of the several sites that feature elevated platforms. All this makes for a great outdoor wilderness adventure, meaning the Everglades is one of the best National Parks to visit in Spring.
By Lori, Travlinmad
FIND ACCOMMODATION AT IN THE EVERGLADES
Wow, there certainly are some spectacular US National Parks worth visiting in March and April. Which one would you choose? I hope that next year I’ll be able to visit one of these National Parks in spring myself!
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Thanks for reading Amelia, I hope you have a great time!
Mount Rainier has been on my bucket list forever, and I think we may finally go this year for Spring Break! Our budget is a bit tighter than in the past few years but we’re hopeful that sticking to domestic travel will work well. Thanks for the tips!