10 Best National Parks to Visit in Spring

Two reasons you should visit a National Park in the Spring: fewer crowds and milder temperatures.

After 15 years of dragging my husband to national parks (and him eventually thanking me for it), I can tell you that spring is hands-down the best time to visit. The crowds are 30% smaller than summer according to the National Park Service, which means you won’t have to throw elbows just to snap a photo at Tunnel View in Yosemite.

Spring is that sweet spot when you can actually enjoy nature instead of melting in summer heat or freezing your toes off in winter. The waterfalls are roaring from snowmelt, baby animals are everywhere (yes, I’ve spent way too much time watching Bambi), and in some parks, the wildflowers are poppin’.

My favorite part? Hotel prices are still in “off-season” mode, which means more money for gas station snacks and those souvenir national park t-shirts we all love so much.

Trust me – after visiting these parks in every season (and making plenty of mistakes), spring is when you’ll get the most bang for your buck and the best photos for your Instagram.

The only downside is packing A LOT of layers so you’re ready for anything in any weather condition. Mother Nature has major mood swings during this time of year!

Why Visit a National Park in the Spring

Temperature and Weather Benefits

In certain parks, the spring season hits the perfect time for outdoor activities. Most popular parks have daytime temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C). You won’t deal with summer’s intense heat or winter’s harsh conditions.

Morning frost and potential random snowstorms may still occur at higher elevations, so pack layers. The weather can change quickly – bring rain gear since spring storms pop up often.

Cost Savings

Spring travel to national parks saves you money. Hotel rates near Yosemite run 20-30% lower than summer prices. Many campgrounds charge off-season rates until Memorial Day. You’ll find better deals on flights and rental cars too, especially if you visit in March or early April.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Spring brings incredible wildlife activity. Bears emerge from hibernation in April at Yellowstone. Bighorn sheep have their lambs in May at Rocky Mountain National Park. Bird migration peaks in March and April at Big Bend.

Always, always, always keep your distance – park rules require staying at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife.

Best Desert National Parks for Spring

1. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley in summer is about as pleasant as a hot yoga class in a wool sweater. But March and April? Pure magic. The temps hover around 85°F, which is practically chilly for this park.

Springtime in Death Valley also gives you perfect hiking weather. The park’s famous wildflower blooms happen in late March if winter brought enough rain.

Must-visit photo spots (because we all know it’s going on social media):

2. Joshua Tree National Park

Those quirky Joshua trees show off their white blooms in March and April, and every cactus gets in on the flowering action. The weather sits pretty in the 70s – perfect for watching the rock climbers do their thing while you enjoy a snack from a safe distance on solid ground.

Weekends get busier than a Target on Black Friday, so either come early or explore the quieter Pinto Basin area where you might actually hear yourself think.

3. Saguaro National Park

Spring turns this Sonoran Desert park into a colorful paradise. March and April bring perfect hiking temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, and if winter brought enough rain, you’ll catch the famous saguaro blooms.

These giant cacti put on their flower show in late April and May – quite a sight when you realize some of these plants are older than your grandparents!

4. Big Bend National Park

Spring transforms Big Bend into a desert paradise, especially in March and April when temperatures hover between 60-80°F. Fun fact – this park has more species of birds than any other national park in the U.S. (450+ kinds!).

Spring break (mid-March) gets busy here, but the rest of spring feels wonderfully peaceful. The desert bluebonnets and yucca blooms in March are worth planning your trip around.

My husband & I love stargazing and Big Bend is one of only 10 certified Dark Sky Parks in the U.S. Spring’s clear nights make for epic stargazing- a great romantic trip idea! Just bring a warm jacket for those chilly desert nights.

Don’t skip the ranger programs in spring – they’re less crowded than summer, and the rangers share secret spots that aren’t in any guidebook.

Tips for Visiting a Desert National Park in the Spring

Visiting a desert park requires specific preparation and timing. Spring temperatures can range from freezing at night to over 90°F during the day. Here’s what you need to know to stay to have a comfy trip (based on our successes and failures).

The early morning hours between 6-10 AM offer the most comfortable hiking conditions. Plan to be off trails by noon when temperatures peak. Late afternoon (after 4 PM) works well for scenic drives and short walks. Avoid hiking between 12-4 PM when the sun is strongest.

Best Mountain National Parks for Spring

5. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite’s waterfalls reach peak flow in May from snowmelt. Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls put on spectacular shows. The Mist Trail to Vernal Fall opens in April most years. Tioga Road usually stays closed until late May – check the park website for current conditions. Lodging inside the park books up 6 months ahead for spring dates.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Did you know that Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees over 2.1 million visitors during spring months alone?

The Smokies host their annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in April. Over 1,500 types of flowering plants grow here – more than any other U.S. national park.

Popular trails like Laurel Falls get busy by 9 AM. Start hikes early or try lesser-known spots like Chestnut Top Trail. Black bears become active in spring – carry bear spray and make noise while hiking.

7. Rocky Mountain National Park

Spring in Rocky Mountain National Park offers a mix of winter and summer conditions, with peak season starting in late May. Lower elevations begin thawing in April while higher areas keep their snow into June. Trail Ridge Road, the park’s famous scenic drive, typically opens for Memorial Day weekend.

Best Spring Activities:

Wildlife watching peaks in spring as animals move to lower elevations. Elk migrate from winter grounds to summer meadows, and you’ll often spot mule deer, bighorn sheep, and moose near roads. Dawn and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Spring Road Access Information

Spring Road Access Information

Spring access to national parks requires careful planning as road conditions vary significantly during this transitional season. Many high-elevation roads remain closed through early spring due to lingering snow and ice, while lower elevation routes may experience temporary closures due to spring thaw conditions and maintenance work.

At Yellowstone, the Grand Loop Road typically begins reopening in mid-April, starting with the west entrance to Old Faithful, with complete access usually available by mid-May.

In Yosemite, while Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road remain closed until late May or June, the Valley Loop Road provides year-round access to prime attractions.

Rocky Mountain National Park’s Trail Ridge Road opens in late May, though lower elevation routes remain accessible throughout spring.

At Mount Rainier, the road to Paradise is maintained year-round, while Stevens Canyon and Sunrise roads typically open in late May.

Always check current conditions on park websites or by calling visitor centers before departing, and maintain flexible itineraries as weather can change rapidly.

Weather and Packing Tips

Spring weather in national parks is notoriously unpredictable, requiring visitors to prepare for multiple scenarios. Temperatures can swing dramatically within a single day, often ranging from near-freezing mornings to warm afternoons.

Mountain parks frequently experience the “false spring” phenomenon, where warm spells can be suddenly interrupted by snow squalls or cold fronts.

The key to comfortable spring park visits is layering. Pack a waterproof outer shell to protect against sudden rain showers and wind, insulating mid-layers like fleece or wool sweaters, and moisture-wicking base layers.

Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy waterproof hiking boots with extra socks. Even if visiting desert parks, bring warm layers as nighttime temperatures can drop significantly.

Essential spring gear includes traction devices for boots when encountering lingering snow or ice patches, waterproof bags to protect electronics and maps, and sun protection (the spring sun can be intense, especially at higher elevations). Consider bringing hiking poles for stability on muddy or snowy trails.

Due to fluctuating temperatures, it’s crucial to carry both warm and cold weather gear regardless of the morning forecast. Include rain gear even if clear skies are predicted.

Many spring visitors make the mistake of under-packing warm clothing, especially for higher elevation parks where conditions can be winter-like well into May.

Monitor weather forecasts closely in the days leading up to your visit, but be prepared for conditions to differ from predictions. Pack extra layers rather than too few – you can always leave unnecessary items in your vehicle, but being underprepared can cut a day’s adventures short.

Best Coastal National Parks for Spring

8. Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park comes alive in spring, when the archipelago’s rugged landscapes burst with wildflowers and vibrant wildlife activity. The islands transform into a natural paradise as yellow coreopsis blankets the hillsides and native lupines dot the coastal bluffs with purple blooms.

This season brings perfect hiking temperatures, typically in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit, ideal for exploring the park’s numerous trails.

Spring also marks the peak of whale watching season, as gray whales migrate past the islands. From the boat or shore, you might spot mothers and calves making their journey north. The islands’ endemic island foxes become more active, and thousands of seabirds return to nest along the cliffs, including the fascinating Scripps’s murrelet.

Most visitors access the park via boat from Ventura or Oxnard harbors. Santa Cruz Island, the largest in the chain, offers excellent opportunities for kayaking through sea caves, while Anacapa Island provides spectacular wildflower displays and views from its dramatic overlooks.

9. Olympic National Park

My husband & I visiting in spring and spent an entire week exploring Olympic National Park. It was totally worth braving the scattered rain showers.

The Hoh Rainforest was incredibly lush – all the moss and ferns were this intense shade of green I’d never seen before. While we couldn’t make it to Hurricane Ridge because it was still snowed in, the coast was perfect for walking and watching waves crash against the rocks.

We got lucky and spotted a few Roosevelt elk with their wobbly-legged calves in one of the meadows near Lake Crescent. The waterfalls were running full force from all the snowmelt – Marymere Falls was absolutely thundering.

If you go, definitely hit up the Hall of Mosses trail in the Hoh, but bring a good rain jacket. The spring showers are no joke, but they’re what makes this place so magical.

10. Acadia National Park

Visiting Acadia National Park in spring offers a unique blend of seasonal transitions and natural awakening that many summer visitors miss entirely. As the last patches of snow melt away in April and May, the park comes alive with a burst of wildflowers, including delicate spring beauties and trout lilies dotting the forest floor.

The famous Park Loop Road typically opens by mid-April, though some sections may remain closed depending on conditions, giving early visitors the chance to explore popular sites like Thunder Hole and Sand Beach with far fewer crowds than during peak season.

Spring also brings the return of migratory birds, making it an excellent time for birdwatching along the park’s numerous trails, while the crisp maritime air and occasional fog banks create atmospheric conditions that photographers dream about.

Though temperatures can be chilly and changeable, requiring layers and rain gear, the reward is experiencing Acadia’s rugged coastal beauty in its most raw and authentic state, with the added bonus of more readily available parking and accommodations in nearby Bar Harbor.

Tide Pool Viewing Tips

Time your visit strategically by checking local tide tables and planning to arrive about an hour before low tide. This gives you plenty of time to explore as the water recedes and observe the pools before the tide returns.

Always tread carefully on wet rocks, wearing shoes with good grip and walking on bare rock surfaces rather than seaweed-covered areas which can be extremely slippery. Keep in mind that barnacles and mussels can have sharp edges.

Practice respectful observation by looking with your eyes rather than handling creatures, as our body temperature and skin chemistry can stress marine life. If you do gently touch something, wet your hands with seawater first. Never remove animals, shells, or rocks from their habitat.

Be mindful of waves even during low tide, as unexpected swells can still occur. Stay alert and keep a safe distance from the surf zone. Consider bringing a friend so you can watch out for each other.

Take note of weather conditions – bright sunny days provide better visibility into the pools, though overcast weather can make marine life more active since they won’t be dealing with direct sun exposure.

Weather and Marine Life Viewing Tips

The timing of your tide pool visit can dramatically affect the wildlife you’ll encounter. During sunny periods, many creatures seek shelter from the heat and UV rays by retreating under rocks or seaweed, making them harder to spot.

Cloudy or misty conditions often lead to more active marine life, as the animals feel more protected from predatory birds and harsh sunlight. The temperature also plays a crucial role – extreme cold or heat can cause creatures to become sluggish or seek deeper waters.

Tide pools are most vibrant during the “shoulder seasons” of spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. During these periods, you’re likely to see a diverse range of life including sea stars, hermit crabs, small fish, anemones, and various types of seaweed.

The changing seasons also bring different species into the intertidal zone as they follow their natural migration and breeding patterns.

For optimal viewing, try visiting during a spring tide (which occurs during full and new moons) when the tide range is at its maximum. These extreme low tides expose areas that are usually submerged, potentially revealing rarely-seen species.

However, remember that longer exposure times during these tides can stress marine life, so be especially gentle in your observations.

Wind conditions affect both safety and visibility. Strong winds can create dangerous waves even during low tide, while calm conditions allow for clearer water and better viewing. Light ripples on the water’s surface can actually help reduce glare and improve visibility into deeper pools.

Consider bringing polarized sunglasses to reduce glare on the water’s surface, making it easier to spot marine life below. A small flashlight can also be helpful for peering into darker crevices where shy creatures might be hiding, though be mindful not to shine it directly at sensitive animals for prolonged periods.

Travel Planning Tips for Visiting National Parks in the Spring

Making Reservations

Book accommodations 6 months ahead for popular parks. Many campgrounds switch to reservation systems in spring – recreation.gov handles most bookings.

Some parks require entrance reservations during peak hours:

• Yosemite (March-November)
• Arches (April-October)
• Rocky Mountain (May-October)

What to Pack

Spring weather changes quickly. Take my word for it. We visiting Olympic National Park in April and experienced warm, humid, cool, rainy, and snowy weather all within a week of visiting the park. It was insanity! That’s when I learned to just pack everything and shove it all into a suitcase.

Most importantly, pack these essentials:

• Rain jacket and pants
• Warm layers (fleece, puffy jacket)
• Hiking boots with good traction
• Moisture wicking wool socks
• Sun protection
• First aid kit
• Maps and a GPS Satellite (cell service is spotty)
• Water bottles and filter

Final Thoughts on the Best National Parks to Visit in Spring

Spring offers the perfect mix of good weather, smaller crowds, and natural wonders at U.S. national parks. Pick your dates based on what you want to see – wildflowers, waterfalls, or wildlife all peak at different times. Make reservations well ahead, especially for popular parks. Pack for changing weather and follow park guidelines for a safe visit.

👉 Join our FREE Facebook Group “Outdoor Adventure Travel & Tips” to connect with other national park enthusiasts and share your spring travel experiences!

Frequently Asked Questions