National Parks Trip - April

Question

Hi, After exploring some of the west coast I am planning on heading to various National Parks in April for 2 weeks this year. I'll be camping (4 season bag) and staying in hostels/motels. Rough plan at present is to leave LA then Joshua Tree - Grand Canyon - Zion - Death Valley (aware Tioga Pass closed) - Sequoia/Kings Canyon and finishing off at Yosemite for a few days before travelling to SF to fly home. Any advice please on the above itinerary? Planning at present to spend a little more time at Yosemite and GC. Must-do's? I'm a fit 60 year old! Thanks so much :)

Answer

Hello! Your itinerary sounds fantastic — two weeks is a great amount of time to explore the highlights of the Southwest and California’s National Parks in April. Here’s some detailed advice for your plan, including must-do experiences and practical tips.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

April is an excellent time — mild temperatures and wildflowers may be in bloom. Since you’re camping with a 4-season bag, night temperatures should be comfortable.

Must-dos: Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and Keys View for sunset panoramas.
Hiking: Short to moderate hikes like Ryan Mountain (good workout, about 3 miles roundtrip) or Cholla Cactus Garden for an easy stroll.
Camping: Consider Jumbo Rocks or Hidden Valley campgrounds; reserve in advance as sites fill quickly in spring.

2. Grand Canyon (South Rim)

April can still be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, but South Rim roads and viewpoints are open.

Must-dos: Mather Point, Desert View Drive, and walking part of the Rim Trail.
Optional: Short hike into the canyon like the South Kaibab to Ooh Aah Point (less than 2 miles roundtrip) for stunning views without overly strenuous climbing.
Accommodation: South Rim lodges or nearby Tusayan; book early.

3. Zion National Park

Zion can be busy in April, but hiking early helps avoid crowds.

Must-dos: Canyon Overlook Trail (easy, great views), Riverside Walk, Emerald Pools Trail. If you’re up for it, Angels Landing is iconic, though strenuous.
Shuttle: Take the park shuttle to popular trailheads to save driving stress.
Accommodation: Springdale has motels, hostels, and some camping near the park entrance.

4. Death Valley National Park

Tioga Pass is closed, so you’ll access Death Valley from the south or east. April temperatures are ideal — warm but not extreme.

Must-dos: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Dante’s View for sunset.
Hiking: Short hikes like Golden Canyon or Mosaic Canyon.
Accommodation: Furnace Creek or Stovepipe Wells if staying in motels; camping is also an option.

5. Sequoia / Kings Canyon National Park

April can still be cool with some snow at higher elevations, so check road conditions before arrival.

Must-dos: General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock (steep but short climb), Tunnel Log, and Crescent Meadow.
Hiking: Big Trees Trail (easy loop), Tokopah Falls Trail (moderate, about 4 miles roundtrip).
Accommodation: Wuksachi Lodge or nearby motels/campgrounds.

6. Yosemite National Park

Spending extra time here is wise — waterfalls are at their peak in April due to snowmelt, and the valley is stunning. Tioga Pass remains closed in April.

Must-dos: Yosemite Valley viewpoints — Tunnel View, Valley View, El Capitan Meadow, Bridalveil Fall, Lower Yosemite Fall.
Short walks: Lower Yosemite Fall Loop, Cook’s Meadow Loop, and Mirror Lake.
Optional: Glacier Point (if open) for panoramic views of Half Dome and the valley.
Accommodation: Yosemite Valley Lodge or nearby Wawona; campgrounds may require reservations well in advance.

Tips for Your Trip:

Book accommodations and any popular camping sites early, as spring is a busy season in these parks.
Start early each day to maximize sightseeing and avoid crowds.
Carry layers — desert parks can be warm, but mountains and high elevations can be chilly in April.
Keep water and snacks handy, especially during longer drives between parks.
National Park Pass: Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful annual pass — good for all parks you’re visiting and often saves money.

Overall, your itinerary is ambitious but feasible for a fit 60-year-old. Focusing more time on Yosemite and Grand Canyon is smart, as they are the crown jewels. Enjoy scenic drives, short hikes, and make sure to stop at key viewpoints — they’re often more breathtaking than long hikes!

National Parks Trip - April

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