Zion Weather in April: What to Expect and What to Pack
Monthly averages are NOAA 1991-2020 climate normals. Check the NPS alerts page for road and trail closures before you go.
By John Love I've been here · June 1985Facts checked against NPS.gov · Updated October 6, 2026April in Zion73°F days, 44°F nights at Zion Canyon (4,038 ft), with about 1.2 inches of precipitation. Mild days in the 70s and chilly nights. Snowmelt runoff often keeps the Narrows closed when river flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second.
How elevation changes the weather in Zion
Estimated average high and low for each area in April, highest first. Air cools about 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet you climb, so the same day can feel like two different seasons.
- 7,890 ftLava Point60° / 31°
- 5,100 ftKolob Canyons69° / 40°
- 4,000 ftZion Canyon73° / 44°
Estimates based on the long-term average at Zion Canyon (4,038 ft). Check the live forecast for each area above before you go.
April compared with the months around it
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Precipitation | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 66°F | 39°F | 2.0 in | 0.7 in |
| April | 73°F | 44°F | 1.2 in | 0.0 in |
| May | 84°F | 52°F | 0.8 in | 0.0 in |
April is 7°F warmer than March by day, and May warms another 11°F.
Weather hazards to plan for
- Flash floods in the Narrows and slot canyons, mainly during the July-September monsoon; storms 15-20 miles upstream can send floods into clear-sky canyons.
- Extreme summer heat in Zion Canyon, with highs often over 100°F in July and August.
- Lightning from afternoon thunderstorms in July and August, especially on exposed ridges and viewpoints.
- Ice on shaded trails and falling ice from cliffs in winter.
- Cold, high water in the Narrows during spring snowmelt; the route closes when flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second.
What to pack for Zion in April
Picked from Zion's average weather in April.
Nights average 44°F at Zion Canyon, and higher campgrounds run colder. A bag rated about 10°F below the low keeps you warm.
Shop at Coleman
With nights near 44°F, hot meals and drinks make mornings much easier. Stoves are usually allowed even when campfires are banned.
Shop at Coleman
Keep food sealed and cold at camp.
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Zion in April: questions
What is the weather like in Zion in April?
At Zion Canyon (4,038 ft), April averages 73°F by day and 44°F at night, with about 1.2 inches of precipitation. Mild days in the 70s and chilly nights. Snowmelt runoff often keeps the Narrows closed when river flow exceeds 150 cubic feet per second.
How cold does Zion get at night in April?
Nights average 44°F at Zion Canyon. Up at Lava Point (7,890 ft) expect it about 13°F colder, near 31°F.
Does it snow in Zion in April?
Not at Zion Canyon, where April averages no snowfall. Snow is still possible at the highest elevations.
How does April compare with March?
April averages 73°F by day, 7°F warmer than March, and May averages 84°F.
What should I wear in Zion in April?
Plan for layers you can add and remove: a fleece or light puffy for mornings and evenings. Check the forecast for each area you will visit a few days before you go.
More for your Zion trip
- Zion National Park guideFees, hours, maps, where to stay and a first-day plan.
- Best Time to Visit Zion National ParkWhen to visit Zion month by month: spring and fall weather, summer heat, monsoon flash floods, Narrows closures, shuttle season dates and quiet winter days.
- Angels Landing Permit Guide (2026)How the 2026 Angels Landing permit lottery works: seasonal and day-before dates, fees, group size, what the permit covers and where to hike without one.
Sources
- NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 U.S. Climate Normals: ZION NP, UT (Springdale/Zion Canyon) (USC00429717)
- Climate in Zion National Park (NPS chart)
- Weather and Climate - Zion National Park (NPS)
- Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter - Zion National Park (NPS)
- Current Conditions - Zion National Park (NPS)
- Visiting Zion National Park During Monsoon Season (NPS, 2026)
- Biophysical Description of Zion National Park (NPS)
- Lava Point Overlook (NPS)