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12 National Park Spring Hikes You Don’t Want to Miss

Spring is a fantastic time to explore the natural beauty of national parks, and there’s no better way to do it than by hitting the trails.

Spring is actually my favorite season to visit most of the national parks and I’ve hiked dozens and dozens of trails. Here are some of my favorite must-do hikes this season:

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12 Stunning Spring Hikes in National Parks
12 National Park Spring Hikes for Your Bucket List
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12 National Park Spring Hikes You Don’t Want to Miss

1. Angels Landing – Zion National Park

peak with drop offs on both side and ridge in middle

Angels Landing is a challenging 5.4-mile round trip hike that offers some of the most stunning views in Zion National Park. The trail ascends through a series of switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles before reaching Scout Lookout. From there, the final half-mile is a thrilling (or ‘chilling’ depending on your tolerance for heights) climb along a narrow ridge with chains for support, culminating in panoramic views of Zion Canyon. 

Why Spring

Spring is an ideal time to hike Angels Landing due to the cooler temperatures and fewer people compared to the summer months.

⚠️ The trail can be icy in early spring, so it’s best to plan your hike for late April or May when the snow has melted and the trail is more accessible. 

My Thoughts

This hike is amazing, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort, offering a breathtaking perspective of Zion Canyon. However, the final 0.5 miles along the narrow ridge is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Be prepared for a strenuous climb and take your time on the more precarious sections. 

If you’re afraid of heights, you can still do most of this hike to Scouts Lookout.  I actually really like this part of the hike and recommend it even if you decide not to do the final section with the chain. 

Read More

You need a permit for the last 0.5 miles.  To get this, you need to enter a lottery.

➡️ Read my Guide to the Angels Landing Lottery for the full low down. 


2. Mist Trail – Yosemite National Park

a man pointing at a mountain indicating the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

The Mist Trail is a 3-mile round trip hike that takes you to two of Yosemite’s most famous waterfalls: Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. The trail starts with a steep ascent alongside the Merced River, leading to the base of Vernal Fall. From there, a series of granite steps take you up close to the powerful waterfall, where you’ll be enveloped in a refreshing mist. Continue on to Nevada Fall for even more spectacular views. 

Why Spring

Spring is the best time to hike the Mist Trail because the waterfalls are at their peak flow due to snowmelt.

⚠️ The trail can be slippery from the mist, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear. Early spring may still have some snow and ice, so late April to June is the best time to visit. 

My Thoughts

The Mist Trail is one of my favorite hikes in Yosemite. The combination of the roaring waterfalls and the lush greenery makes for a truly magical experience. The mist from Vernal Fall is cool, and the views from the top of Nevada Fall are breathtaking. You can often see rainbows in the mist at the bottom of the falls. 

 Just be prepared for a steep climb and bring a rain jacket to stay dry. 

Read More

Starting in mid-April, you need a timed entry permit to visit Yosemite on weekends and holidays (which changes to every day in summer). 

➡️ Read all the details in my Guide to the Yosemite Timed Entry System 


3. Bright Angel Trail – Grand Canyon National Park

View of Bright Angel Trail going along the cliffside inside Grand Canyon National Park.

The Bright Angel Trail is a classic Grand Canyon hike that offers incredible views and a challenging descent into the canyon. The trailhead is located at the South Rim, and the trail descends 4.5 miles to Havasupai Gardens (formerly Indian Garden), with options to continue further to Plateau Point or the Colorado River. The trail is well-maintained with rest stops and water stations along the way. 

Why Spring

Spring is an excellent time to hike the Bright Angel Trail because the temperatures are more moderate compared to the scorching summer heat. It’s extremely challenging and even dangerous in summer – and still hot in late spring!

⚠️ The trail can be icy in early spring, so it’s best to plan your hike for late April or May when conditions are perfect. 

My Thoughts

Hiking the Bright Angel Trail is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The descent into the canyon offers constantly changing views and a sense of adventure. For me, there’s nothing quite like being below the rim of Grand Canyon, surrounded by the towering walls. 

The trail is well-maintained, and the rest stops provide a welcome break.  

The climb back up is strenuous and challenging, so pace yourself and bring plenty of water.  If you’re day hiking, the NPS strongly advises going no further than Havasupai Gardens. I find that stopping frequently to enjoy the views (and take photos) helps maintain a nice slow pace. 

Read More

➡️ My Bright Angel Trail Guide has a full trail description. 

If you can get a reservation and are fit enough, I strongly recommend hiking all the way down to the Colorado River and staying overnight at Phantom Ranch. 

➡️ Read my Guide to the Phantom Ranch Lottery System to see how to do that.  


4. Cades Cove Loop Road – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

a sign on a stone fence with grass and tees at Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile one-way loop that offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains and opportunities to see wildlife. While it’s primarily a driving route, there are several hiking trails that start from the loop, including the popular Abrams Falls Trail, a 5-mile round trip hike to a picturesque waterfall. 

Why Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Cades Cove because the wildflowers are in bloom, and the wildlife is more active. The temperatures are mild, making for a comfortable hike.

⚠️ The loop can be busy on weekends, so visit during the week for a more peaceful experience. 

My Thoughts

Cades Cove is a beautiful area of the Great Smoky Mountains. The combination of scenic drives and hiking trails offers something for everyone. Abrams Falls is a lovely hike with a rewarding waterfall at the end. Just be prepared for some crowds and take your time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. 


5. Laurel Falls Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

View of waterfalls surrounded by trees in Laurel Falls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Laurel Falls Trail is a 2.6-mile round trip hike that takes you to one of the most popular waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains. The trail is paved and relatively easy, making it accessible for families and hikers of all skill levels. The waterfall itself is an 80-foot cascade that splits into an upper and lower section. 

Why Spring

Spring is an ideal time to hike the Laurel Falls Trail because the waterfall is at its fullest due to spring runoff. The surrounding forest is also filled with blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, creating a picturesque setting. 

My Thoughts

Laurel Falls is a beautiful and accessible hike that offers a great reward for relatively little effort. The waterfall is stunning, especially in the spring when it’s flowing strongly. The paved trail makes it easy for families and those with mobility issues to enjoy the hike. 

Read More

➡️ Best Hikes in Great Smoky Mountain National Park 


6. Old Rag Mountain – Shenandoah National Park

Old Rag Mountain Virginia Shenandoah National Park

Old Rag Mountain is a challenging 9-mile loop hike that offers some of the best views in Shenandoah National Park. The trail starts with a steep ascent through forested terrain before reaching a rocky scramble to the summit.

The final stretch involves climbing over boulders and navigating narrow passages, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. 

Why Spring

Spring is an excellent time to hike Old Rag Mountain because the temperatures are cooler, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

⚠️ The trail can be crowded on weekends, so plan your hike for a weekday to avoid the crowds. Be prepared for some snow and ice in early spring, and aim for late April to May for the best conditions. 

My Thoughts

Old Rag Mountain is one of my favorite hikes in Shenandoah. The rocky scramble to the summit is challenging and fun, and the views from the top are absolutely stunning. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is unmatched. Just be prepared for a strenuous hike and bring plenty of water and snacks. 

Read More

You need a reservation for this hike between March and November. 

➡️ Read Which National Parks Require Reservations for more details. 


7. Devils Garden Trail – Arches National Park

View of Huge rock formations and some bushes in Devils Garden in Arches National Park.

The Devils Garden Trail is a 7.2-mile loop hike that takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes in Arches National Park. The trail features several arches, including Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural rock spans in the world. The trail is relatively flat but includes some sections of rock scrambling and narrow ledges. 

Why Spring

Spring is the perfect time to hike the Devils Garden Trail because the temperatures are moderate, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

⚠️ The trail can be crowded, so start early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds. 

My Thoughts

The Devils Garden Trail is my favorite hike in Arches National Park. The variety of arches and rock formations along the trail is incredible, and the views are constantly changing.

The trail is divided into different sections.

The first one to Landscape Arch is easy; the second section to Double O Arch is not too hard, but does have one section where you have to walk across an exposed sandstone fin.

You can return the same way or continue on the more challenging primitive loop which has some fun sections of rock scrambling. Just be prepared for the desert environment and bring plenty of water.

➡️ If you do this, read my Guide to Reading Trail Markers first.  

Read More

➡️ Read my full Devils Garden Trail Guide for much more information about this trail. 


8. Skyline Trail – Mount Rainier National Park

skyline trail with mount rainier in background and meadows in foreground

The Skyline Trail is a 5.5-mile loop hike that offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscapes. The trail starts at the Paradise Visitor Center and ascends through alpine meadows, offering stunning views of wildflowers and glaciers.

The trail reaches Panorama Point, where you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. 

Why Spring

Spring is a beautiful time to hike the Skyline Trail because the wildflowers are in bloom, and the temperatures are mild.

⚠️ Snow can linger into early summer, so aim for late spring for less snow and more flowers.

My Thoughts

The Skyline Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s hard to describe just how beautiful it is. The views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscapes are absolutely stunning, and the wildflowers add a splash of color to the trail. The trail’s moderately challenging, but the views from Panorama Point are well worth the effort.  

Be prepared for snow in the early season and bring appropriate gear.

➡️ Read my Guide to the Best Microspikes for Hiking if you need to buy some. 

Also – the highlight of this trail is the views, so if you possibly can, do it on a clear day.  

Read More

➡️ My full Skyline Trail Guide has more information about this hike. 


9. Hoh River Trail – Olympic National Park

Hoh River Trail Olympic National Park 1

The Hoh River Trail is a lush, 34.8-mile round trip hike that takes you through the heart of the Hoh Rainforest. Don’t worry – you don’t have to do the full hike! 

The trail follows the Hoh River, passing through dense, moss-covered forest and offering views of Mount Olympus. You can easily hike a shorter section of the trail for a day hike or go the full distance to Glacier Meadows for a multi-day trek. 

Why Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to hike the Hoh River Trail because the rainforest is at its most vibrant. The cool temperatures and frequent rain showers create a lush, green landscape filled with blooming wildflowers and ferns. 

My Thoughts

This hike is like stepping into a fairy tale. The dense, moss-covered trees and the sound of the river create a magical atmosphere. The trail is relatively flat and easy to hike, making it accessible for all skill levels. This is my favorite Hoh Rainforest hike (I prefer it to the more popular Hall of Mosses Trail). 

⚠️ The one downside is that spring is rainy, so be prepared for rain and bring waterproof gear. 

Read More

➡️ My Guide to the Hoh River Trail has information on common places to turn back for different hike lengths.  


10. Emerald Pools | Kayenta Trails – Zion National Park

a river running through a canyon on Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park

The Emerald Pools Trail is a 3-mile round trip hike that takes you to three beautiful pools: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools.

The main trail starts at the Zion Lodge and ascends through a lush canyon, offering stunning views of waterfalls and pools surrounded by greenery. The trail is relatively easy, with some sections of rock scrambling. 

You can also reach the Emerald Pools on the Kayenta Trail, which leaves from The Grotto shuttle stop.

Why Spring

Spring is the perfect time to hike the Emerald Pools Trail and/ or the Kayenta Trail because the waterfalls and pools are at their fullest due to the spring runoff. The trail is cooler and less crowded compared to the summer months, making for a more enjoyable hike. 

My Thoughts

I really like this hike.  It’s not as famous as the Angels Landing Trail or The Narrows (which are often closed in spring due to high water levels).  But the combination of waterfalls, pools, and lush greenery makes for a truly magical experience.  

The trail is relatively easy and the views from the pools are well worth the effort. But bring plenty of water. 

Read More

➡️ Best Hikes in Zion National Park 


11. Dark Hollow Falls Trail – Shenandoah National Park

a waterfall in a forest: Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park

The Dark Hollow Falls Trail is a relatively short but steep 1.4-mile round trip that leads you to one of the park’s most popular waterfalls. The trail descends through lush forest to the base of the 70-foot Dark Hollow Falls, offering several viewpoints along the way. The sound of rushing water and the sight of the cascading falls surrounded by spring greenery make this hike a memorable experience for all ages.  

Why Spring

Spring is the perfect time to hike the Dark Hollow Falls Trail because the waterfalls are at their most impressive due to the spring runoff. The melting snow and frequent spring rains ensure that the falls are flowing robustly, creating a beautiful and vibrant scene. 

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this hike.  It’s a lovely trail, running alongside a creek for much of the time. The falls are not the tallest, but are multi-layered and very pretty.

⚠️ One thing to consider is that you start with a hike down and end up hiking back uphill – and it’s uphill the entire way. 

Read More

➡️ Best Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
➡️ Best Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park 


12. Queen’s Garden-Navajo Loop – Bryce Canyon National Park

Rock mountains and hoodoos surrounded by trees in Bryce Canyon National Park.

The Queen’s Garden Navajo Loop Trail is a 2.9-mile loop hike that takes you through the heart of Bryce Canyon’s iconic hoodoos. The trail starts at Sunset Point and descends through Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon, or Two Bridges (another slot canyon that forms the other side of the Navajo Loop) before ascending back to the rim through the Queen’s Garden to Sunrise Point. 

Why Spring

Spring is a great time to hike the Navajo Loop Trail because the temperatures are cooler, and the trail is less crowded compared to the summer months.

⚠️ Snow can linger into early spring, so late April to May is the best time to hike for optimal conditions. 

My Thoughts

I can’t tell you how much I love this hike. The hoodoos and rock formations are absolutely stunning, and the trail offers a unique and immersive experience. The hike is relatively short but includes some steep sections, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.

‼️ I actually recommend doing this in reverse and starting on the Queen’s Garden Trail and then ascending the Navajo Loop.  The climb is steeper, but the views are better. 

Wall Street is the steepest and most iconic half of the Navajo Loop, but the Two Bridges side passes the famous Thor’s Hammer, so even if you climb Wall Street, I recommend going down part of the way of the Two Bridges trail to see this hoodoo.

Read More

➡️ Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park 


Conclusion: Spring into Spring 

These spring hikes offer a variety of experiences, from challenging climbs to serene walks, all showcasing the beauty of national parks in the springtime. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, there’s a hike for you. Happy trails!

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12 National Park Spring Hikes You Don’t Want to Miss

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12 National Park Spring Hikes for Your Bucket List
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About the Author

James Ian at Yosemite

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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