Planning a spring trip to Utah’s national parks can feel… overwhelming. There are so many trails. So many “must-dos.” And honestly? Not all of them are worth your time – especially in spring, when snowmelt, flash floods, and crowds can change everything.
If that’s where you’re stuck, I’ve got you.
I’ve hiked my way through Utah’s parks in every season – muddy in Moab, sunburned in Zion, blissed-out in Bryce – and I’ve made my fair share of “why did I pick this trail?” mistakes. In this post, I’m sharing the three spring hikes I personally return to again and again. I’ll tell you what I loved, what I didn’t love, and the little details that make a big difference.
This guide is especially helpful if you’re a first-timer or a casual hiker who wants the best of Utah’s spring scenery without spending days combing through trail reports. If you want unforgettable views and manageable mileage – and you like knowing what you’re actually getting into—you’re in exactly the right spot.
And here’s your teaser: my #1 Utah spring hike is Queen’s Garden + Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon. Those hoodoos glow like they’re lit from within on crisp spring mornings. It’s unreal – and it’s just the start.
I also make sure each recommendation gives you something unique – quiet corners, surprising scenery changes, and tips most visitors don’t know.
Ready to plan something special for your Utah spring adventure? Let’s get going.
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Table of Contents
5. Angels Landing – Zion National Park
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.
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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.
4. Cassidy Arch Trail – Capitol Reef National Park
Cassidy Arch is a rewarding 3.1-mile round-trip hike that delivers one of the most dramatic destinations in Capitol Reef National Park. The trail climbs steadily up sandstone benches before leveling out along wide sections of slickrock. Unlike many arch trails where you admire the formation from a distance, Cassidy Arch lets you walk right on top of it, offering sweeping views down into the canyon below and a uniquely adventurous experience.
Why Spring
Spring is an ideal time to hike Cassidy Arch thanks to the cooler temperatures and clearer visibility. The exposed slickrock can be brutally hot in summer, but spring keeps the climb comfortable and the views bright and crisp.
⚠️ The trail can be muddy or hold lingering snow patches in early spring, especially after storms, so late April and May are typically the best months for the most reliable conditions.
My Thoughts
This hike is fantastic – fun, scenic, and a little bold without being overly technical. Standing on top of an arch is a rare experience, and Cassidy Arch delivers that thrill without requiring extreme climbing skills. The steady uphill is a workout, but the open slickrock and canyon views make it feel enjoyable rather than exhausting.
If you prefer hikes with a destination that truly feels special, this one is worth every step. Even if you’re not totally comfortable with heights, most of the trail is wide and manageable, and the final approach to the arch is less scary than it looks in photos.
3. Devils Garden Trail – 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.
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➡️ Read my full Devils Garden Trail Guide for much more information about this trail.
2. Emerald Pools | Kayenta Trails – 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.
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➡️ Best Hikes in Zion National Park
1. Queen’s Garden-Navajo Loop – 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.
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➡️ Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park
Do you have any other favorite trails for hiking in spring? I’d love to hear about them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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About the Author
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, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.