Spring is one of the most rewarding times to hike—the snow starts melting in the mountains so couloirs are more accessible, wildflowers burst into bloom at lower elevations (and peaks in the summer for high altitude mountain wildflowers), and desert trails come alive before the heat sets in. April-May are the best time to explore the Southwest Desert in my opinion. On this page, you’ll find my personal spring hiking trip reports across multiple states. Some of these trails are also great in summer or fall, but this list will give you a sense of the best timing, conditions, and scenery to expect in spring.
If you’re planning a trip and want extra guidance, I also offer custom itinerary planning and consultation calls—you can schedule one with me here. Or follow me on Instagram @followtiffsjourney for me trip inspo and ideas.
California Spring Hikes
- Climb the Mountaineers Route on Mount Whitney 14,505 ft
- White Mountain Peak: California’s Easiest 14er and 3rd Highest Peak
- Darwin Falls Hike in Death Valley
- All Southern California Trails are great in the Spring!
Colorado Spring Hikes
- Mount Sanitas: Short but Steep Hike Near Boulder Colorado
- Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail: Best Hard Hike Near Denver
- Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout (Formerly Squaw Mountain Fire Lookout)
- Dragon’s Tail Couloir – Colorado Snow Climb in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Hike to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Roxborough State Park’s Best Hike: Fountain Valley Trail
- Manitou Incline
- Kreutzer Nature Trail in Poudre Canyon
- Devil’s Head Lookout: Classic Fire Tower Hike Near Denver Colorado
- Nederland Colorado: 19 Best Things To Do & Ultimate Guide
- Mee Canyon Alcove Hike: Hidden Gem In Fruita Colorado
- An Outdoor Enthusiasts Guide To The Colorado National Monument
Utah Spring Hikes
- Canyonlands Packrafting and Backpacking Trip: Ultimate Guide to Explore All 3 Districts
- Slot Canyons You Need to See in the American Southwest
- Leprechaun Slot Canyon
- How to Visit Moonscape Overlook Utah: A Hidden Gem Near Hanksville
- Marlboro Point in Utah: Moab’s Hidden Gem for Epic Views
- Toadstool Hoodoos: A Quick and Easy Hike to Otherworldly Rock Formations in Utah
- Things To Do in Kanab Utah
- Arches National Park Photos
- Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park
- The Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
- Visit St. George UTAH: 4 State Parks and Other Hidden Gems
- Hidden Pinyon Overlook in Snow Canyon State Park
Arizona Spring Hikes
- Best Hikes in Sedona You Cannot Miss
- Arizona/ Sedona Road Trip: Trails, Camps, & Things to See
- The Wave, North Coyote Buttes: Permit & Hike Info
- Paddle to Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell in Arizona