April in St. George
Golden month. Everything in bloom.
75°F / 47°F
Picture-perfect conditions. Warm days, cool evenings. Ideal for all outdoor activities. The occasional spring breeze keeps things comfortable.
April in St. George is as close to perfection as desert living gets. Highs in the mid-70s, wildflowers still blooming, water warm enough for the first reservoir days. Every trail is prime, every patio is open, and the summer crowds haven't arrived yet. If you could only visit once a year, make it April.
Best Hikes
Every trail in the region is at its best in April. Longer days and warm-but-not-hot temps mean you can tackle bigger objectives.
Toquerville Falls
Toquerville Falls is a seasonal waterfall fed by snowmelt from the Pine Valley Mountains, and April is peak flow. The 60-foot cascade plunges into a red rock grotto that feels like a desert oasis. The approach requires a high-clearance vehicle (4WD recommended) on a rough dirt road, which keeps the crowds manageable.
The hike from the parking area to the falls is short (about half a mile), but the drive adds adventure. April snowmelt makes the falls impressive — by June they're often reduced to a trickle. Swimming is possible in the pool below, though April water is frigid.
The road is the crux. Don't attempt it in a sedan or after rain. If you have a capable vehicle, the upper parking area cuts the walk to 10 minutes. Otherwise, park at the lower lot and enjoy the longer but beautiful approach.
Ashdown Gorge Wilderness
About 90 minutes from St. George, Ashdown Gorge is a spectacular canyon hike that drops from the rim of Cedar Breaks into a narrow volcanic gorge. April timing is crucial — you need enough snowmelt to make the creek interesting but not so much that crossings are dangerous.
The full through-hike is a serious 12-mile undertaking requiring a car shuttle, but shorter out-and-back options from the lower trailhead let you experience the best of the gorge without the full commitment. The geology here is unlike anything closer to St. George — dark volcanic walls, towering ponderosa pines, and a rushing creek.
Call the Cedar City Ranger District before going to check water levels. In big snowpack years, April can be too early. The ideal window is when the creek is knee-deep at crossings — chest-deep means wait a few weeks.
Sand Hollow Rim Trail
The rim trail above Sand Hollow Reservoir offers a completely different perspective on this popular recreation area. Instead of being on the water, you're above it — walking along sandstone fins and ridges with panoramic views of the turquoise reservoir below.
The trail is about 6 miles round trip and follows cairns across slickrock. April's moderate temperatures make this exposed route comfortable, and the views of the reservoir with boats dotting the surface below are stunning. Few people hike this compared to those who boat — you'll likely have the trail to yourself.
Start from the northeast trailhead for the best views early in the hike. Bring more water than you think — there's zero shade on the slickrock sections.
Water Activities
April marks the start of water season. Reservoirs are filling, water temps are becoming tolerable, and rental shops are opening for the season.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding — Quail Creek
Quail Creek Reservoir is the best SUP spot in the area — warm water (it's the warmest lake in Utah), minimal wind in the morning, and stunning red rock scenery. April mornings before 10 AM offer glass-calm conditions perfect for beginners. The water is already comfortable for falling in, which takes the anxiety out of learning.
Rental shops in Hurricane offer boards by the hour or day, and most include a quick lesson. The reservoir is large enough to explore for hours, with hidden coves along the sandstone shoreline.
Quail Creek warms faster than Sand Hollow because of its depth profile. By late April the water is in the mid-60s — swimsuit weather for locals, wetsuit optional for visitors.
Sand Hollow Reservoir
Sand Hollow is the area's largest and most popular body of water, with its surreal turquoise color set against red sandstone beaches. April is the sweet spot — warm enough to enjoy the water but before the summer crowds descend. Kayaking, swimming, and fishing are all excellent.
The beach areas are sandy and spacious. Boat rentals are available from several outfitters in Hurricane. For a unique experience, snorkel the shallow areas near the rock formations — visibility is excellent and you can see the submerged sandstone landscapes below.
The "secret beach" on the north side of the reservoir requires a short walk but offers more privacy and better rock jumping spots than the main beach areas.
Events & Community
Farmers Market Full Swing
By April, the farmers market is in full swing with an expanded vendor lineup. Spring produce dominates — asparagus, strawberries, lettuce, radishes — alongside year-round staples like eggs, honey, and baked goods. The market becomes a weekly social event, and April's perfect morning weather makes browsing a pleasure.
Arrive between 8-9 AM for the best selection and the most pleasant temperatures. By 10 AM, the best produce is often gone and the crowds peak.