april road trip

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

11 Scenic American Road Trips to Take This Spring

From coastal drives to national parks, these U.S. road trip ideas are perfect for a spring vacation.

When the weather warms up and the late winter rains turn trees green and fields into wildflower wonderlands, it’s the perfect time to take a drive.

Whether your preferred landscape is mountains, deserts, forests, plains, or coastal views, there’s a spring road trip in the U.S. for you. Explore historic sites, regional food, wineries, or nature, all from the front seat.

We’ve put together a few suggestions, starting in exciting locales and ending in beautiful destinations, with hundreds of scenic miles in between. We cover national parks, where spring presents the ideal time between summer crowds and winter cold, as well as jaunts through marshes, mountains, and springtime blooms.  

There’s flexibility built into these suggested itineraries, with possible extensions if your schedule allows. It’s always a good idea to download your route from Google Maps to use offline or pack a paper map just in case you find yourself out of range.

Pack up the car, and away we go. These are the best American road trips to take this spring.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Nothing beats a U.S. national park in the springtime, and that's doubly true on the West Coast. A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park could span 50-plus miles if you drive straight through. Plan on spending at least four hours traversing the park, as you’ll want to take detours to enjoy panoramic views, climb massive rock formations, stroll through the cactus garden, marvel at an oasis, and find the perfect Joshua Tree landscape for your souvenir photos.

There are several ways to enter the park, but let’s say you’re starting in Palm Springs. Drive East on I-10 for about an hour to Cottonwood Springs Road (exit 168) and the park’s south entrance. Your first stop will be the visitor center for a map, and then on through the Colorado Desert environment, around sea level. You’ll see ocotillo, with their tall branches tipped by bright red blossoms. Stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden and walk along its paths, but don't get too close to the prickly plants.

Soon you’ll see the “tree” that gave the park its name. Legend has it that early Mormon settlers likened its branches to arms outstretched in prayer, so named it after the biblical figure, Joshua. Take a side trip to the Keys View overlook — with an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it provides a striking panorama of the Coachella Valley. As you wind through the park on its well-paved roads, you’ll notice campsites, picnic tables, wildlife, and an increase in elevation to the cooler Mojave Desert environment as you head toward the west entrance off Highway 62 in Joshua Tree Village. The highway meets I-10 — from here, head west toward Los Angeles or east toward the Coachella Valley.

Miami to Key West, Florida

With its abundance of wildlife and beaches, the Florida Keys is one of the best spring break destinations for families and can easily be explored by car. This drive covers about 150 miles, but the timing depends on your stops along the way. Take US-1 south, heading through historic Coconut Grove, past the University of Miami, and along either South Dixie Highway (US-1) or Ronald Reagan Turnpike (toll road). After passing the farms between Homestead and Florida City, continue on US-1 South, which turns into the Overseas Highway . Look for mile marker 126 to help you count down the distance to Key West.

Key Largo will be the northernmost town of the Keys and possibly your first stop. Spend some time at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the first undersea park in the country, which offers snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and more.

Islamorada is part of the Middle Keys, a favorite of fishing fans, and a great place to shop for souvenirs. Then, it's onto Marathon Key , a city set on 13 islands, known for loggerhead turtles and its Dolphin Research Center . South of Marathon, US-1 crosses the Seven Mile Bridge which links Marathon with the Lower Keys.

Enjoy the view of the surrounding waters as you drive across the bridge, and look over at the original railroad bridge, severely damaged in 1935’s hurricane season, commemorated in the Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada. On the other side of the bridge, you'll see the palm-fringed beaches of Bahia Honda State Park . You may want to stop and explore the wildlife at the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key before reaching your destination of Key West. Enjoy the laid-back ambience of this unique town, stroll along Duval Street, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum .

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The wildflowers in Shenandoah National Park are spectacular, making Virginia a worthy spring road trip destination. Skyline Drive takes you 105 miles through the park along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. About an hour and a half drive from Washington, D.C., this route through nature is the perfect contrast to the capital’s museums and monuments (though the D.C. cherry blossoms are worth a peek, too). Waterfalls, spring flora, hiking trails, wildlife, picnic areas, and 75 scenic overlooks will add hours of enjoyment to your park visit, so take your time on this popular road trip.

Starting at Front Royal on US-340, one of the park’s four entrances , the road climbs to Dickey Ridge (mile 4.6), where the visitor center provides exhibits, maps, and an orientation film. Mileposts on the west side of the road beginning with 0.0 at Front Royal help locate points of interest along the way. They continue to 105 at the southern end of the park at Rockfish Gap. Take your time and stop at the well-marked scenic overlooks, starting with the Shenandoah Valley Overlook at mile 2.8, where you can see the Shenandoah River as it winds through the valley. The Hogback Overlook at mile 20.8 is the longest viewpoint in the park and offers vistas of the Allegheny Mountains on a clear day.

Continue enjoying the panoramic views from the various overlooks, stop for a short hike, or learn more about the park at the Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center. It's located at milepost 51 across from Big Meadows, an open area with campgrounds and spring wildflowers. At the Bearfence Mountain parking lot at mile 56.4, hikers can take a trail to the summit for a 360-degree view. Where Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap, the Blue Ridge Parkway , a trip of nearly 500 scenic miles, begins.

Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana

Although parts of these two national parks are 100 miles apart, it’s possible to visit them both in one trip. You may want to stretch it over a few days, though, to really take your time sightseeing. Grand Teton National Park , at nearly 310,000 acres, is near the Wyoming town of Jackson, with Jackson Hole Airport located within the park at the base of the Teton Mountains. Just north, Yellowstone National Park covers over two million acres, with its famous geysers, mud pots, and hot springs.

Spring in Grand Teton sees the annual wildlife migration, with elk, bison, deer, and moose heading for their summer homes. The park’s mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers come alive after the winter thaw, and wildflowers usually begin to dot the landscape in May. Be sure to stop at one of the visitor centers in the park to learn about its history, wildlife, and environment. You may want to spend a night before setting out on the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway toward Yellowstone.

Heading north, you’ll be entering Yellowstone at the southernmost of its five entrances. You’ll pass Lewis Lake and waterfalls on your way to the Grant Visitor Center . Be sure to check the park’s website or convenient app regarding road conditions, especially in early spring. Head west to the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to learn about the famous geyser and see it erupt. Watch for the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. If time allows, you can continue your national parks road trip by heading farther north to Glacier National Park in Montana.

Seattle to Newport, Oregon

You may find Seattle a bit rainy in the spring, but you'll likely see fewer crowds and lower prices. After dining on seafood, strolling through Pike Place Market, and seeing the sights over Puget Sound, head southwest towards the Oregon coast and the lovely town of Astoria. The trip begins on I-5 and is about 180 miles, passing enormous pine trees, green forests, and charming towns. It takes about three and a half hours until you cross the four-mile Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River and enter Astoria. There, you should spend the night and take some time exploring in the morning.

Astoria is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, close to the Pacific Ocean, and the Maritime Museum’s displays show the challenges of ships navigating the area. Once a center of fur trading and canneries, Astoria’s historic homes still stand, and the town almost seems lost in time. Don’t miss the view from Coxcomb Hill and the Astoria Column , dedicated in 1926 to honor Astoria’s early settlers.

Set out from Astoria along US-101, heading south along Oregon’s coast, and plan for many stops along the way at observation points, towns, state parks, beaches, or simply to enjoy breathtaking views of rugged coastline and crashing waves. Ecola State Park , with its sandy beach, tide pools, picnic areas, and hiking trails would be an appealing place to stop. Other beaches, wildlife preserves, and fishing villages will beckon you along the way, turning the 133-mile trip from Astoria into a full day. Relax in Newport, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium , and dine on fresh seafood at sunset as you decide on your next stop. Willamette Valley wineries? Portland? More coastal towns? State Route 20 heads inland and US-101 continues south for your next adventure.

Rapid City to Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Rapid City is not only a great destination in itself, with art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s also the gateway to Mount Rushmore, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site , and Badlands National Park , where this road trip will take you. Fossil beds, rugged mountains, wildlife, and striking rock formations create a unique environment.

The park is about 60 miles east of Rapid City, and South Dakota Route 44 is a scenic road through open prairie, farms, small towns, and ranches along Rapid Creek, a tributary of the Cheyenne River. You’ll drive through the Buffalo Gap National Grassland before reaching the entrance to Badlands National Park, two miles north of the town of Interior on Highway 377. From there, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway (SD-240) takes you through the park along 31 miles of stunning scenery that includes buttes, cliffs, spires, and overlooks where you’ll be amazed by the stretch of landscape before you.

Plan to spend several hours among the varied terrain and scenic beauty. Hike one of the many trails, and stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and geology. Don’t leave without a stop at Pinnacles Overlook , especially striking at sunset. To return to Rapid City, take SD-240 west to the town of Wall and then head west on I-90 for a quicker route.

New York City to Cape May, New Jersey

There’s always something to do in New York City, and after you’ve seen the shows, walked through the museums, and had your fill of the best bagels, get behind the wheel and head south along the Jersey Shore. You’ll probably leave the city via the Holland Tunnel to cross under the Hudson River to New Jersey. Stay on Route 78, and then take I-95 after you cross Newark Bay. After Perth Amboy, take the Garden State Parkway for a more scenic drive closer to the coast. Whew! You're out of the city.

The entire route is around 160 miles, and you’ll pass through some well-known beach towns worth a jaunt off the Parkway, so allow plenty of time. Asbury Park is where Bruce Springsteen got his start, and other beach towns, long popular as summer getaways, include Belmar, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, and towns on Long Beach Island, a narrow barrier island that parallels the coast. Take Route 9 when it branches off around Toms River for a more scenic route closer to the ocean. Atlantic City, home to hotels, restaurants, casinos, beaches, and its historic boardwalk is next along your route. Stop at Steel Pier , a 1,000-foot amusement park offering rides, games, and food.

Nearing the southernmost end of New Jersey, you’ll reach Wildwood , a resort city with Adventure Amusement Pier , 1950s-style motels, diners, and retro entertainment. Just a bit further, but seemingly a world away, Cape May offers Victorian-style homes, quaint cottages, boutiques, galleries, and history dating back to the 1600s. Walk among its historic buildings and spend a night in one of its inns or bed and breakfasts before returning to New York or continuing south on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry , which can accommodate cars.

New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Once you’ve had your fill of beignets and oysters Rockefeller in New Orleans, consider a springtime getaway up the road to Louisiana’s capital. This southern road trip is only about 100 miles, but with so much history and beauty along the way, you should plan on making it a full-day trip. 

Take I-10 west out of town and I-310 south to LA-18, a scenic road that hugs the Mississippi. Stop at cemeteries, churches, and any picturesque places along the way that catch your eye. Then, merge onto LA-3213 N, cross the river, and make a slight left onto US-61 N to pass through Gonzales, also known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” The town has a festival dedicated to the dish every May and several Cajun restaurants like The Jambalaya Shoppe .

Get on I-10 W in Prairieville from US-61 N and follow it for about 25 minutes to Baton Rouge. Enjoy some time in the city, and perhaps spend the night after your long day of driving. You might consider touring the LSU Rural Life Museum , which documents the cultures of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans. For a faster return, take I-10 east, or continue west on I-10 to Lafayette, Lake Charles, and beyond.

San Antonio to Austin, Texas

If you happen to be in San Antonio in April, don’t miss Fiesta , a celebration dating back to 1891 that honors the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with parades, flowers, food, and entertainment. Enjoy the River Walk and restaurants while you plan your Texas-style road trip to the state capital of Austin. Wildflowers and the spring landscape make this meandering drive one of the most beautiful routes to Austin (just don't expect it to be the quickest). Head west on I-10 out of the city, and then west on I-410 to TX-16 north (Bandera Road) for a scenic drive through Hill Country.

The town of Bandera , home to dude ranches and farms, was once a center for cattle drives, hence its nickname, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” From there, head north on TX-173 and TX-16 to Fredericksburg , a Texas city with a German heritage dating back to its first settlers in the mid-1800s. Wineries and authentic German cuisine make this an attractive stopping point. If you have time, stop in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to see its pink granite dome and striking rock formations.

Austin is about 80 miles east on US-290, but if there’s time for one more detour, you might want to visit Pedernales Falls State Park , just six miles north of US-290 about halfway to Austin. Known for entertainment, food, and nightlife, Austin is called the “Live Music Capital of the World.” You may want to spend a night to see what it’s all about. When it’s time to leave, you can take a direct route back to San Antonio on I-35 south, making the trip in under an hour and a half.

Phoenix to Flagstaff, Arizona

Spring is lovely in Phoenix, with April temperatures around the mid-80s. Flagstaff, at 7,000 feet of elevation, sees cooler average temperatures in the 60s and 70s during spring. The drive begins on I-17 north through the Sonoran Preserve and continues through the desert landscape for an hour before reaching our first suggested stop, Arcosanti . The experimental community is considered one of the best small towns in Arizona due to its futuristic and eco-conscious architecture, so set aside an hour or two to explore.

Then, continue up I-17 to the Montezuma Castle National Monument . These well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings were the homes of the Sinagua people for more than 400 years.

Continue northeast on I-17, then take AZ-179 north to Sedona along the Red Rock Scenic Byway , with about eight miles of stunning scenery that includes rugged sandstone rock formations tinted red by the presence of iron. Spend some time in the small town, explore the shops and restaurants, or hike among the rocks to feel the energy some refer to as vortexes.

Take AZ-89A north toward Flagstaff, but don’t miss Slide Rock State Park , especially during wildflower season. In just over 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Flagstaff, home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Explore the historic downtown on a walking tour and rest there for the night before heading back to Phoenix or on to Grand Canyon National Park , Wupatki National Monument , Petrified Forest National Park , or one of the other national or state parks accessible from the gateway of Flagstaff.

Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake, California

Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images

No list of spring road trips would be complete without one of the most beloved — the Rim of the World Scenic Byway . The 110-mile trip takes drivers along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains from one breathtaking view to the next.

Begin at Cajon Pass off Interstate 15, about an hour east of Los Angeles on Interstate 10. This drive takes you through some of the most scenic spots in California’s Inland Empire area, with plenty of photo opportunities at lookouts like Lake Silverwood Scenic Overlook  off State Highway 138.  

If there’s time to spend in Lake Arrowhead, off State Route 173, we highly recommend a tour on the  Lake Arrowhead Queen paddle-wheel boat  to get a good look at the lake and its scenic shores. Stay overnight at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for a relaxing evening of waterfront dining and alpine views from its private beach.

Join State Route 18 for your drive east toward Big Bear. Embrace your mountainous surroundings and stay at one of the chic cabins at Noble + Proper . Go for a hike on the  Castle Rock Trail  to catch unparalleled views of Big Bear Lake. Before you head back to L.A., grab a poke bowl and orange-guava smoothie at Tropicali , Big Bear’s popular restaurant on the Rim of the World with Hawaiian-style trappings. 

Top 20 Amazing Places to Explore in April in the USA

I think April is one of the best months to explore the country to find a bit of early sun and shake off those winter blues. Springtime is also one of the most beautiful times to travel, as this is when the weather gets warmer, and flowers are coming into bloom.

Whether you fancy a balmy city break or a hot beach vacation, here are my favorite spots to explore this month…

1. Naples, Florida

I think this place is just so dreamy! Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is ideally situated to laze on the beach, escape to the Everglades or Ten Thousand Islands wilderness, or watch the Chubb Classic, one of the PGA events this month.

This month’s weather is warming up (around 20 degrees), but it has not hit the extremes of summer. With low rainfall and accommodation rates off-peak, so in my opinion it’s a great time to visit! 

In addition to tranquil white beaches and adventures in the adjoining nature preserves, there is excellent shopping and dining.

Naples is easily accessible from Miami along the famous Tamiami Trail. I also love that it’s a quieter and more laid-back place to stay after the craziness of Miami!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1010 Sixth Ave. S. Naples, FL 34102, Phone: (239) 262-7300
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a kayaking eco-tour and exploring the beautiful coastal mangrove forests.
• Relaxing on the stunning white sand at Vanderbilt Beach before catching a breathtaking sunset.
• Visiting the Naples Botanical Gardens home to over 170 acres of preservation land and cultivated gardens.

2. Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country, just west of Austin, with its dramatic limestone and granite hills, is a scenic destination at any time of year.

Still, late March and this month are my personal must-go times, as this is when the area comes alive with carpets of wildflowers, especially Texas’ State flower, the bluebonnet, primroses, and Indian paintbrush.

I recommend exploring the region’s unique food. The food has a strong German heritage and Spanish influences, also seen in the architecture and local music. It’s also a key wine region, with over 80 wineries.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
• Average temperatures – 15 to 26 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Hiking to the Hamilton Pool and enjoying a picnic by the natural spring pool before taking a dip.
• Cycling along the Willow City Loop whilst admiring the picturesque countryside and bluebonnet fields.
• Walking the Texas Wine and Wildflower Trail and enjoying a complimentary tasting! 

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around the USA’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

3. Santa Catalina Island, California

Part of the Channel Islands of California (22 miles off Southern California), I honestly believe this gorgeous spot is one of the best islands to visit in spring.

For starters, there’s the stunning island scenery before the summer crowds arrive, and this time of year has a much more relaxed atmosphere.

The weather averages around 17 degrees in the day, and once there, I would highly recommend just kicking back and waiting for island life to take hold! 

It’s a rocky but very scenic island with white sand beaches, palm trees, a cute harbor filled with gently bobbing boats, and jaw-dropping sunsets. There are also plenty of accommodation options.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, Phone: +1 310-510-1520
• Average temperatures – 17 degrees
• Experiencing the exhilarating Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour which reaches speed of nearly 40 mph at 600 feet above sea level!
• Exploring the outback on an open-air four-wheel tour to discover remote areas others don’t usually see.
• Taking part in a Happy Hour Tour where I tasted award-winning appetizers and speciality drinks.

4. Sedona, Arizona

As you would expect of a city in Arizona, the climate can be extreme, so this month is an excellent time to visit as temperatures hover around 25 degrees.

Desert flowers bloom, and the hills resound with spring birdsong, making it a special time for hikers and bikers.

The red sandstone rocks of nearby Red Rock State Park pick up the rays of the rising and setting sun and glow as if they were on fire; my Instagram followers loved it! 

The legendary Oak Tree Canyon meanders between Sedona and Flagstaff, and I would suggest adding this popular touring and hiking destination to your itinerary!

I personally have a huge fondness for the town as its favorite artist’s location, some of whom conduct workshops.

I suggest visiting some of the many spas and retreats, where you can restore and revive yourself surrounded by the area’s beauty. To me, staying here is always pure bliss! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Sedona Visitor Information Center, 331 Forest Road, Sedona, AZ, 86336, Phone: 928.282.7722
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees
• Hiring an ATV and driving across the scenic West Sedona Canyon outback.
• Catching a stunning sunrise whilst enjoying a hot air balloon ride overlooking the Red Rocks.
• Strolling Uptown Sedona to explore the shops, boutiques, and Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village.

5. Antelope Valley, California

I’d recommend visiting here for the beautiful California poppies that bloom in spring! Like all wildflowers, it depends on rainfall and temperature, so it isn’t easy to guarantee when they will be displayed.

However, this month is a pretty good bet if you want to see the poppies in Antelope Valley, as they bloom somewhere between March and May .

The state flower is celebrated in a Spring Festival, and in my opinion, the best time to view the miles of brilliant color is mid-morning when the flowers have warmed up and unfolded their petals. I promise you’ll love seeing the colors going on for as long as your eye can see!

I’d also suggest visiting nearby Lancaster City, an interesting place with a rich aviation and space travel history.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 37765 53rd St E, Palmdale, Phone: (661) 361-8254
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees

My highlights…

• Walking through the trails of the Poppy Reserve to admire the Instagrammable views of the vibrant wildflowers.
• Checking out the fun events and rides at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds.
• I learned about history and appreciated local artists’ works at the Lancaster Museum of Art and History .

6. Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii has only two seasons: summer (or Kau, from May to October) and winter (or Hooilo, from November to this month). At this time of year, there is much to see and do, from watching surfing competitions to exploring the dramatic scenery.

I would recommend the awe-inspiring coastline of Nā Pali in northwest Kauai, with views of dramatic razor-sharp mountains and rocky terrain, except for drivers, for the shore is too rugged to contemplate building a road along it.

For the adventurous, I would highly recommend trying the incredible hiking trails and kayaking tours, while there are catamaran and helicopter trips for those who are not so daring. There are also stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and even archaeological sites! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Kikiaʻola Small Boat Harbor, Kekaha, HI 96752, Phone:  +1 808-635-1131
• Experiencing the 17 miles of the coast from a different perspective by taking a sailing tour.
• Enjoying the adventure of a lifetime with a helicopter ride overlooking the dramatic cliff.
• Hiking along the Kalalau Trail to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and greenery. 

7. Tidal Basin, Washington DC

This is a famously beautiful spring break. Head to the Tidal Basin in Washington DC, and you’ll see the pretty blossom trees, which were a gift from Japan in 1912!

The historic trees signal the beginning of spring and have an average peak bloom date that falls in this month. I highly recommend taking a trip to see them as the trees explode into a wonderful sea of light pink and white blossoms.

Around 70% of the cherry blossom trees’ flowers are open around the 4th, but sometimes the bloom peak occurs as late as the 18th of the month. The bloom lasts around 14 days but is well worth seeing, and I suggest taking your camera! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1501 Maine Ave SW, Washington, Phone (202) 479-2426
• Average temperatures – 19 degrees
• Enjoying a bike ride along the stunning loop and array of national monuments.
• Renting a paddleboat and enjoying some time spent relaxing on the calm water.
• Spending the day at the National Cherry Blossom Festival and seeing live entertainment amongst the flowers.

8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

A few miles south Of Yellowstone and part of the Rockies, the Teton Range is a majestic range of mountains separated from the plains of Jackson Hole by a dramatic fault. The Snake River meanders through the range and is fed by several of the lakes in the area.

The skiing season closes towards the end of March/beginning of this month. It is too early for the summer crowds, so in my opinion, it’s an excellent time to visit this beautiful place (I would suggest just wrapping up warmly as it’s still very chilly this month!).

A single visit will not do the Park justice, as there are over 300 km of hiking trails to explore and conquer.

The mountains are vast and awe-inspiring, and I love spotting wildlife here, including large herds of bison and other animals living in this unspoilt wilderness. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address (for post only): Grand Teton National Park, P.O. Box 170, Moose, WY 83012-0170, Phone: 307-739-3300
• Average temperatures – 8 degrees
• Taking a scenic drive to Signal Mountain and seeing picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake (it’s okay for all ages and ability levels).

9. Bisti Badlands, New Mexico

I think these rather forbidding plains, with their bizarre rocky outcrops, are a gem in New Mexico .

The fossils here are impressive, and new dinosaur species are still being unearthed. The “Bisti Beast,” for example, was discovered in 1998, a new tyrannosaurus species.

As recently as 2017, the skull of a Parasaurolophus cyrtocristatus, a strange-looking duck-billed dinosaur, was found, only the second of this species! 

I personally think that this month is a good crossover time to visit. Between the rigors of winter and the heat of summer, it is comfortable to hike or wander among the rocks.

Temperatures hover around 19 degrees here, so it’s perfect for long hikes. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 3041 E. Main Street, Farmington, Phone: 800-448-1240
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees
• Hiking along the Bisti Badlands Trail and discovering the cool Cracked Eggs rock formations.
• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot of the unique Alien Throne along the Valley of Dreams Loop.
• Exploring the short Ah-shi-sle-pah Trail and seeing the dramatic hoodoo views.

10. Palm Springs, California

I love this place for sun and hot weather this month, as temperatures reach 31 degrees. It has always been famous as a retreat for showbiz stars, retirees, and snowbirds escaping cold winters.

There is entertainment, spas, and shopping aplenty, as well as many retro-styled hotels and about 100 golf courses. There are lots of other opportunities, especially for outdoor experiences.

The area is well-provided with hiking trails, but I highly recommend going on a fun Jeep adventure and cultural experiences like the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum .

I would also suggest taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which rotates on its short journey to Monte San Jacinto State Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Palm Springs Visitor Information Center, 2901 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 800-347-7746 | 760-778-8418 
• Average temperatures – 31 degrees
• Strolling down the city sidewalks to discover the famous Palm Springs Walk of Stars, created in 1992.
• Checking out the Palm Springs Art Museum, which displays contemporary and modern art and I loved the stunning sculpture garden.
• Wandering through the Sunnylands and explore 12 acres of beautiful botanic gardens.

11. Port Townsend, Washington

Located in Jefferson County, around two hours from Seattle , Port Townsend, in my opinion, is a good choice if you’re looking for a relaxed spring break without any crowds.

This month, temperatures average around 14 degrees, so I recommend packing warm clothes before you leave. But it will be worth it!

The city has long trails and beaches, fine restaurants, fantastic art and cultural experiences, and a fascinating maritime history.

I personally loved the Point Wilson Lighthouse , The Jefferson Museum of Art and History , and The Fort Worden State Historical Park .

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2409 Jefferson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, +1 360-385-2722
• Average temperatures – 14 degrees
• Buying fresh, local produce and artisan products from a Farmer’s Market.
• Indulging in a beer and wine tasting at Port Townsend Vineyards and Port Townsend Brewing.
• Walking the beautiful čičməhán Trail, where you can find 3-, 6- or 12-mile loops.

12. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

Located just an hour from Denver , Colorado Springs is home to the Garden of the Gods , a significant attraction with scenic sandstone rocks. This month, the snow may not yet have melted on Pikes Peak, which overlooks the Park, adding more impact to the dramatic scenery.

I recommend stopping at the Visitor and Nature Centre, which includes an interactive museum.

Several trails, about 20 km long, are available, including the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which is accessible for wheelchairs and prams.

You can walk, cycle (or Segway), or even take a Jeep ride (my favourite!), and afterwards, I would suggest refreshing yourself in the cafeteria and just taking in the views.

Dogs are also welcome on leads, and there are even some areas where they can walk off-leash. This is also a popular and challenging spot for rock climbing, but permits are required.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, +1 719-634-6666
• Going on a fun segway tour and exploring the Garden.
• Climbing across the surrounding large carved rocks.
• Stopping by the hip and healthy Bean Sprouts Cafe for a bite to eat after my adventures.

13. Miami, Florida

Miami is the world’s playground, with something for everyone, from nature lovers and golfers to compulsive shoppers and nightclubgoers.

It is always hot and humid, but this is a great time to visit because it’s cooler, there is less rainfall, and temperatures can reach around 26 degrees.

I love that its proximity to Cuba and the rest of the Caribbean gives it a tropical and exotic flavor quite different from that of much of the country. 

I recommend celebrity spotting around South Beach (or in their hideouts in Coral Gables) and exploring the Everglades or the other preserves, like Big Cypress.

South Beach is also a must-visit for Art Deco fans, and I also suggest visiting quieter beaches such as Bal Harbour or North Beach.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131, Phone: (305) 539-3000
• Average temperatures – 26 degrees
• Taking a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride overlooking the breathtaking Miami skyline.
• Spending the day at Sunny Isles Beach and enjoy some swimming, diving, and water sports in the cooling waters.
• Going on a tour of Miami’s most well-known film set locations.

14. Flint Hills, Kansas

This is a special place to visit as grasslands are shrinking worldwide, mainly because they provide excellent land for cultivation.

The prairies of North America and the life they support are steadily being restored and protected but have mainly been converted to farmland.

Spring brings warmer weather, rain, and sunshine, so in my opinion, it’s a vibrant and verdant time to visit. Elks are now extinct in the area, but the bison herds are starting to come back.

I highly recommend standing on the slopes and gazing at the grasslands, which have looked exactly like this for thousands of years and are still home to birds and animals that thrive in the prairie! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 315 S 3rd St, Manhattan 66502, Phone: +1 785-587-2726
• Taking a free bus tour of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and learning about the culture whilst admiring the gorgeous scenery.
• Appreciating paintings from famous artists Judith and Ken Mackey Flint Hills Gallery.
• Enjoying a road trip through the National Scenic Byway, which is 48 miles long and is home to many historical sites and quaint towns.

15. San Diego, California

I personally think this month is a great time to visit San Diego as it’s much less crowded, there is still plenty of sun, and temperatures hover around 20 degrees.

Most people flock to “Beach City” for family fun on the beaches. Mission Beach is a good swimming beach, with a boardwalk and rollercoaster, but I recommend checking out the tidal pools at La Jolla, when the tide is low, and snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, part of the Underwater Park.

If you’ve had too much sun, I would suggest heading for Balboa Park, where you would need at least a week to explore, taking in the 18 diverse museums or some cultural events. The Air and Space Museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian and has something for kids of all ages.

I would suggest tasting some Baja cuisine, dancing the night away in one of the nightclubs, or viewing one of the many shows on offer.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, Phone: (619) 236-1242
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees
• Having fun at Belmont Park is filled with exciting rides and adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters.
• Catching one of San Diego’s best sunsets at La Jolla Cove, a perfect spot for Instagrammable shots.
• Exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaslamp Quarter, filled with bars, lounges, and music venues.

16. Nantucket Island, Massachusetts

Nantucket was once a thriving whaling center. Even though the population today is only 11,000, it can swell into 50,000 during peak tourist season, so in my opinion, the shoulder months are an excellent time to visit.

Nantucket is reached by ferry from Cape Cod, a 30-mile trip. I suggest visiting this month because it is off-peak, accommodation prices are more affordable, and it is also during the daffodil season.

The flowers are growing everywhere, and the locals go daffodil-crazy for the whole month, which includes car parades, picnics, and daffodil dress-up competitions.

I would recommend visiting the Whaling Museum (although thankfully, most people are against the cruelty of catching whales now!) and walking, cycling, or even catching a bus to view the historic buildings dotted around the island. There are also guided tours.

If you have children with you, there are plenty of family-friendly activities for them, from beaches to boat rides. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Nantucket Department of Culture & Tourism. 25 Federal Street, Nantucket, MA 02554, Phone: 508-228-0925 Fax: 508-325-5443
• Average temperatures – 13 degrees
• Renting a bike and exploring the island’s 35 miles of multi-use paths. 
• Visiting the three historic lighthouses – Sankaty Head Light, Brant Point Light, and Great Point Light.
• Spending the afternoon shopping downtown, home to many cute boutiques and independent stores.

17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a small but fast-growing city on the South Carolina coast that attracts around 20 million tourists a year. It offers a warm climate and welcoming beaches.

In my opinion, this month is a great time to visit, as it is a bit quieter than March when Ontarians flock to Myrtle Beach to escape their weather. 

It is also when the “Coastal Uncorked” festival of food and drink is held, and I would highly recommend timing your visit for then (it’s towards the end of the month).

The resort has 80 golf courses on offer, as well as nightclubs, theatres, and concerts. However, the warmth and the long sandy beaches bring most tourists to Myrtle Beach again and again! 

I love the Boardwalk, and it’s one of the best in the country. It’s great for a stroll along the coastline, or if you need a rest, hop on the SkyWheel and view the beaches and the Atlantic Ocean.

There is also a water park and an amusement park for the kids, which is a bonus! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1200 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, Phone: +1 843-626-7444
• Average temperatures – 22 degrees
• Checking out the Hollywood Wax Museum and posing with some of my favorite A-listers.
• Enjoying a stroll along the boardwalk that is 1.2 miles long and filled with fun attractions, rides, shops, and restaurants.
• Going on a thrill-seeking adventure in the five-acre forest treetops at the Radical Ropes Adventure Park.

18. Caddo Lake, Texas and Louisiana

This beauty spot is located in Texas and Louisiana; in my opinion, it’s one of the region’s best-kept secrets.

Attracting families, couples, nature lovers, and wildlife watchers, plenty of vacation accommodation rentals exist, including camping spots, cabins, bed and breakfasts, and some nearby hotels.

In Caddo Lake State Park, you can swim hike, picnic, camp, or stay in a cabin, look for a geocache, but I highly recommend boating.

However, be warned—alligators live in the park. Read up on the area’s alligator safety tips before your visit!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 245 Park Road 2, Karnack, Phone: (903) 679-3351
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Renting a kayak and exploring the water trails to discover the unique landscape.
• Taking an early morning boat tour and watching a romantic sunrise or sunset over the lake.
• Camping overnight at a beautiful shore-side campsite.

19. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, North Carolina

If you are planning a springtime road trip, I suggest that you include this spot—all 755 kilometers of it—on your list, as it takes you through scenic areas of North Carolina and Virginia.

The parkway is closed during winter but opens in spring again. Despite the closure, it has been one of the country’s most-visited parks since 1946.

There are attractions en route, and I recommend stopping at the visitor centre, but in my opinion, what makes the Parkway unique and special is its fantastic biodiversity.

Whether it is the 4000 species of plants, over 250 bird species, or the chance of spotting black bears ambling along, this is a nature watcher’s hotspot!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803, Phone:+1 828-298-5330
• Hiking the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls via a park trail.
• Taking a trip to one of the local vineyards and experiencing world-class wine tasting.
• Visiting the Blue Ridge Music Center, which hosts several music events at its outdoor concert venue.

20. Bar Harbor, Maine

Although temperatures aren’t the warmest (average temperatures hover around 12 degrees in the day) I personally think there are many reasons to visit Bar Harbour, a town on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s Frenchman Bay in Maine this time of year.

For starters, you’ll get good deals on accommodation as it falls before the summer peak season, and you’ll also arrive before the crowds arrive.

I’m a huge fan of this place. I love that the scenery is quaint and beautiful, with gorgeous coastal beauty. I love the bobbing yachts and boats, the incredible ocean, the neighbouring island views, and the atmospheric weather, which ranges from sparkling sunlight to thick fog and mist.

I think Bar Harbor is a relaxing destination, as well as being the gateway to the mountains and the rugged scenery of nearby Acadia National Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, Phone: +1 207-288-5103
• Average temperatures – 12 degrees

My favourite highlights…

• Hopping on Oli’s Trolley to explore Bar Harbor with a narrated tour.
• Grabbing food at Geddy’s on the main street and admiring the view overlooking Frenchman Bay.
• Discovering the stunning landscape along the coastline via an e-bike rental at Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop.

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

California in April: 17 Best Places to Visit for a Spring Vacation (2024 Guide!)

California in April is simply breathtaking. The Golden State is gorgeous any time of year, but in our opinion, spring is the best time to enjoy the best of California’s renowned natural beauty.

California’s hills turn a beautiful bright green in the spring, following rainy winter months. Wildflower displays can range from good to sensational. Blooming trees adorn gardens, parks, and roadways.

Wide-ranging opportunities for outdoor recreation, generally fog-free days along the coast, and pleasant daytime temperatures in many parts of the state mean that you have plenty of choices when it comes to enjoying California in April.

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

Savor the freshest of spring produce in California’s farm-to-table restaurants. Chase raging waterfalls or colorful wildflowers. Take a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway. Go skiing in the Sierra Nevada. Admire spring bloom in the Golden State’s many gardens.

We can’t think about April in California without the urge to get out and explore every single day, even if it’s just a local drive or hike! It’s just that beautiful a month in the Golden State.

Planning to visit California in the spring? Read on to discover what to see and do in California in April, plus the most famous events you can attend in April in California!

We also have guides for California in October , California in July , and California in December , if you are planning to visit at another time of year.

1. Big Sur in April

If you are a nature lover or outdoor enthusiast, plan a visit to Big Sur in April.

On clear spring days, the coast that’s legendary for its beauty is even more jaw-dropping, and it’s enormously uplifting to drive the coast, do some Big Sur hikes , or even simply be in Big Sur.

In the spring, the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean is a riveting dark blue, the coastal cliffs of Big Sur are alive with color, and the Santa Lucia mountains are draped in a fresh bright green.

While you may have a sprinkling of rainy days in wet years, you’re more likely than not to have clear dry days in Big Sur in April.

The Big Sur coast features a string of lovely state parks, each one of which is a magical place to explore.

Hike the easy and scenic trails in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , drink in the wild beauty of Big Sur in Garrapata State Park (where you may see the Calla Lily Valley in bloom!), or do the short trek to McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

For a stroll among towering coastal redwoods, head to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can also picnic by the Big Sur River or hike to Pfeiffer Falls.

A little south of the park, you will find Pfeiffer Beach , where you can snap photos of the stunning Keyhole Rock or look for purple sand.

Bixby Bridge is a must-stop photo spot, and in the southern section of the route, Ragged Point offers stunning views.

Even if you are just planning to drive through Big Sur, April is a beautiful month for a Big Sur road trip .

Waterfalls are in great flow, and bush lupine, poppies, and other spring wildflowers put on a brilliant show of color on cliffsides and along trails.

Out in the ocean, you may see whales spouting and sea birds flying over the water. Sunsets can be spectacular.ly colorful

If you enjoy long distance running, the Big Sur International Marathon happens in April each year. It’s a very popular event, so register early if you want to participate.

2. Monterey in April

Monterey is a super popular getaway in California, no matter the time of year.

But as locals, we love exploring Monterey in April, when lupines and poppies adorn hillsides, grape vines in the region are budding, and clear days allow for enjoying Monterey’s many beautiful beaches .

Since the towns of the Monterey peninsula are clustered close together, it’s easy to zip from Monterey to Carmel-by-the-Sea or Pacific Grove , do the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, or enjoy wine tastings in Carmel Valley , all in one weekend!

But it’s also a region where you can enjoy a longer spring break, with lots to see and do.

While whale-watching is spectacular in Monterey year round, April-May is peak season for seeing killer whales in Monterey Bay.

You may also see humpbacks, gray whales (perhaps even babies, since adults and calves are on their way to the Arctic at this time of year), dolphins, and other marine life.

April (and May) are also when you are most likely to witness the “magic carpet” of wildflowers in Pacific Grove: at its peak, the display of pink-purple flowers is a sight to behold.

April is a wonderful time to walk the coastal Asilomar trail and to enjoy water activities such as kayaking in Monterey Bay.

In April, Pebble Beach Food & Wine offers a weekend of tastings, cooking demos, and dinners by famous chefs. It’s an event no foodie wants to miss!

The Sea Otter Classic, a four-day cycling event generally held in April each year at the Laguna Seca Raceway, draws cycling enthusiasts from all over the world.

3. San Diego in April

With near-perfect weather (daytime temps in the high 60s and low 70s Fahrenheit and mostly sunny days!) and lots to see and do, San Diego is one of the best places to visit in California in April.

Hiking, sightseeing, water activities, a great food scene and more make San Diego a fun destination, whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family.

If you are looking for spring bloom in San Diego, head to Balboa Park, the museums and gardens complex in downtown San Diego.

Among the dozen or so Balboa Park gardens to discover, the Japanese garden, with its magnolias and cherry blossom, and the rose garden, with its many varieties, are especially beautiful in the spring.

A few miles north of San Diego, ogle the brilliant color displays at the Carlsbad Flower Fields. With over fifty acres of ranunculus in many different colors, the fields are sensational in April.

If you are traveling with kids, Carlsbad is also where you will find LegoLand, and u-pick strawberry fields at Carlsbad Strawberry Company.

Cabrillo National Monument , located on the Point Loma Peninsula, and Torrey Pine State Natural Reserve in La Jolla, offer hiking trails with views, marine life viewing and birdwatching, and spring wildflowers.

Enjoy the balmy spring weather at one or more of the many beautiful beaches in the region.

Spring is a wonderful time to kayak the waters of La Jolla Shores. Visit the famous La Jolla Sea Caves, and look for leopard sharks in the water! You can bring your own craft or join a guided tour .

If you love ogling unique vehicles, you’ll want to visit the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance , held each April. The event includes music, food, and dancing!

4. Lake Tahoe in April

April is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe. The crowds of winter have left, but many Tahoe ski resorts stay open until some time in April (and even beyond, depending on snowfall levels), so you can still get in some great winter sport action, while enjoying the sensational views in relative solitude.

Plus, accommodations around Lake Tahoe tend to be cheaper at this time of year.

No matter when you visit Lake Tahoe, a sightseeing cruise on a paddlewheeler is a great idea! It’s a relaxing way to take in the spectacular beauty of your surroundings, and you can pick from a daytime cruise or a sunset cruise.

In April, the mountains around the lake will still be covered in snow, making for a magical experience.

Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding are other options for getting out onto the water to soak in the scenery. Especially in the mornings, the lake surface is like glass, and you can see right down into the depths. It’s a surreal feeling.

Spring mornings in Tahoe are quietly beautiful, ideal for a reflective paddle.

Waterfalls in California are at their majestic best in the spring. If you enjoy hiking, put the trail to Eagle Falls on your April itinerary for Lake Tahoe. The trailhead is close to South Lake Tahoe, and the hike isn’t very long. The scenery along the trail is spectacular.

In North Lake Tahoe, the scenic Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop is short and family-friendly.

Enjoy scenic drives? Do the loop around the lake, with stops to view picture-perfect Emerald Bay or to enjoy the boardwalk trail and beautiful beach at Sand Harbor, on the Nevada side.

The adventurous can try a helicopter tour for breathtaking aerial views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.

5. Yosemite National Park in April

One of the best places to visit in California in April is Yosemite National Park.

The park’s legendary waterfalls are flowing powerfully at this time on account of snow melt, and the weather is usually good, although it can still snow or rain in April in Yosemite.

Plan your spring sojourn in Yosemite National Park well in advance: it’s one of the most popular times to visit the park, and accommodations in Yosemite Valley, where you would ideally want to stay, can fill up months prior.

Although parts of the park can feel crowded in April, the valley looks its best then. Plan on early wake-up times to beat the crowds!

You will want to view Yosemite’s major waterfalls on an April visit, from Yosemite Falls, which tumbles close to 2,500 feet down the cliff face, to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls, accessed via the famous Mist Trail.

Bridalveil Fall is another popular Yosemite waterfall.

If you aren’t up for hikes, or trails aren’t open yet, many of Yosemite’s waterfalls can be seen from viewpoints.

Hiking opportunities in Yosemite in April tend to be limited to lower elevation trails.

Mirror Lake or the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail offer excellent views of Yosemite’s towering granite faces, such as Half Dome and El Capitan. The Hetch Hetchy area is generally open for hiking in April.

If you do happen to run into bad weather on an April visit to Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Museum is a great place to learn about the park and the region. It is the first ever structure built as a museum in the national parks system.

The Ansel Adams Gallery in the park houses many of the famous photographer’s original works.

6. Solvang in April

The cute Danish-themed town of Solvang is one of our favorite spring destinations in California.

Downtown Solvang is very walkable, and features photogenic facades and planters bursting with colorful tulips and other spring blooms. The Santa Ynez Valley, of which Solvang is a part, is extremely scenic in the spring.

Daytime temperatures in Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley tend to be in the high 60s in April, making it a wonderful time to wander outdoors.

Explore the historic Old Mission Santa Inés, one of California’s 21 Spanish missions . The grounds are beautiful and offer expansive views of the valley.

Solvang, and other valley towns like Santa Ynez and Los Olivos, offer lots of choices for dining and sipping. While each town has tasting rooms, there are also many lovely wineries in the countryside around the towns you can tour.

And the region is famous for its restaurants, many of which feature farm-fresh locally sourced ingredients.

The Figueroa Mountain area, a wilderness area near the Santa Ynez Valley, is well-known for wildflowers in the spring.

California poppies, lupines, buttercups, wallflowers, bush lupine, blue dicks, and numerous other varieties can be seen here, and the displays are gorgeous in a good bloom year.

Nearby Nojoqui Falls flows most powerfully in early spring, so be sure to include the waterfall in your April itinerary for Solvang. The 80-foot waterfall can be accessed via a short hike, just 0.65 mile round trip.

From downtown Solvang, the drive to the falls is about 6.5 miles.

7. Sonoma in April

Sonoma County is one of the best places to visit in California in the spring. In April, you will find the countryside a fresh bright green, with grape vines budding and wildflowers everywhere: along country lanes, in local parks, and on the hillsides.

If you love gardens, rejoice! You will find many beautiful gardens to tour in Sonoma County, some that are especially stunning in April.

Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve, located just south of Gualala on the coast, dazzles with pink blooms in the spring: walk the loop trail to view the blooms and take in all the wildflowers as well.

Sonoma Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen features lots of rare wild roses, many of which bloom only once, in the spring. Enjoy many other Asian species in the park, some rare and endangered.

In Healdsburg’s Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Rose Company is a must-visit in April (and May) for their fragrant Perfume Harvest Tours!

Wine tastings are always fun in Sonoma County, but even if you do not much enjoy wine, there are many beautiful wineries in Sonoma to tour for their architecture and gardens.

Ferrari-Carano Winery in Healdsburg is famous for their spring display of several thousand tulips. Many wineries have produce gardens to browse as well.

One of the best things to do in Sonoma County is eat! Sonoma restaurants are known for incorporating all the bounty of local farms, dairies, and other food producers into their menu offerings, and in April, you’ll enjoy the best of what spring has to offer in the county. The salads we have eaten in Sonoma are some of the most flavorful ever.

There are always events to attend in Sonoma County, and April is no exception. Battle of the Brews in Santa Rosa is a one-day event featuring dozens of food and beer vendors.

In Sebastopol , the two-day Apple Blossom Festival has a parade with floats and marching bands. Apple trees in bloom around the little town are a sight to savor as well!

8. Mammoth Lakes in April

Although the mountains are covered with snow, you will likely have lots of bright sunshine when you visit Mammoth Lakes in April.

Other than the occasional spring snowstorm, the days are usually dry, with highs in the mid to high 50s, so as long as you pack and dress smart, you will love being outdoors in Mammoth Lakes in April.

Mammoth Mountain still has tons of snow in the spring, so you’ll be able to enjoy winter sports in Mammoth Lakes in April, from downhill skiing to snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more.

In some seasons, the Mammoth Bike Park is open in April, allowing you to experience some of the biking trails.

Lower elevation trails start to open up in April, so you may be able to enjoy hiking in Mammoth Lakes in April as well! Locals call this season “swinter”: a delicious mix of winter and summer when snow is still on the ground but wildflowers are peeking out by the sides of roads and trails and on hillsides.

Highway 395 south of Mammoth Lakes is fun to drive in the spring.

Just south of Mammoth Lakes you will find Convict Lake , one of the most beautiful lakes in California. You can drive right up to the lake and walk around its shore. Also make a stop to see the beauty of Hot Creek Geological Site .

Do a day trip to the little town of Lone Pine , where April is a great month to explore the rock formations of the Alabama Hills . It’s an incredibly beautiful area. The Movie Road drive is super scenic and the Mobius Arch loop hike is short and family-friendly.

Bishop , along the way, has a lively downtown, with a famous bakery for sweet treats, and lots of unique murals to admire.

9. Morro Bay in April

While we’ve chosen Morro Bay for this round-up, you really can’t go wrong with any of the charming little Central Coast towns for a spring vacation: San Luis Obispo , Paso Robles , Pismo Beach , or even tiny Cayucos or Cambria make for great April getaways in California.

The towns of the Central Coast are set close enough together that you can make one your base and explore others as you wish.

Montana de Oro State Park in Los Osos, just south of Morro Bay, is a must-visit in the spring, when a variety of coastal wildflowers bloom. Walk the super scenic Bluff Trail for fabulous views, both of the ocean and the swathes of wildflowers.

We love Morro Bay for the fabulous wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

Even walking the Embarcadero, you will see cute otters playing in the waters, or water birds looking for food in the shallows. You can hear sea lions barking as they catch the sun, and raptors flying or roosting overhead.

Be sure to pack your binoculars or zoom lens when you visit!

There are many easy hikes in and around Morro Bay, with beautiful views and birdwatching. In the spring, you will see wildflowers as well. Hike the Marina Peninsula Trail to snap photos of the harbor.

Just south of Morro Bay, the Elfin Forest in Los Osos makes for a scenic and easy walk: the pale blue blooms of the bush lupines at Bush Lupine Point are stunning.

If you enjoy beautiful drives, California Highway 1 north and south of Morro Bay is incredibly scenic in the spring, with wildflowers brightening up lush green hillsides and gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.

California Highway 46 is also very picturesque, with lots of vineyards on either side of the road, and ample wildflower viewing.

On bright and sunny April days, Morro Bay’s many pristine beaches are irresistible. Walk Morro Strand Beach, or explore the rocks and go tidepooling at North Point Beach.

The annual Morro Bay Kite Festival happens in April, and is fun for the whole family.

Pro Tip: If you visit Morro Bay or SLO in a spring superbloom year, pack a picnic lunch and head out to Carrizo Plain National Monument for a few hours, for a wildflower show like you’ve never seen anywhere. April is generally when peak bloom occurs at Carrizo Plain.

10. Napa Valley in April

April is one of our favorite months to visit Napa Valley . Daytime highs are in the high 60s and low 70s, and the winter rains have all but gone, making it near-perfect from a weather standpoint.

Evenings are still a little cool, ideal for enjoying outdoor wine tastings by the heat of a patio lamp, or indoors by a cozy fireplace.

Many Napa Valley wineries boast beautiful gardens, and spring is a great time to view the bloom.

Far Niente, for example, offers 13 acres of lush gardens, with spring color from tulips and azaleas. Deciduous trees are putting forth bright green leaves at this time, and vines are budding.

If you enjoy walking in nature, try the trails in Boothe-Napa Valley State Park, where the flowing creek and spring wildflowers make for very enjoyable hiking in April.

For a more challenging adventure, try the Stevenson Memorial Trail to the top of Mount St. Helena for fabulous 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, lush and green in the spring.

Drive the scenic Silverado Trail through the valley. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a local park or at a winery. Enjoy a spa day in Calistoga, renowned for its restorative mud baths and mineral springs. Take in the public art in the towns.

For an aerial view of the valley in the spring, the adventurous can book a hot air balloon ride .

Napa Valley is famous for its focus on farm-to-table cuisine, and many area restaurants develop spring menus around the fresh flavorful seasonal produce.

In some cases, the veggies, flowers, and herbs are grown on farms or gardens right at the restaurants, and you can stroll the gardens before or after your meal.

April is Arts Month in the Napa Valley. Wineries, galleries, and museums offer up lots of art events to enjoy, with the focus on a different Napa Valley town each weekend in April.

11. Joshua Tree National Park in April

April is one of the best months to visit Joshua Tree National Park , one of the nine incredible national parks in California .

April highs in Joshua Tree are generally in the 70s to low 80s, and lows in the 50s, making it great weather to hike or go rock climbing in the park. If you plan to camp inside the park, reserve well in advance!

Although wildflower bloom in the park tends to vary by year, you can generally expect some wildflower bloom in April at higher elevations in the park.

Ryan Mountain Trail is an excellent hike for wildflower viewing in April. Keys View Road and Lost Horse Valley are other wildflower spots to visit at Joshua Tree in April.

The southern part of the park, near Cottonwood Springs, is a good place to look for wildflowers in the early part of April: you can sometimes see large swathes of beautiful purple mat in this area.

Ocotillo, which you can see along Pinto Basin Road, throw out brilliant red flowers in the spring. Yucca (and other succulents) may be in bloom at this time as well.

April is a great month for hiking in Joshua Tree National Park . The park has trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

Hidden Valley Trail and Barker Dam Trail are our favorite nature trails at Joshua Tree: they are short and very scenic. If you plan to do some of the longer, more strenuous hikes, be sure to start early in the day and carry plenty of drinking water.

Rock scrambling and climbing are fun things to do in Joshua Tree no matter when you visit.

Learn about the area’s history by touring historical sites like Keys Ranch.

If you stay overnight in the park or nearby, be sure to return after dark to observe the night sky. On clear cloudless nights, night sky gazing in Joshua Tree is spectacular.

12. Los Angeles in April

Los Angeles is an exciting California destination all year long, and April is no exception.

With gardens, museums, beaches, and parks to explore, shopping, and great dining, the LA area is one of our favorite California spring break destinations.

The city is spread out, so pick a part of the LA metropolitan area to visit, to avoid spending lots of time sitting in traffic.

LA gardens are bursting with bloom in the spring. The Huntington in Pasadena, Descanso Gardens, the gardens at Getty Villa and the Getty Center, and the Japanese Garden in Van Nuys are all magnificent in April, with wisteria, roses, and numerous other varieties of spring blooms.

As the entertainment capital of the world, LA offers a huge number of options when it comes to entertainment in April, from musical performances and theme parks to comedy, theater, film, and sporting events.

Knott’s Berry Farm celebrates Boysenberry Fest for three weeks in March and April, fun for kids and adults alike. Disneyland in a super popular California spring break destination.

Area botanic gardens and parks are great places to view spring wildflowers.

In a superbloom year, it’s worth making the drive to Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve to see the spectacular wildflower show.

Eight miles of trails traverse the rolling hills, allowing you to view the bloom and snap photos. Peak bloom varies by year, but April is a good time to visit.

The L.A. Times Festival of Books is held annually in April on the USC campus. Authors and literary groups put on talks and performances, and lots of booksellers offer sales. Food trucks are on hand so bring your appetite!

The town of Lancaster (near the poppy reserve) hosts the California Poppy Festival in April.

Pasadena hosts an art fair in April, and Newport Beach a boat show.

13. Palm Springs in April

April is a fun time for a Palm Springs getaway, whether you are planning a long break or a Palm Springs weekend .

Daytime highs can get into the 80s, but mornings and evenings are very pleasant from a weather perspective, making it possible to still enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking and horseback riding.

And April is perfect for lounging by the pool at your hotel or vacation rental.

In good bloom years, you can see wildflowers blooming in canyons and oases in the Palm Springs area in early April.

Cacti and succulents bloom in the spring as well, so plan a visit to the Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage. There is a wildflower meadow here as well, and plenty of birds to observe.

Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Mount San Jacinto State Park, where the temperature is often 30 degrees cooler than on the desert floor and you will likely still see snow on the ground.

Drive the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway for more wildflower and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Downtown Palm Springs is fun year-round. Stroll Palm Canyon Boulevard, enjoy shopping or browsing at numerous boutiques and art galleries, and savor outdoor dining at some fabulous eateries.

For more downtown fun, head to El Paseo in nearby Palm Desert. Enjoy a spa day at one of many area spas.

The Greater Palm Springs area offers two acclaimed music festivals in April, held over three consecutive weekends: the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the Stagecoach Country Music Festival.

These mega-fests draw huge crowds to the area, so books accommodations and dinner reservations well ahead of your visit.

And if you are planning a couples getaway, be sure to check out these fabulous romantic hotels in Palm Springs !

14. Sacramento in April

An underrated California travel destination, Sacramento is a joy to visit in the spring, with dozens of parks, the Sacramento River, and many landmarks. Daytime temperatures are generally in the 70s or low 80s, great for wandering outdoors.

The International World Peace Rose Garden is a must-visit in Sacramento in April. The half-acre garden at the California State Capitol features dozens of varieties of roses and is a wonderful place for a morning stroll.

The UC Davis Botanical Garden, just a short drive from downtown Sacramento, is another great place to visit for spring blooms, including wildflowers and spring-flowering trees.

Old Sacramento, with its historic buildings and unique shops, is fun to explore. Sacramento River cruises depart from here as well.

In Midtown, visit Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, where you can tour historic buildings and the park museum. Midtown is also home to a thriving entertainment and dining scene.

Visit the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park with its opulent interiors and gorgeous gardens.

Museum buffs will want to head to the Crocker Museum of Art to view the impressive collection of California art and more. Railroad enthusiasts can take a ride aboard a vintage train at the California Railroad Museum.

About an hour and a half away is North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve, perfect for an April day trip.

In good bloom years, you’ll see vast swathes of wildflowers here, in yellow, orange, gold, purple, pink, and white. Bring a picnic lunch, lather on the sunscreen, and enjoy the show!

15. San Francisco in April

San Francisco in April is beautiful, and usually fog free! Daytime temperatures are generally in the 60s, perfect for sightseeing.

With area gardens in bloom, hiking trails to enjoy, and lots of events to attend, you will love the City by the Bay in the spring.

Head to the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park to see cherry blossom in bloom! It is one of the best Bay Area gardens you can visit.

In the early part of the month, you may still see tulips in bloom at the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden. Also be sure to stop by the stunning Conservatory of Flowers, and take in the display of rhododendrons at the San Francisco Botanic Garden.

There are lots of places to go hiking in the spring, in and around San Francisco.

The short downhill hike to Marshall Beach is perfect if you want to snap photos of the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.

North of San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais State Park is lush in the spring, with lots of wildflowers, bubbling creeks, and roaring waterfalls, and the park offers both hiking and mountain biking.

Spring is a great time to visit Muir Woods National Monument , just north of the city, for a quiet walk among the redwoods.

Point Reyes National Seashore , also just north of San Francisco, features lots of trails and spectacular wildflower displays in good bloom years. The short Chimney Rock hike is known for wildflowers in the spring.

In the city, take a ride on a historic San Francisco cable car, have a picnic on the grassy green at Alamo Square (home to the famous Painted Ladies), and sample spring menus at city eateries.

Brunch in San Francisco presents the delicious dilemma of having to pick from a plethora of topnotch places, no matter when you visit.

For two consecutive weekends in April, you can celebrate Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown in San Francisco, with a parade, music, dance, tea ceremonies, and food.

The San Francisco International Film Festival, also an April event, is the longest-running film festival in the Americas.

16. Santa Barbara in April

There’s no bad time of year to visit beautiful Santa Barbara , but you may be able to score less expensive accommodations in early spring.

With gardens in bloom in and around the city, lots of wildflower-fringed trails to explore, and seasonal dining, Santa Barbara in April is magical!

Daytime temperatures tend to be in the high 60s or low 70s in April, with lots of sunshine.

With a light (but warm) jacket for breezy times by the water and for early mornings and late evenings, you’re all set to explore the city in the spring, whether you are planning a Santa Barbara weekend or a longer trip.

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden contains a wildflower meadow with views of the Santa Ynez mountains. When the meadow is in peak bloom in the spring, it’s a stunning sight.

The rest of the garden is lovely as well, with manzanitas, redwoods, and succulents. Many succulents bloom in the spring as well.

Cycling Cabrillo Boulevard is a fun activity for the whole family. Enjoy beach time at one or more of many beautiful beaches, from the large East Beach to Butterfly Beach in Montecito. Explore the harbor in a kayak, or take a sightseeing cruise.

Tour historical sights, like the Presidio and the Santa Barbara Mission.

Take a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley, where you will find spectacular wildflower displays on Figueroa Mountain in good bloom years. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Santa Barbara you can do.

Closer to the city, hiking trails above Montecito and Summerland also offer wildflower viewing in April. Drive out to Lompoc to see cultivated flowers in bloom.

April is National Kite Month, and Santa Barbara has a kite festival in April to celebrate. The one-day event offers prizes, food, and fun for adults and kids alike.

If you enjoy local history, check out the Santa Barbara Founding Day Festival, a one-day April event at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.

17. Pinnacles National Park in April

Celebrate spring in California with a visit to one of the Golden State’s smallest and least-visited national parks!

Pinnacles National Park has a wealth of wildflowers to admire in the spring, and daytime temperatures at the park in April are generally in the 70s, making it a wonderful time to be outdoors.

Peak wildflower bloom season at Pinnacles National Park in March to May, and in April, you are very likely to see over 80 percent of the park’s many plants in bloom.

The variety of flowers you can see here is amazing: on a single hike in April a couple years ago we saw more than 25 distinct wildflower varieties, in yellow, red, pink, blue, white, and purple.

Although you may see a few small carpets of flowers in Pinnacles as you hike, the best part of hiking here in the spring is that you can see many individual blooms up close.

Flowers grow right beside the trails and on ledges and rock surfaces that overhang the trail, so you can examine them closely without stepping off the trail.

Located in Paicines, about a two-hour drive south of San Francisco, Pinnacles National Park features several miles of trails that showcase the park’s signature volcanic spires and talus caves.

There is no road that runs through the park, so wear comfortable trail shoes and come prepared to walk or hike!

Pinnacles National Park is home to many wildlife species and birds, so bring your binoculars or zoom lens. If you are lucky, you may see a roosting California condor at higher elevations in the park, or see the majestic creatures flying overhead.

You will likely see hummingbirds hovering over wildflowers, and bees buzzing about in the spring.

You can spend one day in Pinnacles National Park , or camp overnight and enjoy the dark skies.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in California in April

MORE CALIFORNIA TRAVEL INSPIRATION!

• The Most Beautiful Lakes in California
• The Best Scenic Drives in California
• California’s National Parks
• California Road Trips You Have to Take!
• The Best State Parks in California

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara loves to explore her home state of California. With her husband Kishore, she has done numerous road trips in the state in every season. She hopes to share her love of the Golden State with you, and help you find your own exciting experiences here.

You May Also Like:

25 Stunning California State Parks You Must Visit (+ Map!)

The Nine Incredible National Parks in California (Top Things to Do + Tips for Visiting!)

23 Essential California Weekend Getaways (+ Where to Stay!)

2 thoughts on “california in april: 17 best places to visit for a spring vacation (2024 guide)”.

Thanks Dhara – we’re planning a three week trip to the San Francisco area (from the UK) in April 2023 and your blog has given us lots of inspiration. We’ve now just got to work out what we can fit into three weeks! So, many fabulous places to visit – it’s going to be an immense challenge to make any decisions. Kind regards Christine & Nigel

Spring is an absolutely gorgeous time to visit California, so I am glad you are planning to visit then! I do understand how difficult it must be to choose where to go, but whatever your ultimate itinerary, you will have a wonderful time.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cast & crew

April Road Trip

When a manager of a hotel needs to take an emergency trip. He has nowhere to turn but to ask for the only help from an ex-employee. Things take a hilarious turn when the two have a long jour... Read all When a manager of a hotel needs to take an emergency trip. He has nowhere to turn but to ask for the only help from an ex-employee. Things take a hilarious turn when the two have a long journey with many obstacles through the way. When a manager of a hotel needs to take an emergency trip. He has nowhere to turn but to ask for the only help from an ex-employee. Things take a hilarious turn when the two have a long journey with many obstacles through the way.

• Vorawit Phonginsee
• Kohtee Aramboy
• Suteerush Channukool
• Sombat Metanee

• Man in Black
• Fa's Father
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

User reviews

• April 10, 2008 (Thailand)
• Pranakorn Films
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

Related news, contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

• Now Playing
• Airing Today
• Popular People
• Discussions
• Leaderboard
• Alternative Titles
• Cast & Crew
• Release Dates
• Translations
• Backdrops 1
• Content Issues 0

April Road Trip (2008)

Login to use TMDB's new rating system.

Welcome to Vibes, TMDB's new rating system! For more information, visit the contribution bible .

• Play Trailer

Mit, a hotel manager in Chiang Mai, is going to Krabi to attend a wedding during Songkran festival. On the way, his car has an accident, so he has to hire Bang-ern, a bus owner to drive him to Krabi. The bus is tumbledown and Mit has no better choice, he is forced to take this bus. While driving to Krabi, they experience many troubles and later become new buddies who make chaos in Songkran festival.

Vorawit Phonginsee

Director, Screenplay

Top Billed Cast

Tasit Sinkanawiwat

Jaroenporn Onlamai

Achita Sikamana

Preeyada Sittachai

Suteerush Channukool

Man in Black

Sombat Metanee

Fah's Father

Dam Datsakorn

Pim's Father

Jaturawit Kalamit

Chananchida Sophontechawanit

Full Cast & Crew

• Discussions 0

We don't have any reviews for April Road Trip.

• Most Popular

Original Title คู่ก๊วน ป่วนเมษา

Status Released

Original Language Thai

Content Score 

Yes! Looking good!

Looks like we're missing the following data in en-US or en-US ...

Top Contributors

View Edit History

Popularity Trend

Login to edit

Keyboard Shortcuts

Login to report an issue

You need to be logged in to continue. Click here to login or here to sign up.

Can't find a movie or TV show? Login to create it.

On media pages

On tv season pages, on tv episode pages, on all image pages, on all edit pages, on discussion pages.

Want to rate or add this item to a list?

Not a member?

Sign up and join the community

• South Dakota
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Pennsylvania
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• London, England
• Another Alaska Road Trip
• Big Sky (Washington, Idaho, Montana)
• Crater Lake & Yosemite
• Evergreen (Washington & Oregon)
• Northern Rockies
• Oregon & Northern California
• Surf & Volcanic Turf
• The Best of Alaska
• Yellowstone and Tetons
• Canadian Maritimes in Autumn
• New England Leaf-Peeping Tour
• Arches in Winter
• Tahoe & Sequoia
• Vegas Hiking Long Weekend
• Death Valley Superbloom
• Colorado Hiking Week
• A Week In Utah
• 5 Days, 4 Corners
• Southwest Utah
• Fallorado (Fall in Colorado)
• Golden Aspens
• Golden State (California)
• The Loneliest Trip
• Red Rocks (Sedona)
• Utah and Colorado
• Winter Escape (AZ & NM)
• Allegheny and Blue Ridge
• Weekend in Chicago
• Appalachian Foothills
• Florida Keys Weekend
• Georgia Weekend
• Lake Erie Loop
• Lone Star (Texas)
• The Route and the Trail
• The Southeast
• 100 Hours in London
• Canadian Rockies
• Canadian Rockies in Winter
• Best of Arizona
• The Enchanted Land (New Mexico)
• Rocky Roads
• Ohio’s Bridges and Backroads
• Desert Trails
• Olympic Ring
• California Dream
• Arches and Canyons
• Balloon Fiesta
• Breaking Bad ABQ
• Guide to Mount Rainier National Park
• Photography
• License Plates

April Road Trip: Where to Travel in April, Spring Trip Suggestions

Spring has arrived and it’s time to hit the road! The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and most of the spring break crowds are gone.  If you can score a few days off from work, you can take a great April road trip.  Here are a few favorite destinations around the U.S. that should be ideal to visit in April.

April Road Trip: San Antonio & the Texas Hill Country

San Antonio is loaded with things to do.  You’ll want to devote at least part of one day to walking along the relaxing River Walk along the San Antonio River (or floating down it on a tour boat).  The city is filled with old missions and historic sites.  And of course, don’t forget the Alamo .

Once you’re ready to branch out from the city, take a drive up into the Texas Hill Country .  You can center your visit on Fredericksburg , then follow the back roads to other charming small towns.  Wildflowers bloom from March to May, including the state’s iconic Bluebonnets.

Start here:

San Antonio is the obvious choice.  It’s a big city with a big airport, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a deal on flights and rental cars.  But if you can’t find a bargain, check Austin (80 miles away) or Houston (200 miles away).  Dallas is a bit further (275 miles), but it’s a road trip, so why not?

Why it’s the best time:

The oppressive Texas summer heat hasn’t arrived yet.  And, you’ll be smack-dab in the middle of the hill country wildflower season.

April Road Trip: New Mexico, and the Trinity nuclear site

There are just two days a year when you can visit the place where the world’s first atomic bomb was detonated.  The White Sands Missile Range opens the Trinity nuclear site on the first Saturday in April and October .  The residual radioactivity is surprisingly low, allowing visitors to walk up to the very spot where a 19-kiloton explosion changed the world forever.

Even if you miss the Trinity tour, April is still a great month to visit New Mexico.  Desert temperatures will be warm but not oppressive.  Take a drive south to visit quirky and unique cities and attractions like Truth or Consequences , the Very Large Array , the Gila Cliff Dwellings , and Carlsbad Caverns .

Albuquerque often has reasonably-priced plane tickets, and I’ve scored some great rental car deals there, as well.  Alternatively, you could fly into El Paso, Texas, and drive north.  Tucson , Arizona would require a longer drive, but would allow you to add some great Arizona attractions to your itinerary.

The Trinity site is only accessible on two days out of the year, and one of them is in April.  Temperatures will also be more tolerable in April than they will be from May through September.

April Road Trip: Las Vegas, Valley of Fire, & Red Rock Canyon

If you want to visit Las Vegas , and you don’t particularly like vacationing in a furnace, April is your last chance.  By the end of the month, somebody flips a switch, and perfectly nice desert weather turns oppressive.  Of course, if you’re spending your time inside casinos, none of this matters. But, limiting your visit to the man-made wonders of Sin City would be a big mistake.

Incredible natural beauty and excellent hiking opportunities surround Las Vegas.  On the west side, Red Rock Canyon provides several days of hikes, from short and easy treks to multi-day backpacks.  Drive to the northeast, and you can experience the technicolor overload of Valley of Fire State Park .

Obviously, Las Vegas.  Fortunately, LAS usually has reasonable airfares, and sometimes it has great deals on rental cars.  It all depends on whether something big is happening in town.  Alternatively, you could fly into the Los Angeles area or Phoenix.  Either option comes with a long drive, but if you’re in the mood for an April road trip, it’s not so bad.

The weather in April is usually pretty great.  By May, it will be too hot for most folks.

Start your search for an April getaway right now! Pick a state to begin:

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)

Related articles

Silver City, New Mexico

Sandia Mountains – Above Albuquerque

No comments, cancel reply.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

SELECT A STATE

Select a province, you might also enjoy this....

Newhalem, Washington: North Cascades National Park

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in april 2024.

The age-old April showers mantra gives this month a bad reputation for dreary weather and soggy streets, but don't let that fool you. U.S. News scoured the globe to find the top vacation spots that boast sublime scenery and top-notch sightseeing best enjoyed during the month of April. Whether you're interested in lying on the beach, enjoying the great outdoors at a national park or exploring a cosmopolitan city, there's a getaway for you on this ranking. Vote for the destinations you think belong on this list of the best places to visit in April to help us determine next year's ranking.

Kaua'i

Arches national park, machu picchu, washington, d.c., victoria falls, new orleans, joshua tree national park, cayman islands.

Since Kaua'i is the wettest place in Hawaii, dry weather in April isn't a given, but this time of year marks the end of the rainiest season on the island. If you're willing to put up with a few potential showers, a trip in the low season will allow you to embrace the Garden Island's lush natural beauty without the crowds (and at a lower price point). If you're seeking sunshine, visit Poipu Beach or Waimea Town on the southern part of the island. And you can't leave Kaua'i without taking in the northern Napali Coast via boat or on a helicopter tour .

April in Arches National Park marks the sweet spot of comfortable weather (think: highs in the low 70s) and relatively smaller crowds before the summer season kicks off. Visitors can stay cool while trekking through this Utah park to see the Instagram-worthy Delicate Arch or the Windows Viewpoint. Though Arches won't be as busy as the peak months of May or June, be sure to plan ahead. Guests visiting during prime hours between April 1 and Oct. 31 must have a timed entry ticket, which can be purchased up to three months in advance.

You might come to Sedona, Arizona, to hike the otherworldly red rock formations, but the town's wellness culture and art scene will round out your spring vacation. April temperatures average in the 70s, ideal for active hikers looking to climb Cathedral Rock and other popular attractions. Those looking to disconnect can visit one of the area's many renowned wellness retreats or yoga studios. Meanwhile, the free Spring Open Studios event, held every April, invites art lovers to meet more than 50 local artists in their studios.

This ancient sandstone city in southwest Jordan consists of temples and tombs that date back to 312 B.C. Petra's elaborate carved facades like the Treasury and the Monastery, combined with natural wonders like the Siq gorge, captivate tourists with their beauty and historical interest. Since April's average temperatures in the 70s make it an opportune time to visit this desert locale, be prepared for crowds and head to popular sites early in the day. Better yet, plan to tour the sites at night, when the city is less chaotic and lit by candlelight.

Dreamy Bora Bora draws travelers year-round with its white sand beaches, warm waters and romantic atmosphere. This tiny French Polynesian island invites visitors to slow down and relax at its luxurious overwater bungalows or get out and explore its beauty. Boat tours and four-wheel-drive excursions are fun ways to see much of Bora Bora's scenery, including the breathtaking Mount Otemanu. Vacationers should also go snorkeling in the turquoise lagoon. Come in April to enjoy the warm weather before the island becomes packed with tourists.

One of the most stunning natural wonders in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu comprises about 80,000 acres of temples, aqueducts and gardens that were once a sacred Incan city. April is on the tail end of Peru's wet season, so it's possible to encounter light rain. However, the area sees fewer tourists during this month than in summer, so the trails will be less crowded and there'll be fewer people interrupting your perfect photo op. But remember, timed entry tickets to this archaeological marvel are required; you can purchase these up to one year in advance.

With the city's gilded temples, bustling markets, dizzying nightlife options and a world-renowned street food scene, a vacation in Bangkok is guaranteed to be the best kind of whirlwind. Thailand's one-of-a-kind capital offers a range of accommodations and activities, from luxury hotels to hostels and leisurely river cruises to frenetic tuk-tuk rides. For extra festivities, plan your visit during Songkran, a water festival held every April 13 to 15 to celebrate the Thai new year. Squeezing in an April trip before the monsoon season begins in May will save you some dough, but pack light clothing – you'll encounter temperatures in the 90s.

One of the most enchanting times of the year in the nation's capital, early April allows Washington, D.C., visitors to enjoy the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which commemorates the cherry blossom trees gifted to the city by the mayor of Tokyo in 1912. The event runs from mid-March through mid-April (peak bloom typically occurs within that time frame) and includes celebrations such as a parade, a kite festival and the Pink Tie Party. What's more, this is the perfect time of year to check out the city's top memorials, relax at the rooftop bars or take a walking tour before the notorious summer humidity rolls in.

The world's largest waterfall is a bucket list destination for many travelers. Considering this natural wonder on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border is about twice as high as Niagara Falls, it's easy to see why. But to experience the full splendor of Victoria Falls, timing is crucial. Since April is just after the region's rainy season, visitors will be able to see the falls at their most powerful. For the best views this time of year, opt for the footpaths on the Zambian side in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park or take an aerial tour to get clear views above the strong mist.

Known for its canals, 17th century architecture and "coffee shops," Amsterdam is absolutely beautiful in April. This month is when the Dutch city's surrounding tulip fields are in full bloom and when the popular Tulp Festival takes place. Though the weather can still be unpredictable, April is typically a great time to picnic and watch passersby in Vondelpark or walk or bike around the city thanks to Amsterdam's rising temperatures and longer days. You can explore neighborhoods like the upscale Jordaan district (home to the historical Anne Frank House) and Leidseplein (known for its lively nightlife).

In April, this Mediterranean archipelago is just starting to open up for the summer season. This means you can sneak in a visit before tourists flock to Malta, and you'll likely score hotel deals in this already affordable European destination . Temperatures in the mid-60s may be just shy of beach or snorkeling weather, but these balmy conditions are ideal for meandering through Valletta's stone streets, taking a "Game of Thrones" tour or cruising to the Blue Grotto. April visitors can also attend local celebrations like Festa Frawli, a strawberry festival in Mgarr, and the Malta International Fireworks Festival.

While Mardi Gras crowds descend on the Big Easy every February or March, New Orleans' festival season continues well into April with events like French Quarter Festival and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. If you need more incentive, temperatures average in the 70s this time of year. And while New Orleans is a year-round foodie city , April is a peak month for crawfish. Host your own crawfish boil in a park or visit a local seafood establishment to experience this quintessential Cajun and Creole tradition.

April is an excellent time to travel to Madrid thanks to balmy temps, with average highs often sitting in the 60s. This is perfect weather for walking to and from must-visit sights in Spain's largest city, including Retiro Park, the Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace of Madrid (the largest palace in Western Europe). Plus, you'll avoid this bustling city's scorching summer season – and its hordes of tourists – and will increase your chances of scoring a more affordable hotel rate.

Travelers flock to Joshua Tree National Park in April for two reasons: tolerable temperatures and the spring wildflowers. With average daily temperatures in the 70s, April is a great time for adventurers to bike, hike and rock climb without the stifling summer heat. Plus, the vibrant wildflowers that bloom for only a few weeks each year fill the otherwise stark landscape with color, creating excellent photo opportunities. While you're likely to encounter crowds this time of year, visiting after spring break can cut down on the congestion.

Composed of three islands, the Cayman Islands feature some of the best beaches in the Caribbean , including the world-famous Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman. However, some of this premier diving destination's best attractions are located in the sea. Must-see underwater attractions include Stingray City, Eden Rock, Devil's Grotto and the USS Kittiwake shipwreck. April – particularly the latter half of the month – is one of the best times to visit because of its great accommodation deals and its consistently warm, sunny weather.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Hilton Head

Havana, Cuba

Texas Hill Country

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in March 2024

Best Places to Visit in May 2024

Best Places to Visit in Spring

Best Spring Break Destinations

Best Inexpensive Spring Break Destinations

Best National Parks in the World for 2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Help: April Road trip, where to go? - Road Trips Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Road Trips Forums

Help: April Road trip, where to go?

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Road Trips forum

My Family is planning to go on a road trip in april. the kids will be almost 1, 2 and 3 years We want to go around 4 weeks. We are looking forward to it a lot, except: we got no idea where to go, so we are looking for suggestions.

We have thought about the south-west of the USA or Japan, but we are open to any suggestion. However, the southwest of usa seems to be colder and we read Japan is not great traveling by car /motorhome and by train is not an option since the kids have to sleep during the daytime.

We are starting to get desperate, so we would love your suggestions!

20 replies to this topic

For young kids and swimming in April you could consider south Florida.

For hot weather in April you could consider beaches in Thailand.

No, the south-west of USA is not "cold", depending on the altitude it is about the same as in Europe, means at the californien cost and in the deserts (Death Valley, Joshua tree NP) warmer, but in higher altitude a bit colder (Grand Canyon, Bryce canyon).

For the deserts and the coast April is the best time. If you are lucky you could see the desert blooming. But OK; swimming in a look would not be possible, only in hotel pools.

I will start with Japan. I love Japan and actually am very recently back from my 5th leisure trip there. I have also driven in several different parts of Japan, so have road trip experience in several different parts of the country.

Also, importantly given your specified flight requirements, owing to no airline willingly overflying Russia right now, those non stop flights between western Europe and Japan that used to use the direct polar route cannot do so. This has added about 2.5 hours or more to flight durations. Thus, it's outside of your max flight time to even get there right now. When the Ukraine situation changes for the better, then the flight routes may shorten again, of course.

Further, I have never actually seen any kind of RV/campervan/motorhome on their roads, whether in urban or rural areas. This isn't to say they don't exist or nobody rents them - as I've never considered them so have never explored the idea, we just rent a compact car - but with their mostly narrow roads, lack of organised campsite network (as readily found in other countries which lend themselves better to such type of travel) and other aspects, I think, if/when you do visit Japan, and opt to self drive anywhere, a car might be your only viable option, realistically.

Temperature wise, because Japan is a long and narrow country, the climate is very different from north to south. The most northerly island, Hokkaido, has some of Japan's best ski areas and has a climate not dissimilar to Alpine Europe - think Switzerland and Austria. You won't be swimming except in an indoor pool or in geothermally heated water there in April! The very south, around Okinawa, the climate is close to tropical so it can be warm all year round, and very hot and humid for the summer period. There are also excellent beaches for relaxing on (not that I'd recommend anybody starting from western Europe to go to Japan for a beach trip when there are equally good places that are both much closer and also much cheaper). While Japan is a land of often stunningly beautiful lakes, I have not noticed that the locals swim in lakes at all, and would caution you about expecting to do so because, away from beach areas or family resorts, the European/North American idea of casual swimming is not part of the local culture, but they do have a 'bathing culture' of their own that could certainly be an adventure and educational.

OK. So now I've put you off Japan. While this is the road trip forum, if you are still keen on considering Japan, get back here. I can add some further comments and point you in the right direction to learn more. I would say that Japan is currently much cheaper than the USA for a family trip, though.

I’m interested that Thailand has been suggested for April 2023. That’s another country that has very recently relaxed the entry requirements and dropped quarantining. It has also resulted in elevated air fares and a shortage of seats for early months of 2023.

The reality is that, simply because of pent up demand to travel more freely than has been possible for the last 2 or 3 years, for those who can afford to travel, demand to do so is not currently matched by flight availability and the variety of routes that were easy to consider options back on 2019. That means for the best prices, easier to book accommodation and other aspects, planning well ahead is going to be maybe more crucial than before, even when that can mean so many subsequent flight time or route changes. This applies to almost anywhere in the world right now.

I’ll leave the others to comment on the situation in the USA. Simply because that’s the area the vast majority of contributors to this specific forum have a wide amount of knowledge and experience, so there will be more info forthcoming from them. I will add a comment should I think it necessary. However, do bear in mind most west coast flight durations are right on the limit of your 12 hour flying time limit (which, with young kids, makes complete sense).

Meanwhile, I'm puzzled about contradictory comments in your post, though, on a general aspect. On one hand you say you want to self drive to enable your kids to nap during the day. Do you mean while you travel? You do realise, almost anywhere in the world, the kids will need to be strapped into compliant kiddie seats or booster seats while you move, so they would only be able to nap strapped in and upright on the move? Then you also say the trip needs to be enjoyable for them and they are small/young. So why subject them to a long duration road trip at all? Or have I misunderstood? What do you mean? What for you combines ease of travel and giving your kids an enjoyable trip when they are mostly – especially the younger ones – of an age where parental travel wishes and their needs don’t mix too well, and they are all probably far too young to remember any of the trip 5 years from now?

Do you have motorhome experience?  Not only do the kids have to be strapped into seats when moving but also all the sleeping areas are elevated and open, so you'll need to figure out if you can use/fit pack n'plays, bolsters or some other means to keep them safe from rolling onto the floor when they sleep.  You'll need to bring or purchase those types of items. 

You can find average monthly temps or historic daily temps with a Google search.  Much of the southeastern US will have pleasant temperatures in April.  There's plenty of nature there but it tends to be flat and lakes aren't safe for swimming.  There's beautiful mountain scenery and gator-free lakes to the north but it may be too cool for you (and swimming), especially in early April.  

For example, in California your 1-year-old must be in a rear-facing child seat unless they weigh more than 18 kg or taller than 1 m. Your 2- and 3-year-olds will need front-facing car seats with five-point harnesses unless they are more than 1,45 m tall. There are no exceptions even for taxis or rideshares (only buses are exempt). Chances are they will not see very much through the windows. Arizona does not have the rear-facing law; Utah doesn't either, but requires a full car seat (not a booster) if the child is less than 4 years old or 18 kg.

That said, April is the perfect time to visit California and the Southwest. It might be a little bit chilly at very high elevation (the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is 2.133 m, for example, Yosemite Valley is 1.200 m, and the highest point at Bryce Canyon is just shy of 3.000 m) but at lower elevation such as Joshua Tree, Death Valley, or even Saguaro it will be nice and temperate. You could also do a coastal road trip, from Los Angeles to Seattle for example (start in the south). You could explore Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. You could fly to Tijuana and road trip down the Baja Peninsula. There's a ton of options just within reach of here, and LAX is an 11h flight from Schiphol (ask me how I know!).

My suggestion is to create a very low key "road trip" itinerary. Stay 5-7 nights in each destination. Settle in. Allow the kids to nap each afternoon. Explore the local area. Then move on.

California and Southwest is very nice in spring.

Los Angeles, San Diego, Palm Springs, Sedona Az, Moab Ut, are great places to find a vacation rental or hotel suite for an extended stay.

Throw is some other shorter 1-3 night stops like Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Las Vegas, Death Valley… etc. and you easily have 4 weeks.

I’m not a fan of motorhomes and children in the back of RV.

https://csftl.org/rv-travel-children/

Thanks for the elaborate answers. We will reconsider the RV because of the safety problems. As for the concerns about kids enjoying the trip: we would like a trip both the kids and parents enjoy. My husband and I do not like beach holidays nor holidays with just entertainment Parcs etc. We like climbing, rafting, hiking and exploring. However, we like having kids even more so we accept this is not possible with the age range of our children. We would like a holiday which is enjoyable for anyone. Or kids to to outdoor daycare and love to spend time in nature. That's why we chose we want to visit some places where we can do short hikes, find treasures in nature and swim a few days. For what the kids will remember, I tend to disagree. Maybe they will not remember the exact moments, however, they will remember a vibe of their early youth. We would like that vibe to be fun, green ad with lots of family time

You could consider a one week RV rental with just one or two campground or RV Park destinations.

• Florida to Plymouth Indiana 8:18 pm
• Salt Lake City to Denver 7:24 pm
• Niagara Falls-dc-NYC 6:36 pm
• Help me choose a road trip itinarary please! 6:18 pm
• Blue Ridge Parkway Suggestions 4:26 pm
• AAA membership worth it ? 1:42 pm
• NYC-DC-niagara falls. (Doesn’t need to be in that order) 12:06 pm
• Cincinnati to the East coast - route ideas please? today
• 3 weeks with my GF - San Francisco to Las Vegas in September today
• Seattle to Dallas Road Trip This Summer in 4 Days - Help! today
• Utah/Arizona Nat'l Park Road Trip- how's my itinerary? yesterday
• Deep south road trip recs for stops, sights, dining yesterday
• Getting to Greenwich, London. yesterday
• driving yesterday
• Planning a road trip
• Tips for driving in the USA
• Tips for foreigners: Renting or buying a vehicle in the USA?
• Suggestions for a South West USA road trip
• Suggestions for an East Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a West Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a 'Deep South' road trip
• What are safety concerns and precautions when experiencing nature in North America?
• What should I pack for a road trip in the USA.?
• Do I need to book hotels ahead or can I book hotels as I travel?
• Should I rent an RV to save money on a road trip?
• Route 66 - how long do I need and where should I stop?
• Planning a road trip- lodging in the national parks
• Thinking of a long, family road trip in the west? Read this trip report for ideas
• Road trip ideas from Memphis down thru MS to New Orleans
• ***Visiting Canada From the USA***
• Cannabis - Entering Canada
• Campervan Tips for a Road Trip

The perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April

The state of washington in the north west of the usa has some of the best mountains in the country. you could easily spend weeks here exploring the stunning scenery. but if you’re short of time, here’s the perfect 2 day road trip in washington, usa in april., disclaimer: some of the links below are affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and make a purchase, i’ll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. please note that all sales are processed by the linked website, not rays of adventure, so you’ll be subject to their privacy policy., what’s it like to visit the mountains in washington in april.

The mountains in the far North West of the USA get very cold and snowy in the winter, but you can still have the perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April. The weather in April can be unpredictable, but generally the snow should have cleared from a lot of the roads by mid-April.

Make sure you check the weather forecast before setting off on your road trip. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. You can also check which roads are open before you set off on your trip. Some roads, such as the road up to Mount St Helen’s, will get cleared in sections in the spring, depending on the weather conditions of that year. So you’ll only be able to drive as far as is safe.

The advantage of visiting North West USA in April is that it generally isn’t too busy. The roads and viewpoints are usually relatively quiet, so you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of the area without the crowds. You’re unlikely to get stuck in traffic on your road trip. You can often get some good deals on motels in the area as well as it isn’t peak tourist season, even over the long Easter weekend. In addition to all these benefits, you’ll also get some beautiful snowy views in the mountains. I love visiting this area in April and it can be a perfect Easter holiday.

Just be aware that April is still a bit too early to visit some mountains and National Parks, so you might not be able to do everything in April. For example, Yellowstone National Park doesn’t fully open in April, so if you’re planning to visit here I’d recommend leaving it until May or June for your visit.

What should I pack for a trip to Washington, USA in April?

The weather in the North West USA in April can be unpredictable in April. It’s best to pack a variety of things so you’re prepared. You might get lucky with some clear sunny days, so make sure you pack your sunglasses and sun cream. Even if you’re on a mountain in the snow, the sun can still be really strong and can reflect off the snow to be stronger.

A warm and waterproof coat is a must as well if you want to enjoy the perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April. It’s better to take too much warm clothing and not need it, rather than not take enough and be cold. Waterproof walking boots are also useful so you can walk around a bit on snow or in the rain. Unless you’re doing proper mountain hikes you won’t need too much kit – you won’t need things like crampons, snow shoes, thermal underwear or anything like that. But having the basics means you’ll be able to explore outside your car a bit at viewpoints.

Other essential items to pack for a road trip include plenty of water and snacks for the car. If you’re delayed, you’ll want to have plenty of supplies. And it’s so nice to be able to have a picnic lunch that you can eat when you feel like it, and not have to worry about finding a restaurant for lunch.

If you’re planning a trip to this amazing region, I’d recommend checking out this great guide to the North West USA (affiliate). There are some great recommendations of places to stay and some useful maps.

Day 1: Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic Mountains

For Day 1 of the perfect 2 days road trip in Washington, USA in April, head to the Olympic Mountains. This amazing mountain range is one of the best in the whole of the USA. There’s so much to do here and you could easily spend a week or two exploring. However, if you’re short of time, I’d recommend going to Hurricane Ridge. It’s my favourite spot in the mountains with some of the best views.

Where to start

Start off at the Olympic National Park Visitor Centre in Port Angeles. In this visitor centre, you can check out the weather forecast for the day to make sure it’s safe to drive up to Hurricane Ridge. You can also check any road closures or other safety notifications, which are all really important when you’re visiting the mountains in April. Check out the opening times of the visitor centre here .

Driving up to Hurricane Ridge

From the Visitor Centre, it’s about 20 miles to drive up to Hurricane Ridge. However, the road is very windy so make sure you take plenty of time and don’t rush your trip. Take some time to enjoy the views on the way up. On my trip, my main views on the way up were of clouds…although there was one memorable moment when some deer emerged from the mist on the side of the road.

I’ll never forget the moment when the clouds suddenly cleared, near the top of the road, and the most magnificent view opened up. It was one of those moments where I just had to pull over to stop the car and get out. I just had to take in the amazing views. The air was so crisp and clear, and surprisingly not too cold. It was just amazing to gaze over the vast expanse of mountains, with the sun glistening off the snowy peaks. It was one of those moments that just really make you appreciate the amazing beauty in the world, and how small we are in comparison to nature’s glory.

The top of Hurricane Ridge

The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Centre is at the top of the Hurricane Ridge road. However, it’s not always open in April. It’s open at daily in the summer, and only at weekends for the rest of the year. Check the opening times here .

Even if the Visitor Centre isn’t open, you can still enjoy Hurricane Ridge. There’s plenty of parking there, so you can get out of your car and walk around. Most of the paths will still be snowy in April, so I wouldn’t recommend trying to go hiking unless you’re extremely experienced with winter hiking. I didn’t feel confident hiking in those conditions. So I mostly focussed on walking around, enjoying the snow and taking photos.

There isn’t anywhere else to buy food when the Visitor Centre is closed, so take a picnic lunch. And keep an eye out for any birds who are looking to share your picnic as well! It’s an amazing first day of the perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April.

Day 2: Mount St Helens

Day 2 of the perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA involves a trip to the famous Mount St Helens. This active volcano stands at 2550m tall. It’s most famous from its eruption on 18 May 1980 following an earthquake. The eruption caused an avalanche on the North face of the volcano, with massive steam blasts as well. A total of 57 people were killed by the eruption, and you can still see evidence from the eruption today.

Start your day exploring Mount St Helens at the Mount St Helens Visitor Centre. Opening times can vary in April, so it’s best to check in advance. Even if the Visitor Centre is closed, you can still park there to enjoy some walks and views.

Enjoy a pleasant walk around Silver Lake from the Visitor Centre. It’s only about a mile, and it’s a well marked trail with a lot of boardwalks so it’s really easy. You can get great views of the volcano across the lake. The advantage of visiting in April is that there’s still plenty of snow on the peak.

Enjoy walking around the lake, and keep an eye out for wildlife as well. In April, most wildlife is just waking up from the cold winter, so you might be lucky to spot some. I was lucky to spot a snake and also some great birds on my trip.

Driving up to Mount St Helens

You can get closer views of the volcano as well. From Mount St Helens Visitor Centre, continue driving up the road 504. This winding road can take you right to the top of the volcano. However, it’s cleared of snow in stages in the spring. So when you visit in April, you’re unlikely to be able to get right to the top. But that’s ok. The views on the way up are just amazing, so you don’t need to get right to the top.

There are plenty of places to stop along the road so you can get out of the car to take a photo. I loved seeing the views change as I drove further up the road, getting closer to the volcano. From some of the viewpoints, you could really see the evidence of the eruption and the avalanche on the north face. It was such a strong reminder of the power of nature.

Take your time driving up as far as you’re able to go. A major advantage of visiting in April is that the road is unlikely to be busy. At times it can feel like you’ve got the whole area to yourself. It’s a beautiful area, and an important piece of USA history as well. I just loved it, and I wish I had longer to explore mountain in Washington, USA.

Views of Mount Rainier

With only 2 days to explore Washington, USA, you won’t have time to visit everywhere. I’d have loved to visit Mount Rainier National Park and explore more of the area. However, I’ll have to be happy with a great view of Mount Rainier that I got from the car, driving back towards the airport. Hopefully I’ll be able to go back soon to explore more!

Enjoy the perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April! Remember to check out this great travel guide for your trip (affiliate). While you’re in the USA, why not stay a bit longer and check out some of the other amazing destinations. For more snowy mountains, check out Juneau in Alaska . Seattle is a great city to visit, or you could head down the coast to San Francisco . If you’re looking for more road trips in amazing scenery, why not visit Yosemite National Park or the beautiful coastline of Big Sur .

4 thoughts on “ The perfect 2 day road trip in Washington, USA in April ”

I haven’t had the chance to explore this part of the states before, so I would love to go on a road trip like this and see some of the popular sites. Thanks for the guide!

It’s a great area with amazing views, I’d love to spend some more time there!

this post brought me back! I used to live in the PNW, but over a decade ago, and I totally miss that crisp April air! I was planning to visit soon, and you totally convinced me to wait until April!

I think April is a great time to visit, but I’m sure it’s beautiful all year around. I hope you’re able to go back soon!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

• Copy Link copied

Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

The Ballpark Guide

Detailed Fan Guides for MLB & MiLB

April Road Trips — Pros and Cons

By Malcolm MacMillan

Most people view road trips as a summer thing, but those of us who live for baseball travel know that as long as there are games that are scheduled, there’s a road trip that is worth planning. While it’s true that I do most of my traveling from May onward, I’ve taken a number of April trips over the years — an idea that has worked out sometimes and failed miserably on other occasions.

I thought it’d be fun to share some of the pros and cons of April road trips that I’ve noticed over the years with the hope that these points could help you make the most of your early-season adventures. (I should note that the baseball landscape is a lot different in 2021 than it has been in years past. The biggest anomaly is that the start of the MiLB season has been pushed back to May, but I hope it’ll be back to April in 2022. As such, some of the following may not directly apply to the wacky baseball world of 2021, but should be relevant beyond this season. I hope. Gulp.)

Pro: Excitement in the Air

There’s no disputing that a September pennant chase is an exciting time to be a baseball fan, but there’s something magical about the start of the season. While Opening Day is a day that we mark on our calendars months in advance, I’ve often said that my personal “opening day” is whenever I travel for the first time. It’s extremely exciting to have a trip to enjoy as early in the season as possible. If you’re the type of person who obsessively watches Spring Training and follows every detail of your favorite team online, you’ll feel pumped to hit the road in April instead of waiting until the summer months.

Con: Bad Weather

The biggest disadvantage of attending baseball games in April is the bad weather. It’s worth mentioning that all of my April games so far have taken place in the Northeast, so I realize that weather-related experiences can be much different in other geographical regions. In April, I’ve sat in rain, snow and freezing cold weather, all of which have hindered the overall experience to some degree. In fact, as I look at my game database , I’m aware of how much bad weather has impacted my trips in April. Since 2013, I’ve traveled for 11 April games. Of those, four were canceled due to rain or snow without a single pitch thrown, and another was canceled after just two innings. That’s pretty grim, and when you consider that two of the April games I attended were in Toronto’s domed stadium, it’s clear that hoping for an April game in which the weather doesn’t have an impact is an iffy proposition at best in certain parts of the country.

Pro: More Doubleheaders

In the minor leagues, it’s common to find early-season doubleheaders. This is especially true in the Northeast, given the prevalence of weather-related cancelations. If teams lose a game due to bad weather early in April, they’ll often try to play a doubleheader the next time they see each other — which might be just a week or two later. Doubleheaders are a sweet deal for a number of reasons, and if you’re the type of fan who enjoys scheduling your road trips around them, April can be a good month to look at. I’ve had decent success with doubleheaders in April over the years. I’ve attended three in total, and only one was shortened by inclement weather. The one thing that all of the doubleheaders had in common was that they were absolutely frigid.

Con: Scheduling Conflicts With TV Sports

Hockey and pro basketball begin their playoffs (in “normal” times, anyway) in the middle of April, the NCAA basketball tournament wraps up early in the month and the Masters golf tournament takes place in April, too. If you follow any of these sports closely, especially if your team is doing well, you might be reluctant to attend live baseball games in April. While you can certainly follow scoring updates on your phone, the idea of being at home in front of the TV may be a little more appealing.

Pro: Fewer Fans

There are some fans who love packed ballparks. I’m typically not among this group, which is one reason that I find April road trips to be desirable. While Opening Day games are often sold out, you’ll find in several markets that attendance drops quickly in subsequent games — especially in the minor leagues and in areas where the weather is still cold. To me, low-attendance games make it easier to move around the park to explore, take in the game from different seats and, of course, not have to stand in long lines at the concession stands or team shops. A lower turnout of fans also makes it easier to get tickets, especially if you’re buying at the last minute. I’ve been at a few MiLB April games where it would’ve been easy to individually count the fans in just a couple of minutes. Teams must hate this, but I love it.

Con: No Independent League Games

I really enjoy watching independent baseball when I’m able to fit these games into my schedule. Seeing young players fighting to get picked up by affiliated clubs and former MLBers closing out their careers in ballparks that can be surprisingly nice is a fun way to enjoy the sport. Unfortunately, most independent leagues don’t begin play until May, which means that these games aren’t an option during your April road trips.

Pro: Possibility of NCAA Games

Although you don’t have any independent baseball to watch during April road trips, you do have the ability to fit in some NCAA action. The college baseball season is in full swing by April, and with so many teams playing in so many cities across the country, it’s relatively easy to add NCAA games to your itinerary. I’ve always focused on MLB/MiLB games on my trips, but I decided in early 2020 that I’d make a point of checking out some NCAA parks when I’m able. I actually had a few college games (Memphis and Vanderbilt) scheduled for my first big trip of 2020 … but you know how that turned out. Nevertheless, I’m going to try to see some college baseball whenever possible during future April trips.

Con: Not Conducive to Family Trips

If you have children and you enjoy taking baseball road trips as a family, April’s probably not a month that will work for you. Because your kids will still be in school, you’ll risk them getting behind in their studies if you travel at this point in the year. If you decide to take a family trip in April, you might have to cut it shorter than you’d like so that your kids don’t miss too many school days. For those with children, it’s generally better to wait until the school year wraps up.

Are you an April baseball road tripper? If so, what are some of your favorite April memories?

Related Post

5 milb parks to visit in 2024, 5 mlb parks to visit in 2024, 5 u.s. ballparks for canadians to visit (part ii).

Log in with user name:

Log in with social media:

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

March/April Road trip ideas from Chicago

Contact Us - Manage Preferences - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information -

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Road trip planner

Starting City

Destination City

Or switch to flying

Planning a road trip?

Get advice from people who have done the same trip.

The Trippy road trip planner automatically calculates the optimal itinerary including stops recommended by Trippy members, favorite restaurants and hotels, local attractions and things to do based on what people who live in the area have suggested, and more.

Once you have a quick trip planned, you can customize every detail, adding or removing stops, or changing what time you leave in the morning or how long you stay at each stop. Then you can save your custom trip and share it with friends and family.

Let us know if you have requests for more features you'd like to see in the trip planner!

Hokkaido Road Trip: The Perfect 10 Day Hokkaido Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2023

Categories Japan

One of the most beautiful and coolest places in Japan , quite literally, is Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island.

Hokkaido is a wild and untamed destination in Japan with stunning scenery. It's an island of volcanoes, natural hot springs, endless forests, stunning National Parks with plenty of wildlife, and walls of snow that line the roads.

In this Hokkaido self-drive itinerary, you can find all the nitty-gritty details about our Hokkaido road trip.

Hokkaido itinerary: a 10 day Hokkaido road trip

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Road trip Hokkaido

When I was researching Hokkaido and our Hokkaido tour itinerary, I discovered not much has been written about driving in Hokkaido.

That's why I wrote an extensive post including everything you need to know more about renting a car and driving on Hokkaido (the speed limit, the Hokkaido Expressway, how to get and use an ETC card, etc.).

You can read all about it in my Guide to driving on Hokkaido.

In this post, you'll find all the best things to do on Hokkaido, as well as practical tips and where to stay on Hokkaido. I hope this Hokkaido backpacking itinerary will help you plan your Hokkaido driving trip!

Our Hokkaido road trip itinerary: map

You can find our itinerary including all the highlights we visited and our Hokkaido accommodation on the Hokkaido travel map below.

Click here for the interactive Hokkaido road map

Hokkaido trip itinerary

• Day 1: Lake Shikotsu
• Day 2: Noboribetsu and Lake Tōya
• Day 3: driving South (to Hakodate)
• Day 4: Hakodate and around
• Day 5: Matsumae Castle and Onuma Park
• Day 6: driving North (to Furano)
• Day 7: Furano and around
• Day 8: Asahidake Onsen
• Day 9:  Daisetzusan Park
• Day 10: Lake Akan

Plan your Japan trip like a pro with these tools: ✅ Get a Japan Railpass to save lots of time and money. ✅ Rent a car for your Japan road trip via Rentalcars.com . ✅ Stay connected with Airalo Japan offer . ✅ Plan your journey with the Japan Lonely Planet . ✅ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ✅ Join the best tours in Japan via Klook . ✅ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Our Hokkaido travel plan: facts and figures

• I traveled to Hokkaido with my husband; we started and ended our road trip at New Chitose Airport in Sapporo.
• Our Hokkaido driving itinerary was 10 days in total, we drove approximately 2000 kilometers (so ~200 km per day).
• For our road trip we decided to follow the sun, or at least go where the weather forecast said it would be the least rainy and/or cold. I have to say, the Japan weather forecast is extremely good! It was very accurate during our Hokkaido trip, something we definitely used to our advantage while traveling around this amazing island.
• With temperatures below 0°C at some point, we decided to change our plans and head south instead of north to Wakkanai and the islands of Rebun and Reshiri. Our entire Hokkaido travel itinerary was based on the weather and turned out very different from the one I created before our trip. After all, travel is all about being flexible !

Things to know about a Hokkaido road trip

Is it safe to drive in hokkaido.

In general, yes, it's very safe to drive on Hokkaido. Roads are well maintained and people generally obey the traffic rules (except for the speed limit, which can be frustratingly low).

In this post, you can read more about driving in Hokkaido .

Can I use the JR Pass to get around Hokkaido?

If you don't want to rent a car in Hokkaido and use public transportation to get around instead, that's a good option as well.

Note that it will be more challenging to get to remote places, while there is an extensive rail network, trains are only available in the major cities.

That being said, there's a network of buses as well, just keep in mind that getting from place to place will take more time than by car.

You can purchase the regular Japan Rail Pass for your time on Hokkaido but it's also worth looking into the regional Hokkaido Rail Pass .

The regional pass is cheaper than the Japan rail pass, but it depends on your Japan itinerary which one is the best option.

Click here to compare the JR rail pass (valid everywhere in Japan) with the Hokkaido rail pass (only valid in Hokkaido).

What is the best time to visit Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is a year-round destination and each time of the year has its own pros and cons.

A Hokkaido road trip in spring

We traveled to Hokkaido at the end of April and the start of May, my favorite things about traveling to Hokkaido in spring were:

• We got to experience four different seasons in just 10 days. From snow and freezing nights to walking around in a t-shirt and relaxing in an onsen after a very rainy day.
• We got to admire the beautiful cherry blossoms (in full bloom!) at Goryōkaku and Matsumae Castle (read more below).
• I loved that we had the campsites entirely to ourselves as there weren't any other campers yet this early in the season.

However, be sure to pack appropriately and bring plenty of (warm) layers. It's still pretty cold in Hokkaido during this time of year!

A Hokkaido road trip in the summer

During the summer months, you can admire the famous flower and lavender fields on Hokkaido. Plus, you can hike the Shiretoko Traverse and lots of other trails.

Note that many hiking trails on Hokkaido are still closed in Spring (and sometimes even in June) because of the large amounts of snow that fall during winter.

While this isn't a specific Hokkaido summer itinerary, all of the spots included in the post can be visited in summer.

A Hokkaido road trip in autumn

Hokkaido is a very popular spot during autumn because of the brightly colored forests with leaves in vivid autumn colors.

Check the Autumn Color Report  on  Japan Guide  to plan the best time for your visit.

A Hokkaido road trip in winter

If you plan to visit Hokkaido in winter, make sure you're very well prepared. It's not easy to drive on Hokkaido in winter, it can even be dangerous unless you know what you are doing!

That being said, Hokkaido can be a wonderful winter destination! You can visit the Sapporo Snow Festival (read more below), go skiing in one of the ski resorts, and admire the frozen lakes and snowy views.

Where to stay on Hokkaido

Here is a list of all the places we stayed during our road trip around Hokkaido.

Note:  Prices for the hotels, campgrounds, and guesthouses depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Click ‘book here’ to see the latest prices on  Booking  and book ahead to get the best deal.

* Unfortunately the accommodation we stayed at during our Hokkaido trip is no longer available. While we didn't personally stay at the Shin Furano Prince hotel we did visit their spa twice during our time in Furano.

How to find accommodation during Golden Week

Golden Week is the period from the 29th of April to early May and includes a number of Japanese holidays. Check the exact Golden Week dates here

During this week many Japanese people go on holiday and accommodation can be extremely difficult to find.

In fact, when I was looking for some last-minute accommodation on Agoda and Booking , there were only 2 hotels available in the entire city, the cheapest one was €400 a night…

I was very happy to we had our tent and car as a backup option!

If you are traveling in peak season and Golden Week in particular: book your accommodation in advance!

Hokkaido itinerary day 1: Lake Shikotsu

Itinerary: New Chitose Airport – Nissan rental car outlet – Nature trail Lake Shikotsu – Shikotsukomorappu Camping Ground

Pick up your rental car

Pick up your rental car at New Chitose Airport so you can start your Hokkaido road trip immediately after landing on the island. Click here to compare car rental prices on Rentalcars.com.

Important: be sure to stock up on enough drinks, snacks, and some instant ramen at a nearby 7-11 before setting out on your road trip.

If you are traveling early in the season or during winter, many restaurants are (still) closed.

You really don't want to arrive at a beautiful camp spot with an empty stomach and nothing to eat. We did on our first day in Hokkaido and had to drive back to Chitose for supplies.

Go hiking along the shores of Lake Shikotsu

Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Around the lake, there are several mountains and (some still active) volcanoes, such as Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae.

There is a short but steep trail going up Mount Tarumae with excellent views from the top.

Unfortunately, the trail was still closed when we visited (too much snow) supposedly the views from the summit are really beautiful and worth the climb.

Where to stay at Lake Shikotsu ⇒ Campsite Morappu (1 night)

The view alone makes this campsite worth a visit! However, the fierce wind blowing over the lake was very cold and I didn't get much sleep that night…

We purchased a set of thermal underwear and extra blankets the next day which solved the problem.

Please note that while there are (clean) toilets, there are no showers. I later found out this is actually quite normal for Japanese campsites because there usually is an onsen (either onsite or nearby) instead.

Price per night: €12,80/$14.

Places to stay near Lake Shikotsu

If you don't want to go camping there are other accommodation options available. However, there are only a handful of hotels to be found around Lake Shikotsu and most are quite expensive.

There is the friendly 3-star Marukoma Onsen Ryokan and the superb 5-star Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta .

Alternatively, you can explore Lake Shikotsu during the day and drive back to Chitose or Sapporo where there are more affordable options to stay.

Hokkaido itinerary day 2: Noboribetsu Onsen and Lake Tōya

Itinerary: Shikotsukomorappu campground – Jigokudani (Hell Valley) – Oyunuma Pond – Lake Kuttara – Lake Tōya – Nakatoya Camping Ground

Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu is Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort and a great place to visit in Hokkaido.

While the town itself it small, it offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, from its beautiful hot springs to its picturesque lakes and mountains.

Visit Jigokudani (also known as Hell Valley)

Volcanic activity is something that has fascinated me since I was a little girl. In fact, my first school project was about volcanos and even got me an A!

The smell of sulfur, the crazy colors of the rocks, and the steaming vents make Jigokudani one of the best places to visit on Hokkaido.

Take your time enjoying the scenic landscape of the area, Jigokudani is one of those places where you truly feel (and smell) the incredible force of nature.

Oyunuma Pond

This was quite possibly my favorite place in Hokkaido! I had never seen a steaming lake before, it was mesmerizing, and couldn’t take my eyes off Oyunuma Pond for a long long time…

Lake Kuttara

This perfectly circular crater lake inside the volcano Kuttara contains the best quality water in Japan. You can drive along its shores and admire the views.

There are hiking trails as well ( such as this one ), but we didn't cover any during our trip.

Lake Toya is another spectacular lake, with an even more spectacular backdrop. It's part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and a popular location for hiking and camping.

Where to stay at Lake Toya ⇒ Nakatoya Camping Ground (1 night)

During our stay, we were the only ones at the campsite. It was so quiet and the starry night was magical.

Also, with our newly purchased thermal underwear and extra blankets, we were well prepared for the cold, and sleeping in our tent was very comfortable!

Unfortunately, the onsen was closed. Maybe it was too early in the season or the campground manager didn't turn it on because we were the only ones there.

Price per night: €7,20/$8.

Hokkaido itinerary day 3: driving South (to Hakodate)

Itinerary: Nakatoya Camping Ground – Hotel WBF Hakodate

The kindness of Japanese people

While driving south to Hakodate I experienced firsthand that Japanese people are among the kindest and most helpful people in the world.

I had accidentally booked the wrong flight and needed to call customer service. There was just one problem, I didn't have a local SIM card and my own SIM didn't work for some reason.

A very friendly Japanese man generously loaned me his phone. And not only that, he bought us coffee and locally produced food as gifts as well!

I was speechless… And very grateful .

That being said I highly recommend getting a local SIM, click here to buy a SIM card with unlimited data online .

Relax in an onsen

Our first onsen experience was amazing but we also desperately needed it. It had been raining heavily the entire day.

And we had ‘slightly' underestimated how cold Hokkaido would be at the end of April. Therefore, the rain felt like wet snow and we didn’t feel like pitching our tent that night.

I was extremely happy I managed to book one of the last available hotel rooms in Hakodate (it was Golden Week, read more below), which happened to have an onsen.

Onsen = Japanese spa with a VERY hot bath… Utter bliss! Read more about how to visit an onsen in Japan.

I know I've said it before, but I can't stress this enough: Golden Week is the busiest travel period of the year in Japan (because it's a public holiday). Booking accommodation as early as possible is crucial when traveling during this period. My favorite sites to find accommodation are Agoda and  Booking . I usually also check reviews on Tripadvisor if I'm having trouble choosing between 2 hotels.

Where to stay in Hakodate ⇒ Hotel WBF Hakodate (1 night)

WBF Hakodate is a lovely hotel: comfortable and clean. Rooms have an ensuite bathroom and a kettle. The onsen was pure bliss…

The walls are pretty thin and the room is quite small (though that's pretty common in Japan).

Click here to book hotel WBF Hakodate

Hokkaido itinerary day 4: Hakodate and around

Itinerary: Hotel WBF Hakodate – Goryōkaku Castle – Hakodate Mountain walking trail – Hakodate Village – Roadside Rest Area Fukushima

Goryōkaku Castle

We didn’t time our visit to coincide with the cherry blossom season or sakura as it’s called in Japan.

But it was the icing on an already delicious cake (the cake being Japan;-). Walking below thousands of cherry trees dressed in pretty pinks and whites was like stepping into a fairy tale…

Click here to buy a ticket for the Goryokaku Tower online.

Hakodate Mountain walking trails

On Hokkaido nature is never far away. And so it didn’t take us long to find a nice hiking trail leading to the top of Mount Hakodate.

Hakodate historic village

With old brick houses and colonial villas, I almost felt like we were back in Europe. I would have loved to learn more about Hakodate and its interesting history but unfortunately, we didn't have enough time.

If you want to see the most important highlights of Hakodate (such as the Kanemori red brick warehouse) while gaining fascinating insights into Japan’s history and culture, check out this private walking tour with a licensed local guide.

Where to stay in Fukushima ⇒ Roadside Rest Area Fukushima (1 night)

I didn't know this, but sleeping in your car is actually rather common in Japan!

When we arrived at the Michi-no-Eki (road station) in Fukushima we were a bit apprehensive as we weren't sure if it was allowed to stay the night.

We decided to risk it and were very surprised to wake up in a packed parking lot the next morning! There were fully equipped campervans and next to us was a Japanese man in a suit who slept in his sports car.

This road station is a convenient place to spend the night. There was a supermarket across the parking lot where we bought a cup of coffee and some sandwiches for breakfast.

We even brushed our teeth in the shop's little bathroom! However, keep in mind that you're staying at a parking lot and there aren't many facilities.

Price per night: free!

Hokkaido itinerary day 5: Matsumae Castle and Onuma Park

Itinerary: Roadside Rest Area Fukushima – Matsumae Castle – Onuma Quasi National Park – Lake Toya Fireworks – Toyako Parking Lot

Visit Matsumae Castle

Visiting a Japanese castle during cherry blossom season with a perfect blue sky: it doesn’t get better than that!

Explore Onuma Quasi-National Park

We strolled around this nice little park with lovely bridges and stunning Mt. Komagatake in the backdrop. A perfect afternoon activity.

Admire the Lake Toya Fireworks

From the start of Golden Week until October there is a firework show every evening. You don't need a ticket and can enjoy the show from the boulevard.

During our first stop at Lake Toya (on day 2 of this itinerary), we were too early for the fireworks shows (it wasn't Golden Week yet).

We were very lucky to catch the show on our way back north.

Where to stay in Toyako Onsen ⇒ Toyako Parking Lot (1 night)

The parking lot was in the center of the village Toyako, but still very quiet (we were there very early in the season).

There was even a (clean) toilet and a tap with warm water. No showers, but what can you expect from a free parking lot?

Hokkaido itinerary day 6: driving North

Itinerary: Toyako Parking Lot – Shin Furano Prince hotel

Admire the view

With the risk of repeating myself too often: road trips are the best! I love driving around an unknown country, looking out the window of our car, and admiring all there is to see…

Eat the best Maze Soba Tempura in Furano

Until this day, the Maze Soba we had in Furano is the best food I've ever eaten. Food in Japan is pretty much always really tasty, but this dish is my #1 favorite plate of food in the world.

Relax in a spa (onsen)

Hokkaido can be very cold, even in Spring. As such, I had been wearing my thermal underwear for 3 days straight when we arrived in Furano and both my clothes as well as myself were in dire need of cleaning…

The spa at the Shin Furano Prince Hotel was the perfect place to do so. For obvious reasons, taking pictures in the spa isn't allowed, but you can find pictures of the spa on Booking.com .

Where to stay in Furano ⇒ Shin Furano Prince Hotel (2 nights)

This hotel offers clean and spacious rooms in a beautiful location. However, the best feature of the Shin Furano Prince Hotel is the aforementioned spa.

The view from the spa is beautiful and there is no better way to end your day of sightseeing in Furano than by soaking up the heat in the onsen.

Click here to book the Shin Furano Prince hotel

Hokkaido itinerary day 7: Furano and around

Itinerary: Cheese factory – Wine factory – Walk around wine factory – Rollercoaster road – Blue Pools – Glass Forest – Spa at Shin Furano Prince Hotel  

Visit the Furano cheese factory

The first stop of the day was the cheese factory where we watched an informative movie (even though it was in Japanese and so were the subtitles).

We ate wine-infused cheese and black brie, very interesting tastes. And of course, we had to look up Dutch ‘Goudse Kaas' on the World Of Cheese.

Do a tasting at Furano wine factory

Next up was the wine factory (I had no idea they produce wine in Japan). It was fun to take a look in the wine cellar and search for the wine bottles produced in the year we were born.

The weather was amazing during our time in Furano, it was even warm enough to walk around in a t-shirt! We went for an easy 5-km walk near the wine factory and spotted a fox in the fields!

Visit Farm Tomita in Furano

the most famous lavender farm in Japan. I didn’t know this before coming to Japan, but lavender is kind of a thing here. Apparently, there is a special train station that is only in use during the lavender season.

Seeing the already beautiful views from Farm Tomita, I can understand why this place is such a tourist hotspot (for Japanese people).

We bought a lavender ice cream which tasted strangely good albeit a bit weird.

Drive the Rollercoaster Road

This is a fun 4km long road that really fun to drive because of the rolling hills. Thought it would have been even more fun if one were allowed to go faster than 50km an hour…

The Blue Pond

This is a beautiful but odd place with vividly blue glacier water and a lot of dead trees. Pretty but strange.

Drive around Furano valley

The views of the mountains on both sides of the valley were beautiful and we were extremely lucky with the weather!

Visit the Glass Forest

The last stop on our self-drive customized sightseeing tour around Furano was the Glass Forest.

This glass is unique and made using a very special technique that creates tiny cracks in the glass that take 3-5 years to mature! It’s very beautiful but also very expensive!

Enjoy the good life

We ate maze soba again because it was so delicious. And then we hung out in the spa of the Shin Furano Prince Hotel , again…

Hokkaido itinerary day 8: Asahidake Onsen

Itinerary: Shin Furano Prince hotel – Asahidake Onsen – Sōunkyō 7-11 parking lot

Hiking in the snow at Asahidake Onsen

The drive to Asahidake Onsen alone is reason enough to go there. The higher up the mountain we got, the higher the walls of snow lining the road became…

We, therefore, assumed hiking would be out of the question, but when we paid a visit to the tourist information center the friendly guy manning the station told us about a cross-country trail that was accessible for hiking.

Well, that sounded pretty awesome. Turns out it was!

The temperature was around 16 degrees Celsius and was a bit surreal to hike in a t-shirt through a very snowy landscape.

An unusual experience for sure, with gorgeous views along the way.

Where to stay at Sōunkyō ⇒ parking lot next to the 7-11 (1 night)

We asked the staff of the 7-11 if we could park for the night and they so kindly made an exception for us.

Parking next to the 7-11 meant we could literally crawl out of bed to get our morning coffee. Also, as apparently, all supermarkets in Japan do, there was a toilet in the store and a little sink to brush our teeth.

Hokkaido itinerary day 9: the road trip continues through Daisetzusan Park

Itinerary: Sōunkyō 7-11 parking lot – Ryusei-no-taki and Ginga-no-taki waterfalls – Taisetsu Dam in Daisetzusan Park – Lake Akan parking lot

Ryusei-no-taki and Ginga-no-taki waterfalls

I love waterfalls, they are mesmerizing, how can there be such an endless amount of water coming down from those steep cliffs…

To get the best view we hiked to the top of the trail across the waterfalls, from this spot you can take a picture of both waterfalls in one shot.

Be sure to bring bear spray and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. We didn’t see a bear but we did spot a couple of deer strolling through the forest.

Road through Daisetzusan National Park

Even with the dreary weather, it was a delight to drive this road through Daisetsuzan National Park.

We continued driving because with rain pouring down there wasn’t much else we could do and ended up at Lake Akan.

In Akan town, we chilled out in a little café, Pan de Pan, until the rain cleared up. With an almost completely clear sky, we went for a short walk by the beautiful lake and strolled through the Ainu village.

In the shopping street of Akan village, all sorts of arts and crafts products and countless marimo items are being sold in the souvenir shops. Marimo is what Lake Akan is all about after all!

You may wonder what the #$%^ is a marimo?

Marimo are green spheres of algae and very kawaii (because fluffy). How much of a thing is Kawaii in Japan? Let me quote the Lonely Planet : Marimo became endangered after being designated a national treasure. Suddenly everyone in Japan needed to have one. Anyway, these green spheres of algae grow in lake Akan and the people living in the village sure know how to use that fact to their advantage, there are marimo-themed items everywhere you look.

Where to stay at Akanko Onsen ⇒ Lake Akan parking lot (1 night)

The lady selling the parking tickets didn't mind if we stayed the night.

The parking lot happened to be across from 7-11, so getting coffee and breakfast was easy again, as was cleaning up (slightly) in the morning.

I'm nit-picking here, but the ground wasn't entirely level. Not ideal when you sleep in your car.

Price per night: €3,20/$4 (for a parking ticket)

Hokkaido itinerary day 10: Lake Akan and around

Itinerary: Lake Akan parking lot – Lake Akan nature walk – Eco Museum – Lake Onetto – car drop-off point – Hotel Areaone Chitose

Lake Akan nature walk

On our last day in Hokkaido, we were definitely in luck (again): the sun was shining! We went for a short hike over the nature trail next to the Eco Visitor Center.

It was a brief hike but offered great views of the lake. And of course, we passed some mud pools, signs of volcanic activity are never far away on Hokkaido.

Visit the Akan Eco Museum

In the Akan Eco museum, we checked out some particularly fluffy marimo (see the picture above) and learned more about the formation of these strange phenomena.

Hike around Lake Onetto

Lake Onetto is a gorgeous lake with bright blue color and two imposing volcanoes looming over the lake.

We went for a hike around the lake, but the trail was still partially snowed under!

I imagine in summer it’s a nice and easy stroll, but in Spring it was quite a challenging hike as we tried not to sink too deep into the snow!

Where to stay in Sapporo ⇒ Hotel Areaone Chitose (1 night)

We had an early flight to Hiroshima from New Chitose Airport. Hotel Areaone Chitose was close to the airport and offered a free shuttle service.

It was a good place to stay, the room was small but after sleeping in our car for a couple of nights it actually felt big to us;-).

We spent our afternoon soaking in the steaming onsen but unfortunately, the sauna was out of service during our stay.

More things to do on Hokkaido

If you've got more time to spend in Hokkaido (lucky you!), here are some popular places I wish we could have added to our Hokkaido itinerary.

Sapporo Snow Festival

If you happen to visit Hokkaido in winter, you can visit the famous Sapporo Snow Festival! This annual winter event is held in Sapporo and takes place every February in Odori Park (you'll also find the Sapporo tv tower in this park).

One of the highlights of the festival is the Snow Sculpture Contest. Teams from countries around the world compete to create the most amazing snow sculptures and the cool thing is: you can actually see the snow sculptures being made during the festival.

There are lots of other attractions such as snow slides, skiing, live performances, and much more. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a great way to experience the beauty of winter in Sapporo.

Check the official site for more information.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a stunning natural area located in the northernmost part of Hokkaido. With its unique combination of mountains, volcanoes, forests, and seashore, it is a popular destination for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Steller's sea eagle, brown bears, and the Asiatic black bear.

If you plan to visit this stunning part of Hokkaido, be sure to read up on bear safety and bring a can of bear spray and a bear bell .

Otaru is a charming port city, known for its picturesque canals lined with old-fashioned warehouses and charming, historical buildings.

The city has a rich history of fishing and trading, and you can still see many of the old fishing boats in the harbor.

Besides the famous Otaru Canal, there are a variety of attractions, such as the Otaru Aquarium, Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway.

All in all, Otaru is a great place to visit in Hokkaido, as it is a peaceful and relaxing city with many great restaurants, shops, and attractions to explore.

Road trip in Hokkaido: conclusion

Our road trip around Hokkaido was an amazing experience, despite the cold.

Hokkaido truly is a wonderful island: wild, mountainous, active volcanoes, lots of wildlife, pretty lakes, friendly people, and delicious food. 

I will add that 10 days in Hokkaido is not nearly enough to see everything this beautiful place has to offer. I really hope that we'll be able to come back to Hokkaido and visit more Hokkaido highlights.

Not many people include a trip to Hokkaido in their Japan itinerary , but I hope that this Hokkaido travel blog has convinced you Hokkaido is highly worth a visit!

If you want to read more about traveling in Japan , check out my other posts:

• Japan on a budget
• Japan off the beaten path
• Funny things in Japan
• Tokyo itinerary
• Kyoto itinerary
• Osaka itinerary
• Miyajima itinerary
• Japanese Alps itinerary
• 3 days in Kamikochi
• Hiking to Koyasan

Download our Hokkaido free and easy itinerary below and plan your trip in no time! Feel free to ask any questions you may have about planning a trip to Hokkaido, I'm happy to help!

This post was updated in January 2023 .

Sunday 15th of September 2019

Will you recommend Hokkaido in mid October? And if so, what changes from your itinerary do you suggest?

Friday 20th of September 2019

While I think you can visit Hokkaido in October, please keep in mind it will already be quite cold. Also, the leaves will probably have fallen (most of them at least) so you will miss the splendid fall colors. Nevertheless, the scenery will still be stunning and the crowds will have left so you'll have them all to yourself.

I wouldn't necessarily change the itinerary but my most important tip would be to follow the weather. If the weather forecast says sun in the north, go north. If rain is expected in the east, go west. And pack enough layers, gloves and a beanie:-)

Have a great trip! Lotte

Friday 12th of July 2019

Hi Lotte, Your mission has been accomplished as I was truly inspired by your 10day trip to Hokkaido. I live in Malaysia. I am hoping to take my 17 yr old daughter on road trip. I am hoping to rent a MPV (with sleeping and simple cooking set up but no toilet facilities). You are right in that there are not many articles about driving /camping routes around Japan or maybe I don't know what to look for. So thank you very much for sharing your trip. I've never done a driving holiday before and I feel even more responsible bringing my teen daughter so I don't really know where to begin. I chose Japan as I think it is a safe country to begin such a journey and also because I LOVE Japan and have only seen small parts of it. I wonder if you could give me some advise as to how I could go about researching and planning my own trip. (1) I would like to travel mid August 2020 as that is school break for my daughter - would it be meaningful to use your travel route as a guide (keeping in mind I won't see seasonal wonders like cherry blossoms blooming) (2) We plan to sleep in our van (so no hotels) (3) We are not sure how long should we plan ( we think maybe 7-10 days) - also I am concerned about how to plan so I can return the hired van in time. Also, I chose a Van instead of RV ( my teen is hoping I'd get an RV) because I wanted to have freedom of more parking options. (4) We would love to do the following: - Hot springs & light hiking ( a couple of hours) - visit quaint little shops or markets - local interesting places e.g. temples, museums or architecture (we both enjoy craft and art) (5) I am REALLY hoping to end our day with a warm Japanese meal and a bath in an Onsen before we retire for the evening in our van. But we are also prepared to park at a rest stop sometimes and hopefully able to get a shower at least. I need to own up on the fact that I have always been a book and plan in advance person. So this is a huge leap for me. I want to do this before my teen outgrows bunking and holidaying with mom. (6) I looked at the car rental which you mentioned but I don't see that they offer the van which I'm after. I have done some research but if you do have any recommendations, I'd be happy to compare with my own findings.

Thank you for your time. May you have many more lovely trips and wonderful memories. Vivien

Saturday 20th of July 2019

It’s so wonderful to read about your upcoming adventure to Hokkaido with your daughter! Japan is a very safe country indeed and a great place for a first driving trip.

Regarding your questions, I think a van is a good choice as it gives you lots of flexibility. Keep in mind you’ll need/want something (like towels) to cover your windows so you don’t wake up at first light.

In 7-10 days you can see lots of things, but it really depends on the distance you want to cover in one day. You could easily spend a couple of days in the area around Furano, especially since you mention you like quaint little shops and arts&crafts.

Some campsites have an onsen but not all, I’d just ask the camp manager about the facilities when you arrive at a site. We also parked at random parking lots and there are no facilities (like a shower) available at such locations?. Regarding the rental company, if you are after a particular car I’d just go with the company that offers the best deal. As I went with ToCoo I have no experience with other rental companies in Japan.

I wish you a wonderful trip with your daughter! Let me know if you have any further questions:-) Lotte

Oodledoodles

Monday 18th of February 2019

Great post! Thank you for sharing your trip and information with fellow travellers!

I have a question... You mentioned "With temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius at some point, we decided to change our plans and head south instead of north to Wakkanai and the islands of Rebun and Reshiri..." Was weather and freezing temperatures the only reason why you changed your course of travels or was it because of the sights as well (with North having less sights over longer distance and South having more sights over shorter distance travelled?

I am planning to include some south Hokkaido (giving NOBORIBETSU and HAKODATE a miss... the former i've seen plenty in Rotorua and the latter, is just a city) and some of north Hokkaido (including Cape Kamui, Wakkanai and Cape Soya). Will include Biei and Furano as well.

Do you think is workable? I want to follow the tourist route but at the same time i'd like to able to see a little of the north side of Hokkaido as well. Just iffy about the travel distance and time between the cities thats all. We want to be able to take a relaxing journey and take our time, instead of being on the road all the time and rushing from one place to another, not taking time to enjoy the experience.

Sunday 3rd of March 2019

Hi! Thanks, I'm happy to hear that:-) For us the weather was the only reason we traveled South a couple of days sooner than planned. I'd love to revisit Hokkaido as there is so much more to see...

Regarding your itinerary, it really depends how much time you have available. As I mentioned in the post, covering the distances on Hokkaido takes time. However, the views are beautiful though and the roads are in great condition! I always like the journey as well, but I agree you don't want to feel rushed. I'd calculate the distances with google and multiply the time mentioned there by factor 1,3. If that seems alright to you I'd go for it! Have a wonderful trip:-)

Wednesday 30th of January 2019

Hello Lotte!

Thank you so much for this!

Did you go to Hokkaido around late April? I'm planning to go there on this late April and would love to go to Farm Tomita Furano, I saw your picture there, and seems that the lavender is not bloomed yet, But how about other flowers? I'm afraid that late April (30 april) wont be a good time to go to the farm if others flowers are also not bloomed yet.

Thank you Yessi

Friday 1st of February 2019

You are most welcome:-) Regarding your question, yes we traveled to Hokkaido at the end of April. No flowers were in bloom at all, in fact, there was still a lot of snow! Visiting Farm Tomita (and the other places on Hokkaido) was still great but if you are specifically looking for flowers blooming the end of April of probably not a good time. Enjoy your trip!

Friday 7th of September 2018

Hi Lotte - what a great read!

As a non-driver (yeah, shocking I know!) I'm always interested in how folks explore Japan by hire car.

I have a lot of affection for Hokkaido and reading this reminds me not to leave it too long before I'm next there.

The Log Yukari Guesthouse really looks like my kinda place - so that's a good find - thanks for the tip!

If anyone is visiting Hokkaido in Winter (especially between Jan-Mar) then I can thoroughly recommend taking a cruise out into the winter ice floes in an icebreaker ship - it really is an unforgettable experience:

https://www.therealjapan.com/how-to-cruise-an-icebreaker-ship-in-hokkaido/

Wednesday 19th of September 2018

Thanks for reading! I loved exploring Hokkaido by car but of course the trains in Japan are excellent as well;-) I would love to visit in winter, the icebreaker cruise sounds amazing...

Fox 8 Cleveland WJW

April 22, 2024 Road Trip: Go Green

by: Emma Rice

Posted: Apr 22, 2024 / 11:00 AM EDT

Updated: Apr 22, 2024 / 09:09 AM EDT

Rust Belt Riders   2701 Saint Clair Avenue Northeast Cleveland, Ohio 44114  https://www.rustbeltriders.com/ https://www.tilthsoil.com/

The Honeyest One   https://www.thehoneyestone.com/

Smooth Rider Smoothies  1983 West 28th St.  Cleveland, Ohio 44113  https://www.smoothrider.com/

Oak Tree Hydroponics  https://oaktreehydroponics.com/

Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Reservation   www.ClevelandMetroparks.com  

Holden Forests & Gardens  9550 Sperry Road  Kirtland, Ohio 44094  https://holdenfg.org/

Edgewater Surf 1328 Linda Street, Suite 4 Rocky River, OH 44116 https://www.edgewatersurf.com/

Ohio to Erie Trail https://www.ohiotoerietrail.org/

Rubber City Reuse 526 South Main Street Suite 124 Akron, OH, 44311 https://www.rubbercityreuse.com/

Petitti Garden Centers 18548 Chillicothe Rd Chagrin Falls, OH 44023, USA https://www.petittigardencenter.com/

Cool World 6511 Detroit Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44102 coolworldcle.com

Suggest a Correction

Allergy season has arrived and air purifiers are ….

An air purifier can make or break home or office life for someone who suffers from allergies.

Earth Day tips for taking care of your outdoor space

Want to know how you can best celebrate Earth Day? Incorporate some of these eco-friendly yard care products into your life.

Amazon’s Mother’s Day Shop has all the gifting inspo …

Amazon now offers a Mother’s Day shop with a curated gift list that has tons of great ideas in case you’re still stuck.

Latest Video Headlines

Photos: otherworldly restaurant officially opening …, weather update: monday evening, i-team: parent had gun at school fight, police say, texas man sues cinemark over alleged ‘misleading’ …, how to enter the supersized coffee quiz, $4.8m settlement reached in chase that killed teen …, jesse owens’ childhood home to become historic landmark …, weather clickable: cooler than average temps, missing: dillon crutchfield, csx train derails in cleveland yard, missing: andrew chapman, man shot at downtown bar, family announces settlement with cleveland in death …, weather clickable: how long chilly temps linger, family announces $4.8m settlement after deadly cleveland …, 216stix fires up fox 8 studio for cavs playoff game …, mastick road connector trail provides ‘direct connection’ …, young author hopes to inspire action with her children’s …, celebrate earth day with some cool merch from cleveland …, deadly crash in lorain county splits utility pole, download the fox 8 app.

Things to do in NE Ohio

Good news for ohio turkey hunters, cuyahoga valley scenic railroad soon back on track, take the kids to the movies for $3 this summer, chardon restaurant week kicks off today, kids can bowl for free in ne ohio this summer.

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Dining and Delicious Eats

Bestreviews.com - top picks to make everyone happy, these are the best mother’s day gifts you can buy …, walmart has a ton of mother’s day gifts perfect for …, bouqs is giving bestreviews readers 20% off gorgeous …, 65 (great) mother’s day gifts, the pioneer woman’s ‘gifts for mom’ are floral, fun ….

Oakland Athletics | Lengthy Oakland A’s road trip gets off to…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Today's e-Edition

• Earthquakes
• High School
• Pac-12 Hotline
• Dieter Kurtenbach

Breaking News

Oakland athletics | joe simitian leads evan low by one vote in preliminary recount results, oakland athletics, oakland athletics | lengthy oakland a’s road trip gets off to dismal start, mlb: oakland a’s are swept by cleveland guardians, have new york yankees next.

CLEVELAND — The Oakland A’s might have entered this 10-game road trip feeling somewhat upbeat about the way they had been playing so far this month.

The A’s three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians demonstrated that several improvements still need to be made.

Left-handed reliever T.J. McFarland gave up a three-run double in the seventh inning to Josh Naylor, turning a close game into a rout Sunday as A’s lost 6-2 to the Guardians, who completed a three-game sweep of Oakland and continued their best start in 25 years.

With the A’s trailing 3-2, Naylor, who celebrated a two-run homer on Saturday by bashing the top of his helmet with his bat before rounding the bases, fell behind 0-2 in the count before doubling with the bases loaded off McFarland.

“He’s something else right now,” said Guardians first-year manager Stephen Vogt said of Naylor, who is batting .406 (13 of 32) with 14 RBIs in nine home games.

The A’s were likely all too eager to get to New York and start a four-game series with the Yankees Monday in the Bronx. Sunday’s loss was Oakland’s seventh straight in Cleveland, and the A’s have now gone 3-17 against the Guardians in the past three years.

A’s manager Mark Kotsay bemoaned his team’s missed chances.

“That’s what really good teams do,” Kotsay said. “They capitalize on mistakes. From a hitting standpoint, you make mistakes and they end up taking advantage of it.

“They put the ball in play. They don’t strike out a ton. And that’s where we really battled today with getting ahead of guys and just not being able to finish.”

The A’s managed two runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings against Cleveland starter Tanner Bibee (2-0). Bibee gave up a two-out RBI single in the sixth before Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt dipped into his bullpen, which came in with a 2.19 ERA.

Tim Herrin, Nick Sandlin, Cade Smith, and closer Emmanuel Clase held the A’s scoreless over the final 3 1/3 innings.

Will Brennan homered for the Guardians, who finished off the A’s while All-Star third baseman Jose Ramirez got a day off.

A’s starter Ross Stripling (0-5) is now 0-10 over the last two seasons with Oakland and San Francisco. He’s the first A’s pitcher to lose his first five starts since Mike Morris dropped six straight in 1979.

Stripling was solid, allowing three runs and five hits in five innings.

“He just couldn’t finish,” Kotsay said. “We played good defense overall. They found holes. He still gave us an opportunity to be in the game, be competitive. Back-to-back days at 3-2 in the seventh and we let it get away from us.”

The A’s were 7-8 this month before they arrived in Cleveland, and after their series with the American League East-leading Yankees, they go to Baltimore for three against the Orioles (14-7).

“We’re going to learn a lot about ourselves on this road trip,” Stripling said.

Brent Rooker homered for the A’s.

TRAINER’S ROOM

Oakland has nine players on the injured list. The A’s have had at least eight players on the IL since June 16, 2023.

The A’s open a four-game series today at Yankee Stadium with JP Sears (1-1, 4.35 ERA) facing LHP Carlos Rodón

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

• Report an error
• Policies and Standards

More in Oakland Athletics

Oakland Athletics | Zach Gelof’s ninth-inning home run lifts A’s over Yankees, 2-0

Oakland Athletics | A’s-Yankees: Boone ejected after five pitches, insists he said nothing

Oakland Athletics | Former Stanford player who spent time with A’s, SF Giants dies in Oakland

Oakland Athletics | Josh Naylor hits a two-run HR and himself with his bat, helping the Guardians beat the Athletics 6-3

A Grip on Sports: April showers interfere with M’s road trip and get us thinking about what the month means in baseball

A GRIP ON SPORTS • We won’t be writing about the Mariners’ Friday game this morning. It was postponed. Weather. We won’t be writing about the transfer portal either. We are overwhelmed. We also won’t be writing about the Seahawks’ draft plans, our latest golf outing or how sports can keep you young. That doesn’t leave much, does it?

• It’s April’s curse. No, not rain showers, but those can be a curse too – especially when they hit while you are out walking the dog. When you are cursed by not having a lot of hope in your local major league baseball team, the last three weeks of April can seem bereft of joy. Of excitement. Of anticipation.

At least it is this year. for us

The month hasn’t always been that way.

In 1984, we still had a few vestiges of our Detroit Tiger fandom hanging around. And we’re not just talking about our classic dark Old-English-script D hat, which we made popular long before Tom Selleck wore it on that Hawaii detective show, Cro-Magnum P.I. or whatever it was called.

It was easy to be a Tiger fan that season. Sparky Anderson, showing second acts were possible in the game, was the manager, Lance Parrish was the most important player and young right-hander Dan Petry was unbeatable. Just like the Tigers. They lost twice in April that season. Twice. The M’s might pick up that many losses Sunday.

Detroit’s 18-2 mark in the month stands out in our memory. So does their 35-5 first 40 games. Talk about anticipation. A World Series was in store, right? Yep. A title.

(By the way, we had a couple connections with that Tiger team. The designated hitter, Darrell Evans, was our junior varsity baseball coach’s best friend, and used to take batting practice with our team occasionally. And the Tigers’ utility man, Marty Castillo, played at Savanna High in Anaheim, Calif., along with stints at Fullerton and Santa Ana JCs and Chapman College. We played against Castillo in those latter three spots. We also coached the Savanna High Legion team for two summers as the 1980s dawned.)

The converse of that season? The 2003 Tigers, who were 3-21 when April ended, en route to 119 losses. That last number is pretty important to baseball. Not only was it one off the record set by Casey Stengel’s woeful 1962 Mets, it also is three more than the Mariners’ record 116 wins in 2001.

The M’s finished April in 2001 20-5. They were 31-9 in their first 40 games. Talk about anticipation. A World Series was in store, right? Nope. A flameout was though.

OK, so an April shower of wins doesn’t always ensure success. But neither does a rain barrel full of losses. The same year the Mariners won 116 games, the Athletics also won 102. That A’s team posted an 8-16 record in April. And still made the postseason. Of course, Oakland lost in the playoffs to the Yankees, but that division series failure was the impetus for Moneyball, so there is that.

We don’t believe the Mariners are going to finish April with an 8-16 record. In fact, we can guarantee they will win at least nine games. But we also don’t think that they will win 102 either, despite possibly having just as good of starting pitching as Oakland did that season. (Yes, a staff of Tim Hudson, Mark Mulder and Barry Zito – all 25 or younger – is tough to top but the M’s just may be better with veteran Luis Castillo and youngsters Logan Gilbert, George Kirby and Bryce Miller.)

Why can’t Seattle win 102 games? You know the reasons, don’t you? The lineup. The defense. And the magic number. A record of 102-60 is a winning percentage of 63%. That’s well above the M’s goal of 54%. There’s no way Jerry Dipoto and ownership want to be that successful.

It would raise the fanbase’s expectations. And they don’t want that.

WSU: OK, we could have written about Jabe Mullins finding a home for his final year of eligibilty. At Montana State. But we left that duty to Greg Woods. He’s got it covered . … We also could – maybe should? – have written about Kirk Schulz announcing he will step down at Wazzu on June 30, 2025. We passed, mainly because Schulz’s legacy is complicated and yet to be complete. We’ll wait until closer to closing time. Besides, we have this Nick Gibson and Elena Perry story to pass along. … We can also pass along this story on kicker Dean Janikowski’s fund-raising efforts to fight cancer. … Elsewhere in the Pac-12 and the nation, Jon Wilner has a mailbag we can pass along. A couple of the questions have to do with the Pac-2’s future. … A lot of schools have been practicing with helmet communication systems this spring and the reason is now clear. The NCAA approved them for the fall . The organization also is adding a 2-minute warning. Or, as it should be known, another commercial break. … The NCAA also finally decided what to do with Arizona State for its COVID-19-era violations. The organization really hit former coach Herm Edwards hard. Of course, he was never going to coach again, so there is actually little of consequence. The Sun Devils also lost their leading receiver to the portal. … Friday was a busy day for Washington football and the transfer portal . So busy, in fact, there was an update later to Scott Hanson’s story in the Times . … Dan Lanning has impressed John Canzano in many ways. … Oregon has a new kicker. He moved south down I-5 just a few miles. From Oregon State . … How do you feel about the Sanders brothers recruiting for Colorado via Insta? … Miller Moss had an exceptional debut as USC’s quarterback . What’s next? … The Trojans added to its stable of coaches . … UCLA had some fun at practice Friday. … A former Arizona player found a home. … The Colorado women are in the process of retooling their roster. … UCLA has lost some depth. … Utah’s men lost a key part of its lineup to the portal yesterday. … Arizona is about development, at least for one player.

Gonzaga: After a tough nonconference schedule, the Zag baseball team has found its stride in WCC play. A 2-1 win over visiting Portland on Friday lifted GU into the top spot in the conference standings. … We mentioned Calli Stokes heading to the portal yesterday. Greg Lee has this story .

EWU and Idaho: Around the Big Sky, the Erik Meyer-to-the-conference-Hall-of-Fame news yesterday got us thinking. And doing some research. Meyer is working for former Eastern coach Paul Wulff at Cal Poly. So is another quarterback with Wulff ties, Timm Rosenbach . … Montana State has a duo that will run the defense together. … Northern Arizona’s football team did a wonderful thing yesterday. … Weber State has been rebuilding its women’s basketball roster. … A Northern Colorado player left for a new experience.

Preps: We can pass along a roundup of Friday’s action put together by Dave Nichols.

Indians: Dave also covered Spokane’s 5-4 win over Everett at Avista Stadium last night. The Indians rallied to walk-off the Aquasox on Jesus Bugarin’s single. … Elsewhere in the Northwest League, the Indians stayed within a half-game of leader Eugene as the Emeralds rallied to defeat visiting Vancouver 8-6. … Tri-City hammered host Hillsboro 11-3.

Seahawks: We have been linking the Times’ draft previews stories, but will also link them when they run in the S-R, as this one on the cornerback position did today. … Today we have looks at tight end and interior offensive linemen to pass along from Seattle. … Wondering how the draft will play out ? A lot of quarterbacks early then who knows.

Mariners: The postponed game was rescheduled for a Sunday doubleheader, when the weather is expected to improve. Today is kind of dicey in Denver as well.

Sounders: Pedro de la Vega suffered an injury while rehabbing another injury.

Storm: There has already been a date change to the team’s schedule.

• Our cold is finally fading. We awoke this morning feeling better. Less congested. Coughing a bit more, but that happens. Maybe we’ll be able to get out in society today. With the proper precautions, of course. Don’t want to spread our germs to others. The only thing we should be legally allowed to spread is our thoughts and ideas here. Until later …

Closing the Gap

Small businesses are the backbone of any local economy and are the clearest indicator of neighborhood health and vitality.

County Road 26 to open Monday for local, critical trips

Limited travel for commuters using the lake city cutoff opens after state and county collaboration as bridge closure continues.

Montrose and Gunnison Counties — This weekend, CDOT and Gunnison County are working together to accelerate improvements to County Road 26 (Lake City Cutoff) so it can open Monday for local commuter travel between Montrose and Gunnison.  At the same time, engineers continue to conduct safety inspections of the US Highway 50 bridge crossing the Blue Mesa Reservoir at Dillon Pinnacles. This bridge, located west of Gunnison at Mile Point 136.3, closed Thursday in the interest of public safety after an inspection revealed a crack in one of the girders. The technical structure name for the bridge is K-07-B. 

Recognizing the US 50 closure creates a significant detour for commuters traveling between Montrose and Gunnison, CDOT and Gunnison County officials this weekend prioritized getting a shorter access route in place for local travel between the two communities. That collaboration will continue as officials work to further fortify the road with gravel and manage traffic to a level that the road can safely carry.

“We are starting slow in order to increase the chances we can go faster later. The impact on western Colorado cannot be understated and we are exhausting all opportunities and partnerships to mitigate the impacts of the bridge closure,” said Martin Schmidt, Assistant Gunnison County Manager for Public Works.

On Monday, April 22, pilot cars will lead  passenger vehicles through the access route two times a day in each direction. Because CR 26 is a high-mountain, unpaved road that is not intended to accommodate the traffic volumes of US 50, travel times will be limited and commercial vehicles exceeding a 16,001 gross vehicle weight rating are prohibited. The schedule for piloted travel is:

• 6 to 6:30 a.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. for westbound travel 
• 7 to 7:30 a.m. and 7 to 7:30 p.m. for eastbound travel 

The queue for westbound pilot car operations will start near the intersection of CO 149 and CR 26 and the queue for eastbound travel will start near the intersection of US 50 and CR 26. The travel time on the access route is expected to be 30 minutes or more.

County Road 26 will only be open for local, essential travel during these timeframes. The road will remain closed at all other times for the ongoing restoration work needed to ensure the road remains safe for travel.

A hotline and email continue to be in place to assist customers with questions about the closure. Anyone with questions can reach out via 970-648-4423 or [email protected] . Calls will be closely monitored and will receive a prompt reply. Information is also available on the project website at bit.ly/us50bridge . Travelers should refer to COtrip.org or the smartphone COtrip Planner app to plan an alternate route.

“CDOT appreciates Gunnison county’s dedication and hard work as we cooperate to offer more options to help the western slope manage this safety closure.  CDOT will continue to support the county as we focus on the opening of County Road 26 to serve the critical needs of residents,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “County Road 26 is an important local route that is up to five hours more efficient than detouring via state highways. However, this road currently has a natural roadbed and can only accommodate limited traffic - so it is important that we help Gunnison County focus this capacity on the needs of local communities most impacted by the closure.”

There are two recommended detours for through travel via Interstate 70 to the north or US 160 to the south and these detours add six to eight hours of travel time. CDOT is coordinating with emergency service providers to ensure emergency response is unaffected.

Travel Impacts  

• US 50 is closed between Montrose and Gunnison
• Recommended alternate routes are I-70 to the north or US 160 to the south
• A limited, local detour is in place for travel at specific times

Project Contact Information 

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.  

• Webpage: bit.ly/us50bridge
• Information hotline: 970-648-4423 
• Email: [email protected]  
• Fact Sheet: County 26 Local Access
• Hoja informativa del proyecto:  Ruta de acceso local en la County Road 26

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

Jake Irvin delivers as Nationals beat Dodgers again to close road trip

LOS ANGELES — It was only fitting that Jake Irvin’s start Wednesday afternoon at Dodger Stadium ended the way it did: with a high fastball in on the hands of Los Angeles catcher Will Smith.

It was the sixth pitch of the at-bat. The Washington Nationals right-hander had thrown five four-seamers in a row. For his sixth pitch, he didn’t deviate from the plan: He fired a fastball by Smith, notching his sixth strikeout in the Nationals’ 2-0 victory, which sealed a series win against one of the best teams in the majors.

Irvin allowed four hits and one walk as he benefited from strong defense behind him, especially from second baseman Luis García Jr.

“They’re really good hitters and a really good lineup,” said Irvin, who has a 3.13 ERA after four starts. “But at the end of the day, they got to put the ball in play. The thought was just go into attack mode, don’t give them anything free, and make them earn it.”

Irvin didn’t miss many bats as a rookie last season — his whiff percentage was 17.8, which he has raised to 21.6 this year. (The major league average is 24.8 percent.) He was at 28.2 percent Wednesday, and with his fastball, he got nine whiffs on 24 swings (37.5 percent).

“He was using his fastball both in and out, attacking the zone,” Manager Dave Martinez said. “When he needed to throw a breaking ball, he did, but his fastball was electric.”

The Nationals (8-10) trekked to Los Angeles following an underwhelming three-game set at Oakland that could have ended with a series win or even a sweep. Instead, they won just once. But they rebounded with two wins in three games against the Dodgers (12-9), and Irvin was a major reason for that.

He could have gone beyond the sixth inning, too, but Martinez opted to pull him after 73 pitches. Irvin had cruised through the Dodgers’ lineup with relative ease, allowing just five base runners. And he had thrown just 74 pitches in a six-inning, one-hit outing against the Athletics on Friday.

But there was a clear argument against sending Irvin out for the seventh Wednesday: He struggled last season against left-handed batters. In the sixth, lefties Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman hit balls with exit velocities of 106.7 and 99.6 mph — for a single and a double play — before Smith struck out. Set to lead off the seventh for the Dodgers: Max Muncy, who feasts against righties.

“We had a conversation after the sixth inning. I really felt like he let it air out there that last inning,” Martinez said. “… We decided to go with the bullpen, but I can’t say enough about what he’s done so far.”

Robert Garcia, Hunter Harvey and Kyle Finnegan handled the final three innings without incident, and the Nationals returned home with a 5-4 record on their California road trip.

“[Irvin] pitched his butt off today,” Harvey said. “… Any time a starter can give you six scoreless, it’s always a good day.”

The Nationals, who managed just one first-inning run in their first 17 games, drove in two in the first against the Dodgers’ Landon Knack, a righty making his major league debut. CJ Abrams greeted him with a home run on the game’s second pitch, and Joey Meneses tacked on another run with a sacrifice fly.

The Dodgers had opportunities to level the score. They had two runners on in the first, but Irvin struck out Muncy with a fastball. In the second, he allowed a double to James Outman, who was at third base with two outs. He struck out Gavin Lux with another fastball. He stranded another runner on third in the fourth inning.

The Nationals have several young starters who they hope will take the next step this season. Josiah Gray ( strained right flexor muscle ) and Cade Cavalli (Tommy John surgery) are recuperating; the Nationals hope they’ll be back soon. So far, Gore has looked the part .

But so has Irvin. Last season, he made the most of his opportunity while filling in for the injured Chad Kuhl. Irvin thrived early, then struggled. The Nationals could have sent him back down, but they stuck with him — and he was their best pitcher in the season’s second half. This year, he seems to be building confidence with each start.

“He’s been unbelievable — he really has,” Martinez said. “He’s been outstanding, actually. He just keeps getting better and better. The confidence keeps growing.”

Note: Lefty Mitchell Parker, who beat the Dodgers in his MLB debut Monday , is slated to start Sunday against visiting Houston. Gore and Trevor Williams are set to start the first two games of the series. Martinez said Parker will be on a start-by-start basis as the Nationals await word on Gray’s condition.

• Jake Irvin delivers as Nationals beat Dodgers again to close road trip April 17, 2024 Jake Irvin delivers as Nationals beat Dodgers again to close road trip April 17, 2024
• Nationals’ impatience at the plate is contagious in 6-2 loss to Dodgers April 17, 2024 Nationals’ impatience at the plate is contagious in 6-2 loss to Dodgers April 17, 2024
• Nationals prepare to celebrate five-year anniversary of World Series title April 16, 2024 Nationals prepare to celebrate five-year anniversary of World Series title April 16, 2024

Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Reds, hurt by Rengifo’s…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• High School

Los Angeles Angels

Los angeles angels | angels shut out by reds, hurt by rengifo’s two-out error, josé soriano takes a no-hitter into the sixth inning, but a costly error leads to three unearned runs and a 3-0 defeat to cap their 3-7 trip.

Angels starting pitcher José Soriano throws to the plate during the first inning of their game against the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher pitcher Frankie Montas throws in the first inning of a baseball game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Frankie Montas throws to first base to force out the Angels’ Taylor Ward in the first inning at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Frankie Montas reacts after being hit by a line drive off the bat of the Angels’ Taylor Ward in the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. Montas left the game after the injury. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Frankie Montas reacts after being hit by a line drive hit by the Angels’ Taylor Ward in the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. Montas left the game after the injury. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Frankie Montas, left, reacts as his arm is checked after being hit by a line drive hit by the Angels’ Taylor Ward in the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. Montas left the game after the injury. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Frankie Montas leaves the game after being injured in the first inning against the Angels at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Angels star Mike Trout grounds out in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Brent Suter pitches in the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

The Angels’ Nolan Schanuel hits a single in the second inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagán throws in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Angels starting pitcher José Soriano throws to the plate during the second inning of their game against the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday in Cincinnati. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Angels right fielder Aaron Hicks, left, catches a fly ball hit by the Cincinnati Reds’ Christian Encarnacion-Strand (not shown) in the fourth inning of a baseball game on Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Angels’ Taylor Ward hits a single in the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Nick Martini connects (and reaches on an error) during the sixth inning of their game against the Angels at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Angels center fielder Mike Trout fails to catch a fly ball in the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Angels catcher Matt Thaiss, left, reaches with a late tag as the Cincinnati Reds’ Nick Martini slides safely into home plate to score on a double by Christian Encarnacion-Strand in the sixth inning on Sunday in Cincinnati. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Angels catcher Matt Thaiss, left, reaches with a late tag as the Cincinnati Reds’ Nick Martini slides safely into home plate to score on a double by Christian Encarnacion-Strand in the sixth inning on Sunday in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Elly De La Cruz, right, and Reds designated hitter Nick Martini, left, celebrate after they scored off Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s double in the sixth inning of a game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Nick Martini, left, and Elly De La Cruz celebrate after scoring runs in the sixth inning against the Angels at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Elly De La Cruz, right, and Reds designated hitter Nick Martini, left, celebrate after they scored on Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s double in the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Jeimer Candelario hits a triple in the sixth inning against the Angels at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

The Cincinnati Reds’ Jeimer Candelario runs to third base after hitting a triple in the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. Reds’ Christian Encarnacion-Strand scored on the play. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Angels’ Luis Rengifo grounds into a force out in the seventh inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

The Angels’ Aaron Hicks throws his helmet to the ground after striking out swinging in the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Angels first baseman Nolan Schanuel, left, and catcher Matt Thaiss collide while attempting to catch a pop fly in the seventh inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 21, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Díaz throws in the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Angels, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Cincinnati Reds center fielder Will Benson (30) and shortstop Elly De La Cruz, left, celebrate after their 3-0 victory over the Angels on Sunday in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

CINCINNATI — One day after his throwing error led to a five-run first inning for the Cincinnati Reds, Angels second baseman Luis Rengifo booted a two-out ground ball that resulted in three unearned runs on Sunday afternoon.

Angels starter José Soriano (0-3) took a no-hitter into the sixth inning, but Cincinnati’s Elly De La Cruz broke it up with a one-out infield single. Two batters later, Rengifo misplayed Nick Martini’s grounder, and Cristian Encarnacion-Strand smoked a two-run double off the top of the wall in left-center field for the only offense the Reds would need in a 3-0 win in front of a crowd of 25,935 at Great American Ball Park.

“The game was moving along; both sides were pitching very well,” Angels manager Ron Washington said. “We know what Soriano was doing out there, and then we don’t handle the baseball. Next thing you know, they’ve got three runs.”

Jeimer Candelario hit a triple to right field after Encarnacion-Strand’s double to give Cincinnati a 3-0 lead, spoiling Soriano’s promising outing.

“That’s part of the game,” Soriano said of Rengifo’s error. “You’ve got to keep fighting as a pitcher. Thankfully, I got out of the inning. But things happen.”

While it was Rengifo’s second error in as many games, it could have been his third. He initially was charged with his second of the game on Saturday night on a bouncer by Jonathan India in the fifth inning.

The official scorer later changed it to a hit, but the misplay led to Cincinnati’s final two runs in what ended up being the difference in a 7-5 loss.

“Nobody wants to make an error, but it’s part of the game,” Rengifo said. “I have to be better and catch the ball.”

Not only did the Reds not have any hits before the sixth, they only got one after that inning. But the three unearned runs were more than enough for the Cincinnati bullpen, which compiled 8⅓ shutout innings after starter Frankie Montas took a Miguel Sanó line drive off his right forearm in the top of the first and exited after just 16 pitches.

Brent Suter came in for Montas and blanked the Angels for 3⅓ innings, followed by Emilio Pagan (2-1), who earned the win with two innings worked, Fernando Cruz, Lucas Sims and Alexis Diaz.

“We know Suter, and he came in and we didn’t do very much with him,” Washington said. “And then, Cruz. We know exactly what he does. We just didn’t supply anything offensively today.”

The Angels had just six hits, two from Nolan Schanuel and two from Rengifo, and left nine on base, including five through the first three innings.

The team has scored one or fewer runs in three of the last four games.

“Maybe it’s the Reds’ pitchers. I don’t know,” Washington said. “But we’ve certainly got to do a better job on the offensive side. Everybody wants to talk about pitching, but our pitching has been keeping us in ballgames. We just haven’t been scoring enough runs to do anything with it.”

Soriano did more than just keep the Angels in the game. He had the best – and longest – outing of his young career, lasting six innings while striking out a career-high seven.

“I was throwing pretty much everything,” he said through interpreter Manny Del Campo. “Every single pitch was working, especially the curveball. So I feel great.”

But it was an 0-and-2 curveball that Encarnacion-Strand belted off the wall in left center to break the scoreless tie.

“I was trying to throw a little bit lower,” Soriano said. “But it happens. It’s baseball.”

Had Rengifo come up with the ground ball from Martini, Encarnacion-Strand instead would have been hitting with no one on, leading off the seventh.

“That was the third out, and the ball was not handled,” Washington said. “And the next thing you know, they’ve got three runs. You’ve got to handle the baseball. There’s no doubt about it. You’ve got to handle the baseball.”

The Angels (9-13) ended their 10-game trip with a 3-7 record.

They will be back in action Monday night at home against the Baltimore Orioles.

• Newsroom Guidelines
• Report an Error

More in Los Angeles Angels

Los Angeles Angels | Angels working to help Luis Rengifo rediscover his defensive game

Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Anthony Rendon placed on injured list after pulling hamstring

Los Angeles Angels | Anthony Rendon exits early and Angels can’t overcome poor start against Reds

SUBSCRIBER ONLY

Los angeles angels | angels shortstop zach neto’s day off is short-lived.