Hi! We are planning a trip from April 15th-20th this year. It would be my husband and two kids (14 and 11 years old). We were considering doing a route that would go to Zion and Page. Are the driving conditions good this time of year? Would we get snow or other difficult conditions? We would be renting a car. We are mostly east coast suburban drivers. However, we did enjoy our trip to Colorado a few summers around where we made a loop seeing RMNP, Breckenridge and Garden of the Gods.
thanks!
Hi there! Your planned trip from Las Vegas to Zion NP and Page sounds fantastic! April is a great time to visit these areas, as the weather is usually mild and pleasant, but there are a few things to consider when it comes to driving conditions.
1. Weather Conditions: While it's unlikely that you'll experience heavy snow in April, there's always a possibility of some late-season snow or rain, especially in the higher elevations like Zion National Park. Snow can still occur in the mountains, but by mid-April, most of it will have melted in Zion and Page. That being said, temperatures in Zion range from 50-70°F, and Page sees similar weather, though it may be a bit warmer.
2. Road Conditions: The roads you’ll be traveling on (such as I-15 to Zion and US-89 to Page) are generally well-maintained and accessible year-round. However, always check the weather and road conditions ahead of time. Some areas near Zion, especially at higher elevations, might still have patches of snow or ice early in the month, but this is usually not a major concern for East Coast suburban drivers. The roads are clear and well-paved.
3. Driving Experience: Since you’ve driven through Colorado in the past, you should feel comfortable with the terrain. The drive from Las Vegas to Zion is relatively straightforward, taking about 2.5-3 hours, and the route from Zion to Page is about 2 hours. These are scenic drives, but they're not overly challenging, especially with a rental car. Just be sure to watch for occasional windy roads and be aware of sudden elevation changes.
4. Tips for the Drive:
In summary, while there's always a small chance of unexpected weather, April is a great time to visit these destinations, and you should have a smooth driving experience. Just be sure to check the weather forecast for any late snowstorms that might affect the higher roads, and enjoy your adventure!