Things to Do in Albuquerque in April

April Weather in Albuquerque

22°C (72°F) High Temp

7°C (45°F) Low Temp

13 mm (0.5 inches) Rainfall

35% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather with 22°C (72°F) highs and 35% humidity - ideal for Sandia Peak and Petroglyph Monument trails before summer heat arrives
Optimal hot air balloon conditions with calm morning winds and crystal-clear visibility extending 160 km (100 miles) to four mountain ranges
Peak wildflower season in foothills with desert marigolds, lupines, and Indian paintbrush blooming after winter moisture
Comfortable patio dining weather all day - locals emerge after winter hibernation, making restaurants and breweries lively again

Considerations

Significant temperature swings from 7°C (45°F) at dawn to 22°C (72°F) by afternoon require layered clothing strategy
Occasional spring winds can reach 50+ km/h (30+ mph), particularly affecting outdoor dining and balloon flights
Limited indoor attractions if rare rainy days coincide with your visit - only 4 expected but can disrupt outdoor plans

Best Activities in April

Sandia Peak Tramway and Hiking

April offers perfect conditions for the world's longest aerial tramway - 4.2 km (2.6 miles) to 3,163 m (10,378 ft) elevation. Cool mountain temperatures and snow-free trails make this ideal for hiking. Morning rides have clearest views before afternoon thermals create haze.

Booking Tip: Tramway tickets cost $20-30 range, buy online 3-5 days ahead for weekend visits. Peak times 10am-2pm get crowded. Hiking trails at summit require sturdy shoes and layers due to 15°C (27°F) temperature drop from base.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

April provides optimal ballooning conditions - stable morning air, minimal precipitation, and spectacular visibility. Launch at sunrise around 6:30am when winds are calmest. Post-flight champagne celebrations happen outdoors in perfect weather.

Booking Tip: Premium experience costs $200-400 range per person, book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends. Weather cancellation rate drops to 10% in April versus 30% in winter months. See current operators and availability in booking section below.

Old Town Walking and Cultural Tours

Comfortable temperatures make extended walking tours pleasant without summer heat exhaustion. April timing perfect for outdoor plaza events and patio dining after exploring 300-year-old adobe buildings and galleries.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free, guided tours typically $15-25 range. Peak foot traffic 11am-3pm on weekends. Many galleries offer spring exhibitions opening in April. Current cultural tours available through booking options below.

Petroglyph National Monument Hiking

Cool mornings perfect for hiking among 20,000 ancient rock art images on volcanic escarpment. Multiple trail options from easy 1.6 km (1 mile) walks to challenging 3.2 km (2 mile) climbs. Wildlife most active in April's moderate temperatures.

Booking Tip: Entry fee $5 per vehicle for 7 days. Best hiking 8am-11am before afternoon heat. Bring 2 liters water minimum even in April. Sturdy hiking shoes essential for volcanic rock terrain. Check current ranger programs in booking section.

Rio Grande Bosque Nature Walks

Spring migration brings 200+ bird species to cottonwood forest along Rio Grande. Cool mornings ideal for wildlife viewing without summer's oppressive heat. Trails range from easy 1.6 km (1 mile) boardwalks to longer riverside paths.

Booking Tip: Free access at multiple entry points. Best birding 6:30-9:30am. Guided nature walks typically $10-20 range when available. Binoculars recommended for optimal experience. Check seasonal tour availability in booking options below.

Green Chile Food Tours

April marks beginning of patio season when restaurants reopen outdoor seating. Perfect weather for walking food tours covering New Mexican cuisine specialties. Morning tours avoid afternoon UV intensity while sampling across multiple venues.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically $75-125 range per person including tastings. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekend tours. Many restaurants transition to spring menus featuring fresh ingredients. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Early April

Easter Weekend Celebrations in Old Town

Traditional processions and celebrations centered around San Felipe de Neri Church, the oldest building in Albuquerque. Local families gather for outdoor festivities taking advantage of perfect April weather.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - lightweight base layer, warm mid-layer, and light jacket for 15°C (27°F) daily temperature swings

SPF 30+ sunscreen mandatory - 1,619 m (5,312 ft) elevation intensifies UV exposure even in moderate temperatures

Sturdy walking shoes with grip for volcanic rock at Petroglyph Monument and uneven Old Town sidewalks

Light windbreaker for spring winds reaching 50+ km/h (30+ mph) especially during balloon activities

Reusable water bottle - dry 35% humidity causes faster dehydration than expected despite moderate temperatures

Sunglasses crucial for high desert glare reflecting off light-colored adobe buildings and pavement

Light scarf or buff for dust protection during windy periods common in spring transition

Comfortable day pack for hiking with extra layer storage as you gain 1,000+ m (3,300+ ft) elevation

Long pants recommended for hiking protection against desert vegetation and rocky terrain

Light fleece or sweater for early morning balloon rides starting at 6:30am when temperatures near 7°C (45°F)

Insider Knowledge

Book balloon rides for Tuesday-Thursday to avoid weekend crowds and often get better pilot attention with smaller groups

Sandia Tramway offers locals discount on Wednesdays - ask if you're staying longer than tourist timeframes

Restaurant patios reopen in April after winter closure but many don't advertise it - call ahead to confirm outdoor seating availability

Green chile harvest was exceptional in 2024 so April 2025 menus feature premium dried chiles at their flavor peak

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating altitude effects - 1,619 m (5,312 ft) elevation causes faster fatigue and dehydration even for fit travelers

Wearing shorts for hiking - desert vegetation and volcanic rock require leg protection despite moderate temperatures

Planning only outdoor activities - spring winds can ground balloons and make hiking unpleasant on 15% of April days