Bismarck in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Bismarck

18°C (64°F) High Temp

3°C (37°F) Low Temp

28 mm (1.1 inches) Rainfall

55% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect weather for outdoor activities - daytime temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F) ideal for hiking Missouri River trails without overheating
Spring waterfowl migration peak brings 200,000+ birds to prairie wetlands, making this the absolute best time for birding at Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
Lowest hotel rates of the year (30-40% below summer prices) as tourist season hasn't started yet
Ice-free Missouri River opens all water activities while avoiding summer crowds - fishing and boating spots are virtually empty

Considerations

Highly unpredictable weather - temperature can swing 15°C (27°F) in one day, requiring multiple clothing layers
Prairie winds average 24 km/h (15 mph) making outdoor activities challenging on windier days
Some seasonal attractions and tour operators don't start until May 1st, limiting organized activity options

Best Activities in April

Missouri River Trail System Hiking

April's cool temperatures make this perfect for exploring the 32 km (20 miles) of riverside trails without summer heat. Prairie wildflowers begin blooming and migratory birds are active. Trails are fully accessible after snow melt but before summer maintenance closures.

Booking Tip: No booking required for trails, but guided nature walks typically cost $15-25 per person. Check current trail conditions through visitor centers - some sections may be muddy after spring thaw.

Prairie Wildlife Photography Tours

Peak spring migration brings unprecedented wildlife activity. Over 40 bird species return in April, and prairie mammals are most active before summer heat. Morning tours (6-10am) offer best lighting and animal activity when temperatures are 5-8°C (41-46°F).

Booking Tip: Book wildlife tours 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed guides. Tours range $80-120 per person for 4-hour experiences. Morning tours are most productive - see current options in booking section below.

Historic Fort Lincoln State Park Exploration

Cooler April weather makes the 2.4 km (1.5 mile) historical trail comfortable for extended exploration. Spring crowds haven't arrived yet, allowing peaceful access to reconstructed military buildings and Mandan earthlodge village. Perfect temperature for the uphill sections.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration costs $5 vehicle entry. Guided historical tours typically $12-18 per adult. Park opens 8am daily - arrive early for best photography lighting and fewer visitors.

Dakota Zoo Early Season Experience

Animals are most active in April's cool weather after winter dormancy. Many species have spring babies, and outdoor viewing is comfortable at 15°C (59°F) temperatures. Arctic animals like wolves and bears are particularly active before summer heat.

Booking Tip: Admission typically $12-15 adults, $8-10 children. Zoo hours extend to 6pm starting April 1st. Feeding shows resume full schedule in April - check current schedules in booking section below.

Lewis and Clark Riverboat Adventures

Missouri River opens for navigation in early April after ice-out. Cool air temperatures make deck viewing comfortable while avoiding summer's heat and crowds. Wildlife viewing is exceptional as animals congregate near newly accessible water sources.

Booking Tip: Season typically starts mid-April weather permitting. Tours range $25-45 per adult for 2-hour cruises. Book 1-2 weeks ahead as early season has limited departure times. Check ice-out status before booking.

Prairie Pothole Birding Expeditions

April is the absolute peak of North Dakota's waterfowl migration. Over 200,000 birds use prairie wetlands as staging areas. Cool morning temperatures (2-7°C/36-45°F) concentrate birds near water, creating spectacular viewing opportunities unavailable any other time.

Booking Tip: Guided birding tours typically $60-90 for half-day experiences. Early morning departures (5:30-6am) are most productive. Bring binoculars or rent for $10-15. Peak migration window is April 15-30.

April Events & Festivals

Mid to Late April

Spring Waterfowl Migration Festival

Annual celebration of peak bird migration featuring guided tours, photography workshops, and conservation exhibits. Coincides with the arrival of over 40 waterfowl species to regional wetlands.

April 22

Earth Day Prairie Restoration

Community volunteer event where visitors can participate in native prairie seeding and invasive species removal. Includes educational sessions about prairie ecosystem restoration and conservation.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - temperatures swing from 3°C (37°F) at dawn to 18°C (64°F) afternoon, requiring base layer, insulating layer, and wind shell

Waterproof hiking boots for 28mm (1.1 inches) April rainfall and muddy trail conditions from snow melt

Wind-resistant jacket rated for 24+ km/h (15+ mph) prairie winds - soft shells work better than hard shells for comfort

SPF 30+ sunscreen despite cool temperatures - UV index reaches 6 and prairie reflection intensifies exposure

Warm hat and lightweight gloves for early morning activities when temperatures drop to 3°C (37°F)

Moisture-wicking base layers rather than cotton - humidity is moderate but temperature swings create comfort issues

Compact umbrella for brief spring showers that occur 8 days in April

Binoculars essential for wildlife viewing during peak migration - rentals available but bringing your own saves $10-15 daily

Warm sleeping layers if camping - overnight temperatures can drop unexpectedly in shoulder season

Power bank for extended outdoor photography during long daylight hours without summer heat fatigue

Insider Knowledge

Visit prairie wetlands between 6-9am when migratory birds are most active and temperatures are cool enough for extended observation without disturbing wildlife

Local guides recommend the 'second week of April' as the absolute peak for waterfowl diversity - over 30 species present simultaneously before continuing north

Many locals take vacation time during April 15-25 for fishing season opener - book accommodations early as this is surprisingly busy despite low tourist numbers

North Dakota residents get significant discounts at state parks and attractions - mention if you're staying locally for extended periods as some facilities extend resident rates

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for the forecast high temperature - April mornings can be 15°C (27°F) colder than afternoon, catching unprepared visitors off guard

Assuming all outdoor activities are available - some tour operators don't begin full schedules until May 1st, leaving visitors with limited organized options

Underestimating wind impact on outdoor comfort - 24 km/h (15 mph) average winds make 15°C (59°F) feel much colder without proper wind protection