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Zion Shuttle: Your Complete Guide to Navigating Zion Canyon
The Zion Shuttle is the only way to get into the Zion Canyon and spend time exploring the heart of Zion National Park during certain times of the year. The shuttle runs daily but you will want to plan your trip to make the most of your time in this great park.
2026 Zion Shuttle Schedule & Operating Dates
Over six million people a year ride the Zion Shuttle buses! These propane-powered buses are the only way to get deep in the Zion Canyon and explore all of the top things to do in Zion National Park during the busy season!
The best part of using the shuttle is how easy they are to hop on and off. From early March through mid-November access into Zion Canyon is by shuttle bus only. Zion is becoming one of the most visited National Parks in the United States!
I would not be surprised if the shuttle system eventually becomes a year-round service.
Zion Shuttle Stop Guide
Things to Remember
- Do not wait until the last shuttle to leave Zion Canyon for the day. Busses do have a limited capacity and the shuttle may be full by the time it reaches your stop and you will be out of luck.
- No pets are allowed on the shuttle buses.
- Only water can be consumed while riding on a shuttle bus.
All 9 Zion Shuttle Stops: What to See & Trails to Access
Stop 1 - Zion Canyon Visitor Center
The Zion Shuttle starts at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. This is a great place to use the bathrooms, pick up current park brochures, and check for river levels if you plan to hike the Zion Narrows.
You can also fill your water bottle here. Be prepared for there to be a line at times to hop on a free shuttle bus. The buses run really frequently so the line is normally not to long.
Stop 2 - Zion Human History Museum
The Zion Human History Museum is filled with exhibits dedicated to telling the stories of human history in Zion Canyon.
There are restrooms, a bookstore, and a water bottle filling station.
You can enjoy views of the Tower of the Virgin and Bridge Mountain.
From the Zion Human History Museum Shuttle Bus Stop you can access the Pa-Rus Trail.
Stop 3 - Canyon Junction
The Canyon Junction Shuttle stop provides views of the Virgin River and Zion Canyon.
From this shuttle stop, you can access the Pa-Rus trail.
Stop 4 - Court of the Patriarchs
The Court of the Patriarchs shuttle stop provides views of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Peaks, Mount Moroni, and The Sentinel.
There is a short but steep trail to a viewpoint.
Stop 5 - Zion Lodge
Zion Lodge is nestled in the heart of Zion Cabin. You can pick up lunch or a snack at the outdoor restaurant. This is a great place to stop for lunch and to relax.
From the Zion Lodge Shuttle Stop, you can access the Emerald Pools Trail, The Grotto Trail, and Sand Beach Trail.
Stop 6 - The Grotto
The Grotto has a shaded picnic area among cottonwood trees. There is also an easy to reach restroom and water filling station.
From the Grotto Shuttle Stop, you can access the Grotto Trail, Kayenta Trail, and West Rim Trail.
Stop 7 - Weeping Rock
Weeping Rock is a hanging garden created by dripping springs. There is a restroom, ranger programs, and great views of Angels Landing and the Big Bend.
From Weeping Rock Shuttle Stop you can access the Weeping Rock Trail. Typically you can access the East Rim Trail, Hidden Canyon Trail, and Observation Point Trail at this stop but these trails have a long term closure due to a large rock slide.
Stop 8 - Big Bend
The Big Bed offers epic views of the Virgin River with towering cliffs above it.
You can enjoy views of Angles Landing, the Virgin River, and the Great White Throne.
Stop 9 - Temple of Sinawava
The Temple of Sinawava is the gateway and shuttle stop for The Narrows.
You will find restrooms and a water bottle filling station.
From the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop, you can access the Riverside Walk, Virgin River, and The Zion Narrows.
ADA Accessibility
All shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible.
The use of personal vehicles is restricted to those individuals requiring additional vehicle supported medical devices or when the shuttle bus cannot accommodate the individual due to weight or size restrictions.
A special permit for personal vehicle use can be obtained from the visitor center or museum information desks by providing documentation of the medical condition.
What to pack with you
You will want to be prepared to spend the day in the park! While you can go back to your car via the shuttle I am pretty sure you will not be excited to spend time going back for something.
- Water Bottle - There are water bottle filling stations at many of the shuttle stops.
- Snacks
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Carry the ten essentials, including a Zion National Park Map
- Camera and extra batteries
- Binoculars
- Sun Protection like Sunscreen/Hat/Sunglasses
Free Springdale Shuttle: Park Without Hassle
You can take a free shuttle from Springdale to Zion National Park daily. This is a great option if you are staying in Springdale or can not find parking near the Zion Visitor Center.
There are easy to see shuttle bus stop signs in Springdale. When you park in Springdale make sure and check to see if you need to pay for day parking!!!
Best Zion National Park Tours & Adventures
Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure (Private)
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🚌Check Rates and Availability
Journey into slot canyon in a UTV that can tackle the sandy trails on a, off the beaten path location far from the crowds of Zion's most visited areas. Then take a short hike into the canyon where your guide will tell you all about the geology and history. Afterward, there is someoptional sandboarding fun.
The Narrows: Zion National Park Private Guided Hike
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 7 hours | 🥾Check Rates and Availability
Explore the incredible Zion Narrows portion of Zion National Park on this private Day-Tour. Your guide will teach you about the geology, formation, and plants and animals that call this canyon home. This tour comes with:
- Lunch that includes a Charcuterie Board with cured meats, cheeses, pickled goods, nuts, crackers and spreads.
- Snacks/Bottled Water
- Trekking Poles/ Canyoning Boots with Neoprene Socks/ Waterfroof Backpack
- Watertight Bib Waders (October-May)
East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3-4 hours | 🥾Check Rates and Availability
Have you ever wanted to try the hottest new craze of Canyoneering? I know I have! Here you go with a small group and begin with an off-road drive through the mountains, then go for a hike along the red rocks to reach the canyon. Then the fun really begins as you rappel down the canyon walls and explore this unique rock formation at your leisure. The best part is that you can feel safe doing this with a certified guide leading the way and provides Canyoneering Equipment.
Don't hesitate on this tour, as they typically sell out 50 days in advance!
Zion National Park Lodging Options
Lodging Options inside Zion National Park
⭐️ 4.5 of 5 Stars - Zion Lodge - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Spend the night in the heart of the Zion Canyon giving you the easiest access to some of Zion's most popular trails! You are next to the restaurant, and several trails inthe park. You also have a nice room with numerous amenities, and the views of the canyon are the cherry on top! Definately worth booking.
⭐️ 4.5 of 5 Stars - Zion Cabins - Click here for Rates and Availability.
The cabins are located next to the Zion Lodge in the heart of the Zion Canyon and perfect for exploring Zion Canyon! You are steps away from the Emerald Pools Trail and a short Distance to Angels Landing. As far as the cabins, they are very comfortable with a gas fireplace and epic views. Don't miss on this opportunity!
Lodging outside of the park
⭐️ 4.7 of 5 Stars - Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Breathtaking property just minutes 5 minutes (by shuttle)to the Zion National Parks entrance! The historic Cliffrose Lodge sits on the edge of the Virgin River, steps from local dining, a firepit and a garden, have two outdoor heated pools and hot tubs open year-round and private beach. this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun and relax in comfort with numerous amenities!
⭐️ 4.8 of 5 Stars - Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Consider a stay at Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites and take advantage of a free breakfast buffet, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour health club. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. In addition to a 24-hour business center, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.
⭐️ 4.5 of 5 Stars - Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Experience Southern Utah's largest hotel at the award-winning Fairfield Inn and Suites Virgin Zion National Park, featuring 190+ rooms with stunning Kolob Canyon views and Virgin River access. Unwind in oversized pools, a family water feature area, and a scenic hot tub after exploring nearby Zion National Park. Every room includes king bed options, high-speed WiFi, 55" Smart TVs, and modern amenities, plus private balconies or patios to soak in the breathtaking landscape.
Click on the map below to see additional hotels and vacation rentals near Zion National Park
Zion National Park Entrance Fee
New in 2026: Each Non-US Resident aged 16 and older visiting Zion National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.
Park entrance fees are separate from camping and lodging fees.
Park Entrance Pass - $35.00 Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $30.00 Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Park Entrance Pass - Snowmobile - $20.00 Per Snowmobile (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Per-Person Entrance Pass - $20.00 Visitors 16 years or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.
Annual Park Entrance Pass - $70.00, Admits pass holder and all passengers in a non-commercial vehicle. Valid for one year from the month of purchase.
$20.00 for Non-Commercial Group (16+ persons)
$70.00 for Commercial Van with 7-15 seats
$80.00 for Commercial Mini-Bus with 16-25 seats
$190.00 for Commercial Motor Coach with 26+ seats
Learn more about National Park Passes for parks that have an entrance fee.
$80.00 - For the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass. The pass covers entrance fees to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites for an entire year and covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and up to 4 adults for per-person sites.
Buy your pass at this link, and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.
National Park Free Entrance Days -Mark your calendars with the free entrance days the National Park Service offers for US citizens and residents.
Park Alerts
- South Campground is anticipated to be closed for campground rehabilitation work for the entire 2025 camping season.
- The Hidden Canyon Trail and Observation Point Trail have a long term closure due to a large rockfall.
- Everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs a permit. Learn why/how to get a permit here.
- Toxic Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in the Virgin River and the streams of Zion National Park. Do not submerge your head in or filter drinking water from still or moving water. (Read more here)
Additional Zion Resources
- Zion National Park - Complete guide to planning your trip to Zion National Park
- Zion National Park Camping - Learn more about each of the campgrounds in the park and what to expect.
- Hiking the Narrows Guide - What you need to know to plan a trip hiking the Narrows in Zion.
- Zion Hiking Guide - Check out the top hiking trails you do not want to miss! From easy walks to full adventures of hiking Angels Landing.
- Zion Lodge - Find out what it is like to stay in the Zion Lodge
- Zion Cabins - Check out what it is like to stay in the gorgeous Zion National Park Cabins.
- National Parks near Las Vegas - If you flew into Vegas you don't want to miss some of these other great parks including Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Canyon.
Check out all of the Utah National Parks along with neighboring National Parks in Wyoming, National Parks in New Mexico, National Parks in Nevada, Idaho National Parks, Colorado National Parks, and Arizona National Parks.
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