Zion National Park

Zion National Park is more than just a park for so many of its park visitors. It has become a Pilgrimage, a place to find oneself within nature.

It is also easy to say the heartbeat of this endeavor is the Zion Canyon, a place where the multi-colored layers of sandstone draw your imagination upward towards the deep blue skies then down towards the picturesque Virgin River that slices the canyon deeper and deeper.

Here are my top finds for Zion National Park:
🏨Lodging: Zion NP Lodge & Cabins (In the Park), Cable Mountain Lodge
📍Tours: Private Narrows Hike, Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon Guided Hike
🐻 Save time! Buy your National Park Pass before your trip

Zion National Park

Zion is filled with unprecedented beauty and adventure around what seems like every corner you turn. Your first shuttle bus stop in the Zion Canyon is at the Court of the Patriarchs (bus stop 4).

Here you will see three large sandstone cliffs that were named after the biblical figures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These cliffs are photographed beautifully in the late afternoon.

As you continue down the canyon, the sights get more and more impressive, several of the trails lead to a bird's eye view of the canyon, and have steep drop-offs with chains for you to hold on to that give the sense of danger and excitement.

The crown jewel is hiking the Zion Narrows. Once you have reached bus stop #9 for the Temple of Sinawava you get out and hike the one-mile Riverside Walk.

This easy flat trail ends where the fun really begins as you step into the Virgin River and begin your trek up the Zion Narrows. The sandstone cliffs continue to shrink towards you until eventually, you can almost touch both canyon walls while starring up at 2000' sandstone cliffs!

This is a moment you will never forget.

 

About Zion National Park

Zion is the first and most visited national park in Utah. The park's main attraction is Zion Canyon and its numerous breathtaking trails and waterfalls at the park's southern entrance by the town of Springdale.

It is here where you will find familiar attractions like the Narrows, the Emerald Pools, and Angels Landing.

Kolob Canyons is located at the park's northwestern entrance. The highlight here is Kolob Arch,  the world's largest natural arch spanning 310'!

Is Zion National Park worth visiting?

Yes! Some of my best memories from National Parks come from Zion!

You do have to put yourself in the right state of mind as you are not going to have this park to yourself. In fact, entering the park can feel more like entering a theme park at first with the sheer number of park visitors.

Be prepared for busy trails, especially the popular ones but you can easily find a trail away from the canyon and find peace and solitude. In fact, when I hiked Cable Mountain, I only saw one other couple all day.

History of Zion National Park

Zion National Park was first explored by Mormon pioneers, missionaries, and explorers as the early settlers were establishing their roots in Utah around the 1850s. This area had never really been explored previously by white men, only the native Paiute Indians who had inhabited the area for thousands of years.

These early settlers instantly fell in love with the area just like people who visit Zion today. In fact, they loved the place so much they began giving names like the Court of the Patriarchs after the biblical figures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Isaac Behunin is credited for naming this area Zion, a biblical word referring to a place of spiritual sanctuary.

Springdale was soon established in the 1860s.  The area flourished with an influx of outside travelers all the way into the 1900s.

Famous explorer John Wesley Powell called this area a different name, Mukuntuweap, which is the Paiute word for "straight canyon".

In 1909, President William Taft declared the area Mukuntuweap National Monument. He ended up naming the park after the Paiute name rather than Zion which was chosen by the Mormon pioneers.

Residents of Utah were very disappointed by the name given, after all, it was not their beloved Zion Canyon.  The newly formed National Park Service decided to change the name to  Zion National Monument after almost a decade of grievances by the locals.

Things to know before your visit to 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.

Time Zone

MST- Mountain Standard Time

Pets

Pets are allowed within Zion NP. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet long.

The only trail that allows pets is the Pa'rus Trail, which begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Additionally, Pets are not permitted on any other trails, wilderness areas, on shuttle buses, or in public buildings in Zion.

It gets super hot in Zion so make sure you are prepared with water and supplies for your pet.

Boarding kennels are available in the nearby towns of Rockville, Hurricane, St. George, Kanab, and Cedar City.

Cell Service

Cell Phone service is normally pretty good near the park entrance and visitor center. The farther you go into the Zion Canyon the less service you may have.

Park Hours

The park is open 24 hours, every day of the year. Some of the park's attractions and buildings may close seasonally or for natural occurrences like rockslides.

Wi-Fi

Free, public WIFI is available during operating hours at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and the Human History Museum.

Parking

Parking can be a challenge at Zion. If you have a reservation at the Zion Lodge simply drive and park your vehicle at the Zion Lodge and use the parks shuttle system to get around the park.

The same goes if you are camping at the Watchman or South Campground by the park's visitor center and park store. Park your vehicle at your campsite and use the park's shuttle bus to get around the park.

If you have overnight accommodations in Springdale, simply leave your vehicle there and catch the Springdale shuttle bus to the park entrance and use the walk-through entrance that leads to the park visitor center and gift store and shuttle bus into the Zion Canyon.

For those who are visiting the park for the day, you can either park in the parking lot at the park visitor center/gift shop (typically fills up very early in the morning) or park in a paid parking area in downtown Springdale.

From Springdale take the free shuttle bus to the park's entrance. This will lead you to the park visitor center/gift store and the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

Food/Restaurants

There are several restaurants in and near the town of Springdale.

There are also a couple of dining options at the Zion Park Lodge.

There is the Castle Dome Café for casual food and the Red Rock Grill Dining Room is available for sit-down dining.

Reservations are recommended for the Rock Creek Grill for Dinner from spring to fall at (435)722-7760.

Gas

There are no gas stations available within the park. These services can be found outside the main canyon in Springdale.

National Park Passport Stamps

National Park Passport stamps can be found in the visitor center.

We like to use these circle stickers for park stamps so we don't have to bring our passport book with us on every trip. 

The National Park Passport Book program is a great way to document all of the parks you have visitied.

You can get Passport Stickers and Annual Stamp Sets to help enhance your Passport Book.

Zion NP is part of the 1997 Passport Stamp Set

Electric Vehicle Charging

Kolob Canyons Visitor Center:

• One dual-port Level 2 J1772 charging station
• Available 24 hours/day with purchase of code (no overnight camping at the Visitor Center)

Zion Canyon Visitor Center:

• One dual-port Level 2 J1772 charging station
• Available 24 hours/day with purchase of code (no overnight camping at the Visitor Center)

Purchase a $5 charging code at the Zion National Park Forever Project bookstore inside the Visitor Center during operating hours.

The code will be active for three days and provides charging at Kolob Canyon Visitor Center and Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Don't Forget to Pack

• Insect repellent is always a great idea outdoors, especially around any body of water. 

We use Permethrin Spray on our clothes before our park trips.  Please read my article on preventing biting insects while enjoying the outdoors. 

• Sunscreen - I buy environmentally friendly sunscreen whenever possible because you inevitably pull it out at the beach.
• Bring your water bottleand plenty of water with you. Plastic water bottles are not sold in the park.
• Sunglasses - I always bring sunglasses with me. I personally love Goodr sunglasses because they are lightweight, durable, and have awesome National Park Designs from several National Parks like Joshua Tree, Yellowstone, Hawaii Volcanoes, Acadia, Denali, and more!

Click here to get your National Parks Edition of Goodr Sunglasses!

• Binoculars/Spotting Scope - These will help spot birds and wildlife and make them easier to identify. We tend to see waterfowl in the distance, and they are always just a bit too far to identify them without binoculars.

Details about Zion National Park

Size - 147,242 acres

Zion is currently ranked at 36 out of 63 National Parks by Size.

Date Established

In 1909, President William Howard Taft signed a proclamation creating Mukuntuweap National Monument to protect Zion Canyon and its surrounding area.

The Woodrow Wilson administration significantly expanded the park and renamed it Zion National Monument in 1918.

On November 19, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson signed a bill into law establishing Zion National Park

Zion National Park Address

1 Zion Park Blvd.
State Route 9
Springdale, UT 84767

Zion National Park Map

Where is Zion National Park?

Zion NP is located in southern Utah.

Estimated distance from major cities nearby

• St. George, Utah - 40 miles
• Kanab, Utah - 45 miles
• Cedar City, Utah - 57 miles
• Mesquite, Nevada - 80 miles
• Page, Arizona - 118 miles
• Las Vegas, Nevada - 163 miles
• Salt Lake City. Utah - 307 miles

 

Estimated Distance from nearby National Park

• Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah - 86 miles
• Grand Canyon National Park: North Rim, Arizona - 126 miles
• Grand Canyon National Park: South Rim, Arizona - 253 miles
• Capitol Reef National Park - 192 miles
• Canyonlands National Park - 362 miles
• Arches National Park - 341 miles

Where is the Zion National Park Visitor Center?

The Zion Visitor Center is located near the main entrance to the park.

You can walk in or park near the visitor center.

 

Getting to Zion National Park

Closest Airports

International Airports
Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada  - 170 miles
Salt Lake City, Utah - 300 miles

Regional Airports
Saint George, Utah (49 miles) has flights from Salt Lake City, Utah and Denver, Colorado.
Cedar City, Utah (60 miles) has flights from Salt Lake City, Utah

Driving Directions

Las Vegas to Zion National Park:

If you fly to Las Vegas, you will arrive at Harry Reid International Airport, formerly the McCarren International Airport. From there you will take a transfer bus to the rental car garage located at 7135 Gillespie Street. From here, there is extremely easy access to Interstate 15. Make sure to take Interstate 15 North.

Simply turn North onto Gilespie from the rent-a-car facility and drive approximately a half-mile. Turn left onto Hidden Well Road and follow it to the I-15 North onramp. (Map above)

From there you will drive approximately 135 miles to exit 16 towards Hurricane. It is easy to spot because there will be big brown signs telling you where to turn for Zion National Park.

After 12.5 miles, Turn right onto Zion Park Scenic Byway/W 500 N/UT-9. Continue to follow UT-9. You are just under 20 miles straight ahead to the park! 

Salt Lake City to Zion National Park

If you fly into the Salt Lake City International Airport, you will be approximately 313 miles and just over 5 hours to Zion National Park. The Rental car facilities at Salt Lake Airport are located on Terminal Drive. Basically, Terminal Drive is a loop road from Interstate (I-80) to the Airport and back.

All you need to do is exit Terminal Drive and turn East onto I-80. Drive approximately 3.5 miles and turn onto I-15 South towards Las Vegas.

You will travel 280 miles south on I-15 to exit 27 towards Hurricane. Drive 6 miles, then Turn left onto Zion Park Scenic Byway/W 500 N/UT-9. Continue straight to the park's entrance just shy of 20 miles.

RV and Large Vehicle Travel on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway

The size and weight restrictions apply to the entire section of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance, not just the tunnel itself. Measure your vehicle before visiting, including mirrors, tires, and any attachments such as AC units, bike racks, or satellite dishes.

Single vehicle limits (no trailer):

• Length: 35 ft 9 in
• Width: 7 ft 10 in
• Height: 11 ft 4 in
• Weight: 50,000 lbs

Combined vehicle limits (truck plus trailer):

• Total length: 50 ft
• Trailer length: no more than 26 ft from hitch to rear axle
• Width: 7 ft 10 in
• Height: 11 ft 4 in
• Weight: 50,000 lbs

Vehicles exceeding any of these limits will not be permitted to drive between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance. If you arrive at the South or East Entrance over the limits, you will be directed to turn around. The only exceptions are vehicles entering through the South Entrance to park in the large vehicle lot at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, visit Zion Lodge with a valid reservation, drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle off-season, or camp at Watchman or South Campground.

For current hours and full details visit nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/large-vehicles.htm.

Best time to visit Zion National Park.

I would say anytime you can get to Zion is the best time to visit, but that's me. There is something special each time of the year at Zion, take a look below and see what season appeals to you.

Zion National Park Weather and Seasons

Zion National Park is open year-round, and being aware of the possible weather conditions for each season will help make your trip more enjoyable.

The number of people you have to share the park with also varies from season to season. The park is less crowded in spring or fall, and you get the added bonuses of wildflowers in the spring or the changing leaves in the fall.

Any time you can visit Zion National Park you will be able to experience some breathtaking sights. If you want to avoid the extreme heat, cold, and summer crowds, spring or fall are good times to go.

Spring

Wet weather is not unusual, but a more typical spring consists of warm sunny days. Temperatures rarely rise above 90 F, but depending on elevation and time of day this can vary widely. Night-time temperatures can drop more than 30 F, so if you are visiting in spring dress in layers.

This is an excellent time of year to visit the park. The summer tourist season hasn't started yet so Zion National Park won't be as crowded as it will be later during the summer months.

The entire park will be open, even those trails that are closed during the winter months, and you will get the added bonus of seeing the wildflowers in bloom if you visit in the spring.

Summer

The temperature in summer regularly exceeds 100 F, 90 F in the higher elevations, with a drop of 40 F or more at night. Be prepared for the drastic drop by dressing in layers. The risk of sunburn is also very high, so don't skimp on the sunscreen, and always have water with you.

The first of the monsoon seasons occurs mid-July into September, bringing with it the risk of flash floods. If the risk is too high, some trails may be closed until the threat has passed.

Due to the warm conditions mixing with these storms, this is also the season when thunderstorms and lightning strikes occur. Check for storm warnings with the ranger station before starting on a hike.

Zion National Park has more visitors now than at any other time of year, so be prepared for crowds in some areas. Shuttle buses are a very popular way to get around the park and can be somewhat crowded in the summer.

Autumn/Fall

In the fall it is rare to see a day warmer than 90 F. There is still some risk of flash flooding, so again, check with the visitors' center before starting out. The tourists who flood the park in the summer will be gone now, so catching one of the shuttles shouldn't be a problem.

Fall also brings with it some wonderful colors in the way of changing leaves. Trees turn from green to yellow, orange, and bright red.

Combine this with the natural cream, pink, and red-colored rocks and you can expect some beautiful sights.

Winter

Winters in Zion National Park are cold and wet. The second monsoon season sweeps in at this time of year bringing with it rain and snow.

Almost half of the park's annual rainfall occurs during this time of year, with rain at the lower elevations, and snow accumulating as you go higher. Roads are plowed, but some of the trails may be closed due to icy conditions.

The temperatures range from 50-60 F during the day to well below freezing at night.

If you plan on visiting this time of year, bear in mind that you might not get to see the whole park, and plan to be done each day well before dark.

Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

There are so many amazing things to do while visiting Zion. This park truly has something for all ages and visitors.

From a leisurely stroll along the Pa'Rus trail to the sheer adrenaline of looking over the canyon side while hiking Angels Landing this park has it all.

Come prepared for an adventure and a trip of a lifetime!

Junior Ranger Program 

The Zion Junior Ranger program can be picked up at the visitor center. This is a great way for visitors of all ages to learn more about the park.

Bird Watching

When visiting Zion National Park, pay close attention to the different birds you see there. With 288 species on the park's bird list, variety is not lacking to say the least.

Part of the global Important Bird Area and state Important Bird Area programs, Zion National Park carefully tracks its population of birds.

The sheer variety you might see here is impressive, to say the least, everything from hummingbirds to vultures, finches to blackbirds, it is a bird watcher's paradise. In Zion, the park takes care to maintain nesting sites and reduce change as much as possible for the birds and other wildlife.

Three of the most impressive birds that can be found here are on the endangered species lists.

The Peregrine falcon, the California condor, and the Bald Eagle. Zion National Park is a place of protection where these birds have their needs for food, nesting, and habitat unchanged.

The Peregrine falcons have established 13 nesting sites over the years. By August of 2008, 2.16 chicks per winged pair flew to their winter home in Central and South America.

This is especially impressive when you consider that in 1970 there were only 39 breeding Peregrine falcon pairs left in the United States.

The California condor came even closer to extinction. In 1980 there were only 27 of these birds left in the world. A few years later, those that lived were bred and released, and are now living in Zion National Park and other National Parks in the Southwest desert.

These condors can be seen in the Lava Point, Canyon Overlook, and Angels Landing areas of Zion. With wingspans up to 9 ½ feet long, they make for an impressive sight if you are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one. It is easy to see why many Native American tribes have called this bird the Thunderbird.

In the late 20th century, the bald eagle was on the brink of extinction in the lower 48 states, but thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Important Bird Area programs and others, it was removed from the endangered list, and today is listed as a threatened species.

This national symbol of the United States can be found in Zion National Park during the winter. In the summer they can be found near large bodies of water, such as seacoasts, rivers and lakes, as they prefer fish as part of their diet. With the average life expectancy of 20 years, it is not uncommon for the same birds to return to the park year after year.

So grab some binoculars, print out the Zion Bird List at the top of the page, and see how many different species you can check off during your trip to Zion National Park.

Best Zion National Park Tours & Adventures

Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon Guided Hike (Small Group)
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (788+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 to 3 hours | 🏜️🥾 Check Rates and Availability

One of the most popular and best-reviewed slot canyon experiences in the greater Zion area, this small-group guided hike with Coral Cliffs Tours takes groups of 10 or fewer into the stunning Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon near Kanab, Utah. Guides consistentaly earn extraordinary reviews across hundreds of trips for their geological knowledge, photography tips, and ability to make every guest feel at ease on the deep-sand Jeep ride in. The 8 AM tour is particularly popular for getting the canyon entirely to yourselves and catching the best morning light for photos. A genuinely easy hike on relatively flat terrain, making it suitable for families with young children and guests of all fitness levels. Bottled water is provided. Recommended by 99% of travelers.

East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (1,152+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🚙🏜️ Check Rates and Availability

A Badge of Excellence holder booked multiple times daily, this crowd-free slot canyon adventure from East Zion Adventures takes small groups of just 5 guests into Crimson Canyon via a custom off-road UTV, accessing a private area that most Zion visitors never know exists. Once at the canyon mouth, the hike begins through towering sandstone walls that stretch over 100 feet high with a gap of just 6 to 10 feet between them. Your guide assists you over boulder sections reaching 8 to 10 feet, pointing out ancient Native American writings along the route and explaining the geological forces that carved the canyon over millions of years. Reviewers consistently describe it as one of the most jaw-dropping and underrated experiences in all of southern Utah.

Zion National Park Angels Landing Guided Hike with Permit
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (30+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: Half day | 🥾⛰️ Check Rates and Availability

Angels Landing is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in all of America, and since 2022 it requires a permit that is notoriously difficult to secure. This guided experience with Land Beyond Zion handles the permit for you, eliminating the stress and uncertainty of the lottery system entirely. Guides Camila and June earn outstanding reviews for their knowledge of hand and foot placements on the iconic chain sections, their ability to keep guests calm on the exposure-heavy final push to the summit, and the incredible views they help visitors soak in at the top. A genuine bucket-list hike with a guide who makes it accessible and safe. Free cancellation included. Highly recommended for solo travelers and first-timers tackling the chains for the first time.

Make sure to click here for additional tours in Zion National Park.

Hiking at Zion National Park

Zion is an epic park for hiking! There are every level of trails available from beginner to expert. One thing to know is the trails are POPULAR!

You will want to get an early start so you can enjoy the day and escape the heat especially in the summer. A couple of our favorite trails include the Narrows and Emerald Pools Trail.

The Narrows

Hiking up the Narrows is a bucket list experience within Zion National Park. If you have seen photos of people walking in the river with sheer cliffs on either side they were most likely hiking the Narrows.

This hike has become extremely popular and crowded depending on when you visit the park. Make sure to check with the visitor center to see if there are any flash flood warnings before heading to the Narrows.

To get to the Zion Narrows simply take the shuttle bus from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava. You start off with an easy 1.1-mile hike on the Riverside Walk.

Now the fun begins as its now time to get wet. The trail is the river as you follow it upstream. It is much tougher to hike upstream against the flow of the river but the cool water is refreshing on a hot day.

The water gets deeper and depending on the water level you could be swimming to the next piece of dry land.

The canyon walls continue to get taller above you. Eventually, you find yourself hiking in nothing but water with nothing but sheer red cliffs towering above as you only see a sliver of blue sky above.

Nowhere else on earth have I felt as one with nature, feeling its power and seeing its beauty.

You turn around with new vigor and perspective in life. The hike back is much quicker as the river helps push you back down.

Congratulations! you have now just explored the true essence of Zion and now have the bug to come back again and again.

Emerald Pools Trail

Emerald Pools Trail is a gorgeous semi-easy walk near the Zion Lodge. The trail does have some elevation gain and a bit of uneven trail but it is so worth it when you come around the corner and see the Emerald Pools.

Depending on the time of year you visit you can also see an amazing waterfall.

Angels Landing Permit System

In response to concerns about crowding and congestion on the trail, on and after April 1, 2022, everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs to have a permit.

Zion NP is putting in place a trial permit system to see if it helps with the crowding of the trail.

There are a couple of ways to obtain an Angels Landing Permit.

Seasonal Lottery

With the seasonal lottery you can pick seven ranked days and times or windows of days and times you want to hike.

There are specific dates you need to apply for a permit based on when you want to complete the Angels Landing Hike!

It costs $6 to apply for a seasonal permit. The fee covers an application for up to 6 people (including the person filling out the application). This fee is non-refundable.

The permit system is handled through Recreation.gov.

If you are chosen for a permit you will receive an email from Recreation.gov informing you that you have a permit and you will be charged $3 for each person you registered.

Make sure to print or download a copy of the confirmation email and bring it with you on your hike. Mobile phone service is unreliable at the permit checkpoint so be sure to print or download before you arrive.

Day Before Lottery

You can apply for an Angels Landing Permit the day before you plan to hike.  This lottery opens every day at 12:01 a.m. and closes at 3 p.m. Mountain Time (MT).

It costs $6 to apply for a permit which covers up to 6 people being on the application. This fee is non-refundable.

Permits are issued at 4pm mountain time the day you apply so make sure you have your application in by 3pm.

At 4pm you will receive an email that confirms if you have a permit for the next day. If you receive a permit you will be charged $3 per person listed on the application.

Please make sure to print or download your confirmation email!!!

Once you receive a permit make sure you check the Zion shuttle schedule and have plans in place to make it in time for your permit time.

The time printed on your permit is the time you need to be at Shuttle Stop 6, the Grotto.

Zion National Park Shuttle

The Zion National Park Shuttle was introduced to help fight congestion in Zion Canyon. The Zion Shuttle normally runs from February through November, weekends in February, and the last week in December.

With increased visitation we may see the shuttle schedule change and adapt to keep crowds under control.

The shuttle is free but you will want to be prepared to possibly wait in line to get onto a shuttle!

All shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible.

A few regulations to be aware of:

• No eating or smoking on the bus
• Beverages other than water are not allowed
• Pets are not allowed on the shuttle buses.

The Scenic Canyon Drive is closed to private vehicles during the shuttle season. Only Zion Lodge and Canyon Trail Rides guests with reservations (individuals will receive passes or codes when making reservations) are allowed up the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to designated parking areas. 

Private vehicles are only allowed to drive the Scenic Drive during the non-shuttle season, usually January to mid-February.

The best piece of advice I can offer for the Zion Shuttle is to not wait until the last shuttle to ride down to the visitor center. The last shuttle can and may be full leaving you to have to walk to the Zion Lodge or down the entire 8 miles of the canyon in the dark.

Even if you get to the Zion Lodge there is no guarantee they will have a company you can hire to drive you back down for a fee.

The Springdale Shuttle, or town shuttle, is located in the Town of Springdale. It stops at 9 locations in town and picks up and drops off visitors at the park's pedestrian/bike entrance.

How to beat the crowds in Zion?

Beating the crowds in Zion can be a bit interesting depending on the time of year you visit.

If you are visiting during the summer you will want to be prepared for crowds. Heading to Kolob Canyon or exploring other areas of the park can help with beating the crowds.

Zion Canyon is super popular so you are not going to have it to yourself. That being said we suggest staying at Zion Lodge during the off season and exploring the park when the crowds are less in Spring and Late Fall.

Lodging Options inside Zion National Park

⭐️ 4.5 of 5 Stars - Zion Lodge & Cabins - Click here for Rates and Availability.

The only lodging inside Zion National Park, nestled among towering cottonwoods at the heart of Zion Canyon with Angels Landing, the Emerald Pools, and the Narrows all just steps from your door!

Choose from hotel-style rooms, cozy Western cabins with gas log fireplaces and private porches, or spacious suites with wet bars and sitting rooms, all featuring private balconies with jaw-dropping canyon wall views. The Red Rock Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with spectacular canyon views, and the on-site cafe is perfect for a pre-hike coffee and pastry. Free WiFi, free parking, gift shop, 24-hour front desk, and the Zion shuttle stops right at the lodge entrance so you can skip the crowds and hit the trails early. Open year-round, book up to 13 months in advance!

Make sure you read my full review on the Zion Lodge and Zion Cabins!

Lodging in Springdale, Just out of the park's Entrance

National Park Lodges often sell out months in advance but there are several lodging options near Zion National Park in Springdale, Utah.

⭐️ 4.8 of 5 Stars - Desert Pearl Inn - Click here for Rates and Availability.

A family-owned award-winning boutique inn right on the banks of the Virgin River, with every single room featuring a private balcony or terrace overlooking the river and Zion's soaring red rock cliffs!

The 73 spacious rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, kitchenettes, premium pillowtop beds, and sofa beds for families, all crafted from reclaimed Douglas fir and native stone. After the hike soak away sore muscles in the heated outdoor pool or hot tub beside a soothing rock waterfall, then grab an e-bike and explore Springdale. The Zion shuttle stops right at the front entrance. Free WiFi, free parking, full-service spa, laundry, and concierge. Pet friendly and open year-round!

⭐️ 4.9 of 5 Stars - Cable Mountain Lodge - Click here for Rates and Availability.

Zion's highest-rated independent lodge, perched steps from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center with direct canyon views from the lobby and a seasonal heated outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking the red rock cliffs!

Studios and suites feature satellite TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, rainfall showerheads, and deep-soaking bathtubs, with full kitchen suites available for extended stays and families. Amenities include a full-service spa, yoga classes, bike rentals, an area shuttle, convenience store, gift shop, BBQ area, business center, EV charging, free WiFi, and free parking. Open year-round!

Click here or on the map below to see additional hotels and vacation rentals near Zion National Park

 

Zion National Park Camping

Within Zion National Park itself, there are three campgrounds. Lava Point Campground, South Campground, and Watchman Point Campground.

Keep in mind that camping is permitted in designated areas only, and the campgrounds tend to fill up early!

Springdale is just outside the park and offers pay showers, laundromats, firewood, and restaurants.

The Lava Point Campground is about a 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on the Kolob Terrace Road (closed in winter). There are no campgrounds in Kolob Canyons.

From March through mid-November, the park-wide camping limit is 14 nights. An additional 30 nights is permitted for the rest of the year. These limits apply to all park campgrounds.

Zion National Park Travel Tips

If you plan to hike the Narrows make sure you have water shoes, and hiking poles and are prepared.

The pizza place in Springdale is fantastic

Take a shuttle from town to save yourself the hassle of parking.

If you plan to drive the Zion Tunnel be prepared for the height restrictions.  If your vehicle is 11"4 (3.4m) tall or taller or 7'10" (2.4 m) wide or wider, including mirrors, awnings, and jacks, you will need a Zion Tunnel permit

Pack snacks and water

There is very limited to no cell service within the park

Dress in layers, the weather can change quickly

Stop by the visitor center for the most up-to-date trail information

Give yourself time to deal with crowds

Know your physical limitations!

Make sure you have the ten essentials with you before heading out on a hike.

Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

There is no bottled water sold within the park so make sure you have a reusable water bottle with you.

Have you visited Zion? What is your favorite part of the park?

Additional Zion National Park Information

• Zion National Park Guide- Your complete guide to exploring Zion National Park
• Things To Do Zion National Park- List of things to do at Zion National Park including horseback riding, ranger programs, and exploring the town of Springdale!
• Zion Hikes- The ultimate hiking guide to plan your trip to Zion! Get Trail information, photos, and trail descriptions directly from a park ranger who has spent countless hours hiking this incredible park!
• Zion Shuttle Guide- Learn when the shuttles are running and how to use them to plan your trip to Zion
• Zion Narrows planning guide- The ultimate guide to plan your hiking adventure to the Zion Narrows. Includes both day hikes and top-to-bottom overnight hikes.
• Emerald Pools Trail Guide- Plan your trip to one of Zion's most iconic trails!
• Zion National Park Camping Guide- Complete guide to camping in Zion National Park
• Watchman Campground- Zion's main campground is located next to the visitor center and the park shuttle stop. The campground has 176 campsites, 95 electric hookups, and 7 group sites.
• South Campground- Centrally located next to the visitor center, the shuttle bus stop, the Parus Trail, and the Virgin River. The campground has 117 campsites and no  RV hookups.

Additional State Parks and Tribal Parks Near Zion National Park

• Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)- an incredible park with great trails and jaw-dropping scenery between Las Vegas and Zion!
• Upper Antelope Canyon- The slot canyon that every photographer on the planet desires to photograph!
• Monument Valley- The most iconic scenery of the American Southwest and the location of countless Western movies.
• Valley of the Gods- This is a park where you can spend as little as a couple hours and complete the 17-mile scenic drive and truly get an appreciation of the area.
• Goosenecks State Park (Utah)- amazing views of the San Juan River twisting and turning causing epic goosenecks in the canyon 1,000 feet below.
• Goblin Valley State Park (Utah)- is best known for its goblin-like geologic features that can be easily seen.

 

National Parks near Zion National Park

• Pipe Springs National Monument- learn about the Mormon War!
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area- Explore all the recreational opportunities along Lake Mead and around Hoover Dam
• Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument - If you are flying into Las Vegas on your way to Zion this is an easy park to visit on the way.
• Bryce Canyon National Park- No matter if you see Bryce in the summer or snow, at sunrise or the middle of the day, its breathtaking scenery and hoodoos will leave you inspired and awestruck!
• Cedar Breaks National Monument-  Another gift from nature, the mini Bryce Canyon with sunsets that will dazzle your imagination! They have pretty epic fall colors too
• Grand Canyon National Park-  nicknamed "The Big Ditch" is something you just have to see to believe! Its wonders are hard to put into words,  photographs can only capture a small portion of its epicness! It truly is one of the seven wonders of the natural world!
• Capitol Reef National Park- The least visited of the 5 National Parks in Utah is what I call one of the top hidden Gems in the National Park System! It has epic scenic drives, epic hikes, jaw-dropping scenery, and much more!
• Arches National Park- A hikers and photographers paradise! Arches is home to over 2000 natural sandstone arches, many of which will blow your mind!
• Canyonlands National Park- Canyonlands is broken down into 3 sections, each filled with the charm and rugged beauty of the American Southwest. It's easy to see some of the highlights but its real charm come to those who plan and prepare to go deep into the wilderness.

Check out these other great Utah National Parks, Nevada National Parks, Idaho National Parks, Wyoming National Parks, Colorado National Parks, New Mexico National Parks, and Arizona National Parks.

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