Zion National Park

Zion National Park Travel Guide

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, known for its towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and diverse plant and animal life.

Getting to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in the southwestern part of Utah near the town of Springdale. Here are the main ways you can get to Zion National Park:

By Air:

The closest airports to Zion National Park are:

• St. George Regional Airport (SGU): Located about an hour's drive from the park, it offers limited commercial flights.

• McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada: Located about 2.5 hours' drive from the park, it is the nearest major international airport.

• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): Located about 4 hours' drive from the park, it is another major airport option.

By Car:

Zion National Park is easily accessible by car and is a popular road trip destination. The park is located off of Interstate 15. The main park entrance is in Springdale, which is at the south end of the park. There is also an entrance at the east end of the park, which is accessed from US-89.

Once you arrive at Zion National Park, you can explore the park using the free shuttle bus system that operates from early spring to late fall. The shuttle stops at various points within the park, and it is the only way to access some parts of the park during the busy season.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Zion National Park is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the park is less crowded than in the summer months.

Spring (April to June):

• Weather: Mild temperatures with highs ranging from 60°F to 90°F.

• Crowds: Moderate; the park starts to get busier in late spring.

• Highlights: Wildflowers in bloom and lush greenery.

Summer (July to August):

• Weather: Hot with temperatures often exceeding 100°F.

• Crowds: High; this is the busiest season in Zion.

• Highlights: Long days with plenty of daylight for hiking and exploring.

Fall (September to November):

• Weather: Mild temperatures with highs ranging from 60°F to 90°F.

• Crowds: Moderate; the park is less crowded than in the summer.

• Highlights: Fall colors in the park and pleasant hiking conditions.

Winter (December to March):

• Weather: Cold with highs ranging from 50°F to 60°F and potential for snow.

• Crowds: Low; this is the least crowded season in Zion.

• Highlights: Snow-covered cliffs and peaceful hiking trails.

  
  

Top Attractions

1. Angels Landing

   • A famous and challenging hike that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the park.

2. The Narrows

   • A unique hike where you can walk through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls.

3. Observation Point

   • A strenuous hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the park.

4. Emerald Pools

   • A series of pools and waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation and red rock cliffs.

5. Weeping Rock

   • A short hike to a rock alcove with water dripping down from above.

6. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

   • A scenic drive through the park's main canyon with breathtaking views.

7. Court of the Patriarchs

   • A viewpoint where you can see three towering peaks named after biblical figures.

8. Kolob Canyons

   • A less-visited area of the park with stunning canyons and viewpoints.

9. Zion Human History Museum

   • A museum that explores the human history of the park.

10. Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel

    • A historic tunnel that was built in the 1930s and offers views of the park's unique geology.

Activities

1. Hiking

   • Zion offers a range of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

2. Canyoneering

   • Explore the park's slot canyons and hidden wonders with a canyoneering adventure.

3. Rock Climbing

   • Test your skills on the park's famous cliffs and rock formations.

4. Bird Watching

   • The park is home to numerous bird species, making it a great place for bird watching.

5. Wildlife Viewing

   • Keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and more.

6. Photography

   • Capture the stunning landscapes and unique geology of the park.

7. Camping

   • Experience the beauty of the park by camping under the stars.

8. Ranger Programs

   • Learn more about the park's natural and cultural history with a ranger-led program.

9. Stargazing

   • Enjoy the dark skies and brilliant stars on a clear night.

10. Picnicking

    • Relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the park's stunning scenery.

Where to Stay

When visiting Zion National Park, there are several areas where you can stay, each offering a different experience.

• Springdale

  • The town of Springdale is located just outside the park's south entrance and offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and bed & breakfasts. There are also several restaurants and shops in the town. The free park shuttle stops in Springdale, making it convenient to access the park.

• St. George

  • St. George is located about an hour's drive from Zion and offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. The city also has a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.

• Cedar City

  • Cedar City is located about an hour's drive from Zion and offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and bed & breakfasts. Cedar City is also home to the Utah Shakespeare Festival and other cultural attractions.

• Inside the Park

  • Zion National Park has three campgrounds: South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground. There are also several backcountry camping options for those who want to experience the park's wilderness.

• Kanab

  • The town of Kanab is located about an hour's drive from Zion and offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Kanab is also a convenient base for exploring other nearby attractions, such as Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Important Travel Tips:

• Zion National Park can be very crowded, especially during the summer months. Plan to visit during the week or during the off-season to avoid crowds.

• The park has a shuttle system that runs from Springdale to various points within the park. The shuttle is free and is the only way to access some parts of the park during the busy season.

• Wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike.

• Check the weather and trail conditions before you go, as some trails may be closed due to weather or other factors.

• Respect the park's natural resources and wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Zion National Park is a stunning destination that offers a variety of experiences for visitors. With its towering cliffs, unique geology, and diverse plant and animal life, there's something for everyone to enjoy.