If you've stumbled across this post, it likely means you are planning a trip to Zion National Park this summer. Am I right? Are you wondering where to start? Keep reading to find out!
Zion is the #1 national park in southwestern Utah and one of the most visited national parks in the US. There are plenty of incredible things to see and do for both first-time visitors and returning explorers. Whether you're exploring the Zion Valley floor, hiking one of the 35 scenic trails, or glamping under the stars, Zion is a truly magical place.
In this guide, we'll share all the best things to do in Zion National Park. Plus, you'll get additional info about where to stay and where to dine in or around the park. So, without any further ado, let's begin Zion's adventure!
Zion National Park at a Glance
Here is a brief overview of Zion National Park that may help you plan your trip to this natural wonder!
Where: Zion is located in the southwestern part of Utah near the town of Springdale. The park is about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas and an hour away from St George. McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas is the closest airport to the park. Another popular option is flying to Salt Lake City, about a 5-hour drive from Zion.
How to Get to the Park: Because of the proximity to Springdale and free shuttle service, Zion is one of the most easily accessible national parks in the country. This free shuttle service will take you all around the town and drop you off right at the entrance of Zion National Park. Walk for about 30 meters from the entrance to get inside, where the free Zion Canyon Shuttle Service will take you around the park. You can also get to the park by car. Note that you won't be able to drive the car through the park due to larger crowds, especially during peak season.
Operating Hours: The park is open 24/7 all year round. However, the operating hours of the park facilities may vary, which we'll discuss below.
Best Time to Go: Zion is a year-round destination with hot summers and mild winters. Most hikes are open all year round. The park welcomes large crowds from February to November; summer is also the peak visitation time.
Entrance Fees: It costs $20 per person and only $35 per vehicle to enter the park. This price includes your park entrance for a week. You can also buy a Zion Annual Pass for $70, which is valid for 12 months from the month you buy it. Another option is an America the Beautiful National Park Pass, which costs $80. This pass is valid for 12 months and allows you to visit all national parks, including Zion.
Best Tours: Zion National Park tours are the best and most convenient way to visit the park. Viator offers private, small-group, and full-day tours of the park. Choose the one that suits your budget and schedule!
11 Best Things to Do in Zion National Park
As you've learned about the park visiting essentials, let's now dive into the best things to do in Zion.
1. Hiking and Backpacking
Hiking is one of the most popular and must-do activities in Zion National Park because of its clear pools, narrow canyons, sweeping vistas, and natural arches. From multi-day backpacking routes to half-mile paved hikes, the park has trails for all types of adventurers. The most famous hiking trails include:
Angels Landing
If you only have time for one hike in Zion, it must be Angels Landing, one of the most challenging hikes in the world. This challenging trail is a 5.4-mile round trip with narrow ridges, steep switchbacks, and beautiful canyon views below.
The trek has an elevation gain of 1,500 feet and takes around 4 hours to hike. The final half-mile hike requires you to cling to a chain attached to a cliff edge with sheer drop-offs. After reaching the top of the cliff, you'll be rewarded with an amazing 360-degree view of the majestic Zion Canyon around you. If you have a faint heart or are afraid of heights, I would not recommend hiking Angels Landing.
Observation Point
As of 2023, all visitors are required to get an advance permit to hike Angels Landing.
The second most popular hike is Observation Point, a steep climb about 1,000 feet above Angels Landing. The hike is 8 miles round trip and doesn't require clinging to chains. The trailhead is about ten miles north of the park's east entrance. Know that the route to Observation Point via the East Rim Trail has been closed for a long time due to a large rock fall.
Emerald Pools
This 1.2-mile paved trail is an easy and family-friendly hike that takes about an hour and leads to the sparkling green waters of Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls. To reach Emerald Pools, hike from Grotto or the Court of the Patriarchs.
Canyon Overlook Trail
The 1-mile Canyon Overlook Trail is a great option for those looking for easy hikes in Zion. The trail is located on the east side of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and is not included in the Zion shuttle route. So you have to drive to the trailhead. As you climb, you'll spot bighorn sheep, found abundantly in the Canyon Overlook Trail.
Weeping Rock
This short and easy 4-mile hike begins at the trailheads of Hidden Canyon and Observation Point. Climb the steep pathway to see Zion's beautiful hanging gardens and water droplets that have been evaporating from the canyon walls for more than 1,200 years.
No matter which trail you choose to hike, be sure to start early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds.
2. Explore the Narrows
Looking for a strenuous hike in Zion National Park? Head to the Narrows, the slimmest part of Zion Canyon. The Narrows is a beautiful gorge with sandstone caves, soaring walls, hanging gardens, and natural springs. This 16-mile hike begins at the Temple of Sinawava along the Riverside Walk. It takes you through the narrowest slot of Zion Canyon, where the walls are just 20-30 feet wide in some parts.
The hike involves wading through the stream bed of the Virgin River, so be ready to get wet. About 60 percent of hiking involves walking, wading, or swimming in the water, especially in Spring and Summer. So, pack waterproof shoes, clothing, and hiking sticks.
Before hiking, make sure you check in with park rangers about the weather forecast or any threat of rain or flash flooding. This hike will likely be the highlight of your visit to Zion. The best thing? You don't need a permit to hike this narrow slot.
3. Go Canyoneering
Do you want to add some adrenaline to your Zion trip? Go canyoneering in Zion National Park. Zion resembles a picture of a cracked red rock plain, split by a series of narrow slot canyons. These canyons have become the most popular canyoneering destinations in the country for all skill levels. Know that a Wilderness Permit is required to access canyoneering trips in Zion.
You'll need a local guide to get started. Guided tours are also available for those who are new to this adventure. These tours include permits, canyoneering gear, and knowledgeable guides about the area.
For beginners, a short trip to the lower section of The Narrows, above the Temple of Sinawava, is a perfect way to see the Zion canyons. The best part is that this trip requires no ropes or special gear. Orderville Canyon and The Subway are for challenge seekers, and they involve short rappels, swimming, and route finding.
Be sure to check out the details about permits and canyoneering regulations beforehand.
4. Drive Scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
If you prefer to explore the park in your own vehicle, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway offers a scenic drive with plenty of photo opportunities. This 10-mile drive starts from the entrance of Zion and goes to the Mount Carmel junction with Hwy. 89. After passing the junction with Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, stay on Highway 9.
The road winds up steep, passing through the 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. This historic tunnel was carved through the sandstone cliffs in 1920. Vehicles cannot stop in the tunnel, although the tunnel's viewing windows allow travelers to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. The Canyon Overlook trailhead is just outside the tunnel.
As you continue on the Highway through the rusty red cliffs, watch out for mountain goats that often roam the area. In the distance, you can see the Great Arch and the Checkerboard Mesa – a road formation with horizontal fissures from wind erosion and vertical fissures from freezing. Along this scenic Highway, there are several pull-offs where you can stop, enjoy the scenery, or go for a hike.
5. Climb Up to the Court of the Patriarchs
Court of the Patriarchs is a spectacular viewpoint in Zion, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the three patriarchs: Isaac, Jacob, and Abraham. These sandstone cliffs were named by Dr. Frederick Vining Fischer, a Methodist Minister who visited Zion in 1916.
These towering red and white rock formations are popular among rock climbers, photographers, and early risers. They're located about 1/3 way up Zion Canyon and are easily accessible. You can see these patriarchs from the road or hike a 0.2-mile round-trip trail to reach one of the best viewpoints in Zion. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Moroni and The Sentinel.
If you're using Zion Canyon Shuttle to get around the park, Court of the Patriarch is stop #4.
6. Head to Kolob Canyons
For travelers who want a quieter, less crowded place than the main canyon, head to Kolob Canyons. It is located in the northwestern part of Zion National Park, about an hour's drive.
As you drive along the 5-mile Kolob Fingers Road, you'll easily understand why this area is named Kolob. In Mormon scripture, Kolob means “home closest to heaven.” Kolob Canyons is home to gorgeous red rock formations, canyon streams, towering cliffs (about 2,000 feet), and beautiful wildflowers. There are three out-and-back hiking trails. Taylor Creek Trail is the popular one, and it will take you to a historic homestead through a narrow canyon where you can enjoy the views of Mount Trumbull in the Grand Canyon.
The district has its own visitor center and seasonal campground. Your park's pass also covers the entrance to Kolob Canyons.
7. Visit Zion Human History Museum
Open Hours: 10 am – 5 pm
Those who want to learn about the park's interesting history can visit the Zion Human History Museum. The museum is easily accessible, just half a mile north of the South entrance on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. It is housed in a historic building from the Mission 66 era, a mid-century project to update national park services. Inside, you can see rotating displays of relics discovered in the park. The exhibits describe the story of the locals, from the Southern Paiute tribe to the Mormon pioneers of the nineteenth century who once inhabited the land.
Other exhibits are about the role of water in transforming the desert landscape and about the park's survival, geology, plants, and animals. There are also ranger-led programs and films that provide additional information about the park's history and ecology.
From the back patio of the building, you can admire the views of the Towers of the Virgin and the West Temple. The Zion History Museum is a great place to cool off during the summer heat or to escape a rain shower.
8. Sunrise and Sunset Viewing
Zion National Park has plenty of places to enjoy sunrise and sunset views.
Sunrise Viewing
To experience one of the most memorable moments of your Zion trip, you'll need to wake up early in the morning! As the sun rises, head to the Canyon Overlook Trail viewpoint to see the changing colors on the cliffs. Drive to the upper east Zion Canyon before dawn and hike about half a mile. Other good locations for sunrise viewing are the Towers of the Virgin behind the Zion Nature Center, Lava Point Overlook, and the Human History Museum.
Sunset Viewing
For sunset watching, head to the Canyon Junction Bridge over the Virgin River. This pedestrian bridge is popular among photographers as it offers the classic view of Zion, with the river flowing between tree-lined banks and the canyon framing the scene. In the evening, the sun lights up the Watchman Trail, making it glow. Located at the junction of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, the bridge is easily accessible via the park shuttle.
Another great sunset spot is the viewpoint near the end of Kolob Canyons Road. The rock formations along Kolob Canyon Terrace also look incredible in the afternoon. It is also a good spot for stargazing. Other good places to watch the sunset are Pa'rus Trail, Timber Creek Overlook Parking Lot, and Lava Point Overlook.
9. Take a Ranger-Led Program
Join Ranger-led activities to make the most of your Zion Trip. Zion offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, evening programs, and educational talks. The knowledgeable park rangers will tell you about the park's natural and cultural history.
During summer, various talks and activities are scheduled daily. You can join a patio talk at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to learn about the desert's survival secrets or enjoy a shaded talk at the Zion Human History Museum.
For those who love hiking, the Watchman Guided Hike provides a moderate trek to a scenic viewpoint. You can also explore Zion Canyon on a two-hour bus ride with a ranger or attend evening programs at the Watchman Campground or Zion Lodge for more stories about the park.
So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, these ranger-led programs add depth and enjoyment to your Zion experience. You can check out the program's schedule here.
10. Take a Free Shuttle Bus Tour
Taking the free shuttle bus tour in Zion National Park is a scenic way to explore the park's main attractions. The shuttle system runs from mid-March to November and on select winter weekends. The shuttles run every 10-15 minutes, ensuring you never wait long.
They start from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and make seven stops along the main canyon. The bus drops off and picks up passengers at each stop. It takes about 45 minutes to travel from the Visitor Center to the Temple of Sinawava.
You can see the park's highlights without worrying about parking. The shuttle also provides access to several trailheads, making it easy to combine a shuttle ride with a hike.
11. Glamping Under Stars
Glamping in Zion is a magical experience. Cap off your day at one of the campgrounds inside or near the park under Zion's internationally recognized dark skies. Zion has three campgrounds: South, Watchman, and Lava Point. These campgrounds are great places for stargazing in the park.
Watchman Campground
Located near the south entrance, Watchman Campground is the most popular and requires reservations in advance. It is open year-round and has 190 campsites and restroom facilities. This campground also allows RVs and tents and has electricity on site.
South Campground
South Campground is near the south entrance and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It is open from March to October and allows tents and RVs. Both campgrounds offer stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and easy access to hiking trails and other park amenities.
Lava Point Campground
For a more remote camping experience, stay at Lava Point Campground. It is located on Kolob Terrace Road, about 1.5 hours from the main visitor center. It has primitive campsites, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is open from May through September.
If camping isn't your thing, the best place to stay in the heart of Zion is at Zion Lodge. You can also choose to stay at lodges in Springdale outside the park. Zion is one of the few national parks where staying just outside the park is as beautiful as staying inside.
Where to Dine in or Around Zion
The best way to explore Zion National Park is to accompany it with a snack or delicious meal. Dining options inside the park are limited. At Zion Lodge, you can go to Red Rock Grill, which is open for lunch, breakfast, and dinner. Their steaks, vegetarian dishes, and pecan-crusted trout are must-try. If you're in the mood for snack-bar-type items, try Castle Dome Cafe adjacent to Zion Lodge.
Outside the park, you can walk into Springdale town for food. Some favorite spots include:
- Zion Canyon Brew Pub: This affordable brewing pub has outdoor seating just steps from the park entrance. Instead of a full meal, try ice-cold Zion brewery beers and a plate of loaded nachos.
- The Park House Cafe: Before hitting the trails, fuel up with a healthy vegan breakfast. On weekends only, the restaurant also offers lunch and dinner.
- Deep Creek Coffee Co: For a good cup of coffee and a nice atmosphere, try this place.
- MeMe's Cafe: For a sit-down brunch experience near Zion, we recommend MeMe's Cafe. Use shuttle stop #5 to reach the cafe.
Final Thoughts
There you go! We hope that this guide has helped you in planning your Zion National Park itinerary. From hiking through Angels Landing and other popular Zion trails to canyoneering through narrow slot canyons and camping under dark skies, there is no shortage of things to do in Zion National Park. Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or with a group of friends, Zion has something for all ages and interests.
So, are you a first-time traveler or a returning explorer? Which Zion adventure is your favorite? Did we miss any activity? Whichever it is, let us know! Happy and safe Travels!
I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more. And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.
