how to visit zion

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Utah Chevron

Zion National Park Chevron

An Expert Guide to Zion National Park

By Emily Pennington

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Zion National Park has remained a thing of road trip lore for over a century, partially due to its proximity to hubs like Las Vegas , Salt Lake City , and Los Angeles —but also for its enormous fins of Navajo sandstone that rise up from the Virgin River like rust-red skyscrapers. Originally protected as  Mukuntuweap National Monument by President Taft in 1909 (named for the Paiute word that roughly translates to “straight canyon”), the area was re-designated by Congress as Zion National Park in 1919.

These days, Zion routinely makes it into the top five  most-visited parks in the entire National Park System. As often happens with photogenic destinations, Zion can feel a bit overrun by iPhone-wielding crowds, particularly within its iconic, 15-mile-long main canyon. Still, the park has a few secret spots up its sleeve, if you’d prefer to avoid the throngs, plus dozens of outstanding lodging options, complete with dreamy red rock vistas, so you can stick around long enough to explore every nook and cranny.

Whether its your first timing visiting or your fifth, consider this your complete guide to Zion National Park—including when to go, where to stay, what to do, and more. 

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Hikers in Zion National Park

The best time to visit Zion National Park

Zion is an outstanding shoulder-season park, meaning that it’s at its best in spring and fall, when temperatures are cooler, crowds are thinner, wildflowers are blooming (in spring), and most of the region’s best trails and climbing routes are accessible. As with any remote, mountainous area, be sure to check the weather before venturing into high-altitude zones during shoulder season, as snow can accumulate well into April and early-season storms are possible in October and November.

Beyond that, summer is when most visitors flock to Zion National Park. That’s hardly surprising, as kids are out of school, upper elevation trails are snow-free, and it’s an excellent time to take off on a week-long  road trip around Utah’s many  natural wonders . However, summer temperatures in the main canyon typically hover around 100 degrees, and flash floods during the monsoon months (July to September) can make hiking The Narrows, a very popular trek through the thinnest stretch of Zion Canyon, impossible.

Winter is the quietest season in Zion, and a great time to visit if you’re seeking solitude or hoping to motor onto Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (a free shuttle is required March through November) and snap a few photos of its famous vermilion escarpments while they're dusted with fresh white powder.

How to get to Zion National Park

The closest major airport to Zion National Park is Harry Reid International in Las Vegas, which will put you 167 miles from its main entrance. There’s also a small regional airport in St. George, Utah, with limited flights operated by Delta, American, and United, which drop you just 47 miles from the park. Either way, most visitors will rent a car to make up the remaining miles and allow for flexibility when exploring Zion’s different areas, accommodations, and restaurants. As such, it’s common to tackle a few national parks (like Bryce Canyon and  Grand Canyon ), or even some of Utah’s best state parks,  in one larger road-trip-style escape.

Zion National Park's free shuttles

The Narrows

Things to do in Zion National Park

Hikes and backpacking routes.

Apart from simply seeing the canyon in person, hiking and backpacking are the main draw at Zion. Famous trails like the adrenaline-inducing Angels Landing now require a  timed entry permit to hike (which can be avoided by booking a  guided day hike ), but there are plenty of other scenic paths through brilliant orange rock formations that any visitor can hop on at will. The  Canyon Overlook Trail , on the park’s east side, is a low-mileage, high-reward hike with phenomenal views and photo ops along its easy one-mile stretch. If you’re looking to crunch out big miles and escape the main canyon masses, an overnight or day jaunt along the  La Verkin Creek Trail should be first on your list.

Scenic drives

Private vehicles are only allowed along the iconic  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from December through February (a  free shuttle is required during other months), but there’s a wealth of alternative scenic drives through the scrubby pinyon pines and striated cliffs that the area is so famous for. Just east of Zion’s main canyon, road trippers can wind around  Highway 9 to Mt. Carmel Junction, passing striking tangerine plateaus and the unique, crosshatched texture of hulking Checkerboard Mesa. You’ll find another postcard-inspiring view an hour north from Springdale, along the less-traveled road through  Kolob Canyons , which is known for epic hiking trails and brilliant red crags, sans crowds.

With private vehicle access to Zion Canyon prohibited spring through fall (creating a safe and car-free scenic route), many visitors opt to  bike into the park , and a bevy of friendly Zion bike rental shops have sprouted up nearby to help with growing demand.  Zion Cycles and  Zion Peddler rent road bikes and eBikes in the town of Springdale, but if you’re seeking an in-park rental, the historic  Zion Lodge has you covered. Just remember: Bikes are allowed on park roadways, but not on any paths—except for the paved Pa’rus Trail.

Guided excursions

Not everyone wants to set off into the desert wilderness on their own, and because of Zion’s high popularity there are dozens of standout guided tours and  day hikes designed with adventurous travelers in mind.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

Equestrians of all ability levels can embark on day trips through Zion’s towering sandstone pinnacles with  Canyon Trail Rides , a local business that’s been guiding visitors for over 50 years. Adrenaline junkies hoping to get up-close-and-personal with the park’s rock formations won’t want to miss an expert-led day of climbing or canyoneering with  Zion Rock & Mountain Guides .

Solo travelers seeking company, or anyone with more than just a couple days in the area, should check out Wildland Trekking’s  basecamp and  inn-based hiking tours , both of which include daily meals and a trek through the steep canyon walls of  The Narrows .

A LaFave luxury rentals at Zion National Park

Where to stay in and around Zion National Park

Whether you’re seeking something  ultra-luxe ,  'gram-worthy , or simply a budget-friendly camping option inside the park, there’s no shortage of great places to hit the hay when your day of exploring Zion is done. Below we cover some of the highlights, though you can find our comprehensive guide on where to stay in Zion National Park here.  

With 176 sites (including RV-friendly spots with electric hookups), flush toilets, and year-round access, the  Watchman Campground is Zion’s largest and best public campground. As such, it often books up months in advance, particularly on weekends and during summer months. Nearby  South Campground is an excellent plan B for car campers looking to sleep inside the park boundaries from spring through autumn.

If you don’t mind a longer drive to and from the park each morning (sunset views included),  Land Beyond Zion offers well-spaced, amenity-rich camping and glamping sites from founder Shanti Hodges, the woman entrepreneur behind  Hike It Baby .

Hotels and rentals

Seeking the best in-park lodging? Head to the historic  Zion Lodge . Completed in 1925, this charming hotel and cabin complex was designed by famed national park architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood and is set amongst the sky-high canyon walls and serpentine river bends that have drawn people to the park for decades.

If a vintage, albeit rustic lodge isn’t for you—some of us just need a full kitchen and luxe linens— La Fave’s well-appointed villas and suites will have you relaxing in style. To book an entire house,  The Ross in nearby Hurricane has a lavish soaking tub and mountain-modern décor.

Emily Pennington is the author of Feral: Losing Myself and Finding My Way in America's National Parks (February 1, 2023).

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Best Things to Do in Zion National Park USA – One Day Itinerary

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Utah | Zion Canyon | Best Things to Do in Zion National Park USA – One Day Itinerary

Visiting Zion National Park was not part of our initial West Coast USA trip itinerary. However, after learning that Zion Canyon is in Utah and very close to Bryce Canyon (which was in our plans), we started researching about Zion and quickly made up our minds to take a visit!

In fact, visiting it is one of the best things to do in Utah.

If you like all kind of hiking trails with supernatural views, you cannot miss a visit to Zion National Park.

We were only able to visit  Zion for one day during our West Coast USA road trip, but I daresay that we could have stayed longer to discover more. However, even if you do not have too much time, Zion National Park is still worth a quick visit.

In a nutshell and before diving deeper, this is the best Zion National Park 1-day itinerary.

WHAT TO DO IN ZION NATIONAL PARK IN ONE DAY

• Angels Landing : One of the best hiking trails in Zion; If you only have one day and do not suffer from vertigo do not miss the best views in the park.
• Hiking trails : Hike some of Zion’s most spectacular trails on a day like “The Narrows” or “The Subway”.
• Court of the Patriarchs : Visit one of the most emblematic views in Zion National Park.
• Zion Shuttle : Enjoy the landscapes of Zion from the free shuttle that runs across the Park.
• Virgin River : See how the sun tints the Zion Mountains in red during sunset from the Virgin River viewpoint.
• Starry Skies : Enjoy some of the best starry skies in all of North America.
• Emerald Pools : See the stunning turquoise waters of these natural pools.
• Weeping Rock : Walk under the most spectacular walls of Zion.

VISITING ZION NATIONAL PARK

Visiting Zion National Park means discovering steep cliffs, hiking to high viewpoints and narrow canyons that will leave you speechless, all while experiencing the purest nature and adventure. Zion Canyon offers a wide variety of things to do.

This national park is visited from the base of the  Zion Canyon , carved over millions of years by the  Virgin River , to higher altitudes reachable only on foot. Many of the routes are considered strenuous and dangerous, making it a magnet for travelers in search of adrenaline or extreme sports.

In addition, there are simpler routes more suitable for families or travelers who do not want to run any risk.

In this guide to visiting  Zion National Park, you will find the following information:

• How to get to Zion National Park: from Las Vegas, from the Grand Canyon, from Bryce Canyon…
• How to get around Zion National Park: how shuttles  buses work at Zion
• Zion opening hours: frequency of buses according to the time of year
• Zion entrance fee: different entrances to the park
• Best things to do in Zion: best hiking trails and viewpoints in Zion National Park
• Tips for visiting Zion: time needed, best time to visit, itinerary ideas, etc.
• Where to stay in Zion: hotels, motels and camping in Zion
• Zion National Park Map: with all the points of interest mentioned in this article

HOW TO GET TO ZION NATIONAL PARK

As public transportation in the United States is quite inefficient, the best way to get to Zion Canyon is by renting a car (or a rental camper van in the USA ). You can check here how to get a cheap rental car.

Zion Canyon has two car entrances at the east and the south. We will use one or the other depending on where we come from.

If you enter the east access with a large vehicle (7.8+ feet wide or 11.5+ feet high), keep in mind that you must buy a special permit to cross  The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.  This tunnel is narrow and bi-directional, but with the permit, they will stop traffic and let you ride in the middle over both lanes. The cost is $15 and you can use it to enter and exit the park. More information here.

HOW TO GET TO ZION FROM LAS VEGAS

In addition to the fact that there are many tourist attractions in Las Vegas, the closest international airport to Zion National Park is located there, so almost all travelers visit this city sooner or later. Besides, there are many places where you can rent a car in Las Vegas . The distance between Zion and Las Vegas is 167 miles, so it will only take about 3 hours to get here. From Las Vegas, we will enter Zion through the south entrance.

If you are coming from Sin City, check where to stay in Las Vegas.

HOW TO GET TO ZION FROM BRYCE

Zion and Bryce National Park are very close to each other, therefore, these two parks are usually visited on the same trip, with some doing so within the same day!

But we don’t recommend visiting Zion and Bryce in a single day.  If you are not in a rush, I recommend spending at least a full day to visit Bryce Canyon and two days to visiti Zion. You can check where to stay in Bryce here.

It only takes an hour (50 miles) to get to Zion Canyon from Bryce Canyon, and we would enter the park from the east entrance.

Check the best  Things to do in Bryce Canyon

How to get to zion from the grand canyon.

If you visit south Utah, you will probably want to visit the Grand Canyon National Park, the most popular in the United States. To discover this park I recommend you spend at least two days. Here you can check the best accommodations in the Grand Canyon.

There are 242 miles between t he Grand Canyon and Zion National Park , which will take you approximately 5 hours to get to one from the other. From the Grand Canyon, we will also enter Zion through the east via The Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel.

Check the best things to do at grand canyon

How to move around zion canyon national park.

Due to the large number of tourists that visit Zion during most of the year, the United States National Park Service offers travelers free shuttles that run through the park from March to November.

It is  forbidden to visit the canyon in your own vehicle during these months. This is the only way to alleviate traffic on the famous “Zion Scenic Drive”, which help conserve this natural landscape. There are two shuttle bus lines.

ZION CANYON SHUTTLE

This bus line runs through the entire Zion Scenic Drive, which is the main road of the park where most of the hiking trails start. This shuttle starts at the  Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

In total, this route makes 9 stops:  Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Museum, Canyon Junction, Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto, Weeping Rock, Big Bend, and Temple of Sinawava.  The buses run quite frequently, so you will not have to wait more than 10 minutes for the next one.

SPRINGDALE SHUTTLE

As the Zion visitor center’s free parking lot is usually full by early morning, the National Park Services recommends  parking nearby in the town of Springdale .

To combat traffic from travelers entering Zion visitor center area in their own vehicle, a second free shuttle was set up in conjunction with the Zion Canyon Shuttle, connecting different points of Springdale to the Zion visitor center.

I recommend going directly to Springdale since it is only 10 minutes away. While parking in Springdale is not free,  it is better to pay than to wait hours for a spot in the free parking lot at Zion. I would only encourage going directly to Zion if you plan to get there before 8 a.m.

In this map, you can see the Zion Canyon Shuttle stops in green and the Springdale Shuttle in brown.

ZION NATIONAL PARK Opening hours

Zion National Park is permanently open to the public, however, since the shuttle system is the only way to access the park for most of the year,  here is a  bus schedule fo r reference.

ZION NATIONAL PARK entrance fee

The fee to enter Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle with a maximum of 4 occupants or $20 per person entered by foot for a week. However, if you have the America the Beautiful annual pass, you can enter Zion and all US National Parks (plus other federal sites) for a single price of $80.

During the months when shuttles are running, a ranger will verify your pass or collect entrance park fee at the stall between transferring from the Springdale Shuttle to the Zion Canyon  Shuttle.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

The beautiful  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive  crosses Zion National Park, so it will be the best way to get to the main points of interest, either on the free shuttle or in your own car if you visit Zion during the winter.

You will find 9 stops along the road that take you to incredible viewpoints and trailheads. In this section, we will discuss the routes and main overlooks that you should not miss in Zion.

Summing up, these are the best things to do in Zion National Park:

• The Zion Narrows
• The Zion Angels Landing
• Emerald Pools
• Weeping Rock
• Court of the Patriarchs
• Canyon Overlook Trail

THE ZION NARROWS

Undoubtedly, the most popular trekking route of Zion is  The Narrows,  which runs through the gorge that the Virgin River has been carving from the north throughout history. This narrow is 15.5 miles long, up to 2000 feet meters deep, and only 20 feet wide at some parts, making it one of the most original sceneries in Zion National Park.

The route is considered  highly difficulty  since most of the trail passes over the Virgin River. It is strongly recommended to visit the visitor center a day before your adventure, to receive the most updated information regarding the state of the river and possibilities of storms and flash floods that could pose danger.

In 2015, a flash flood in The Narrows left   5 dead . Therefore, it is always better to be informed and not to take risks. Also, keep in mind that floods are not the only danger out here. The immediate area of The Narrows is colder than the rest of the Zion National Park, making hypothermia another danger to consider.

For this route, we need water shoes to trek the wet parts, a dry bag for a change of clothes, as well as trekking poles so we do not lose balance on the slippery rocks of the river.

The trail starts at the  Temple of Sinawava  bus stop, where you walk along the  Riverside Walk  for the first mile that is also accessible for people in wheelchairs. At the end of this paved route, we continue along the river. In total, it takes around 8 hours to complete the trail to the end and back.

The Narrows is a must see in Zion National Park.  We were not able to hike this trail due to time constraints, so we will be back very soon to do this and other routes we missed.

THE ZION ANGELS LANDING

The next most important hike in Zion is  Angels Landing , where we will climb up to an incredible stone lookout for a 360º view of the Zion National Park.

Angels Landing trail is 5.6 miles with 1640 feet of elevation change, which is considerably hard, especially if you take the hike during summer. It will take approximately 4 hours to complete a round trip trek that starts from “The Grotto” bus stop .

It is considered as a high difficulty route since we will have to climb a via ferrata in the last section to the edge of the precipice, where a slip would surely turn into a fatal accident. As with The Narrows, there are posters reminding hikers that others have  died in Zion on the Angels Landing Trail.

The first section where you gradually go up via a steep zigzag carved into the rock is the most strenuous but not dangerous. However, the last meters of the route to the viewpoint  is not suitable for people with vertigo.  The path continues along a narrow ridge where only one person can pass at once, with a fall of hundreds of feet on both sides of the ridge.

To advance, it will be essential to grab onto the chains of the handrail before the rock steps that give way to a platform overlooking the best views of Zion.

If you are someone with no fear of heights on a short visit to Zion , this is the route we recommend.

EMERALD POOLS

If you prefer a simple family-friendly hike, the Lower Emerald Pool Trail is one of the most interesting ones. Starting at  Zion Lodge,  you will get to see different waterfalls on the way before reaching the Lower Emerald Pool in just half an hour.

Once you get to Lower Emerald Pool, there will be more moderately difficult hikes that set out from here, such as  Upper Emerald Pool  and  Kayenta Trail . The Kayenta Trail ends at The Grotto, and thus the beginning of the Angels Landing Trail.

Although the Emerald Pools Trails seem totally harmless, never underestimate their implicit danger. More people have died from falling on these routes than at Angels Landing. The trails are safe as long as you stay away from the edges and out of the pools. Just remember that even a small slip on the rocks could be very dangerous.

WEEPING ROCK

From the  Weeping Rock  bus stop, we can also find other interesting trails, one of them being  Weeping Rock Trail . This is also recommended for families as it only takes 30 minutes to reach its namesake attraction, a rock that “weeps water”.

From here, we can find the trailheads of two other extenuating routes not recommended for people with vertigo – the  Hidden Canyon Trail  (3 hours round trip) and the  East Rim Trail  that will take us to the  Observation Point  (6 hours round trip). If you have already hiked Angels Landing, these routes won’t be as intriguing for you.

COURT OF THE PATRIARCHS

Another thing to see in Zion Canyon is located right at the  Court of Patriarchs  bus stop, where we find one of the most emblematic views of the Zion National Park: The Three Patriarchs.

These three peaks are called Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in honor of the Hebrew biblical patriarchs – a quick view and photo stop that can’t be missed during your visit to Zion Canyon.

CANYON OVERLOOK TRAIL

We can also find other things to do outside the scenic road of Zion Canyon.  Canyon Overlook Trail  is one of the more popular hiking trails, and the trailhead is accessible by car year-round.

It takes half an hour one way to get to the Pine Creek Canyon viewpoint that overlook Zion Canyon. The perspective here is totally different from those found within the park. The trail starts just after passing the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, where we can park our car.

Another of the most interesting things to see in Zion Canyon is  The Subway.  While it may not sound familiar, I am sure that you will be eager to go after seeing  this photo .

This pipeline that is carved into the water by the  Left Fork North Creek  is one of the most prized images for any photographer visiting Zion.

To hike this route, you need a special permit issued here by lottery three months in advance. Continue checking it out nonetheless, since they do last-minute lotteries at times when spots become available.

This route is considered difficult with two variants:

• The Subway “top-down” route via Russell Gulch: The classic route starts at the  Wildcat Canyon Trailhead  which descends the canyon and end at Left Fork Trailhead.  It is a technical route for those with experience in canyoning and rappelling, as you must carry ropes and other necessary equipment. In addition, it is recommended to arrange a car pick up at the end of the trail to be shuttled back to the starting point.
• The Subway from the bottom route: The simplified route starts and ends at the  Left Fork Trailhead , the southern area of the canyon. We will miss some of the best scenes of the complete route, but we will still be able to get upstream to the famous  Subway, even without experiences in canyoning. It is not a technical route, although the use of trekking poles is highly recommended.

You will need between 6 to 10 hours for either variant, so expect to spend a full day on this route. In addition, you must get relevant safety information before your journey, such as checking if flash floods are expected. You can find very helpful information for visiting The Subway in   Zion here .

OTHER TIPS for VISITing THE ZION NATIONAL PARK

In this section, we will give you some final  tips and information about Zion  so you can make the most of your visit.

Here you will find a collection of things you should know before visiting Zion.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ZION NATIONAL PARK

If you can choose  when to visit Zion,  I would recommend during the summer between June and August when the best temperatures here is best, whereas winter temperatures will be around 0ºC.

As you have read, good weather is essential for most of the hiking trails in Zion. Storms and frequent rains usually end up with cut trails, not only in The Narrows or The Subway but also in those that go through the edge of a steep fall, like Angels Landings. Heavy rains here can result in landslides amongst other dangerous conditions. Therefore,  the best month to visit Zion is actually June,  the driest and most temperate month of the year.

HOW MUCH TIME IS enough TO VISIT ZION NATIONAL PARK

We visited the Zion National Park in one day and it was definitely not enough. For me, the ideal would have been to spend 3 days in Zion National Park, but since we only traveled 10 days to the West Coast, we could not spend more time in Zion.

If you have more days to visit the West Coast, say, 20 or more, I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Zion since this park has many hiking and photography possibilities.

Here are my itinerary ideas for visiting Zion over 1, 2, and 3 days.

1-DAY ITINERARY TO VISIT ZION

If your plan is to explore  Zion in one day , then you have to choose if you prefer an uphill hike to the sights or one along the water.

Angels Landing is the best trail in Zion if you like strenuous hikes with amazing views. If you are in the right physical condition, you will not need to train for it. The trail is marked clearly with signs and it’s unlikely to get lost within.

The Narrows is the best option if you prefer a route with water, but only when weather conditions are favorable (make sure you contact the Zion information center beforehand for accurate forecast information). In addition, you must come well equipped with water shoes, trekking poles, and a waterproof backpack to hold your dry change of clothes as explained above.

2-Day ITINERARY TO VISIT ZION

If you visit Zion over  two days , then you do not have to choose. Hike the Angels Landing route on the first day and The Narrows on the second day.

3-day ITINERARY TO VISIT ZION

If you are spending  three days in Zion,  then plan ahead and get a permit for The Subway for your third day. After hiking Angel Landings, The Narrows, and The Subway, I am sure you would have made the most of your visit to the Zion National Park, however exhausting you may feel in the end.

DEATHS IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

Falls in Zion are not frequent but are fatal in most cases. While researching for our trip, we were very surprised to hear about them and began to wonder  how many people have died in Zion National Park.  Here is the data of the last 10 years:

Angels Landing 8 Cathedral Mountain 1 Emerald Pools 7 Lady Mountain 2 Mt. Kinesava 1 Mt. of the Sun 1 Observation Point 2 Watchman 2 East Rim Trail 1 Checkerboard Mesa 1 Crazy Quilt Mesa 1 Deer Trap Mountain 1 Hidden Canyon 2 Canyon Overlook 2

Most of these accidents occurred due to the imprudence of the visitors. The best way to prevent accidents is to be informed (head to the visitor center) and to check the weather frequently. If there is a rain or storm in the forecast, think twice before continuing on the route.

And of course, make sure you buy good travel insurance, especially if you are doing moderate or strenuous hikes. I recommend getting a policy with extraordinary coverage and for a US travel Insurance coverage never consider less than $300,000 in medical expenses.

You can get the best quality-price insurance with Heymondo .

5% OFF your travel insurance

WHERE TO Stay in ZION CANYON

As we tell you in our guide for lodging in Zion , if you are planning your visit well in advance, you can book accommodation inside Zion National Park.

Within the national park, there is  a motel and two campsites.

• Motel Zion Lodge also offers cabins and suites. If you stay here, the hotel will provide you with a  Red Permit so you can enter and leave the park with your car during the months when the Zion Canyon Shuttle is in operation (although you will have to park at the lodge).
• Watchman Zion Canyon Campground: It is the main campground of Zion, open from March to the end of November. Reservations must be made 6 months in advance to secure a spot.
• South Campground:   Also open between March and November, although it can only be booked two weeks in advance.

However, don’t worry if they run out of campsites. As you can recall,  Springdale is only 10 minutes away from Zion , and it is one of the best places to stay in Zion. Some of the best hotels in Springdale are:

• Bumbleberry Inn: One of the few hotels near Zion below $200 a night, with very good reviews.
• La Quinta Inn and Suites : Another affordable hotel with good reviews near Zion, known for its buffet breakfast that includes delicious homemade waffles.

ZION NATIONAL PARK MAP

Here, you can find the  Zion Canyon National Park map,  with all hiking trails, best accommodation, campsites, and important places you must see in Zion.

If you want to use this map of Zion Canyon National Park offline on your mobile:

• Download the Mapswithme app on your cell phone.
• Download and save the following KML file in your Dropbox.
• Open the file through Dropbox from your cell phone. You will get a dialog box where you have to select open with the Mapswithme application (Maps.me)

Done. You have everything you need to start your trip!

SEE YOU IN THE NEXT ARTICLE AND DO NOT HESITATE TO LEAVE US A COMMENT IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT zion CANYON.

Ascen Aynat

8 replies on “ Best Things to Do in Zion National Park USA – One Day Itinerary ”

We are planning to get to Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail in the morning and rent bikes to ride the Scenic Drive in the afternoon. What do you think of this plan?

Thanks for the input.

It is not common to ride bikes at the Scenic Drive since it is a bumpy dirt road. Anyway, it is allowed so go ahead if you have some experience riding in such conditions. Let us know how it is and if you found it difficult or can recommend to other of our readers thinking about renting a bike. Did you already check any bike rental company?

My husband and I are planning to visit Zion in July. We were unaware that you can not drive through the park. We reviewed a one day itinerary with the shuttle service. Is there a lot of hiking from each of these stops or can you view the park from the shuttle and stops. He can not do strenuous hiking but can usually do easy walks of fairly short distances. How long is the shuttle tour? Do you need to bring refreshments?

Yes, you can visit the park using the shuttle and with no or very little walks. The whole tour takes around one hour but I would allow three hours to stop in some points and see the nice views. The bus doesn’t wait for passengers to take some pictures. If you get off the bus, you will need to wait 10 min to grab the next one, so allow around 2-3 hours. There are some trails with wheelchair access, so your husband would be fine! You will love Zion National Park.

I would bring some water at least.

Let me know if you need something else, Ascen.

I used your article to plan a half day visit coming from Bryce Canyon around past noon with family including a one-year old.

My plan is to enjoy the scenic drive and after the tunnel do the overlook trail.

Then park where possible catching the shuttle. If in the mood and still have time we will hike to the Lower Emerald Pools. Otherwise just follow the shuttles scenic drive.

By the way. Was in Grand Canyon some days ago and two days after the visit I started to research deaths there. It made me feel so silly the pictures on the edge of the rim I wanted to take because all else was doing it. 1 in 400.000 visiting Grand Canyon die. App. 12 per year.

Thanks for writing this post ??

Hi steffen,

Thanks for your words, I am happy to see you found our article helpful!

Your plan for Bryce sounds very good and exciting, We could only spend a day but I hope we can get back in the future.

Sadly the death toll in Grand Canyon just keeps increasing, and worst of all, it isn’t a dangerous place per se, but people don’t take necessary precautions like correct hydration during the summer or they make silly decisions like getting too close to dangerous edges.

Just hope people get more conscious about the risks and everyone can have a fun and safe trip around Grand Canyon!

Due to there being so many things that you can do in this particular park it’s recommended to make sure you have enough time to be able to get most of the major attractions down in your itinerary when you visit! Also, making sure that safety first is practiced is important, since some of the hiking trails can potentially lead off to dangerous places where one might fall and even die due to their carelessness–so it’s always best to be careful and listen to the tour guide! If I had the chance to be able to visit Zion National Park in the future I would have to allow enough time to be able to get to all of the tourist destinations that have been recommended for us to visit. Thank you for all the info!

You are right. I hope to have more days next time I visit Zion. For me 4-5 days would be the perfect trip to Zion National Park.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Let's be friends! Sign up receive our monthly newsletter with updates and new in-depth guides. 

How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary (2 Days)

Zion National Park is full of amazing landscapes, from towering canyon walls featuring a blend of red rocks and white stone to the blue-green hues of the Virgin River, and is one of our favorite National Parks in the United States.

If you’re an avid hiker like us, Zion is basically paradise.

Several of the best day hikes in the United States are in Zion – namely Angels Landing and the Virgin Narrows – and there are a handful of other hikes that are somewhat hidden gems, though it’s hard to call anything in Zion “hidden” considering it’s one of the most popular parks in the country.

We spent four days in Zion National Park on our latest trip (Matt has been multiple times before), and we wrote this complete Zion National Park itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip to Zion.

Along the way, you’ll tackle one of the big hikes in the park, explore the Zion Canyon, and do a couple of gorgeous scenic drives. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to have more time, we have some suggestions on how to spend it.

Ready to plan an amazing trip to Zion National Park? Off we go!

2023 Update : If you want to hike the Angels Landing trail in 2023, you will need to secure a permit beforehand. After hiking it in 2021, we were hoping this might happen because there were SO MANY people on the narrow, exposed trail that it felt somewhat dangerous. More information on how to secure permits can be found here (and in a dedicated section below).

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days in Zion National Park?

I’m sitting here at our campsite in Zion writing this, and Alysha and I just talked about how long we would recommend spending in Zion. 

We think 2 days in Zion National Park is a perfect baseline . With 2 days, you’ll be able to plan a Zion National Park itinerary that fits in one of the longer hikes in Zion (like Angels Landing), the scenic drive between the East Entrance and Zion – Mt. Carmel tunnel, and some of the shorter hikes in the canyon.

However, there’s plenty to do and see in the area to fill 3 days in Zion National Park. Here are some ideas, and how much time you should add if you want to add them to your itinerary. 

• Another Long Hike (+1 day): Want to do another long hike, like the famous Narrows or Observation Point (which puts you above Angels Landing)? Add another day – both of those hikes will take you the majority of a day to complete. 
• Kolob Canyons (+1 day): Did you know there’s a whole other equally beautiful part of the park that a tiny fraction of visitors to Zion experience? It’s called Kolob Canyons, and it’s roughly 45 minutes northwest of the canyon. There’s a five mile scenic drive, a couple of good hiking trails (we wanted to do the Taylor Creek trail, but it was snowing when we were up there so we passed), and plenty of spectacular views to go around.

Below the detailed itinerary we’ve written, you’ll find some suggestions for what to add with an extra day, and what to do with just one day in Zion.

Getting Around Zion National Park

Getting around Zion is a little more complicated than other national parks because access to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is restricted from spring all the way through fall, which means you can only get into the upper canyon by using the Zion Canyon Shuttle. 

There is a separate shuttle line that connects the town of Springdale to the visitor center, which connects with the aforementioned Zion Canyon Shuttle. 

Below, we’ll cover both shuttle routes.

The Zion Canyon Shuttle

The Zion Canyon Shuttle is actually super efficient in terms of getting people from the visitor center at the South Entrance to the canyon itself.

Between March and November, private vehicles are prohibited from driving along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to prevent congestion, which means the shuttle is required if you want to enter the most interesting part of the park. 

The shuttle picks up from the visitor center, which has a lot of parking but gets full early in the day, even in spring (so get an early start). There are nine shuttle stops through the canyon, and taking it to the end of the line takes about 15 minutes, give or take a couple of minutes. 

It’s a relatively seamless experience, especially if you’re staying inside the park, but expect long lines in the summer. We recommend getting as early a start as possible for that reason – peak time for the shuttle is around 9-10am. 

In the summer, the first shuttle of the day is at 6am. The rest of the year, it’s at 7am.

2023 Updates: In 2023, you needed an advance reservation to use the shuttle (and it was a bit of a nightmare, if we’re being honest). Lucky for you, the reservation system has been removed in 2022 and all shuttles will be on a first-come, first-served basis. More information on the shuttle system here .

The Springdale Shuttle

There’s another shuttle loop that connects the town of Springdale to the visitor center. It stops outside many of the hotels mentioned above, which make it pretty easy to get from Springdale into the park. 

Keep in mind, the shuttle actually drops you outside the park entrance, so you’ll need to bring your National Park Pass with you (or pay the $35 entrance fee) to enter the park across the pedestrian bridge. There can be a bit of a line here, so again, GET AN EARLY START. 

Tips for Planning Your Zion National Park Itinerary

Here are a few tips that we learned on our trips to Zion that may or may not be helpful as you’re planning your visit. 

• The Two Parts of the Park : There are two parts of Zion National Park – Zion Canyon , which is the more popular portion of the park and where most of the infrastructure is located, and Kolob Canyons , which is about 30 miles northwest of the canyon, and is far, far less visited (though well worth the detour!).  Zion Canyon is where you’ll find most of the iconic sights in Zion – Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows.  Kolob Canyons is home to a great five mile scenic drive, the Taylor Creek trail, the Timber Creek Overlook, and some great backpacking trails. 
• Park Fees : Unless you’re on a motorcycle or bike, the cost to enter Zion National Park is $35, which gives you entry for seven consecutive days. Or, if you’re doing a broader Utah road trip and are planning on visiting more than three National Parks in the next 12 months , an America the Beautiful Pass will be worth the money (it costs $80, so it starts saving you money after three parks…we’ve visited 14 in the past 12 months).
• Park Entrances : There are three entrances to Zion National Park. The most popular and crowded is the south entrance , which you’ll enter from the town of Springdale. There are multiple lanes, so the backup isn’t usually too bad. If you’re coming from the west – like from Vegas – this is the entrance you’ll probably use. There’s also an entrance at the east end of the park along Highway 9. From here, you’ll drive down a VERY scenic stretch of road until you reach the Zion – Mt. Carmel Tunnel, which is an architectural marvel in its own right. You’ll use this entrance if you’re coming from the east – like from Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon. The other entrance, which is just for people wanting to visit the Kolob Canyons area, is at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center. There’s no booth along the road here, you’ll need to stop at the Visitor Center to either show or buy your pass. 
• Check the Park Website for Latest Conditions : Before you leave (or on the way), check the park website for the latest conditions in the park. For example, the Weeping Rock trailhead was closed due to a major rockfall (as was the Taylor Creek trail a few days before we arrived), which meant that Hidden Canyon and Observation Point were inaccessible while we were there. Check current conditions here before you leave.
• Services in Springdale : Springdale is the closest town to the park… and it’s literally right outside the south entrance to the park. The area known as “ Zion Village ,” which is where the Springdale Shuttle drops you off, has a variety of services for visitors – there’s a brewpub, a coffee shop, a grocery store, an outfitter that can rent bikes and equipment for hiking the Narrows, and more. Deeper into Springdale, you’ll find numerous restaurants and cafes. We loved Deep Creek Coffee and Sol Foods Marketplace , though be prepared to pay a little extra at the latter – it’s not cheap, but has a great selection, including plenty of gluten free groceries. 

Complete 2 Day Zion National Park Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide

For the purposes of this itinerary, we’re going to assume you have arrived in Zion the night before, have two full days to explore the park, and are up for getting an early start. 

Have more than two days in Zion? Below, we’ve got suggestions for what to do with more time to help you plan your 3 day Zion itinerary. 

Day 1: Angels Landing & The East Side of the Park

On your first day in Zion, you’ll tackle one of the best day hikes in the United States, then head out to Kolob Canyons, the less-visited part of the park, to take in the landscapes along the scenic drive.

End your day by hiking the Watchman Trail just before sunset with a beer in your daypack to cheers to an amazing trip to Zion as the sun goes down. 

Hiking Angels Landing

Angels Landing is a great hike. It’s also not an easy hike, so absolutely do not underestimate it – pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and snacks. It’s around 5 miles roundtrip, with nearly 1,500 feet of elevation gain. And it’s basically straight up the whole way. 

There are three other things to note about this hike. 

First, it’s insanely crowded . Think hundreds of people trying to navigate the chained sections of the hike all at the same time.

It’s not particularly fun, so we’d recommend as early a start as you can get. If you get on the first shuttle, at least you won’t have to deal with too many people coming down as you’re trying to go up the last section of chains. 

Second, conditions are variable , and they matter. We were there the day after it rained and the entire section with the chains was covered in a fine sand thanks to the recent rain, which was very slippery. We wouldn’t recommend doing this hike if it is actively raining, and if it rained the previous day, be very careful (especially on the last section). It will likely be windy at the top, which isn’t a huge deal. 

Last, if you’re at all queasy about heights (guilty as charged, your honor), you’re not going to like the end of this hike. Specifically, the last third of a mile, where you’re climbing a very exposed narrow ridge with chains while other people try to descend the same narrow path.

We stopped at Scout Lookout because we didn’t feel comfortable with the conditions and number of people. And we regret nothing.

Getting a Permit for the Angels Landing Trail (Updated for 2023)

As a result of the congestion on the trail, in 2023, you will need a permit to hike the Angels Landing Trail. 

There are two ways to get a permit. 

First is the seasonal lottery. This is the best way to secure your permits in advance.

You’ll hop on Recreation.gov ( here is the January lottery) and apply for a permit, selecting seven potential days and times (times are really just three possible blocks – before 9am, 9am-12pm, after 12pm). 

Note that there is a $6 non-refundable application fee, which covers the application for up to six hikers. 

Here are the relevant lottery dates that you’ll need to know. 

• To hike between March 1 – May 31, 2023 : Lottery opens January 1, lottery closes January 20, permits issued January 25. Here is the link to the application . 
• To hike between June 1 – August 31, 2023 : Lottery opens April 1, lottery closes April 20, permits issued April 25. Here is the link to the application (coming soon). 
• To hike between September 1 – November 30, 2023 : Lottery opens July 1, lottery closes July 20, permits issued July 25. Here is the link to the application (coming soon). 
• To hike between December 1, 2023 – February 28, 202 4: Lottery opens October 1, lottery closes October 20, permits issued October 25. Here is the link to the application (coming soon).

On the day that permits are released, you’ll get an email saying either that you got permits and have been charged $3 per permit, or that you didn’t get permits. 

The second way to get a ticket is the day before lottery. For this lottery, you apply between 12:01 am MST and 3pm MST the day BEFORE you want to hike . 

Then, at 4pm MST, the emails go out to those people who got permits. Note that in the day before lottery, all fees are non-refundable. 

Note that there is also a $6 non-refundable application fee for this lottery, which covers the application for up to six hikers. 

More information on the Angels Landing lottery – including a helpful explainer video – here . 

Hiking the Angels Landing Trail: What to Expect

The hike leaves from the Grotto shuttle stop , where you’ll cross a footbridge over the Virgin River and head right. The trail meanders a bit, with a few gradual ascents before you arrive at the foot of your first round of switchbacks.

These climb QUICK. Don’t be afraid to take a break and look behind you at the views out towards the canyon, which get better as you climb higher. 

The trail levels out for about a quarter mile before it becomes switchbacks again, and you arrive at Walter’s Wiggles.

This part of the hike had my jaw on the floor at the architectural achievement. They are steep switchbacks carved straight into the mountain. At the top, the chained section begins. 

First, you’ll traverse a shorter section that involves a couple of slightly sketchy climbs with limited handholds, and a chained section where you’ll need to hold onto the chain and use it to pull yourself across a slick rock face. 

There, you’ll be treated to Scout’s View, a spectacular viewpoint where you can see to the top of Angels Landing, and both directions down the canyon.

We stopped here and had no regrets about doing the hike to this point. If you want to continue to the top, follow the chain (and the hordes of people) as they climb to the viewpoint at the top, then return the way you came. 

If that sounds like too much for you or you didn’t manage to get a permit, there are two other great hikes to consider doing here: Observation Point (which honestly has better views anyway) and the equally-famous Narrows of the Virgin River .

Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive

After your eventful morning, head out to the less-visited section of the park to the northwest – Kolob Canyons. It’ll take about 45 minutes each way, and is well worth the journey. 

There are some great hikes here – namely the middle fork of Taylor Creek – which you may or may not be up for after Angels Landing in the morning. Plus, you’ve got another hike for sunset tonight, so we’d recommend saving Taylor Creek for next time (or adding it if you find yourself with more time). 

Drive the entirety of the five mile scenic road, and make sure to stop at basically all of the pullouts to marvel at the red rock formations.

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it), we were there on a random day of snow and fog, so while we missed most of the scenic views because they were shrouded in fog, we did get to see some of the red rock formations with a dusting of snow, which was a treat. 

At the end of the road, do the quick walk up to Timber Creek viewpoint. 

The Watchman at Sunset

For sunset, head up to the Watchman, a short 3 mile hike that leaves from the main visitor center just inside the south entrance of the park. 

It’s a relatively easy hike, with a gradual ascent and a couple of switchbacks along the way. It takes you up to a mesa with a fantastic view of the towering rock formation known as the Watchman.

There’s a loop around the top of the mesa where you can get a bunch of different views of the tower and the surrounding landscape, and we think it’s best enjoyed with a nice cold beer and some well-earned snacks.

Wait until the golden light of the setting sun brings out the red hues for the best light and photos. It’ll happen about 15 minutes before sunset on most clear nights. 

We actually did this same hike at sunrise, and it was equally gorgeous. Though the mountains at your back kind of prevent the light from drenching the Watchman until well after sunrise, which is why we’re putting it at sunset here. 

Day 2: Shorter Hikes in the Canyon + The Watchman at Sunset

On your second day in Zion, do some of the shorter hikes along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in the morning, then hop in the car and take a scenic drive through the eastern end of the park and round the day out with another sunset hike. 

You’ll be in the canyon for most of the day, which means you’ll need to have lunch.

Either pack a picnic lunch (we usually opt for a sandwich and some salty snacks like plantain chips or salt & vinegar chips) or plan on grabbing lunch at the Zion Lodge – they have a full-service restaurant and café. 

The Emerald Pools 

Start your day early and hop on an early shuttle out to the Grotto Shuttle Stop (Stop 6).

From there, cross the road to the opposite side from where you were dropped off, cross a footbridge, and head up the Kayenta Trail, a one mile mostly flat trail that connects you to the upper, middle, and lower Emerald Pools.

We think this is one of the most unique spots in Zion, and is well worth a stop on any Zion itinerary. It’s also relatively easy to get to. 

Most people that get off at this stop will be heading up to Angels Landing, which you did yesterday, so you’ll likely have most of the Kayenta Trail to yourself after the other hikers continue up to the start of that trail. 

Make sure to look back behind you every so often for great views of the Great White Throne across the canyon. 

Eventually, you’ll see signs directing you to the Emerald Pools. Start by heading up to the Upper Emerald Pool to get the climbing out of the way (it’s a short climb). 

Along the way, you’ll pass the middle Emerald Pool , which has a nice view across the canyon. In the early morning, the reflection in the calm water of the pool is worth stopping for. 

Upper Emerald Pool is at the end of a sandy, rocky climb, and is surrounded by sheer rock cliffs that seem to be impossibly angled so that they jut out over you.

Lower Emerald Pool is back down the way you came – you cut through a narrow passageway between two vertical rocks. Here, you’ll pass under a rocky overhang as waterfalls tumble over the side. You may get wet here, but not TOO wet. If you’re concerned about a little mist, put on a rain jacket before you walk around the lower pool. 

From there, continue along the paved path, which takes you to Zion Lodge (stop 5). 

All-in, that hike is going to be about 2.5 miles, with 500 feet of elevation gain. If that sounds like too much for you, you can do just the lower pool starting and ending at Zion Lodge, which is a flat, paved 1.2 mile trail. 

Hidden Canyon

For another unique hike, hop on the shuttle and head to the Weeping Rock shuttle stop (stop 7). 

This hike takes you up into a slot canyon between Cable Mountain and the Great White Throne. It’s a 3 mile hike with just under 1,000 feet of elevation gain, so it’s not the easiest hike out there.

Similar to Angels Landing, there are narrow, exposed sections and chain-assisted climbs, so it’s probably not the best hike out there for small children. 

Along the way, you’ll get nice views of the canyon and pass under a freestanding arch, which is kind of cool. It’s a fun hike with some unique sections of climbing using chains, which is a different experience than most hikes you’ll do in Zion and beyond. 

Important Note : This hike (along with all hikes from the Weeping Rock shuttle stop) is closed indefinitely as of April 2020 due to a major rockfall. Sitting here in December 2022, it’s still closed. There is no timetable for reopening. Check current conditions here . Instead, you could skip this and hike the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek in Kolob Canyons instead, which we tried to do but somehow found ourselves in a snowstorm and ended up having to skip it. 

Picnic Lunch & Riverside Walk

Take the shuttle out to the last stop on the line – Temple of Sinawava (stop 9).

There’s some nice picnic areas nearby that would make a great spot for lunch (you could also head to Zion Lodge, where you can either get lunch at their cafe, or make some space on the lawn or at the picnic tables to eat your pre-packed lunch). 

After lunch, do a nice and easy stroll along the Virgin River known as the Riverside Walk .

It’s a mostly flat trail that meanders along the river, and you’ll be able to admire the blue-green hue of the water as you make your way to the end of the trail, which is the beginning of the world-famous Narrows hike.

There are some gorgeous sections of trail where you’ll have the river in the foreground, with the towering red walls of the canyon in the background. 

It’s two miles roundtrip and is mostly flat all the way through, which makes it a perfect post-lunch hike. It’s family-friendly too. 

Scenic Drive through the East End of the Park

After your eventful morning, take a scenic drive through the eastern end of the park. From the visitor center, you’ll start by ascending a series of switchbacks (in your car, don’t worry) to reach the mouth of the Zion – Mt. Carmel Tunnel. 

Pass through the tunnel, which was built way back in the 1930’s, and continue all the way to the east entrance of the park, where you’ll find Checkerboard Mesa . The textures of the rock here, and really throughout this whole section of the park, are something else. 

Keep an eye out for the resident bighorn sheep, who tend to hang out on the slick rocky slopes of the mountains around the road. 

Canyon Overlook for Sunset

Continue back down towards the tunnel and park somewhere near the Canyon Overlook trailhead. You likely won’t find parking at the trailhead itself – it’s a small lot for a very popular trail – so if you see a parking spot along the road that is legal, take it and walk along the road to the trailhead. 

It’s a quick and relatively painless hike to a viewpoint that captures the canyon and the switchbacks of the road below, which is a great end for your time in Zion. Stay for sunset, or at least for the last light in the canyon (which is about an hour or two before sunset). 

What to Do with More Than 2 Days in Zion National Park

If you have an extra day, we’d add another one of the best hikes in Zion – either the Narrows or Observation Point. 

It depends on what you’re looking for, really. 

Hike the Famous Narrows

The Narrows is one of the most unique hikes you’ll ever find. You’ll start from where the Riverside Walk ends and head up the Virgin River, following the canyon as it oscillates between narrow and wide and changes shape and color at every turn.

Keep in mind that in the spring, you need special equipment because the water levels will be high, which you can rent from Zion Outfitters just outside the south entrance. 

Hike to Observation Point for the Best View in Zion (We Think)

Observation Point is the best view in the park, in our opinion, and is a great alternative to Angels Landing.

It’s a longer and harder hike at 8 miles and 2,600 feet of elevation gain if you do it from the canyon floor.

However, there’s an easier way to do it that involves more driving – head out to the East Mesa Trailhead (the last 0.5 miles is rough and rutted – we recommend parking and walking the last bit, particularly after rain) and hike the 6.5 miles roundtrip, which only gains about 600 feet of elevation. 

Here’s the view you get at the end. 

You could also spend more time in Kolob Canyons and hike the Taylor Creek Middle Fork . 

What to Do with One Day in Zion National Park?

If you only have one day in Zion, we’d recommend getting an early start to your morning. 

Plan on doing a big hike – either Angels Landing , the Narrows , or Observation Point – first thing. 

Break for lunch at the Zion Lodge (or the picnic tables nearby if you packed a lunch) and then head up to the Upper and Lower Emerald Pools from there. 

After that, if you didn’t do the Narrows as your hike, head out to the Sinawava Temple shuttle stop and do the short and sweet Riverside Walk to get familiar with the Virgin River and its subtle blue-green hue, which contrasts nicely with the red rocks of the canyon. 

In the afternoon, head out to the east end of the park, checking out Checkerboard Mesa , looking out for bighorn sheep, and doing the Canyon Overlook trail before calling it a day. 

Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The two best places to stay to visit Zion National Park are going to be inside the park , either at the historic Zion Lodge or in one of the two campgrounds, or in the town of Springdale , which is literally right outside the south entrance to the park. 

Psst! Trying to decide on a place to stay in Zion? We have a whole guide dedicated to finding the perfect place to stay in Zion – you should definitely read that if you’re looking for a deeper into places to stay.

Staying Inside the Park

We usually recommend staying inside national parks if you can – usually camping – to avoid the sometimes long lines to enter the park in the morning.

Zion is no exception, and it’s especially convenient because you are required to take the shuttle to access the canyon (except for December – February), and the places to stay inside the park mean you’ll be able to walk to the shuttle.

There is one lodge inside the park and two campgrounds. 

The Zion Lodge is the only place to stay inside that park that is not camping. It’s inside the canyon with its own shuttle stop, which means you won’t have to deal with the parking and shuttle situation at the main visitor center. 

They have a range of room options, from spacious lodge rooms to private cabins. It’s a nice place, with plenty of amenities onsite like a cafe, restaurant, and gift shop. 

Usually, in places like Olympic National Park and Bryce Canyon for example, the lodges inside National Parks are… strictly okay. The location is usually good, but they’re pretty run down due to constantly being at capacity. And the price is generally high – you’re paying for the convenience of being inside the park. 

The Zion Lodge is a bit of an exception to that rule. It’s relatively nice, though it is still going to be expensive.

It might be worth it given the location inside the canyon – you’ll be within walking distance of multiple trailheads (including the trailhead for Angels Landing and Emerald Pools), and a short shuttle ride away from the rest of the park. 

Camping Options

There are two campgrounds inside the park, both right at the visitor center near the South Entrance. 

We stayed at Watchman Campground , which is a nice campground at the foot of the Watchman that takes reservations up to 6 months in advance. The location is unbeatable – you can easily walk to the shuttle, and the facilities are relatively updated – flush toilets and dishwashing sinks (no showers, though). It’s a competitive campground that books up months and months in advance for peak season (May – September), so make your reservations in advance. 

If you aren’t able to get reservations, check back often as cancellations do happen (that’s how we got a site – Alysha hit refresh several times a day on the park website). 

South Campground is the other option, and it’s right along the main park road not nearly as nice as Watchman. It’s first-come-first-served (though in 2021 reservations are required and open up 2 weeks in advance). The nicest sites are the eight walk-in sites along the river – you park across the trail from the site, so it’s not like you’ll be lugging your gear very far. 

Outside the Park

The best place to stay outside the park is going to be the town of Springdale, which begins just outside the south entrance of Zion.

The Cable Mountain Lodge , which is literally right outside the entrance to the park – you can walk into the park and avoid parking and shuttling into the park altogether! – is both the nicest hotel in terms of style and amenities, and also the best location. It is a little pricier than other options below, so if you’re on a budget it’s probably not for you. 

The other two hotels that are within walking distance to the park entrance (~0.5 miles away) are Flanigan s Inn and the Cliffrose Hotel . 

• Flanigans Inn is a great option, with nice facilities and an onsite restaurant (the Spotted Dog) that consistently gets phenomenal reviews. 
• The Cliffrose is very, very nice, and is about the same level as the Cable Mountain Lodge. It’s slightly less convenient, but is still a good option if you want to be within walking distance of the shuttle into the canyon. 

If you’re looking for the best value in Zion , you’re going to have to look a bit further out. The Best Western PLUS and Holiday Inn Express (I stayed here with my family years ago on a summer road trip) are great options with nice enough rooms at a reasonable price. Plus, the Springdale Shuttle stops just outside both of them, making it easy to get into the park. 

There are some cool and unique places to stay in Springdale and just outside of town that are worth mentioning if you want a truly unforgettable stay near Zion.

• The Red Rock Inn : Great location in Springdale, walking distance to the best grocery store in town (Sol Marketplace), the best coffee in town (Deep Creek Coffee Company), AND one of the best restaurants (Oscar’s). They have standalone cottages, with breakfast delivered straight to your door. 
• Wildflower : We drove by this spot as we were heading up Kolob Terrace Road, and I was intrigued. They’re about 15 minutes outside of Springdale, and you’ll have a choice between a stylish bungalow, a safari-style glamping tent, or a unique covered wagon. It’s a cool place to stay, and while it’s not right in town, it’s only about 15 minutes away from the park entrance. 
• Under Canvas Zion : We first came across Under Canvas in Moab, when we said “whoa, THAT looks cool” as we drove by. It’s a little further out – about 30 minutes from the park entrance up Kolob Terrace Road – but it’s a cool spot with outstanding views of the surrounding landscape and stylish safari-style glamping tents. It’s pricey, but it’s one of the most unique ways to experience Zion, which is why it’s on this list. 

The Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

We think the shoulder seasons – spring and fall – are the best times to visit Zion National Park. Both will give you relatively nice weather without the blazing hot temperatures that descend on the park during the summer, and fewer crowds than over the summer. However, weather can be more unpredictable. We were there in late April, and experienced both sunny and mid-70’s and snow from one day to the next. 

Spring brings higher water levels, which makes hiking the Narrows a bit trickier – you’ll need to visit one of the outfitters in Springdale to get waders and special boots since the water can get up to your waist. 

Fall is similar to spring in terms of temperature and crowds, but you likely won’t have to worry too much about high water after a long, dry summer. Plus, the fall color in Zion can be pretty spectacular, with yellow trees creating a picturesque contrast with the red rocks of the canyon walls. 

In the summer , the park is BLAZING hot. It’s not like Bryce Canyon, which is about 3,000 feet higher in elevation and stays relatively cool during the summer. We’re talking 100+ degrees on a regular basis. You’ll want to stay hydrated, wear sun protection like sunscreen and a sun hat, and plan on being out and about primarily in the early morning and late afternoon, when it’s slightly cooler. Heat exhaustion is a real thing – don’t underestimate the heat.

Summer is also the most popular time to visit, which means you’ll need to book things well in advance if you’re planning on joining the hordes of tourists descending on the canyon. You’ll have longer waits for the shuttle, and longer lines to enter the park. 

Winter is the low season, and it’s going to be cold. You’ll find snow at higher elevations, which makes hiking a little trickier. However, the canyon is downright gorgeous with a light dusting of snow (which we got to experience…in April) and the crowds are thin, so it’s not a terrible time to visit. Plus, you can actually drive into the upper canyon in the winter months! We’d probably choose winter over the summer, if we’re being honest. 

Zion National Park is a treat – we think you’re going to love it. There’s such a diversity of landscapes, a ton of great hikes, and it’s the gateway to some of our other favorite spots in Utah and Arizona .

If you’re heading to the Southwest, don’t miss our other detailed travel guides to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

• The Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park
• How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon (Complete Itinerary)
• The Best Hikes in Arches National Park
• 4 Days in Moab: The Best of Arches, Canyonlands, and More
• Where to Stay in Moab, Utah
• 12 Amazing Things to Do in Moab, Utah
• A Complete Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary (10 Days)

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Places To Go
• Parks & Outdoors
• Zion National Park
• Things to Do in Zion National Park

Things To Do In Zion National Park

Whether hiking, camping, canyoneering or simply taking a scenic drive, there are many things to do in Zion National Park. Get ready for a trip unlike any other. Plan ahead, book early, prepare for desert travel, shop and eat local, and take in the views to truly immerse yourself in Zion’s majesty. 

How to Visit Zion National Park Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Hotels and lodges are great, but if you really want to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Zion National Park, then camping is a great way to do it. The park houses three established campgrounds — Watchman Campground (the largest and busiest with 200+ reservable campsites), South Campground (117 reservable campsites), and Lava Point Campground (6 primitive, first-come-first-serve campsites). It is recommended that reservations be made well in advance for Watchman Campground and South Campground. 

Just outside the park, adventurers can find a handful of camping areas including RV options, BLM sites, backcountry spots and even glamping resorts.

Camping in Zion National Park

Hiking and Backpacking

The hiking in Zion National Park is world famous for its views of sweeping vistas, clear pools, natural arches, and narrow canyons. Trails range from half-mile paved hikes to multi-day backpacking routes, so hikers of all abilities will have days worth of hiking to explore. The majority of the popular trails like Angels Landing and Emerald Pools are in Zion Canyon, but there are many other fantastic (and less-traveled) trails in the Kolob and East Zion regions of the park. Plus, the region surrounding the park is home to a sprawling desert reserve and coveted multi-use trails that shouldn’t go unseen.

Remember, consult with a park ranger at the Visitor Center and use the free shuttle service from Springdale to make the most of your trip. Start building out your to-do list today by learning more about Zion’s best hiking trails.

Best Zion National Park Hikes

Hiking in Zion National Park

Photo: Hage Photo

Canyoneering

From above, Zion looks like a picture of fractured red rock expanse, split by a network of narrow slot canyons. These canyons have become some of the most sought-after destinations in the country for canyoneers, with routes available for any ability level. Descending the park’s narrow canyons is a serious endeavor that often involves rappelling, swimming, navigational skills, and some climbing; but for the thrill-seeker, canyoneering in Zion National Park may just be the experience of a lifetime.

To get started, you’ll want to contact a local guide. Canyoneering requires a permit, specialized gear, and familiarity with the area; all of which can be provided on a guided trip. Start by learning the foundational techniques, then head into the park with your guide and explore some of Utah’s greatest routes like The Narrows and Orderville Canyon . 

Rock Climbing

Anybody who has ever stood beneath a sheer rock wall in Zion National Park and gazed up at a climber scaling the heights like a lizard has felt the tug of curiosity: What would it be like to do that? Could I do that?

The answer is yes.

Make no mistake, Zion National Park is a true adventure climbing arena. The big walls are serious endeavors, and the bushwhacking approaches through inhospitable terrain are legendary.

But you don’t need to get that extreme to get a taste of what rock climbing is all about. Several companies in Springdale can introduce you to rock climbing in areas just outside the park (guided climbs are not allowed inside the park). For example, Zion Mountain School and Zion Adventure Company offer a full range of lessons and guided climbs for people with zero experience — even for kids as young as six. Utah Adventure Center offers an Above Zion Via Ferrata near Kolob Terrace for guests as young as eight. 

Bicycles — including e-bikes — are allowed on the paved road in Zion Canyon, making them a great option for transportation from trail to trail.

Photo: Nushin Huq

Stargazing and Night Photography

After the sun sets and the orange glow leaves Zion’s canyon walls, the park falls under a dark sky of endless stars. Zion is certified as an International  Dark Sky Park  by the International Dark-Sky Association , and many visitors may gaze into the night sky here to find more stars than they’ve ever seen. When you enter the park, you leave the ambient light of everyday life, making every detail of the night sky more visible. 

If you can, plan some time during your trip to see Zion’s dark skies. The park gets dark at night, so be sure to pack some form of lighting and warm clothes and stay off the roads. The campgrounds are a great place for stargazing, along with the park’s various viewpoints. (Read: " How to Stargaze in Utah ")

Scenic Driving

It’s unnecessary to venture off the road to experience the wonders of Zion National Park. Zion Canyon National Scenic Drive is a beautiful road that follows the North Fork of the Virgin River upstream from Canyon Junction through some of Zion’s most outstanding scenery. This road is closed to private vehicle traffic in the summer and fall, but regularly scheduled shuttle buses provide a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery, or stop to take a hike and then catch a later bus back down the canyon.

The Zion Park National Scenic Byway (54 miles one way) follows Highway 9 from its western terminus at exit 16 on I-15 to its eastern junction with U.S. 89 at Mount Carmel Junction. The road east from Zion to Mount Carmel Junction, completed in 1930, was considered one of the great road-building accomplishments in history at the time. As you climb switchbacks from the canyon floor to the two high plateaus to the east, passing through two narrow tunnels blasted through the cliffs, you will understand why it created such a sensation.

The Kolob Fingers Road Scenic Byway (5 miles one way) in the northwestern corner of Zion National Park features the same dramatic desert landscape associated with the main section of the park: towering colored cliffs, narrow winding canyons, forested plateaus and wooded trails along twisting side canyons. What you probably will not find here are the crowds of visitors, so this is a great place to explore if you are seeking solitude.

Aerial view of a scenic drive in Zion National Park

Photo: Jay Dash

Horseback Riding

The only guided horseback rides available within the park are provided by Canyon Trail Rides, an outfitter partnered with the National Park Service. They offer guided horseback rides of one or three hours. The one-hour ride is a relaxing journey along the Virgin River, while the 3-hour ride is a more adventurous trek up the Sandbench Trail with great park views.

Biking and E-biking

Although mountain biking is not permitted within the park's boundaries, bicycles — including e-bikes — are allowed on the paved road in Zion Canyon, making them a great option for transportation from trail to trail. Riding through Zion Canyon on two wheels is a truly immersive experience. You can feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you pedal along the Virgin River. The enormous sandstone cliffs and colorful rock formations surround you, and you feel like you're in a different world. Biking is a more flexible alternative to riding the shuttle, as you can move from trail to trail at your own pace without closely watching the time or waiting in any lines.

River Rafting

Birding and wildlife watching.

With more than 200 species of birds, Zion National Park is a birder’s paradise. The Peregrine falcon, the bald eagle, and the California condor are all found in the 232 square mile sanctuary of Zion, nesting and resting in their native habitat without being disturbed. The threatened Mexican spotted owl also calls Zion home.

Zion National Park is an official global and state IBA (Important Bird Area), and Zion has been an important part of the recovery effort for the majestic Peregrine falcon, a species that was almost lost from the United States in the 1970s due to the use of DDT and other pesticides.

The park bird list is available at the visitor centers. So grab your best pair of binoculars and start looking toward the sky! Who knows what birds you might see and check off your life list? And while searching for birds, take time to observe other flora and fauna while walking along the trail, including the more than 1,000 plant species found in Zion as well as dozens of species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians — even fish! Learn more about nature and wildlife at Zion National Park.

Things to Know Before You Visit Zion National Park

Choose the right time to visit.

Many consider fall the best time to visit Zion National Park. The weather is mild (highs around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit) and the park foliage begins to change color bringing vibrant splashes of color that perfectly complement Zion’s towering red cliffs and tranquil streams. However, winter in Zion National Park offers visitors the most solitude and tranquility. 

Pay the Entrance Fee

The National Park Service charges a fee for entry into Zion; the money collected is used to maintain Zion and other National Parks. The cost of admission is based on the mode of transportation used to enter the park, with varying prices for private vehicles, motorcycles and pedestrians. Visitors can also consider purchasing an America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass , which grants unlimited annual access to all lands managed by the National Park Service.

Take the Shuttle

Apply for permits.

Many attractions in Zion National Park require a permit to be obtained in advance. Visitors interested in hiking Angels Landing , rafting on one of the rivers, canyoneering in the park, or camping overnight in Zion ’s wilderness will have to secure a permit beforehand on the National Park Service website. Some permits, such as the Angel's Landing permit, are highly sought-after; start planning your trip by researching how and when to book your permit through the NPS website . 

Plan Your Meals: Restaurants in the Park and Springdale

Dining options within the park are limited. The Zion Lodge, located midway up Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, offers a dining room with breakfast, lunch and dinner service, and a café-style snack bar. Outside of these few options within the park, visitors must turn to the gateway town of Springdale for additional dining experiences. 

Springdale  is a small town with a big culinary scene. You'd be surprised to find such a wide variety of great restaurants in this unassuming town. From casual eateries to fine dining experiences, there's something for everyone in Springdale. And with its proximity to Zion National Park, it's the perfect place to refuel after a day of hiking or exploring.

Walk Your Pets On Paved Trails Only

Zion is generally not pet-friendly. Pets are not allowed on any of the trails in Zion Canyon except The Pa’rus Trail, a flat, paved trail that sprawls across the canyon floor. The scenery on this trail is still world-class — offering panoramic views of Zion’s expansive, breathtaking rolling fields set against its sky-scraping orange spires. But you cannot take your pets to famous destinations deeper in the park such as The Emerald Pools, Angel’s Landing or The Narrows.

More Zion Inspiration

Previous Group Next Group

How to Visit Zion

Looking for the best way to see Zion? Read our Zion National Park guide for expert advice on planning your visit to one of the most visited parks in Utah.

Where to Escape Crowds Near Zion

Wondering when you can have more of Zion’s trailheads to yourself? Discover the best timing and destination to avoid the crowds for your next Zion trip.

Winter in Zion National Park

Winter visitors to Zion National Park will find plenty to do, including hiking, photography and gazing up at the wonders of the night sky.

Zion National Park Camping

Home to established campgrounds and dozens of backcountry sites, Zion makes camping accessible to everyone from RVers to hardcore backpackers.

Zion National Park Hikes

Visiting Zion National Park? Here are the best hikes in Zion for all hikers, from family-friendly trails to multi-day backpacking trips.

Zion Where to Stay

Looking for places to stay near Zion National Park? Check out our guide to vacation lodging at this magnificent park and book your stay today!

Zion-Mt. Carmel Scenic Drive and Historic Tunnel

Hurricane, UT

The scenic drive from Zion National Park to Mount Carmel passes through the long narrow Zion Mt Carmel Tunnel – as impressive today as in the 1920s.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Zion National Park: What You Shouldn’t Miss the First Time You Visit

Despite some pandemic adjustments, we started our summer road trip by visiting Zion National Park for the first time. During 2020, we visited fourteen National Park-managed sites and several other beautiful places. To get more trip inspiration check out other Utah destinations here .

Prior to Covid-19, I wanted to spend our first summer on the road exploring National Parks. We planned to travel throughout Texas, Arizona , Utah , Wyoming, and Colorado and I didn’t think we could miss some of the biggest attractions in the area, our National Parks and Monuments.

Zion National Park

Zion was designated the first national park in Utah. The park was created to protect the picturesque sandstone canyons and plateaus. Southern Utah and especially Zion National Park is known for amazing hiking. To read our favorite hikes of the summer, check out our blogs with the hiking tag.

Zion National Park consists of two separate districts. Most visitors skip the backcountry district, Kolob Canyon. Instead, choosing to focus their time and attention on the easily accessible and popular Zion Canyon district.

Best time to visit Zion

Summer is the most crowded time of year to visit Zion. Spring and fall are less crowded but will still require navigating somewhat crowded shuttles and trails.

If you have flexibility, I recommend visiting the park on the edge of the shoulder season into winter. Air and water temperatures will be colder and the Narrows will be closed. But the crowds will be smaller providing more solitude in this beautiful park.

Zion Opened for Us

In mid-May, while we were boondocking in northern AZ, I obsessively monitored the National Park website and social media for updates. At that point, the Watchman campground remained closed due to COVID19. But we had not received cancellations for our May 22nd campground reservations. I remained optimistic as we made our way towards Zion for our first time.

I had all my fingers crossed the campground would open. Prior to us leaving Dallas, Zion opened for day-use visitors. If the Watchman campground didn’t open, we planned to camp in nearby public lands and drive into the park for day use.

Thankfully on the morning of May 20th, the NPS (National Park Service) announced Watchman campground would be opening on May 22nd. Good timing for us since we’d been traveling north from Texas for the past six days in hopes the campground would be open. With confirmation from NPS, we crossed the border into Utah towards Zion.

Can I drive my RV to the east entrance of Zion?

From our boondocking location near Page Arizona , Google wanted to send us the quickest route through the east entrance of Zion. This was our first time visiting Zion so I had to rely on others for route guidance.

Based on my internet research, I knew the east entrance of Zion requires driving through a 1.1mile tunnel that was not tall enough for Pippi. Actually, Pippi can fit in the tunnel but we’d have to straddle the center line to obtain the necessary height clearance.

The NPS will stop oncoming traffic for larger vehicles to pass but this requires a $15 permit and two rangers to facilitate. I couldn’t find clear guidance if the rangers were working at the tunnel during COVID so we took a 30-mile detour to the Springdale (south) entrance of Zion.

How to get to Zion National Park

You can get to Zion National park through two entrances. The Springdale (west) entrance is accessible by all vehicles. The Mt Carmel tunnel limits the (east) entrance to smaller vehicles. If your vehicle is 11’4″ (3.4m) tall or 7’10” (2.4m) wide then you will need a permit and tunnel escort. Rangers provide this service during certain times so be sure to check out the NPS page for updated hours .

Where to stay at Zion National Park

The best place to stay at Zion National Park depends upon your budget and desired level of comfort. I would recommend:

• Zion Lodge for hotel accommodations within the park
• Watchman Campground for camping within the park
• Hurricane Cliffs BLM for free camping nearby

Watchman Campground

We loved staying at Watchman Campground and would recommend if you can get reservations. It is located adjacent to the Visitor’s Center and in close proximity to the Par’us Trail. The campground offers electric connections at the sites but no sewer or water. There are several dishwashing sinks and an RV dump station available for campers’ use.

How to get reservations at the Watchman campground?

I got our reservations at the Watchman campground through persistence and a little luck. The best way to get reservations at this popular campground is to book six months in advance as soon as they open.

I started searching for summer National Park campground reservations in January. All of the sites large enough for Pippi were already fully booked.

In late March, I randomly checked the Watchman campground in Zion and was able to find availability during the Memorial Day weekend. I suspect other campers canceled their reservation because of the pandemic and I had really lucky timing in booking three nights in site B5 and a single night in site B19.

What to do at Zion National Park

There are many things to do at Zion National Park the first time you visit. However, if you are limited on time, I recommend:

• Check out the Zion National Park Visitors Center
• Bike or ride the shuttle bus along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
• Drive the Zion- Mt Carmel Scenic Hwy
• Walk or bike the Par’us Trail for the river views
• Watch the sunset at Canyon Junction Bridge

If you want to hike I’d recommend:

• Emerald Pools Trail
• Riverside Trail

If you want an adventurous hike I recommend:

• The Narrows
• Angel’s Landing

What to Expect at Zion National Park During COVID-19

Operations were altered for COVID when we visited Zion for the first time. Many trails and the visitor center were closed. The park shuttles were not running. Only a handful of trails were open inside the park. The park bookstore/gift shop was open. Each day a limited number of cars were allowed along the normal shuttle route. The spring/summer 2021 park status is still the same. Check here for current conditions.

We made it to our campsite and finished setting up in time for lunch. After lunch, we decided to explore the visitor center and Par’us trail on our bicycles. The Par’us trail runs 3.5-miles from the visitor center to the Canyon Junction shuttle stop at the entrance to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Zion National Park Visitor Center

I would definitely recommend starting at the visitor’s center if you are visiting Zion for the first time. It is the perfect place to get ranger recommendations, insider tips, and ensure you know the current trail conditions.

At the visitor center, we were offered a park map and brochure from a socially distanced and masked park ranger. He pointed out key interest areas on our map with a wooden dowel at an outdoor table rather than the usual indoor visitor center.

We also saw the bookstore/gift shop was open with signs recommending social distancing but the layout of the shop made that difficult. The bookstore is not operated by the NPS so they were operating under different COVID protocols.

I was very excited to find the passport stamps were available because I have a National Parks passport and like collecting park stamps from our travels.

Springdale Shuttle

The city of Springdale has parking meters along the roadside for many miles approaching the park entrance so visitors can park remotely and ride the Springdale shuttle into Zion. The Visitor Center parking can fill quickly during busy times and the remote shuttle from Springdale is an alternative.

The Springdale shuttle is an extension of the NPS Zion shuttle system and runs from April through October. It has nine shuttle stops throughout town.

During peak season (mid-May to early September), the shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes from 5:30 AM until 11:15 PM, with reduced frequency in the very early morning and late evening. During off peak seasons (spring and fall), the shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes from 6:30 AM until 10:15 PM.

How to get around Zion National Park

Personal vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. However, there are a few ways to get around Zion National Park:

• Zion Shuttle
• Bike along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (plan to share the road with limited traffic)

Exceptions:

• Zion Lodge guests can drive their personal vehicles along the scenic drive to the lodge.
• During COVID, first come first serve passenger vehicles were allowed along the scenic drive.

Bike the Par’us Trail from the Zion visitor center to scenic drive

During our park recon outing, we learned the Par’us ‘trail’ is a nice, wide, paved multi-use path from the visitor center (next to the Watchman campground) to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It is the only bike-friendly trail in the park.

I recommend either walking or biking the Par’us Trail the first time you visit Zion. A few of my favorite views of Zion are from this trail.

On our exploratory bike ride, we stopped at the entrance to the scenic drive and talked to a few park rangers. We learned the scenic road closed at 9:15 am that morning when parking areas reached capacity.

Bike the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

We also talked to a physically-fit ranger about riding our bikes up the scenic drive. He regularly rides his road bike to the top and in his opinion, it was the best way to see the scenic drive. The speed allows cyclists to see more wildlife. He also told us there were a few steep areas that required some climbing but not too strenuous.

I had already researched and knew it was close to 1400-feet of elevation gain which sounded fairly strenuous to me. As a fit-ish asthmatic, I was scared to attempt biking this road especially since the slight hills on the friendly Par’us trail winded me at a few points.

Based on my reluctance to bike the scenic drive then hike several miles of trails, we planned to wake up early the next morning, pack lunches and drive our car to the scenic drive early with big hiking plans for the day.

Unfortunately the following morning, the scenic drive was already full and closed to traffic by 7:30 am. We saw cars parking along the roadside several miles past the scenic drive and walking back to start their day. The scenic drive is six-miles one-way and I wanted to save my energy for trails.

With a bad attitude about our plans being altered, we decided to drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway east of the park since we were already in the car and heading that way.

Drive The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

During our exploration along the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway, we saw a family of Desert Big Horn sheep but they were unfortunately too far away for a decent photo.

The area was full of steep rocky areas and very scenic. We also drove through the east entrance tunnel during our outing which was impressive. The tunnel is 1.1-mile long and has several “windows” that provide quick glimpses of the canyon. However the view coming out of the tunnel breath-taking.

We also saw rangers assisting larger vehicles at the tunnel so we could have driven in the east entrance on the previous day. The Springdale entrance was an easier drive that didn’t require special permits or ranger assistance.

Canyon Overlook Trail

The Canyon Overlook Trailhead is located immediately east of the tunnel and is highly rated. The trail provides little shade but offers sweeping canyon views.

Sadly, it was closed during our first time visiting Zion in late May 2020 due to COVID-19. Canyon Overlook Trail is definitely on my wish list for our next visit to Zion National Park.

Lemonade out of Lemons

After returning home I spent a few hours moping around because our day was ruined. It was our first time visiting Zion, and I wanted it to be perfect. Kevin remained positive and encouraged me to try biking the scenic drive. He was doing his best to make lemonade out of lemons. To convince me to try the bike ride, he said we could turn around or take a break whenever I needed one.

Can anyone bike the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive?

We packed lunch and headed to the top of the scenic drive for an afternoon hike on the Riverside Trail. Honestly, the bike ride up the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive was beautiful and very manageable especially with little to no traffic on the road.

We saw teens on single-speed bikes and people much less fit than us making the trip gracefully. Granted some of the less fit were on electric bikes which aren’t 100% pedal-powered.

If you are not traveling with bikes, there are many Springdale shops that offer rentals. The views are worth it.

I was really surprised at the large crowds of people walking the scenic drive (again it is six-miles one way) in the early afternoon. But with full parking lots and no shuttles, they had few other choices if they wanted to hike most of the park’s open trails.

Without the shuttles running, bicycling the scenic drive was a great experience and I would definitely recommend it. There are sheltered bus stops along the route if you need to take a break or two in the shade.

What are the best hikes in Zion?

The best hikes in Zion are a matter of opinion but here are my superlatives to help you decide between the trails.

• Par’us Trail – best accessible trail
• Riverside Trail – best riverside walk
• The Narrows – best water hike
• Angels Landing – best story to tell
• Kenyeta Trail – best way to experience the canyon
• Emerald Pools – best way to get close to nature without hiking all day

Best Hikes at Zion: Riverside Trail

Riverside Trail is the last stop on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Based on the crowds at the trailhead, it appeared to be very popular. This trail leads to the bottom of the Narrows and was the reason for the crowds.

The riverside trail is an easy one-mile partially paved path that winds along the Virgin River to the Narrows.

I recommend everyone walk Riverside Trail during their first time visiting Zion.

Best Hikes in Zion: The Narrows

The Narrows is one of the most popular hikes in Zion. In 2020, it opened on May 22nd for the season once the spring river had receded to a safe level.

The Narrows trail runs along the narrowest part of Zion Canyon. In some areas, river water can cover from one side of the canyon floor to the other. Hikers have to walk in the rocky river bed to follow this trail and therefore must wade through the deeper sections of the river.

The trail is a ten-mile roundtrip but the accessibility depends on water levels. High water levels in the spring tend to deter most hikers from completing the full ten-miles.

Kevin and I found a nice shady rock beside the river for some quality people-watching at the bottom of the Narrows.

The local squirrels were very bold. We watched one squirrel swipe a half-eaten peach that a hiker sat on her backpack for a moment.

The river was about knee-deep at the first crossing but the slippery, uneven rocks on the river bottom made the walking very slow and difficult. We saw several people start the journey without specialty gear but noticed most of them returned within a few minutes. I only recall seeing a few people fall into the river at the first crossing.

The returning hikers were varying degrees of wet depending upon how far they hiked. Based on my eavesdropping, it sounded like some of them decided to turn around when the water was chest-deep.

I toyed with the idea of trying the first river crossing. It was our first time at Zion and the Narrows is really popular. But I quickly changed my mind after a few minutes ankle-deep in the freezing water. I decided I was content to take some pretty pictures and watch other people hike the Narrows. If I change my mind, I am sure this will not be our last visit to Zion.

What I should know about the Narrows?

Since the trail runs through the river bed, the Narrows are subject to life-threatening flash floods. It is critically important, to check at the park visitor center or with a park ranger for trail conditions before starting the Narrows hike.

What do I need to hike the Narrows at Zion?

I am certain the Springdale outfitting shops love the Narrows because hikers rent hiking sticks (literally a wooden broomstick with a rope handle), waterproof boots. We even saw several people in rented waders.

If you are interested in the experience and wondering what do I need to hike the Narrows, don’t worry. Everything can be rented from the Springdale outfitters adjacent to the entrance of the park. However, the supply is limited so I recommend reserving your supplies as soon as you arrive in Springdale.

Some hikers mentioned the wooden sticks were sturdier than traditional trekking poles on the river rocks. At a minimum, I would recommend renting a hiking stick and preparing for freezing cold, wet feet if you aren’t interested in waders or waterproof boots.

The next morning we chose to sleep in, have a nice warm breakfast and then ride our bikes to The Grotto parking area on the scenic drive. I started the day with slight discomfort in my knees from the previous day’s 16-mile bike ride and three-mile hike. But, I really wanted to hike the Kenyeta Trail to the Upper Emerald Pools.

Best Hikes in Zion: Angel’s Landing

One of the most popular trails in Zion, Angel’s Landing, also starts at The Grotto parking area.

Angels Landing towers 1,488 feet over the Virgin River. The trail’s numerous switchbacks over sand and slickrock (known as Walter’s Wiggles), long drop-offs, and exposed edges have ranked Angels Landing among the most dangerous hikes in many outdoor publications.  In the past month, two hikers have died hiking Angels Landing.

I believed the NPS warnings against Angel’s Landing for those with fear of heights. Therefore, I had no interest in hiking Angel’s Landing while visiting Zion for the first time. Also just watching others at Angel’s Landing on YouTube was more than enough to make my heart race uncontrollably.

The top section of the Angels Landing is a narrow clifftop with chains. It is barely wide enough for a single hiker. But the trail is an out and back which means outbound and inbound hikers must pass each other.

Due to the limited space on the trail, hikers should plan to hike Angels Landing at off-peak times. Plan your hike before sunrise or late in the day for fewer crowds.

It seems people love this hike for bragging rights. It is a once in a life-time experience. Those who climb to the top are also rewarded with unparalleled sweeping views of the area.

Best Hikes in Zion: Kenyeta Trail

We opted for a less dare-devil option at The Grotto trailhead. The 1.7-mile Kenyeta trail wound along the canyon side and provided really nice views of the area.

The Kenyeta trail ends at the Middle Emerald Pools and many hikers turned around. But this is where the trail to the Upper Emerald Pools starts and it is worth the extra effort.

Best Hikes in Zion: Upper Emerald Pools Trail

The trail to the Upper Emerald Pools was only 0.3-mile but it consisted of mostly uneven stone and earthen stairs up. It was a strenuous hike but the pool at the end was spectacularly beautiful.

Signs around the pool state “no swimming” but many visitors ignored them and took a cooling dip in the water.

Kevin and I wondered if the danger of falling rocks was the reason for the swimming restriction.

We found a rock in the shade and enjoyed our lunch before starting the hike back. The views from the trail were beautiful.

On our return trip, we found a lesser-traveled side trail and spotted a few deer having lunch.

They were clearly accustomed to hikers taking their picture and appeared to pose for us.

Springdale Utah

Springdale is a cute little Utah mountain town that exists primarily for tourists visiting Zion National Park. We saw people waiting at most restaurants and streets full of shoppers on our visit. In 2019, 4.48 million people visited Zion so I suspect the Springdale businesses do quite well.

What’s in Springdale

Most shops in Springdale are in a small village directly adjacent to the west entrance of Zion National Park. There is a small tourist grocery that offered firewood, ice, and most grocery items. You can buy all necessities in Springdale but if you are price conscious, I would recommend stocking up before getting to the park. The items I priced were from 50% to 200% above average Walmart pricing.

Springdale has several restaurant and shopping opportunities however the area was over-crowded during our visits. We chose to cook our meals at the campground and spend our free time exploring the park.

Zion Brewing

We did check out Zion Brewing in the town of Springdale.

The beers were all 5% ABV or lower due to Utah alcohol laws. They were nice but nothing spectacular.

We enjoyed our cold beverages on their patio and watched park visitors walking into Zion via the short walk path.

The patio at Zion Brewing is a nice way to wrap up a day in the park.

We also saw several kids with tubes playing in the river. Their chattering teeth were clear indications that the river was not any warmer here but they were having too much fun to stop.

My body needed a break

The next morning I woke up with very sore knees and my body needed a break. We had to move campsites so I spent more time on my feet that morning than I wanted and my already sore knees became angrier. In the prior three days, I had ridden my bike ~33 miles and hiked ~6 miles, not including several non-trail walks.

My body very loudly and clearly told me it was done. So we spent the day relaxing on our sofas and watching TV while I took anti-inflammatories and iced my knees. It was disappointing to admit defeat and “waste” a day while at Zion for the first time but that is how it goes sometimes.

The following day we checked out of Watchman Campground and my knees were slightly better. We decided to stay in the area and headed to the nearby Hurricane Cliffs BLM public lands so we could explore more of the area while my knees continued to recover. Check out our Hurricane and St George blog for good places to eat and things to do in the cities close to Zion.

First time at Zion

During our first time at Zion, we were awed by the area’s beauty. We hiked and biked the Zion Canyon area until I wasn’t able to walk. But we loved it and will do it all again but with more training hikes to prepare.

• FREE NP ebook
• Hiking Basics
• Backpacking
• Gear Guides
• Gift Guides
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• West Virginia
• National Park Planning
• Bryce Canyon
• Cuyahoga Valley
• Death Valley
• Great Smoky Mountains
• Joshua Tree
• New River Gorge
• Shop Itinerary Guides & Digital Products
• Refund and Returns Policy
• Work With Me
• About Brooke In Boots
• Privacy Policy and Disclaimer
• Appalachian Trail Hikes
• FREE NP EBOOK

Epic Zion National Park Itinerary Guide: How to Plan 1, 2, and 3 Perfect Days in Zion National Park

With soaring red rock cliffs, hidden slot canons, and miles of hiking trails, its no secret why Zion National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States. Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 days to explore this breathtaking destination, this guide has all the information you need to plan the perfect trip. From must-see sights and can’t-miss hikes, to tips for avoiding crowds and where to stay, this epic Zion National Park itinerary guide has you covered.

So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the stunning red rock canyons and soaring sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park.

Disclosure:  This page may contain affiliate links where I earn a small commission from any purchase – at no extra cost to you. This commission helps keep Brooke In Boots up and running. As always, all opinions are 100% honest and my own!

Table of Contents

Why Visit Zion National Park?

With stunning red rock canyon vistas around every corner, soaring sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons, Zion National Park is a jewel of the National Park system. Whether you’re into strenuous hikes, family-friendly strolls, climbing, canyoneering, or scenic driving, there is bucket-list adventure to be found in Zion National Park.

The awe-inspiring scenery and world-famous hikes and canyon climbs makes Zion one of the most popular National Parks in the United States.

In 2022, nearly 4.7 million visitors made their way to Zion National Park. Although Zion National Park is nearly 230 square miles (146,597 acres) in size (the 36th largest National Park) most of those 4.7 million visitors congregate in the narrow but beautiful Zion Canyon.

Zion Canyon is the beating heart of Zion National Park. Only one road, Zion Canyon Drive, runs 6 miles through the Canyon from the entrance of the Park in Springdale, Utah to the Temple of Sinawava, where the Virgin River forms the stunning slot canyon known as The Narrows.

Powerful flash floods along the Virgin River carved through layers of Navajo Sandstone to form Zion Canyon. Over time, the river sliced the narrow Zion Canyon as we know it today. The Canyon is nearly 3,000 feet deep in some places, and is known for its famous slot canyons and soaring sandstone peaks like Angel’s Landing.

Zion National Park is one of five National Parks within the state of Utah, known as Utah’s “Mighty Five.” In addition to visiting Zion, it’s possible to see dozens of other National Parks, National Forests, National Monuments and State Parks within a few short hours of this Park, making Zion one of the ultimate US Road Trip destinations!

Zion National Park Quick Facts

Where: Springdale, Utah

Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle. $20 per person if entering as a pedestrian or via the Springdale Shuttle. (More about Shuttles in ‘Getting Around Zion National Park’ below).

Traveling to more than 2 National Parks or National Forests this year? Purchase an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass for $80, which covers entrance fees at all National Parks and NPS managed sites.

Kid Friendly : Yes. Several trails in Zion are easy enough for even young children. Note that some trails, like Angel’s Landing, are not appropriate for children, and many trails feature steep canyon drop offs with no railings. Watch your children carefully at all times.

Dog Friendly : No. Dogs are only permitted on the paved Pa’rus Trail. Toxic algae blooms in the Virgin River are toxic to dogs, and have resulted in pet fatalities. Do not let any pets enter or drink from the Virgin River.

Zion National Park is divided into two districts: Zion Canyon and the Kolob Canyons. Most visitors will spend their trip in the Zion Canyon area. The Kolob Canyons area is not accessible from Zion Canyon. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to Zion Canyon to Kolob Canyons.

Check Out These Blog Posts for More Resources on Visiting Zion & Bryce Canyon

Epic Zion National Park Itinerary Guide

7 Easy Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion National Park

One Epic Day in Bryce Canyon National Park

Zion Permits & Reservations: Everything You Need to Know

Closest Airports to Bryce Canyon & How to Get to There

Zion National Park is Indigenous Land

Zion National Park was home to the Ancestral Pueblo people until approximately 1300 AD/CE. Ancestral Puebloan rock houses and petroglyph carvings are found throughout the Park and the Southwest.

The Southern Paiute called Zion Valley home when Mormon settlers began arriving to the area in 1858. The Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah continue to live in the Zion and Bryce Canyon area to this day.

Explorer John Wesley Powell is alleged to have coined the name “Mukuntuweap” for Zion Canyon, thought to be an Indigenous name for the canyon meaning, “straight canyon.” Zion was first designated Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909, and re-designated Zion National Park in 1919.

Never deface or disturb archaeological sites and always practice respect and Leave No Trace when visiting.

Highlights of Visiting Zion National Park

Here is a quick look at the best things to do when visiting Zion National Park.

Take an Epic Hike

Zion National Park is home to some of the best and most famous hikes in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly easy hike or strenuous adventure, there are dozens of amazing trails to choose from.

Zion Planning Tip : Zion is an ever-changing environment, prone to flash floods and rock falls. Multiple trails are subject to short and long term closures, as noted below. Always check the NPS website for updates.

Here are 9 of the best day hikes to explore in Zion National Park.

Emerald Pools Trail

Visit Zion’s most famous waterfalls on this extremely popular hike. The trail is paved until the Lower Emerald Pool. Kids (and adults) will love exploring the easy trail behind the waterfall. Continue up the rocky trail to the Middle and Upper Pools. Lower Emerald Pools is an easy 1.5 miles round trip. Middle and Upper Pools is a moderate 2.5 miles round trip.

2023 Update: The bridge to access the trail from Zion Lodge / Shuttle Stop #5 is closed indefinitely due to structural issues. Unfortunately, that means there are no easy ways to access this trail while the bridge is closed. To access the Lower Pools trail, bridge access is available from Shuttle Stop #4, Court of the Patriarchs, which adds 3 miles of moderate hiking, and Stop #6, the Grotto, which adds 2 miles of moderate hiking. Check trail updates, here.

Weeping Rock Trail

This short but sweet trail leads to Weeping Rock, a naturally occurring spring dripping from the canyon walls, as well as views of the Great White Throne formation. Weeping Rock is an easy 0.4 mile round trip hike.

Watchman Trail

Explore one of Zion’s largest sandstone towers, the Watchman, on this moderately easy trail. The Trail leaves directly from the Zion Visitor Center and campgrounds. The Watchman Trail is 3.1 miles round trip and 650 feet of elevation gain.

Pa’rus Trail

This easy, paved trail follows the Virgin River from the Zion Visitor Center to the  Canyon Junction intersection. The trail has great views of the Watchman formation and is an easy 3.2 miles round trip. This is the only trail in Zion where pets are allowed.

Canyon Overlook Trail

The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is one of Zion’s best moderate hikes, and a must-do when visiting Zion National Park. The Overlook has breathtaking views of Zion Canyon, comparable to Angel’s Landing, without the strenuous climbing. The 1 mile out and back trail is mostly flat and easy, with steep canyons drop offs on the side of the trail.

Observation Poi nt

Climb through the narrow Echo Canyon to arguably the best view in Zion National Park on this strenuous hike. This 7-mile hike starts at the Weeping Rock trailhead and climbs a series of switchbacks to the East Rim Trail. After 2,650 feet of elevation gain, hikers are rewarded with incredible views looking down on Zion Canyon and Angel’s Landing.

East Rim Trail is closed until further notice due to a major rockfall. Observation Point can be accessed via a 7.0 mile round trip hike via the East Mesa Trail, located outside the National Park. A 4×4 vehicle is required to make it to the trailhead. East Zion Adventures offers a paid seasonal shuttle to the trailhead.

Riverside Walk

This easy, paved trail begins at the Temple of Sinawava and follows the Virgin River as the wide Zion Canyon narrows around you. The trail ends at the Virgin River where prepared hikers can continue on to The Narrows, using the river as a trail. Riverside Walk is an easy 2 mile out and back trail, with 200 feet of elevation gain.

The Narrows (Bottom – Up)

For a strenuous but super-rewarding day hiking experience, continue past the end of the paved Riverside Walk trail and explore The Narrows, one of the most unique hikes in any National Park. There are multiple routes to access this 16 mile slot canyon, and this route, commonly called “bottom-up,” is the most popular. There is no trail here, just follow the Virgin River up to 5 miles upstream, before turning around. This route does not require a permit or canyoneering experience. Flash floods are deadly in this canyon. Learn more about safety and hiking the Narrows, here.

Do not ever drink the water or submerge your head in the river. The Virgin River has experienced high-levels of cyanobacteria, a toxic algae, in recent years. Learn more, here.

What Gear Do I Need for Hiking The Narrows?

You WILL get wet on this hike. Depending on conditions and how far you hike, you may be wading through water up to your waist. Wear moisture-wicking layers you don’t mind taking a swim in (not jeans or cotton), and don’t forget to bring a warm layer jacket – it gets chilly in the shaded canyon, even in summer. For shoes, it’s best to choose sturdy, closed-toed shoes with a good grip like hiking boots, trail runners, or canyoneering boots. Some hikers opt to wear closed-toe water sandals, but the riverbed is full of small sharp rocks and slippery boulders, so I was glad for the stability and production of real shoes.

Trekking poles will help you keep your balance, and a dry bag will keep your electronics, snacks, and warm layers safe if you take a fall or have to wade through high water.

In colder temps, you may need to wear waterproof pants, or dry suits to protect yourself from the cold water temperatures.

Waterproof gear can be rented from outfitters in Springdale like Zion Outfitter.

Angel’s Landing

No list of the best hikes in Zion would be complete without Angel’s Landing, Zion’s most famous, and infamous , hike. This 4.3 mile, 1,850′ gain strenuous hike is commonly called “The Most Dangerous Hike in America.”

After ascending 21 steep switchbacks to Scout’s Lookout, hikers must climb the final 0.5 miles over a narrow ridge with 1000’+ cliff drops on either side. At times the trail is only a few feet wide and requires the use of anchored chains to climb up and down.

Make no mistake, this is NOT the hike for you if you have any fear of heights, and fatalities do occur. Brave hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Zion Canyon below.

About Angel’s Landing Permit Reservations : As of April 1, 2022, a permit is required to hike to Angel’s Landing past Scout’s Lookout. A permit is not required to visit Scout’s Lookout, a canyon overlook that does not require chains to access and is a worthy hike in its own right. More info is included on these permits, below, or read everything you need to know about Angel’s Landing Permits and every Zion permit process, here.

Looking for more easy hiking suggestions in Zion? Check out 7 Easy Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion National Park.

Drive the Zion – Mt. Carmel Highway

The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway connects Zion Canyon with Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Canyon North Rim via Highway 89. Spend a half-day exploring this magnificent scenic drive, with views of Pine Creek Canyon and Zion’s famous sandstone rock formations. Along the drive, stop and explore the overlooks and short hikes like Grand Arch, Checkerboard Mesa and the Canyon Overlook hike.

There are also dozens of unmarked slot canyons and slickrock hiking routes along this highway. Be careful when exploring these off-trail routes. These routes are unmaintained by the Park service, some require scrambling and wading, and some require technical canyoneering experience.

The 1.1 mile Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is an engineering marvel. Constructed over 3 years and completed in 1930, the Highway and Tunnel are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Enjoy A Stunning Sunset (And Stay for the Stars!)

Watching the sun set over the red rock canyon walls is the perfect way to end your Zion National Park itinerary. As the sun dips low, the orange and red canyon walls glow with incredible vibrant colors. The Canyon Overlook, Pa’rus Trail, and and Watchmen Trails all have spectacular sunset views.

Don’t forget – half the park is after dark. Zion is a certified International Dark Sky Park. The stargazing here is some of the best in the Southwest. Under good conditions we were able to see the milky way from our cabin at Zion Lodge!

Check out the Clear Sky Chart, which forecasts the best conditions for stargazing. And click here for more tips on viewing sunset and stargazing in Zion.

Try Canyoneering

Get up close and personal with Zion’s famous canyons by trying canyoneering. Canyoneering is the sport of exploring and navigating canyons by use of rappelling, rock climbing, and hiking.

There are hundreds of marked and unmarked routes within the Zion area to explore, making Zion one of the best canyoneering destinations in the world.

Not an experienced climber? Several reputable guiding companies offer canyoneering skills classes, whether you’re a true novice or advanced climber looking to expand your skills.

Zion Adventures offers skills classes and guided canyon trips. They even offer a half-day “Ground School” which covers the exact skills and routes you’ll need to explore some of Zion’s most famous backcountry routes, like The Subway , Keyhole, Orderville or Echo Canyon. (NPS does not allow guides to accompany you to backcountry canyons).

Zion Guru and Rock Odysseys (women-owned and operated!) also offer family-friendly and advanced canyoneering classes and guided trips in the area.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Zion National Park?

First time visitors should try and spend at least two full days exploring Zion National Park. With two full days, you’ll have time to experience both the Narrows and Angel’s Landing (or another canyon rim hike), as well as drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.

When deciding how many days to spend in Zion, think about the major hikes and activities you want to do. I suggest planning at least one full day each for hiking The Narrows, Angel’s Landing, and any other hikes over 5-6 miles in length . If you want to try canyoneering or take a day trip to Bryce Canyon, plan on allocating a full day to each.

Short on time? If you only have one day in Zion, it’s still possible to see some of the best sights and hikes. Check out How to Spend One Epic Day in Zion National Park, here.

If you have three or more days to spend in Zion, you can explore both the Narrows and Zion’s famous canyon hikes, as well as some of Zion’s lesser known trails, spend a night or two backpacking in the red-rock wilderness, or take a day trip to nearby Bryce Canyon National Park.

Planning an Epic Zion National Park Itinerary

No matter if you’re spending one, two, or three plus days in Zion, there are a few important tips I’ve learned from my visits to remember when planning your Zion National Park itinerary.

First, start early . Zion is a very busy park, so to avoid the worst crowds, try and start your day as early as possible. The first shuttle leaves the Zion Canyon Visitor Center at 6 a.m. during peak season.

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to personal vehicles when the Zion Canyon Shuttle is operating (usually late-May to Thanksgiving). That means most visitors will have to use the Shuttle system to access most stops on their itinerary, including Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, and Emerald Pools.

Check updated Shuttle schedules here, and learn more about Getting Around Zion , below.

Plan your hardest hikes (Angel’s Landing, Observation Point, the Narrows) first thing in the morning when desert temperatures are at their lowest and crowds are at their smallest.

Don’t forget lunch! Hiking in the desert is hard work, and you’ll want a midday break to relax, re-energize, and avoid the peak crowds during your Zion National Park itinerary. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the Visitor Center or on the grassy area in front of Zion Lodge.

The Castle Dome Cafe at Zion Lodge offers coffee and breakfast pastries in the a.m. and burgers, hot dogs, and french fries for lunch.

If you are staying multiple days outside the Park, consider returning to your hotel in Springdale for a few hours to grab lunch before returning to do some easier hikes in the afternoon.

One Day Zion National Park Itinerary

If you only have one day to visit Zion National Park, you’ll need to make the most of your time! Make sure to start early and prioritize the hikes you really want to do! For a more in-depth look at how to spend just one day in Zion, check out How to Spend One Epic Day in Zion National Park.

Consider this one day Zion National Park itinerary for an action-packed introduction to this Park.

Start your day on the earliest shuttle possible and head directly towards the big hike of your choice. If you are lucky enough to have scored Angel’s Landing permits, you will head to the Grotto Shuttle Stop.

To get to Zion’s famous Narrows hike, take the shuttle all the way to the last stop at the Temple of Sinawava. If you only have time for one hike in Zion National Park, I recommend the Narrows. Not only is hiking upriver a totally unique experience, you’ll avoid the stomach-churning fear (and possible injury) of Angel’s Landing.

It is possible for fit and determined hikers to do both hikes in one day. I would recommend starting with Angel’s Landing (again, beating the crowds and heat is top priority), taking a break to recharge, then hiking the Narrows bottom-up midday.

After finishing your hike, return on the shuttle and enjoy lunch in Springdale, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the visitor center, or grab a burger from the Cafe at Zion Lodge.

In the afternoon, drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway to the Canyon Overlook parking area. (There is no shuttle here, a private car is required). Hike the short but super-rewarding Canyon Overlook trail for panoramic views of Zion Canyon as the sun sets on your one day in Zion National Park itinerary.

Two Day Itinerary Zion National Park

With two full days, you’ll have time to experience both the Narrows and Angel’s Landing (or another canyon rim hike), as well as drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.

Check out this sample two day Zion National Park itinerary that covers the best must-see highlights of Zion National Park.

Day 1: Angel’s Landing & Canyon Overlook

Don’t have an Angel’s Landing permit? Traveling with kids? Or just don’t love the idea of dangling 1000 feet above the canyon floor? You can still hike the Angel’s Landing trail until Scout’s Lookout , a 3.6 mile round trip hike with 1,200′ elevation gain and great views of the Canyon.

Or, for a longer hike, with arguably even BETTER views than Angels Landing, hike to Observation Point via the East Rim Trail.

To access the trail, take the Zion shuttle to Weeping Rock (Shuttle Stop #7) and climb a grueling series of switchback to the East Rim Trail. After 2,650 feet of total elevation gain, hikers are rewarded with incredible views looking down on Zion Canyon and Angel’s Landing.

After finishing your hike, return on the shuttle and enjoy a well deserved lunch in Springdale, and a quick rest at your hotel or campsite.

If you plan on renting gear for the Narrows tomorrow, now is a good time to pick it up in Springdale. Here you can also get updated information of conditions on the Virgin River and inside the Narrows.

In the afternoon, drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway to the Canyon Overlook parking area. (There is no shuttle here, a private car is required). Hike the short but super-rewarding Canyon Overlook trail for panoramic views of Zion Canyon as the sun sets.

Day 2: Zion Narrows & Emerald Pools

On day 2, you’ll get up early again to tackle my favorite hike in Zion, The Narrows . Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes, your quick-drying clothes (no jeans or cotton), bring a waterproof drybag with electronics and warm layers, as well as snacks and plenty of water.

This time, ride the shuttle all the way to the last stop (#9) the Temple of Sinawava. The paved Riverside trail takes you from the Shuttle to the river. Here the wide Zion Canyon narrows significantly until it is just wide enough for the Virgin River to flow through. There is no trail here, just follow the Virgin River up to 5 miles upstream, before turning around.

After finishing your hike, return on the shuttle and enjoy a picnic lunch in front of Zion Lodge or grab a burger and fries from the Castle Dome Cafe.

If you still have the energy, cross the street and over the bridge from the Zion Lodge to access the Lower Emerald Pools Trail . Lower Emerald Pools is an easy 1.5 miles round trip. Middle and Upper Pools is a moderate 2.5 miles round trip. Explore the verdant cascades before returning to your hotel or campsite after day two of your Zion National Park itinerary.

Want to take this itinerary to-go? Check out the printable PDF Zion National Park Itinerary Guide now available here!

Three or More Days in Zion National Park Itinerary

With three or more full days in Zion National Park, you can really explore the highlights of the Park and get to know some more hidden gems of Zion.

For days 1 and 2, follow the two day itinerary outlined above. On your remaining days, consider adding some of the following adventures to your Zion National Park itinerary:

Observation Point:

With 3+ days you’ll have time to explore Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, and Observation Point. We didn’t get a chance to do this hike on our trips yet due to trail closure. (FYI East Zion Adventures now offers a paid shuttle to the East Mesa trailhead!) But the word is that the views are even better than Angel’s Landing!

Canyoneering Classes:

The Zion area is famous as one of the best canyoneering destinations in the world. There are hundreds of marked and unmarked routes within the Zion area to explore on an extended Zion itinerary, if you have the technical skills.

Not an experienced climber? Consider adding a canyoneering class to your Zion National Park itinerary. Several reputable guiding companies offer canyoneering skills classes from half-day introductions to multi-day courses

Zion Adventures offers skills classes and guided canyon trips. Zion Guru and Rock Odysseys (women-owned and operated!) also offer family-friendly and advanced canyoneering classes and guided trips in the area.

Visit Kolob Canyons:

Located about 45 minutes north of Zion Canyon, the Kolob Canyons area is a stunning but seldom visited area of the Park. In fact, only a tiny fraction of visitors to Zion ever make it to the Kolob Canyons District. Drive the 5 mile scenic drive, or take a hike on one of the several trails like Taylor Canyon (5 miles) that lead into a narrow box canyon to a double sandstone arch.

Take a Day Trip to Bryce Canyon National Park:

If you’re spending extended time in Zion, consider taking a day trip to nearby Bryce Canyon National Park. Only 2 hours away along the Zion-Mt.Carmel Scenic Highway, Bryce Canyon is a smaller National Park with a unique attraction!

Bryce Canyon is home to the densest concentration of hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) on earth. The orange and pink hues of this canyon are magical at sunrise and sunset, and a number of scenic drives and hikes wind through the Park.

For the best experience, head straight to the Sunset Point Parking area, then walk along the paved rim trail to Sunrise Point. Here you can descend into the canyon on the Queens Garden Trail and return to Sunset Point via the Navajo or Wall Street trails for a moderate and magical 3.2 mile hike.

Come back soon! More Bryce Canyon guides are in the works!

The Best Times to Visit Zion National Park

Zion National Park is open all year. During summer, expect scorching hot temperatures and big crowds. The shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall are my favorite times to visit Zion. There are far fewer visitors and generally mild weather.  

Spring in Zion National Park (March – April)

Spring is a popular time to visit Zion. Crowds are especially large during spring break when kids are out of school. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s and 70’s nighttime lows in the 30s.

Snow and ice are still possible well into spring. When we visited in March we experienced a full snowstorm and ice on Angel’s Landing!

The Zion Canyon shuttle resumes operations in spring, which means you will not be able to drive your own car on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Be aware, that you may not be able to hike the Narrows in spring. Water levels on the Virgin River can get very high. The Park service closes the canyon when the river flow is over 150 cubic feet per second, or when there is a flash flood warning.

If you do plan on hiking the Narrows in spring, be sure to visit one of the outfitters in Springdale to rent waders and canyoneering boots with waterproof socks to keep dry in the cold, deep water.

Summer in Zion National Park (May – September)

Summer is the most popular time to visit Zion National Park. That means you’ll need to book lodging, rental cars, and other reservations as far in advance as possible.

If you plan on visiting Zion between and early September, prepare for VERY hot temperatures and lots of crowds.

During the day, temps regularly soar above 100, and fall to the70s at night. Make sure to stay hydrated and bring plenty of water on hikes.  

Fall in Zion National Park (October – November)

Fall is my favorite time to visit Zion National Park . Daytime temperatures hover around a reasonable 60s, and nighttime temps dip down to the 30s. Visitor numbers also go down after Labor Day, so you’ll be able to enjoy the Park with far fewer crowds.  

Fall is also the best time for hiking in Zion. Water levels in the Narrows are low after a long hot summer, and ice and snow haven’t yet settled on higher elevations like Angel’s Landing.

If you time it right, you’ll also get to see beautiful fall color on the trees in Zion Canyon.

Winter in Zion National Park (December – February)

Winter in Zion is a quiet and magical time. It can also be cold, wet, and icy. Temperatures range from the 50’s during the day, to below freezing at night.

The Zion Canyon shuttle generally does not run during winter. The Shuttle may run during the holidays, and between Christmas and New Years. When the shuttle is not running you can drive your car directly to the trailhead. But be aware, parking is very limited, so make sure to arrive early.

Ice and snow can cover most hiking trails during winter. Bring appropriate winter hiking gear and plenty of warm layers. Do not attempt Angel’s Landing when ice or snow is present. The Narrows will be very cold – make sure to bring or rent drysuits and winter-appropriate canyoneering gear.

Backpacking Trips in Zion National Park

If you want to experience the more wild and quiet side of Zion National Park, consider a backpacking trip into the vast Zion Wilderness.

Don’t forget, a wilderness or canyoneering permit is required for all overnight backcountry trips, and all canyoneering trips, including day-hiking the Narrows from the top-down. Learn more about wilderness and canyoneering permits here.

The Narrows (Top – Down)

Exploring all 16 miles of The Narrows is the ultimate backcountry adventure in Zion. This strenuous, but non-technical route, can be done as an epic day hike, or multi-day backpacking trip.

Top-down hikers will enter the Canyon via the Chamberlin Ranch, about 1 hour’s drive from Zion Canyon. There is no public transportation to the trailhead. You’ll either need to drive your own car (and find a way back – this hike is one way!) or pay a shuttle in Springdale to drop you off.

Day-hikers will have to complete all 16 miles in one long day. Backpackers are assigned a campsite along the Virgin River, then hike out to the Temple of Sinawava the next day.

Overnight and day-hikers completing the Narrows Top Down both need permits to complete this hike. Learn how to apply for Narrows top-down permits, here.

West Rim Trai l

Solitude and epic canyon views make the West Rim Trail one of the best backpacking routes in Zion.

This 14 mile point-to-point trail starts off Lava Point Road, in the open desert and grasslands of the Kolob Terrace area of the Park. The trail travels North-to-South to the edge of Zion Canyon. Here, your solitude will finally be interrupted from other hikers ascending and descending from Angel’s Landing.

There are two natural springs that serve as your water sources on this trail. The springs are generally flowing year-round, but make sure to check with the wilderness desk at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center about spring conditions and water sources before starting your hike.

At 14 miles, you can theoretically hike this as a long day hike. But remember this is a point-to-point hike, so you’ll need 2 cars or to arrange a shuttle from Springdale.

Read up on more wilderness trails in Zion, here .

Angel’s Landing Permits, Wilderness & Canyoneering Permits in Zion

There are 3 types of permits commonly required for visiting Zion National Park:

• Angel’s Landing Permit
• Canyoneering Permits, including the Zion Narrows (Top-down) and The Subway (Left Fork of the Virgin River)
• Wilderness Backpacking Permits

Angel’s Landing Permits

In order to reduce crowding on the dangerous chains scramble section of the trail, Zion National Park started requiring permits for all hikers traveling all the way to Angel’s Landing, as of April 1, 2022.

A permit is required for all hikers traveling beyond “Scout’s Lookout” to Angel’s Landing (aka all “chains” sections). A permit is NOT required to visit Scout’s Lookout (worth the hike even if you don’t have a permit!) or the West Rim Trail.

This map from Zion National Park shows which sections of the Angel’s Landing trail require a permit:

Angel’s Landing permits are issued by 2 different lotteries.

Most lottery permits will be issued through quarterly preseason lotteries. A select number of permits will be issued in daily day-before lotteries.

Angel’s Landing Quarterly Permit Lottery

Most Angel’s Landing permits are issued by the Quarterly Permit lottery. The Quarterly lottery is held 4 times a year, meaning you’ll need to apply for these permits well in advance of your trip.

This chart shows the quarterly permit lottery dates for 2024:

Each Quarterly lottery is open for 20 days. You can apply at any time during that window.

To apply to the Angel’s Landing Quarterly Permit Lottery, login in to recreation.gov, and search for Zion National Park. Select the open lottery that covers your hopeful hiking dates. There is a $6 fee for applying, and your application fee covers up to 6 people in your hiking party.

You will get to pick  seven ranked days and times or windows of days and times  you want to hike.

An email will be sent to you 5 days after the lottery closes letting you know whether or not you received a permit. Winners will be charged $3 per hiker, refundable up to 2 days before your permit date.

Angel’s Landing Day-Before Lottery

Didn’t win the Quarterly Lottery? Or maybe you’re trying to plan a last minute trip to Zion? There’s still a chance to climb Angel’s Landing using the Day-Before Lottery.

Day-before lottery applicants should apply on recration.gov between 12:01AM and and 3PM the day before they intend to hike.

Applicants will be notified by email by 4PM, letting them know whether or not they received a permit.

The Narrows, Subway and other Canyoneering Permits

A canyoneering permit is required for explorations of all Zion canyons requiring the use of descending gear or ropes.

A Narrows canyoneering permit or wilderness permit is required for hiking the Narrows “top-down.” A permit is also required for all trips to the Subway (left fork of North Creek) and Mystery Canyon.

In all cases, canyoneering is an inherently dangerous activity that requires specialized equipment and skills. Do not attempt these canyons if you do not have the proper experience.

Guiding companies offer canyoneering skills classes from half-day introductions to multi-day courses. Zion Adventures offers skills classes and guided canyon trips. Zion Guru and Rock Odysseys (women-owned and operated!) also offer family-friendly and advanced canyoneering classes and guided trips in the area.

Depending on what canyon you are hoping to explore, canyoneering permits are made available 2 months, 1 month, or 7 days in advance. If you’re interested in exploring Zion’s incredible slot canyons and backcountry, learn more about Zion National Park Permits & Reservations: Everything You Need to Know

Backpacking Wilderness Permits in Zion

All overnight trips into the Zion wilderness require an overnight wilderness permit. Half of all wilderness campsites are available to reserve in advance, on recreation.gov . The rest are issued on a first-come first-served basis at the Wilderness Permit Desk in Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Learn more about how to obtain Backpacking Wilderness permits in Zion, here.

Getting to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near the borders of Arizona and Nevada. This area is not exactly remote compared to other Parks, but you will need to plan out your transportation as part of your Zion National Park itinerary.

This section covers the basics of getting to Zion National Park and how to get around Zion. For more details, check out this ultimate in-depth guide to the closest airports, driving directions, and

Ready to plan your trip to Zion National Park? Learn about the closest airports, driving directions, and more in my in-depth guide, here: Closest Airport To Zion National Park: How To Get To Utah’s Best National Park

Zion National Park is not easily accessible by public transportation. That means visitors to Zion will want to drive to the Park or fly into a nearby airport and rent a car. The nearest airport to Zion is St. George Regional Airport.

This map shows the nearest roads, major towns, and other Parks near Zion National Park.

The closest town to Zion is the city of Springdale, Utah. There are many hotels, restaurants, shops, and gear outfitters in town. Springdale is located directly outside the southern entrance to Zion Canyon, on Utah Scenic Byway 9 / Zion-Mt.Carmel Highway / Zion Park Blvd.

A free shuttle runs from Springdale to the Visitor Center inside Zion National Park. Learn more about the Springdale shuttle and Zion Canyon shuttle in the “Getting Round Zion National Park” section, below.

Flying to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is accessible from several regional airports and a few hours from major international airports.

The best airport to get to Zion is Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airpot. LAS is the best combination of inexpensive flights from major airlines and a reasonable driving distance from the Park.

This chart shows the approximate distance to the Zion Visitor Center outside Springdale, Utah.

Driving to Zion National Park

The Park is bordered by Utah Scenic Byway 9, which runs through the southern portion of the park to Zion Canyon, and Interstate 15, which runs along the western edge of the Park.

Zion Canyon is only accessible from Utah Scenic Byway 9. The Kolob Canyon area is only accessible from Interstate 15.

Zion is a relatively accessible Park, and is located within a day’s drive of many major cities and National Parks. This chart shows the approximate driving times to the Zion Visitor Center outside Springdale, Utah.

Getting Around Zion National Park

There are a couple of important things to know about getting around when planning your Zion National Park itinerary. This section covers how and when to use the Zion Canyon Shuttle, biking around Zion, as well as shuttles into the Park from Springdale, and vehicle restrictions on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.

Zion Canyon Shuttle

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private cars when the Zion Canyon Shuttle is running.

The shuttle typically operates daily from March through November, as well as during the December holidays. That means you’ll likely be using the Shuttle when visiting most of your stops on this Zion National Park itinerary.

Guests of the Zion Lodge can drive on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in order to access the Lodge.

The Zion Canyon Shuttle connects the Zion National Park Visitor Center with trailheads and sights along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Most visitors board at the Visitor Center. Guests staying at the Zion Lodge can also board the bus to go up canyon from the Zion Lodge Shuttle Stop (#5).

Stops include: The Zion Canyon Visitor Center (Stop #1); the Zion Human History Museum (#2); Canyon Junction (#3); Court of the Patriarchs (#4); Zion Lodge (#5) – stop here for the Emerald Pools; The Grotto (#6) – stop here for Angel’s Landing; Weeping Rock (#7); Big Bend (#8); and The Temple of Sinawava (#9), stop here for the Narrows.

To board the shuttle, park at the visitor center (arrive early!) or take the free Sprindgale Shuttle.

Springdale Shuttle

The Springdale Shuttle runs through the town of Springdale and provides service to Zion’s pedestrian and bike entrance, a short walk from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

This Shuttle is free to use and runs April – October.

The Springdale line makes 9 stops along Zion Park Blvd (Utah Scenic Byway 9) throughout the town of Springdale. Most stops are located at popular hotels and restaurants. If you are within walking distance of the main road through town, Zion Park Blvd, chances are there is a Shuttle stop within easy walking distance.

If you aren’t staying in Springdale, you can park in one of the several paid parking lots around town and walk to the nearest shuttle stop.

Biking Around Zion

Bikes are permitted on all roadways in Zion. Given the crowded parking situation in Zion, biking has become a popular way to get around the Park.

Bikers can cruise 8 miles from Springdale to the Temple of Sinawava / Narrows in about 50 minutes. Bikes are allowed on Shuttle busses, but riders must lift their own bikes on and off the front rack.

Bikers should ride single file on the right side of the road and obey other rules. Helmets are required for all bikers. Class 1 pedal-assist E-bikes are allowed everywhere regular bicycles are permitted.

Learn more about biking in Zion, here.

Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway Vehicle Restrictions

If you’re driving an RV or towing a camper there are important things you need to know about driving during your Zion National Park itinerary.

The narrow and winding Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel was built well before modern RV’s and trailers became commonly used recreation vehicles. A 1989 study found that large vehicles cannot navigate the Tunnel without crossing the double yellow line, leading to several accidents and near-misses.

As a result, all large vehicles must be escorted through the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel by an NPS Ranger. The ranger escort will temporarily limit tunnel traffic to one-way, to ensure safe passage.

A $15 tunnel permit is required to drive all vehicles over 7 feet 10 inches (2.4 meters) in width and/or 11 feet 4 inches (3.4 meters) in height or larger through the tunnel.

Large vehicle permit holders are only permitted to drive the Tunnel during posted seasonal hours. A ranger will assist oversized vehicles in safely navigating the narrow, winding tunnel. Learn more about Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel permits, here.

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

There are tons of options to consider when deciding where to stay during your Zion National Park itinerary. From rustic campgrounds, glamping tents, chain hotels to classic National Park lodges, there are dozens of accommodations available when staying in Zion.

Be aware, reservations during the peak season can book up months to a year in advance (especially for Zion Lodge).

Lodging Inside the Park

In my experience, staying at the Zion Lodge inside the Park is the best option if you really want to maximize your time inside the Park.

Staying inside the Park means you don’t have to battle long lines at the entrance station and can more easily get on an early shuttle to popular trailheads like the Grotto and Temple of Sinawava.

The Zion Lodge, like most National Park lodges, is fairly rustic but in a superb location. Rooms are comfortable and conveniently located. Wi-fi and cell service are both unreliable at the Lodge, so plan on unplugging!

The Red Rock dining room is open year round breakfast – dinner. The seasonal Castle Dome Café offers to-go food for breakfast and lunch.

Book your stay at the Zion Lodge, here.

Campgrounds Inside Zion National Park

There are two established campgrounds inside Zion Canyon. Both tents are RV spots are available at both campgrounds. All campgrounds include drinking water, fire pits, flush toilets, and dump stations.

The Watchman Campground is open year round and located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations are required and can be booked 6 months in advance.

The South Campground is located just south of the Visitor Center along the Pa’rus Trail and Virgin River. Reservations are available 2 weeks in advance.

The Lava Point Campground is located in the Kolob Canyons area of the Park, about 1 hour driving distance from Zion Canyon.

There are no showers or laundry services inside Zion. Both services can be found at retailers in Springdale.

Book Zion campgrounds on Recreation.gov, here .

Lodging Outside Zion National Park

Most visitors stay in the town of Springdale, which is located directly outside the Zion Canyon park entrance.

In Springdale, there are dozens of chain and independent hotels. Prices range from “budget” to luxury – but even the budget options may still cost a pretty penny in peak seasons.

The Springhill Suites by Marriott (Shuttle Stop #6) has particularly stunning views of the red rock formations, plus a pool and free breakfast. Other options include, The Best Western Plus (2.5 stars, free wifi, pools & breakfast) the Cliffrose Inn & Suites (4 Star luxury), or the budget-minded Bumbleberry Inn in downtown Springdale.

Explore more lodging near Zion National Park, here.

Visit More National Parks

National Parks:  15 Tips for Planning An Epic National Parks Road Trip

Big Bend:   Epic Big Bend Itinerary Guide

Cuyahoga Valley:   17 Best Things to Do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Great Smoky Mountains:   The Ultimate Great Smoky Mountains Itinerary in 2 Days

Joshua Tree:   The Perfect Day Trip to Joshua Tree National Park

New River Gorge: The Best Hikes in New River Gorge National Park

Yosemite:   Epic Yosemite 2 Day Itinerary – How to Spend 2 Perfect Days in Yosemite

National Parks:  Get the  Ultimate National Parks Planning Guide  (for free!) sent to your inbox, full of important planning information, printable packing lists, and the best things to do in all 63 National Parks.

• 15 Best National Parks to Visit in Fall
• How to Get to Death Valley: Closest Airports & Driving Directions
• Hiking Stairway to Heaven and the Pochuck Boardwalk in New Jersey
• Closest Airports to Joshua Tree National Park & How to Get There

Yosemite Reservations & Permits ...

Zion to Bryce Canyon: 3 Day Ultimate ...

Zion National Park   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Unaihuiziphotography | Getty Images

18 Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

As one of the top national parks in the U.S. , Zion National Park brims with awe-inspiring views and outdoor adventures, especially for hikers. Travelers can experience the sunset-colored canyons along any one of the park's iconic out-and-back

• All Things To Do

The Narrows The Narrows free

With the Zion Canyon's striated, orange-red walls towering 1,000 feet overhead and the Virgin River, the slimmest section of Zion Canyon is known as The Narrows. It's one of the park's most popular hikes and starts tame with the one-mile Riverside Walk , a wheelchair-accessible hike. After that, hikers will get wet since the trail disappears into the Virgin River where hikers will be wading or even swimming upstream through the slot canyon. 

Most visitors hike The Narrows in the summer or late fall when the waters are at their lowest levels and air temperatures are at their warmest. Would-be hikers need to check-in with a park ranger for the water flow rate (this can close the Narrows trail) and the possibility of storms are in the forecast. The Narrows can fill quickly with life-threatening flash floods. Spring sees increased snowmelt run-off and cooler water temperatures making the hike less pleasant.

Angels Landing Angels Landing free

While visiting Zion Canyon in 1916, Methodist minister Frederick Vining Fisher is said to have inspired the name of this popular rock formation. According to park lore, he joked that only an angel could land on the rock's elevated perch. Today, Angels Landing has become one of the most popular hikes in Zion, thanks to its stunning views and the harrowing journey required to reach it. Hikers will ascend 1,488 feet during the 5.4-mile round-trip hike, some of which features sheer cliffs and steep switchbacks that includes a chain guide rope for the final push to the summit.

Beginning in 2022, any park visitor who wants to hike to Angels Landing must apply for a timed-entry special permit available by lottery via Recreation.gov . Applications cost $6 per person. If you're able to secure a permit, it costs $3 per person. If you're not able to obtain a permit (or have a fear of heights), you can hike to Scout Lookout, which is located at the base of Angels Landing. You can access Scout Landing via the challenging West Rim Trail, which does not require a permit. The 3.6-mile out-and-back trail to Scout Lookout is considered difficult due to its steep elevation gain (more than 1,000 feet) and series of switchbacks. For groups, Scout Lookout (where restrooms are available), is a good meeting point if part of the group did not secure a permit. 

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Zion Lodge offers a large grassy area in front that is a popular place for picnics and post-hike relaxation. Beer, coffee drinks and light snacks are available to purchase seasonally on the patio. – Catherine Parker

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is one of four main roads in Zion National Park. Along this road, visitors can access famous park landmarks, including Zion Lodge, Angel's Landing , the Court of the Patriarchs and Weeping Rock , to name a few. For much of the year, the only way to access Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is via the park's free shuttle bus. Since 2000, the shuttle bus has carried visitors up and down Zion Canyon, reducing traffic issues along with improving the canyon experience. The shuttle operates daily from March through November. In winter (usually weekdays in December and daily in January and February), visitors can drive their own vehicle along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Popular Tours

Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour

(707 reviews)

from $ 98.00

Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure (Private)

(582 reviews)

from $ 128.00

Great Chamber / Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Tour 4hrs

(216 reviews)

from $ 169.00

Pa'rus Trail Pa'rus Trail free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This trail appeals to a wide range of visitors, so it's the most crowded and everyone from newborns to great-grandparents are found along its route. – Catherine Parker

Pa'rus Trail, a wide concrete sidewalk, is probably the easiest 3.5-mile hike in Zion National Park. Connecting the Zion Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, it's also a great way to reach various sites throughout the park, such as the South Campground and the Zion Human History Museum without riding the shuttle. Plus, its pleasing views of the "bubbling waters" of the Virgin River, for which it derives its Paiute name, are incredibly enjoyable, too. For pet owners, the Pa ' rus Trail is open to pets on leashes, as well as bike riders.

Riverside Walk Riverside Walk free

If you aren't up for hiking The Narrows , but still want to admire the beautiful Virgin River, consider the Riverside Walk as a much lighter alternative. Accessible via the last stop on the Zion Canyon shuttle (the Temple of Sinawava ), this 2-mile (round-trip) pathway is often called the park's most picturesque trail because it includes striking natural features, including grand, leafy canyon walls on either side and plenty of trees in between, providing a rare amount of shade in the open spaces of Zion. What's more, interpretive signs guide visitors to the important features of the area. Because the path is paved, relatively flat, and accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, it can get crowded.

Recent hikers said this hike is suitable for kids and families, along with those who have mobility concerns thanks to its relatively short distance and easy terrain. Visitors found the scenery along the pathway to be striking with the up-close views of the canyon waters and the Virgin River. However, some noted that because it acts as the entrance to The Narrows, the trail can get very crowded.

Canyon Overlook Trail Canyon Overlook Trail free

This mile-long moderate trail offers expansive views of Zion Canyon along with the Towers of the Virgin and a slot canyon below. Because of its relatively short length and amazing views, this is also one of the busiest trails in Zion National Park. As you ascend a little more than 160 feet up the path, keep your eyes peeled for Zion's big horn sheep, which are known to frequent the Canyon Overlook Trail.

Recent travelers suggested starting your hike early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds. Others say that although the trail is relatively short, it's still a challenge because there are steps, along with some narrow, rocky sections and drop-offs, some of which are not fenced.  

Kolob Canyons Kolob Canyons free

Travelers itching to get away from the crowds in Zion Canyon will enjoy a day in the northwestern Kolob Canyons. Located about 40 miles north of Zion Canyon, the Kolob Canyons offers parallel and narrow box canyons that create 2,000-foot cliff walls from the mountain peaks. As you drive along the 5-mile stretch of Kolob Canyons Road, it's easy to see why this section of the park was dubbed Kolob, which, in Mormon scripture means "residence closest to heaven." Visitors are treated to verdant desert canyons, waterfalls and towering peaks made of Navajo sandstone. For hikers, there are three out-and-back trails ranging in length from 1 to 14 miles.

Recent visitors appreciated how easy it was to reach this area of the park from Interstate 15. Travelers were relieved to find a lot less foot traffic at the Kolob Canyons and some even found it to be more beautiful than Zion Canyon. Visitors highly recommended taking the mile-long Timber Creek Overlook Trail for its view.

Canyon Junction Bridge Canyon Junction Bridge free

At the intersection of the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Zion Canyon Scenic Road , the Canyon Junction Bridge crosses the Virgin River. For photographers, this is one of the iconic images of Zion National Park as both sides of the canyon frame the image with the river flanked by trees running through the center of it. In the afternoon, the sun lights up the Watchman rock formation and it looks like it's glowing.

According to recent visitors, stopping or parking on the Canyon Junction Bridge will get the attention of park rangers as snapping pictures here is not allowed. Travelers suggested parking at the Zion Human History Museum and taking the Pa'rus Trail to the Pine Creek Bridge, a pedestrian bridge where you can safely take pictures. One photographer also mentioned this area is a prime place to snap nighttime photos of the Milky Way (Zion is a designated International Dark Sky Park).

East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour

(509 reviews)

from $ 174.00

East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure

(558 reviews)

from $ 109.00

UTV Dune Cruise and Surf at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

(59 reviews)

from $ 114.00

Observation Point Observation Point free

When hikers crest the Observation Point trail, they will find themselves at one of the widest sections of Zion Canyon at an elevation of 6,521 feet atop Mount Baldy. With a bird's-eye view, hikers can take in almost all of Zion's top attractions. Because hikers will ascend 2,148 feet during this 8-mile, round-trip hike, it's not for the faint of heart. Though the East Rim Trail to Observation Point is temporarily closed due to a rock fall, hikers can venture out of the park to the East Mesa Trail. The 7-mile in-and-out route includes a 702-foot elevation gain. The trailhead is located about 10 miles north of the park's east entrance.

Several travelers recommend hitting the trail early to avoid high temperatures and also suggest pacing for the strenuous uphill hike and the return descent. You'll want to bring plenty of snacks, as the National Park Service estimates this hike will take about six hours to complete. Others mentioned bringing sunscreen and plenty of water since some of the trek will be in full sun.

Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't blink or you'll miss the windows bored through the walls of the tunnel. This area is congested, especially when rangers stop the flow for oversized vehicles. – Catherine Parker

In the early 20th-century, park promoters wanted to create a way for visitors to easily access the east side of Zion National Park, as well as nearby parks like Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon . With the creation of the 25-mile-long Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, travelers could tour the Utah national parks in a loop. The now famous Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel was part of this highway project. Bored straight through the sandstone cliffs above Pine Creek Canyon, this 1.1-mile-long tunnel was first started in the late 1920s and saw its first vehicle in 1930. When it opened on July 4, 1930, it was the longest mountain tunnel in the U.S. Today, the sandstone tunnel is a major thoroughfare and top Zion National Park attraction. As you drive through it, you'll see large windows cut out of the sandstone – in addition to light and ventilation, the windows offer drivers a peek at the spectacular views outside the tunnel. 

Court of the Patriarchs Court of the Patriarchs free

The three distinct striated peaks in this rock formation are known as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. There were named by Methodist minister, Dr. Frederick Vining Fischer, who visited Zion Canyon in 1916 and named many of the features in Zion after religious figures. The Court of the Patriarchs is located about a third of the way up Zion Canyon. Though the Court of the Patriarchs is viewable from the road, there's also a 0.2-mile round-trip trail that travelers can hike to reach a better viewpoint.

According to recent visitors, this a must-see when visiting Zion Canyon. Several travelers suggested taking the short, steep hike to the viewpoint instead of admiring the Court of the Patriarchs from the shuttle stop. Several also said there is an interpretive sign to help visitors distinguish the names of the peaks in the area.

Emerald Pools Emerald Pools free

Zion National Park is known more for its towering rock formations than its gushing waterfalls, but one area where you can catch a glimpse is the Emerald Pools. Found nestled between striking peaks of the park and with views of the Zion Canyon from the upper trails, this area is within walking distance of Zion Lodge. The pools are a result of one flowing stream as the water makes its way over cliffs and down a series of waterfalls before landing in the pools that dot this small area of the park.

Visitors can access the pools via three separate trails. The 1.2-mile Lower Emerald Pool loop trail is the easiest as it's on a roughly paved path. From here, hikers can reach the Upper Emerald Pool trail. The Middle Emerald Pools Trail is a 2.2-mile unpaved trail with a steep, 150-foot climb that the national park labels as moderate in difficulty. The Upper Emerald Pools Trail is a 1-mile trail with a 200-foot gain that forks off the Middle Emerald Pools Trail. The best time to visit the Emerald Pools is during spring, when runoff from winter's snow creates more robust falls.

Watchman Trail Watchman Trail free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Shuttle passengers should pack a bag for the day in Zion Canyon with high-energy snacks (if hiking), a water bottle, a hat and sunscreen along with a layer, just in case. – Catherine Parker

The 3-mile round-trip Watchman Trail doesn't ascend the Watchman Spire, but it does afford a spectacular view of the Watchman, Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale. As the trail only ascends about 400 feet, it's a good path to start out on for those new to hiking and features desert cacti and greenery along the way.

Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon Tour and Sandboarding UTV Adventure

(48 reviews)

YOU DRIVE! ! Guided 4 Hr Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon ATV Tour

(278 reviews)

from $ 400.00

Guided Hike through Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon (Small Group)

(483 reviews)

from $ 69.50

Weeping Rock Weeping Rock free

Zion National Park might be in the desert, but it's not completely devoid of water. In addition to the Virgin River, there are several areas within the park where groundwater oozes out of the cracks and crevices in the Navajo sandstone, including at Weeping Rock. Thanks to the water supply, moss and plants form a hanging garden along the rock face, and it's possible for a drip or two to land on hikers. To see the Weeping Rock, visitors can take a 0.4-mile paved trail that climbs nearly 100 feet in elevation.

According to recent visitors, this hike is steep, yet short, so it's not exhausting. Many recent visitors found the view stunning and worth the effort. Summertime visitors appreciated the occasional drips from the sandstone on a hot day. A couple of hikers mentioned that if others were short on time, this area was similar to the Lower Emerald Pool .

Checkerboard Mesa Checkerboard Mesa free

Between the east entrance of the park and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel , this sandstone formation features cracks and fissures in a horizontal and vertical grid, resembling a checkerboard. What's more, the Checkerboard Mesa is lighter in color than some of the surrounding sandstone, adding to its distinctive look. With a lookout point and parking lot, this is a popular stop on the east side of the park.

Several recent visitors said Checkerboard Mesa was worth a stop for the unique rock markings. A few reviewers said the best time to visit is in the morning when crowds haven't filled up the small parking lot. According to travelers, you'll also want to keep your eyes peeled for the mountain goats that frequent the area.

Temple of Sinawava Temple of Sinawava free

Located at the beginning of Zion Canyon, the Temple of Sinawava is a natural amphitheater formed by the Virgin River. The towering canyon walls and surrounding vegetation create a dramatic scene that visitors flock to see. The Temple of Sinawava forms the gateway to two popular hikes – the Riverside Walk and the Narrows . Day-trippers can take the Riverside Walk for a 2.2-mile hike that is mostly flat. Visitors who are interested in more of a challenge can continue on to the Narrows, which starts at the end of the Riverside Trail and is labeled a strenuous trail that covers up to 9.4 miles roundtrip. This trail does not require a wilderness permit, through rangers advise would-be hikers that 60% of the hike will be in cold water and hikers might have to swim. Hikers are advised to check in with rangers for the forecasted weather as this is an area that is prone to flash flooding.

Travelers gushed over the experience hiking along the Riverside Walk and several mentioned it was the most popular hike and easy enough for most. Wintertime visitors mentioned the drinking water was turned off in the area so others should pack water. Most who went to the end of the Riverside Walk mentioned there was water on the trail, close to The Narrows trailhead.

Zion Human History Museum Zion Human History Museum free

Inside of one the historic Mission 66 buildings (the mid-century initiative to modernize national park facilities), the Zion Human History Museum houses a collection of rotating artifacts found in the park. Visitors can learn about human history in the area, from the Southern Paiute from thousands of years ago to the Mormon pioneers of the 1800s. Water, and its role is role in creating and sometimes destroying the desert landscape, is also a theme. Visitors will also find exhibits on geology, the park's flora and fauna, and the tools used by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

In addition to the exhibits, the building itself is worth a stop: it was used as the Zion Visitor Center until 2002, when a new building opened. The back patio offers views of West Temple and the Towers of the Virgin with the Bridge Mountain visible from the front. Rangers recommend this area for sunrise and sunset since visitors can drive and park in the area. Visitors will find a bookstore inside the Zion Human History Museum as well.

The Subway The Subway free

Adventure travelers who have successfully traversed the heart-stopping Angels Landing and lengthy The Narrows should choose The Subway as their next challenge. Aptly named for resembling subway tunnels, The Subway – also known as the Left Fork of North Creek – is a slot canyon that is not for the faint of heart and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Not only do you need a wilderness permit, but the National Park Service also recommends that hikers traverse this natural wonder with someone who has already completed the hike.

While this all may sound intense, the unique geography truly makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Though there are two routes available along The Subway, it's recommended that hikers take the Bottom-Up Route, which does not require rope, repelling skills and a wet suit for swimming through deep, cold pools like the Top-Down Canyoneering Route. However, the 9-mile-long Bottom-Up Route does require climbing boulders, crossing creeks and ascending about 1,300 feet. All hikers need to have the most detailed route information available for their hike.

UTV Sunset S'mores n' Stars at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

(8 reviews)

Peekaboo Slot Canyon 4WD Tour

(189 reviews)

from $ 130.00

Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride

(129 reviews)

from $ 69.00

Things to Do in Zion National Park FAQs

Explore more of zion national park.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

The Ultimate Zion National Park Itinerary: 1, 2 and 3 days (2023)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

With its magnificent soaring red cliffs, adrenaline-inducing hikes and rich variety of wildlife Zion National Park is an amazing place to visit. For those of you planning a trip to Zion National Park, we’ve put together our recommended Zion National Park itinerary for one, two and three day visits.

Table of Contents

Zion National Park Itinerary

Located adjacent to the town of Springdale in Utah, Zion is home to the tallest sandstone cliffs in the world. The red and white cliffs soar over the Virgin River and the Zion Canyon valley floor. The finger canyons and red Navajo sandstone cut through the northwest section of the park in the more remote Kolob Canyon section of the park

With 4.5 million visitors last year, Zion is one of the most popular National Parks in the USA so you’ll need to plan your trip to make the most of your time there.

Where to stay in Zion

There are two main options for where to stay when visiting Zion National Park , either in the park itself or in the nearby town of Springdale. Check out our full guide on where to stay in Zion for more details.

Where to stay inside Zion National Park

• Camping:  There are two campsites, Watchman Campground and South Campground, within the park. Both campsites are located near the visitors center at the South entrance. At the Watchman sites are released for reservation on a 6 month rolling basis while in the South Campground it is on a 14 day rolling basis.
• Zion Lodge: located deep within the park the historic lodge offers a mix of cabins and hotel rooms. We’ve stayed in the Lodge and it’s a nice traditional option which really allows you to immerse yourself in the park. The lodge fills up well in advance so it’s worth checking your dates well in advance of your trip. We highly recommend staying here as its an incredible location – check prices here!

Book Zion Lodge Now!

Where to stay in Springdale

With limited accommodation in the park itself visitors to Zion typically stay in Springdale, a small town next to the south entrance. The Springdale Shuttle connects Springdale to the Zion Visitors Center and the Zion Shuttle so it is just as easy to stay adjacent to Zion and there are more food options in the town.

• Cable Mountain Lodge:  great selection of family friendly rooms, excellent food and an outdoor pool overlooked by the Zion Watchman! Its location, adjacent to the Zion Visitors Center, means you can hop on the park shuttle bus and reach any of the trails within minutes. Our Zion favorite –   check prices now!
• Flanigan’s Inn:  just 10 minutes walk from the Zion entrance and located on a Springdale Shuttle stop, Flanigan’s Inn is a reasonably priced option with good sized clean rooms, a pool and a hot tub –   check prices now!

Book your stay in Springdale

The Best time to visit Zion National Park

Zion is an excellent year-round destination with most of the trails remaining accessible throughout the winter months:

With increasing temperatures and blooming wildflowers, Spring is one of the best times to visit Zion. However, a Spring visit can be unpredictable for the Narrows – it is often closed as a result of melting snow increasing the river flow. Some high elevation parks of the park may be closed due to lingering snow.

Summer is hot in Zion ! Temperatures often exceed 100°F and hiking can be challenging in the middle of the day. Visitor numbers peak in summer so expect crowded trails and potentially long wait times for shuttles. Flash floods are also a risk in summer.

Fall foliage and mild temperatures make this a great time of year to visit Zion. This is our favorite time to visit Zion.

Zion National Park in Winter is often a place of solitude and beauty with less visitors resulting in quieter trails and less expensive accommodation. Although winters tend to be relatively mild, the trade-off is cooler temperatures and the prospect of weather-related trail closures.

 Zion itinerary tip :  the more moderate weather conditions make Spring and Fall the most desirable time to visit the park. We last visited Zion in Winter 2019 and loved the low crowds and peacefulness of the park.

How long to spend in Zion National Park

For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least 2 full days exploring Zion National Park. This allows them time to attempt a nice variety of hikes, enjoy the scenic drive through the park and have some downtime just savoring the spectacular and dramatic surroundings.

Many visitors combine a visit to Zion with a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park which is a two-hour drive from Zion.

Zion itinerary tip: if you are planning on doing a selection of the longer Zion hikes or want to include rock climbing or canyoneering in your Zion itinerary then it is easy to spend even a full week in Zion.

What to pack for Zion National Park

• Hiking books and socks: make sure your hiking boots are worn in before hitting the Zion trails!
• Water Bottle/hydration pack – Elaine uses a Nalgene Tritan water bottle and Dave a  Takeya stainless steel bottle . We also have a  Teton hydration pack for longer hikes.
• LED headlight: if you’re planning early morning or late evening walks then bring a headlamp. We used this Vont LED headlight  when we set off for Angels Landing before sunset and when we ventured out late in the evening to check out the Zion night skies.

• Yaktrax: if you are visiting Zion National Park in Winter Yaxtrax are amazing for navigating the icy trails. We used ours across all the Utah National Parks during our winter trip – our favorites are these Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats.

• Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, light rain jacket: for summer visits
• Hiking jacket, hat and layers: for winter visits
• Hiking Poles : we don’t use hiking poles but we saw lots of hikers using them on the trails. Remember you will need to be hands free for the last section of Angels Landing when navigating the chains. Rubber tip hiking poles are best for the rocky trails in Zion – these TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles  are a great option for Zion
• Narrows gear: if you are planning to hike the Narrows in summer then it is possible to do it in any footwear you don’t mind getting wet and your regular hiking clothes – do keep in mind the boulders and rocks in the water can be slippery. In winter, you will need dry gear as the water is freezing. Many hikers rent Narrows day packages from Zion Outfitters (located just outside the park) which include boots, socks and a wooden hiking stick in summer and dry pants in winter.

We’ve included our one, two and three day Zion itineraries. These itineraries assume full days in Zion National Park – make sure to allow for travel days to and from the park when you are planning your own Zion itinerary.

Zion itinerary tips: The main Zion Canyon is only accessible via shuttle bus outside of the lowest crowd days in the park. The trail heads for many of the hikes are located along the Shuttle Bus route including Scout Lookout, Angels Landing, Riverside Walk, the Narrows and the Upper Emerald Pool. The shuttle service in Zion is usually very efficient although, on the busiest days in the park, you may need to allow additional time to queue. For a more detailed explanation on your options for navigating the park check out of guide to Zion National Park.

One Day Zion Itinerary

Our one day Zion itinerary showcases some of the best features of Zion National Park and is a great introduction to its trails:

• Riverside Walk: hop on the Zion shuttle to Stop 9, the Temple of Sinawava, to start the day with a 2 mile leisurely stroll along the Virgin River. The Narrows begins at the end of Riverside Walk so it also offers a great opportunity to check out a small portion of the trail (2 hours). Read more on our Riverside Walk hike.
• Scout Lookout: take the shuttle to Stop 6, the Grotto. Follow the West Rim trail to Scout Lookout for spectacular views of Zion Canyon below and Angels Landing up ahead. With 1,000 foot of elevation gain on the way to Scout Lookout this is a strenuous hike! (2 hours). Read more on our Scout Lookout  hike.

• Lunch Break: a rest break is well deserved after Scout Lookout. Food options in Zion are limited so many visitors bring lunch from Springdale. Zion Lodge, stop 5 on the shuttle, serves food. When lunch is done, make your way back to you vehicle in anticipation of an afternoon exploring the east side of the park.
• Canyon Overlook: the drive over to the east of the park, where the Canyon Overlook trail is located, takes about 20 minutes. It follows the Zion – Mount Carmel Highway , a stunning drive which passes through a series of switchbacks before reaching the Zion – Mt Carmel Tunnel. Continue a little further past the Canyon Overlook trail head and make a stop at Checkerboard Mesa, a rock with a unique criss cross pattern. Canyon Overlook is an easy 1 mile trail with spectacular views of the Zion Canyon (1 hour). Read more on our Canyon Overlook hike.

Two Day Zion Itinerary

Two days will allow time to include the Narrows and Angels Landing, two classic Zion trails.

• The Narrows: hop on the Zion shuttle to Stop 9, the Temple of Sinawava, to hike the Narrows, a classic Zion water-based trail along the Virgin River and into a narrow canyon (6 hours to Wall Street and back, 11 hours return to the end of the trail at Big Spring)
• Lunch Break: picnic or hop on the shuttle to Zion Lodge at stop 5
• Canyon Overlook: the drive over to the east of the park, where the Canyon Overlook trail is located, takes about 20 minutes. It follows the Zion – Mount Carmel Highway, a stunning drive which passes through a series of switchbacks before reaching the Zion – Mt Carmel Tunnel. Continue a little further past the Canyon Overlook trail head and make a stop at Checkerboard. Read more on our Canyon Overlook hike.

Zion itinerary tip: Note that permits are required for Angels Landing for visits after 1 April 2022. The permit requirement only applies to the portion of the trail from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing. It is still possible to hike to Scout Lookout without a permit.

Due to safety concerns as a result of high crowds on the trail, a permit lottery has been introduced for the portion of the trail from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing. Anyone wanting to hike to Angels Landing beginning 1 April 2022 will need to be possession of a permit.

Zion Itinerary tip: Across the USA, it is becoming increasingly common for national parks to require reservations for popular parks and hikes to manage visitors numbers. Angels Landing hike was one of the most recent additions

How to Apply for an Angels Landing permit

The lottery application dates are dependent on your date of travel. Lottery applications cost a non-refundable $6 per permit and successful applications result in a $3 fee per person. Applicants can choose seven ranked slots and permits will be issued for a time period to start the hike (before 9am, 9am to 12 pm and after 12pm) on the selected day.

Seasonal Permits:

• 1 April to 31 May 2022: applications can be made between January 3 2022 and January 20 2022 and permits issued on January 25 2022.
• 1 June to 31 August 2022: applications can be made between April 1 2022 and April 20 2022 and permits issued on April 25 2022
• 1 September to 30 November 2022: applications can be made between July 1 2022 and July 20 2022 and permits issued on July 25 2022.
• 1 December 2022 to 28 February 2023: applications can be made between October 1 2022 and October 20 2022 and permits issued on October 25 2022.

Day Before Permits:

You can also apply for a permit on the day before you want to hike. The day before lottery opens at 12:01am and closes at 3pm MT.  

• Angels Landing: take the first shuttle of the day to Stop 6, The Grotto, for an early morning hike to the iconic Angels Landing, one of the most challenging trails in Zion (5 hours). If you plan to hike Angels Landing then you don’t need to include Scout Lookout as a separate hike on day 1 as Angels Landing follows the same trail as far as Scout Lookout before branching off to Angels Landing. Read more about hiking Angels Landing here .

Zion itinerary tip: Angels Landing is an adrenaline inducing hike which follows a narrow ridge with huge drops on either side. We find the trail much more pleasant when crowds are low and so highly recommend an early start on the hike.  

• Lunch: picnic or hop on the shuttle to Zion Lodge at stop 5 or return to Springdale for a lunch break
• Kolob Canyons:  make the 40 minute drive over to Kolob Canyon, a separate section of Zion with its own entrance, and hike one of its Wilderness trails. Our favorite is Timber Creek Overlook, a 1 hour trail with spectacular views over the valley. It is incredible to visit a quieter park of the park and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

• Sunset at Canyon Junction: return to the main Zion Canyon to catch sunset at Canyon Junction Bridge. The bridge spans over the Virgin River and the Watchman looms in the distance. The scene is spectacular at sunset when the Watchman basks in a soft golden glow and the contrast with the deep red canyon walls is beautiful. It is possible to drive to Canyon Junction but it is often difficult to get a space as parking is limited.

Three Day Zion Itinerary

Follow the two-day itinerary above plus:

• Observation Point: Observation Point offers one of the most magnificent views of Zion Canyon and showcases Zion’s finest attractions including Angels Landing and The Court of the Patriarchs. The most common route to Observation Point is via the East Rim trail but this is currently closed due to a massive rock fall. The East Mesa trail is an alternative route to Observation Point although the trail head can be difficult to access. It is located at the park boundary on the east side of Zion and is accessible from the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort via dirt roads. The trail is 6.4 miles return and takes about 3 hours in total. It takes around 1 hour to reach the trail head from Springdale.

• Lunch: picnic or return to Springdale for lunch
• Upper Emerald Pools: The three tiered Emerald Pools are made up of the Lower, Middle and Upper Pools which are connected via a series of trails. The Upper Emerald Pools are accessible via the Kayenta Trail from the Grotto (stop 6) to the Middle Pool and hikers have the option to make side hikes to the Upper and Lower Pools (2 to 4 hours)

Alternatively, the West Rim trail is a challenging day hike that takes 9 hours on average. Depending on fitness levels it can take up to 16 hours.

• West Rim Trail: A Zion classic, the West Rim trail is a long distance hike which descends from Lava Point to the Grotto showcasing some of Zion’s most beautiful scenery along the way. With a distance of 16.2 miles to be covered the trail can be completed as a challenging day hike or a less strenuous 2 day hike, spending a night at a trail camp along the way. A permit is required for camping.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disclaimer:  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Beautiful (and less crowded) alternatives to the 10 most popular US national parks

National parks are popular for a reason but with visitation numbers growing each year, some travelers might be looking toward similar experiences with less of the hassle that comes with visiting a top 10 national park. 

I’m Ashley, and I’ve been covering travel and the outdoor space for nearly a decade. Every year, the National Park Service releases annual visitation numbers from the previous year, and as a travel expert and journalist, I think it’s a helpful tool to use when researching national park travel. 

The most visited national parks generally remain the same year to year with some variance due to weather and other events. In 2023, two parks rose to top 10 status, Grand Teton and Olympic, which were further down in visitation in 2022. 

GORGEOUS ALL YEAR: The best national parks for every season 

To help recommend some alternative destinations to the most visited national parks, I talked to Erin Ruane from RV Trader to get her takes on locations that give you the same feel and opportunity for similar activities. 

Instead of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit…

With nearly 13.3 million visitors last year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP for short) saw 14% of all national parks visits. There’s so much to see in the surrounding areas that you can get a similar feel and activity offerings just outside the park. 

PARKITECTURE: Check out these iconic national park lodges

To avoid the crowds and parking fees of GSMNP, Ruane recommends visiting Cherokee, North Carolina, which is home to the park’s quieter entrance, Oconaluftee: “Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, one of three recognized Cherokee tribes in the U.S. While it’s a sovereign nation, visitors are invited to experience the area’s culture through arts and crafts shopping, native elk viewing, and historic attractions.”

More options: 

• Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
• Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina 
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Instead of Grand Canyon National Park, visit…

I love the Grand Canyon for families , but there’s no getting around its crowds at popular times of year given that the park attracts 4.7 million annual visitors.

MAKE MEMORIES: Great family vacations for single and solo parents

Ruane recommends another large canyon in Arizona, Sycamore, which is the state’s inaugural designated wilderness area. Ruane loves the canyon's “vibrant cliffs, towering pinnacles, and desert riparian zones, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and various other creatures. Encompassed by the Prescott, Kaibab, and Coconino National Forests, key attractions within the wilderness include Sycamore Falls and the Paradise Forks climbing crag.”

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado 
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Instead of Zion National Park, visit…

Zion can be a fickle national park to visit between crowds and weather, you really have to time your visit right to have a go at popular hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows. 

INSPO AHEAD: 50 amazing family vacation ideas from experts

Instead of competing with the parks annual 4.6 million visitors, consider activities in the surrounding Greater Zion area, like the Belly of the Dragon hike (bring a flashlight or headlamp), Red Hollow Slot Canyon, and Kanab Sand Caves: “These experiences not only involve a moderate hike but also provide opportunities to enhance your agility. The blend of natural wonders and man-made formations within these sites offers breathtaking views of canyons, creating a genuine sense of adventure as you navigate through captivating caverns,” says Ruane.

• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Snow Canyon State Park, Utah
• Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Instead of Yellowstone National Park, visit…

Yellowstone’s geothermal features and wildlife make it one of the most popular parks in the U.S. with nearly 4.5 million annual visitors. 

• 15 best places to go for summer vacation, according to FamilyVacationist’s editors and contributors  
• 10 best New England lakes for summer fun  
• 10 family-friendly mountain resorts in the U.S. for summer fun  
• 11 best national parks for families to visit in summer

But the park’s surrounding area offers other similar activities, like in West Yellowstone: “West Yellowstone is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, boasting ATV, UTV and snowmobile trails, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. The southern Montana town also has year-round family friendly events and restaurants serving up regional specialities,” recommends Ruane.

More options:

• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota 

Instead of Rocky Mountain National Park, visit…

With 4.1 million annual visitors and timed entry passes required during peak season, Rocky Mountain National Park has plenty of alternatives that offer similar activities and geography with more flexibility in planning. 

SLEEP WELL: Best hotel booking sites, reviewed

Ruane recommends the nearby, 1.5-million-acre Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests: “Renowned for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, the forest offers numerous trails and campsites. Visitors can explore the Indian Peaks Wilderness, enjoy scenic drives along the Cache la Poudre River, and witness diverse wildlife.”

• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Pinnacles National Park, California

Instead of Yosemite National Park, visit…

California’s crown jewel of a national park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors every year and requires seasonal entrance passes that need to be reserved in advance. 

CLOSE TO THE PARK: Best hotels near Yosemite National Park

A little over 2 hours south, you’ll find Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks that offer similar landscapes and activities to Yosemite: “Sequoia, situated in California's Sierra Nevada, is renowned for its towering sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth … Kings Canyon, adjacent to Sequoia, is characterized by the impressive Kings Canyon, one of the deepest in North America. The park offers a mix of rugged terrain, waterfalls, and scenic canyons. Notable attractions include Zumwalt Meadows, Roaring River Falls, and the majestic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway,” says Ruane.

Instead of Acadia National Park, visit…

As the only national park in the Northeast, Maine’s Acadia National Park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors each year.

While it’s the getaway to the national park, Bar Harbor offers plenty to do without needing to enter Acadia: “The town boasts an array of quaint shops and diverse restaurants, providing a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and exploration. The waterfront views are especially captivating, providing a backdrop of rugged coastline and serene harbors. Bar Harbor's welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Acadia make it an ideal base for those seeking a balance between outdoor adventures and charming coastal experiences,” says Ruane.

• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont
• Voyageurs National Park National Park, Minnesota
• White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire 

Instead of Grand Teton National Park, visit…

Wyoming’s Grand Teton saw 3.4 million annual visitors, adding it to the top 10 list of most visited parks this year.

Instead, Ruane recommends visiting the nearby Snake River, located in the Jackson Hole valley: “A scenic float trip allows for a leisurely drift along the river, providing breathtaking views of the Teton Range and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Alternatively, adrenaline seekers can embark on thrilling whitewater rafting adventures, navigating the river's rapids for an exciting and immersive experience.”

• Curt Gowdy State Park, Wyoming
• Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Colorado and Wyoming
• Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

Instead of Joshua Tree National Park, visit…

Southern California’s Joshua Tree is a popular location for weekend trips from Los Angeles and shoulder season travel seeing about 3.3 million visitors each year.

To the southeast you’ll find the state’s largest lake, the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, where there's "birdwatching, fishing, and exploration of the lake's distinct desert landscapes. The area's diverse ecosystem attracts a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers,” says Ruane.

• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Mojave National Preserve, California

Instead of Olympic National Park, visit…

The Washington park went from the 14th most visited park in 2022 to the 10th in 2023, seeing nearly 2.9 million annual visitors.

Enjoy similar landscapes nearby at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, near Port Angeles: “Visit the Dungeness Spit, a unique sand spit that extends into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It's a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery,” recommends Ruane.

• North Cascades National Park, Washington 
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest, California and Oregon

Beautiful and less crowded alternatives to the 10 most popular U.S. national parks originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 tourist attractions that live up to the hype
• The most incredible national park campgrounds
• How to make the most of a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

This Scenic Utah Town Is Perfect For A Zion Trip

Looking to head to Zion National Park? Make a stop in Kanab, a scenic Utah town with a lot to offer.

• Kanab, just an hour from Zion National Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities and unique attractions worth exploring.
• Buckskin Gulch, a challenging slot canyon near Kanab, is just one of many thrilling adventures waiting in this desert oasis.
• Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab is the largest animal sanctuary in the US, offering tours and furry cuddles for visitors.

Zion National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the US, and the most famous of Utah's "Mighty 5." To go to Utah and only visit this single natural attraction, however, means missing out on the huge variety of other hidden gems throughout the state.

Kanab is one of many gorgeous desert towns in Utah , and it happens to be the perfect day trip from Zion National Park. Situated not far from the Utah-Arizona border and just an hour from the entrance to Zion, Kanab can serve as either an exciting add-on to a Zion trip or an alternative place to stay while visiting the park.

Regardless of what brings visitors to this desert oasis, there is no denying that Kanab is a perfect inclusion for any Zion or Utah trip.

7 Scenic Small Towns In Utah Just Outside National Parks

How to get from zion national park to kanab, kanab is just a short drive from the eastern side of zion national park.

Kanab is just an hour southeast of Zion National Park, making it convenient for Park visitors and easy to add to a Southern Utah itinerary.

From the eastern side of Zion National Park, drivers follow US-9 East until they reach Mt. Carmel Junction. From here, they hop on Highway 89, considered America's most scenic road trip . Following Highway 89 South for just 17 miles, travelers will find themselves in the unique town of Kanab, Utah.

What To Do In Kanab

Kanab has a variety of outdoor activities and indoor attractions to appeal to every type of traveler.

While it may be easy to write Kanab off as just a place to stay while exploring Zion, Kanab offers a variety of things to do that make it a worthy experience of its own. Kanab and the surrounding area is particularly suitable for Zion travelers, as it offers many similar outdoor experiences and opportunities. The town itself also offers its own Visitors Center, museum, and even one of the country's most unique animal sanctuaries.

Buckskin Gulch

Zion National Park is known for the Narrows, one of the most exclusive permit-only hikes in the US . Outside the park in Kanab lies an even more impressive, and potentially even more challenging, slot canyon. Buckskin Gulch is one of the longest continuous slot canyons in the world and is popular for both day hikers and backpackers looking for an adrenaline rush.

Permits are required for both day-use and overnight camping in Buckskin Gulch, but the 16 miles of trails between canyon walls less than 20 feet apart, are well worth the planning.

Several of Utah's trails are ranked among the most dangerous hikes in the US . The combination of extreme temperatures and the risk of flash flooding in slot canyons make areas like Buckskin Gulch particularly treacherous without proper planning. Hikers should do plenty of research before taking any trip into the canyon.

7 Most Scenic Hikes In Utah Outside Of Zion National Park

Coral pink sand dunes state park.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is one of the best underrated alternatives to Zion National Park , but there's no reason adventurers can't make time for both, especially if they are visiting Kanab.

There is plenty to know before visiting Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park . Coral Pink Sand Dunes doesn't have the traditional trails of most parks. Instead, rolling sand dunes stretch for miles, and guests are free to explore them either on foot or on an ATV.

10 Utah State Park Alternatives To Zion National Park

Southern Utah is full of Native American artifacts and ancient dinosaur remains, and Kanab has the perfect place to enjoy both. Tucked into the sandstone itself, Moqui Cave is a unique museum preserving the remains of the past.

The self-regulating cave never exceeds 65 degrees, making it a welcome reprieve from the desert sun and the perfect place to house delicate artifacts. The Cave is also home to one of the largest fluorescent mineral displays in the US, making this museum a great way to celebrate the natural and human-made wonders of Kanab.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Southern Utah is known for its rugged, inhospitable terrain and unforgiving summer sun, but there is a softer side to this red rock landscape. In the heart of Kanab lies the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest animal Sanctuary in the US.

Best Friends is one of the largest proponents of the no-kill movement and offers tours of its facilities, which house over 1,600 dogs, cats, horses, pigs, bunnies, and more. Some of the rescues are permanent residents due to trauma or special needs, but a vast majority of those staying here are looking for their forever families.

Tours of the grounds and various sections of the sanctuary, a gift shop, and a café make this an experience even for those not looking to adopt. A great way to get some furry cuddles and support a good cause, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Kanab.

When To Visit Kanab

Kanab is wonderful any time, so when to visit depends on the traveler's top priorities.

Much like the rest of Southern Utah, Kanab is beautiful to visit any time. With the extreme desert heat in the summer and the snowy cold of winter, however, certain activities are definitely more enjoyable at different times of the year.

Spring/Fall

The milder weather of spring and fall makes it arguably the easiest time to enjoy all of Kanab's activities, particularly those like Coral Pink Sand Dunes that leave guests very exposed to the elements.

Desert flowers and fall foliage add to the beauty of the natural landscape, adding to the appeal of Kanab in spring and fall. The one downside to visiting during these seasons is their popularity. There will be plenty of company on the trails and in the parks as travelers from around the world take advantage of this peak visitation season.

Summer vacation is peak travel time, and, for many, the best opportunity to enjoy destinations like Kanab. Visiting the Utah desert in summer is very doable, but may take a little extra planning and care. Summer days require starting early when temperatures are cooler and the sun beats down less severely. Certain destinations, like Coral Sand Dunes State Park, must be enjoyed in the early hours before the sun makes the sand too hot to touch.

Summer also brings an array of desert blooms, including splashes of sunflowers, adding a splash of color to this red landscape.

For those looking to avoid the crowds, winter is undoubtedly the best season to visit Kanab. This southern town does see an average of 21 inches of snow each year, but it rarely accumulates or lasts more than a few days. While this can create muddy or slick trails, there will be plenty of space to spread out on them.

8 Utah Small Towns for Every Traveler Type

While Zion may be the most popular attraction in Utah, it is far from the only destination to explore. Just an hour away, the desert town of Kanab has a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and even animal lovers to enjoy. With so much to see and do, Kanab is the perfect trip from Zion National Park.

• Sports Betting
• Sports Entertainment
• New York Knicks
• Brooklyn Nets
• Transactions

Recommended

Pelicans advance to nba playoffs despite missing zion williamson.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

NEW ORLEANS — Hustle plays and production from up and down the lineup helped the New Orleans Pelicans overcome the absence of leading-scorer Zion Williamson , keep their season alive and avoid a historically significant loss.

Brandon Ingram scored 24 points, Jonas Valanciunas added 19 points and 12 rebounds, and the New Orleans Pelicans booked a spot in the NBA playoffs with a 105-98 victory over the Sacramento Kings in a play-in tournament elimination game on Friday night.

“We stayed together. We we supported each other. We played for each other,” Valanciunas said. “We all want to get to the playoffs. And we did it by playing good basketball, by supporting each other, helping each other on defense, on offense, sharing the ball, you know, making a right play. It’s fun basketball to play that way.”

Williamson was sidelined by a left hamstring strain that occurred as he reached the 40-point mark in a play-in loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night.

Undaunted, New Orleans used a balanced approach to improve to 8-5 this season without Williamson.

Six players scored 10 or more points, including reserves Larry Nance Jr. (13), Naji Marshall (11) and Jose Alvarado (10).

“You get 34 points from your bench, it’s a great night for them, a tough night for us,” Kings coach Mike Brown said.

Trey Murphy III, starting because of Williamson’s absence, added 16 points for New Orleans, which begins a first-round playoff series on Sunday at top-seeded Oklahoma City.

“It feels good. This was a goal at the beginning of the year,” Ingram said of clinching a playoff berth. “We had another opportunity today and we came in and everybody contributed.”

De’Aaron Fox scored 35 points, and Domantas Sabonis had 23 points and 14 rebounds for the ninth-seeded Kings, who set up their matchup with New Orleans by defeating No. 10 seed Golden State in their play-in opener.

“We were a little passive offensively and not all of us were aggressive with our play tonight,” Brown said, alluding to a combined 4-for-17 shooting from young starters Keegan Murray (4 for 12) and Keon Ellis (0 for 5).

“We have to be able to get the ball in the paint,” added Brown, whose team was outscored 58-44 inside and missed seven of 22 free throws. “You’ve got to be able to finish and you’ve got to get to the free throw line and convert.”

The game was a test of the Pelicans’ ability to handle the pressure of a do-or-die game after squandering two previous chances to lock up a playoff berth at home.

New Orleans lost to the Lakers in their regular-season finale on Sunday, missing a chance to clinch the sixth seed, before losing again to the Lakers on Tuesday.

They entered their matchup with the Kings facing the possibility of becoming the first 49-win team in more than 50 years (Phoenix in 1972) to miss the NBA playoffs.

Instead, New Orleans improved to 6-0 against Sacramento this season, becoming the first team to go 6-0 in a season (without a playoff series) against an opponent since Denver against Minnesota in 1994-95.

“We deserved it. That’s how we felt coming into this game,” Nance said. “We deserve to be in the playoffs. You don’t win 49 games by accident.”

The Pelicans also prolonged a streak of No. 7 seeds never missing the playoffs since the play-in tournament was adopted by the NBA in 2020.

Because of their play-in loss to the Lakers, the Pelicans enter the playoffs as an eighth seed.

The Pelicans were sloppy early, committing six first-quarter turnovers that led to 11 Kings points.

Sacramento, which was missing Malik Monk (right knee) and Kevin Huerter (left shoulder) from its lineup, led 24-17 after a turnover by Herb Jones led to a layup by Fox, who scored 18 points in the first half.

CJ McCollum’s reverse layup and Murphy’s 3 helped the Pelicans quickly closed the gap, and New Orleans built a 13-point lead in the second quarter.

Marshall gave the Pelicans a jolt with a 3 and a steal from Murray that he converted into a breakaway dunk.

Murray hurt his hip when he fell while losing the ball. He went to the locker room shortly after, but returned for the second half.

Valanciunas’ short hook shot and Ingram’s layup put the Pelicans up 53-40 late in the half before Fox’s 3 helped the Kings trim it to 54-45 at halftime.

But the Pelicans maintained a lead of 10 or more points for much of the second half, going up by as many as 20 in the fourth quarter.

Share this article:

Advertisement

Zion Williamson’s dream performance turns into nightmare. Now, Pelicans are on the brink

Editor’s note: The New Orleans Pelicans announced Wednesday that Zion Williamson will miss Friday’s Play-In game due to a hamstring strain.

NEW ORLEANS — This was the game Pelicans fans waited five years to see from Zion Williamson. His performance on this stage, in this moment, was the stuff that makes legends.

Then, it all went away in the blink of an eye. Most folks in the building didn’t know what happened until he was gone. A few of his teammates didn’t realize what was happening until it was too late.

Advertisement

The Pelicans superstar got his first taste of the postseason Tuesday night, and it was a much different flavor than the last time he saw the Los Angeles Lakers under the bright lights . Even with LeBron James and Anthony Davis trying to impose their wills, Williamson was by far the best player on the court in Tuesday’s Play-In Tournament game. He had 40 points, 11 rebounds and five assists in 36 minutes, leading the Pelicans as they stormed back from an 18-point deficit.

But with 3:13 left in the fourth quarter, Williamson grabbed his left leg after depositing his 40th point on a floater over Davis. The injury ended his night and helped the Lakers squeak out a 110-106 victory, allowed them to snag the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference and a first-round series against the defending champion Denver Nuggets . The Pelicans will face the Sacramento Kings on Friday in a single-elimination game for the No. 8 seed.

Zion Williamson headed to the locker room with three minutes left in the game with an apparent leg injury. Coach Willie Green described the injury as left leg soreness and said Williamson will get imaging on it tomorrow. 🎥 @BleacherReport pic.twitter.com/HExu7rEJw5 — The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 17, 2024

Williamson’s final bucket drew one of the night’s loudest roars from a euphoric Smoothie King Center crowd. He worked his way into the lane, bumped Davis and drained a short floater in front of the basket to tie the score at 95. It was one of several times he imposed his will against one of the NBA ’s most stout defenders.

But as soon as he came down, Williamson knew something was wrong. He almost immediately motioned to the bench so he could come out. After a quick conversation with a Pelicans staffer, he threw a towel to the floor in frustration and stormed off to the locker room. The mood in the arena went from defiance to despair. From glee to gloom.

If Williamson could’ve carried his team to a comeback victory on this night, with these stakes, it would’ve been his most epic performance as a pro. Based on how he was playing, it could’ve gone down as one of the most memorable nights in franchise history.

Instead, the night ended with another gut-wrenching loss at home and another mysterious injury for a player who’s grown all too familiar with both.

“It was tough to see him go down. We’re all praying and hoping he’s OK,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said. “He was battling. … The team was right there with him. It’s tough. We’ll see what happens and go from there.”

Williamson’s injury is to his left hamstring, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, which is cause for concern. A right hamstring injury cost Williamson the final 45 games of the 2022-23 regular season.

However, Williamson, who did not speak to reporters, appeared to be in good spirits after the game. He exited the arena without a noticeable limp or a visible wrap around his leg. Green said the team will perform imaging on Williamson’s leg on Wednesday to determine the severity of the injury.

“He’s going to get some imaging on it tomorrow and we’ll figure out more,” Green said. “I haven’t talked to him or anything like that. We’ll see what happens tomorrow when we get the results back.”

Williamson’s status could determine the fate of the Pelicans’ season as they head into Friday’s game against the Kings with the No. 8 seed on the line. The winner will move on to play the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the NBA playoffs. The loser will see its season end.

Considering everything the team has accomplished this season, and, in particular, the steps Williamson has taken to keep himself healthy, it would be devastating to have it come to an sudden end due to an untimely injury.

The cruel end to the night adds another chapter to Williamson’s roller-coaster career and the list of injuries that have prevented him from living up to his tremendous promise. New Orleans has patiently waited for the 2019 No. 1 pick to deliver on the hype and expectations that followed him as he entered the league. While there were flashes of greatness in his first four seasons, the past few months represented the most sustained dominance he’s displayed as a pro. He played a career-high 70 games and helped New Orleans finish with the second-most wins in franchise history (49) this season.

But in a deep Western Conference, 49 wins weren’t enough to guarantee a spot in the playoffs. A loss on Friday would make New Orleans the first team in NBA history to win 49 games and not make the playoffs.

“It sucks,” Pels point guard Jose Alvarado told The Athletic . “You can say if he’s there we win the game. At least that’s the way I see it in my head. Hopefully, he gets healthy and he can play in the next one. We’re going to need him.”

After scoring just 12 points in Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Lakers , Williamson admitted he was too passive and vowed to have a more aggressive mindset in the Play-In rematch. He certainly delivered on that promise. He played with speed and force. Most importantly, he played without fear.

Williamson attacked James and Davis without hesitation all night. There were several possessions when he had to slither around one future Hall of Famer and power through the other just to get to the basket. He didn’t let it deter him.

Williamson’s aggression was the only thing that kept the Pelicans in the game. Brandon Ingram struggled to regain his rhythm in his second game back after sitting out the previous 12 due to a bone bruise in his left knee, while CJ McCollum , who came in blazing hot over his previous seven games, went cold at the worst time, finishing with just nine points on 4-of-15 shooting and 1 of 9 from 3. Despite Williamson’s brilliance, the Lakers built a double-digit lead and appeared on their way to another blowout victory.

As the Pelicans finally found a spark to get back in the game, McCollum and Ingram sat on the bench. Ingram did not play the final 7:38, and McCollum only returned because Williamson got hurt.

Without his two co-stars by his side, Williamson dragged the Pelicans back. After New Orleans fell behind 91-80 with eight minutes left, he scored or assisted on 12 of his team’s next 15 points.

Williamson’s bucket to tie the score at 95 was both the crescendo and end of that run. He was once again silencing those who questioned his competitiveness, his capabilities as a closer and his leadership. James and Davis, who took turns steamrolling the Pelicans in Sunday’s blowout, appeared to be wearing down as Williamson crashed through the lane with little resistance, like a power back running the clock out in the fourth quarter.

If Williamson does play Friday, which remains unclear, he’ll have an opportunity to make up for Tuesday night’s heart-wrenching ending. But recreating the elements that made Tuesday a landmark night in his career will be almost impossible. The defeat will go down as an opportunity lost, like so many others the Pelicans have been forced to cope with in recent years due to Williamson’s injuries.

“That’s what great players do,” McCollum said of Williamson’s performance. “Good mental toughness. Coming back and figuring out how he can be more impactful — how he could be more efficient. He got to his spots. He did whatever he wanted tonight.”

Regardless of Williamson’s status, the Pelicans’ chances of beating the Kings for a sixth time this season will increase tremendously if they can get Ingram to look like himself again. The 26-year-old star showed clear signs of frustration as he watched from the sidelines late in the fourth quarter and left the arena before speaking to reporters. New Orleans needs Ingram’s playmaking and scoring to open up the floor for everyone else.

“He’s human, and he wants to win. Of course, I know where he’s coming from,” Alvarado said of Ingram. “At the end of the day, he’s one of our best players. We need him to win. If we’re going to make some noise in the playoffs, we need him to do what he does.”

The sting of losing Williamson at such a crucial moment will garner most of the focus following Tuesday’s loss. But if the Pelicans lose again on Friday and their season ends abruptly, the disappointment and frustration over this team’s failure will stick with them the entire offseason.

You can buy tickets to every NBA game  here .

(Top photo: Layne Murdoch Jr. / NBAE via Getty Images)

Get all-access to exclusive stories.

Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.

Will Guillory is a staff writer for The Athletic, covering the New Orleans Pelicans. Before joining The Athletic, he was a writer at The Times-Picayune/NOLA Media Group, and he's been on the Pelicans beat since 2016. He is a New Orleans native. Follow William on Twitter @ WillGuillory

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

McCollum, Williamson score 31 apiece, Pelicans complete five-game sweep of Kings with 135-123 win

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) passes the ball as Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

New Orleans Pelicans guard Herbert Jones (5) defends against a shot by Sacramento Kings forward Harrison Barnes (40) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis (23) shoots as New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) defends against the Sacramento Kings during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis (23) shoots over New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (17) greets guards CJ McCollum (3) and Herbert Jones (5) during the first half of the team’s NBA basketball game against the Sacramento Kings on Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

• Copy Link copied

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson each scored 31 points and the New Orleans Pelicans beat Sacramento 135-123 on Thursday night to complete a five-game season sweep of the Kings.

Williamson went to the locker room late in the second quarter with an apparent left wrist injury, but returned to score 23 points in the second half.

“Proving myself right,” he said of his performance. “Simple as that. And then, with my teammates and coaches just trusting me, that means a lot.”

McCollum tied a season high with nine 3-pointers in 12 attempts and added seven assists to help the Pelicans improve their chances of avoiding the play-in tournament. They are sixth in the Western Conference, the final guaranteed playoff spot.

“For us, it’s about continuing to win, continuing to give ourselves a chance to accomplish what we want, which is making the playoffs and then making a run in the playoffs,” McCollum said.

Trey Murphy III added 27 points, and Jonas Valanciunas had 13 points and 10 rebounds.

New Orleans improved to 27-14 on the road, a franchise record for wins and tied with the Celtics for the best mark in the NBA. The Pelicans (48-32) lead the Phoenix Suns by one game for the sixth seed with two games remaining.

“It’s extremely difficult to win any game in the NBA, let alone go in someone else’s building and carve out a win,” New Orleans coach Willie Green said. “I don’t necessarily have the answers, to be honest with you, of how we’re doing it. But we are. We’re going to take those positives and keep trying to build on them. It’s good to know that we can go on the road and be together and win games at a high level.”

De’Aaron Fox had 33 points and eight assists, but Sacramento lost for the fourth time in its last five games and lost its chance to avoid the play-in tournament. The Kings (45-35) are tied with the Lakers and Warriors for eighth.

“If we could’ve finished in sixth, I wanted that more than anything else,” Sacramento coach Mike Brown said. “Or fifth. But at the end of the day, this is where we are, and let’s frickin’ go get it and let’s learn and grow from it and see what happens, at the end of the day. But I’m excited about any opportunity to play in the postseason.”

Harrison Barnes added 22 points, and Domantas Sabonis had 18 points and 10 rebounds for his 75th double-double, the most by any player in a season since Moses Malone had 77 in 1978-79.

The Pelicans used an 18-0 run to build a 34-11 lead, but Sacramento responded with 15 straight points to get back within eight early in the second quarter.

New Orleans led 64-58 at the half and never trailed in the game. The Pelicans shot 57% from the field and made 22 of 40 3-pointers.

“They hit us first,” Fox said. “I think they got into us. I think we got some good looks that didn’t go down, too. But I think they controlled the game from the start.”

Sacramento shot 55% and made 16 of 38 3s.

New Orleans was without forward Brandon Ingram for the 11th straight game, though he is nearing a return from a left knee bone contusion.

Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. also missed the game for personal reasons.

Kings center JaVale McGee was out due to illness.

Pelicans: At Golden State on Friday night.

Kings: Host Phoenix on Friday night.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, permits & reservations.

Last updated: April 21, 2023

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

Zion National Park 1 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767

435-772-3256 If you have questions, please email [email protected]. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.

Stay Connected