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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.

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• Plan Your Trip
• Utah Itineraries

The Complete Zion Trip

6 Days   •   419 Miles

Discover a less crowded Zion by visiting during the shoulder season

Exploring The Zion Region Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah,  Zion National Park  is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience. Whether you’re flying into Salt Lake, Las Vegas, or nearby St. George, most visitors will enter the park through Springdale, a growing town that’s equipped to offer plenty of creature comforts in this otherwise wild region.

The Zion region exists at the intersection of many different ecosystems, each with their own treasures to uncover. From the red sands of the Mojave desert to the west, to the high alpine forests to the north, to the narrow slot canyons to the south, no matter where you turn, the classic red rock vacation you may have in mind will end up being more diverse than you’d ever expect. 

Because of this region’s close proximity to I-15, you’re never too far away from a city or town full of knowledgeable locals happy to help you get the most out of your vacation. This itinerary is full of suggestions that aren’t quite on the radar of the average visitor, but nonetheless offer memorable moments that rival a scramble up Angel’s Landing. For certain experiences we recommend taking advantage of guides that can help you explore like a local and find views rarely found in brochures or Instagram feeds, as well as make as little an impact on the fragile ecosystem as possible. This is a region that rewards taking the path less traveled, sure to leave you feeling like that one overlook was made just for you.

Prepare for your trip with these  how-to visit Zion tips . 

• Start:  From Salt Lake City drive roughly five hours south west to Springdale
• End:  From Kanab head back to Salt Lake City or extend your trip by visiting the Bryce Canyon region
• Hours of Driving:  21+ hours, including travel between the region and Salt Lake City

Zion Canyon From A Different Point Of View

• Watchman Trail
• West Rim Trail To Cabin Spring

Though Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, the decision to restrict car traffic within Zion Canyon has kept it a picturesque place to explore. From March through November and during the holidays in December, daily shuttles run through the Zion Canyon Drive, giving visitors front-door access to all the “must-see” spots. The park entrance and first shuttle stop are within walking distance from anywhere in Springdale, so leave your car where it is and stretch your legs before the main event. First-time visitors will inevitably want to check out the Emerald Pools or the vertigo-inducing Angel’s Landing trails, but we suggest you stay flexible, hopping off the shuttle wherever others choose to stay on to find a trail or experience that offers a degree of solitude. You really can’t go wrong, no matter where you decide to roam.

Where to Stay Spend the night in Springdale before a second day of exploring Zion.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Soil Sleuth: Protecting Utah's Living Landscapes

Exploring the Perimeter of Zion

• Grafton Ghost Town
• Wire Mesa Loop Bike Trail

Day two is all about going against the flow. From mountain bike trails on the perimeter of the park, to literal ghost towns, there’s plenty to experience in the Zion region that still feels wild and unexplored. You’ll immediately notice the change of pace as you drive south against the flow of traffic heading into the park. 

Those already familiar with Utah know that Moab is a mecca for singletrack riding, but the area south of Zion National Park is also home to some seriously epic lines. Whether you’re bringing your own bike or renting from one of the local outfitters, there are trails suited for any experience level. 

After your two-wheeled adventures, return to Springdale for your last night in the shadow of the canyon walls. The sunsets in Springdale are worth lingering on a patio with a cold drink in hand as the night climbs its way up the eastern face of the nearby cliffs.

Where to Stay Make up for a day spent outside of the national park’s borders by reserving a camping spot within Zion, either at the Watchman or South campgrounds.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Hiking Southern Utah with Younger Children: Tips for Family-Friendly Adventure

St. George and Snow Canyon State Park

• Snow Canyon Climbing Guide
• Tuacahn Amphitheatre

It’s time to hit the road to nearby St. George , a city experiencing remarkable growth. Before you hit the town, you’ll detour to Snow Canyon State Park , a natural wonder that exists at the intersection of three different geologic zones — the Mojave desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. Due to the confluence of forces shaping this land, you’ll marvel at the diverse landscape before you.

Rock climbers of all skill levels have learned to call these canyons home, with bolted routes scattered about, and cyclists that prefer tarmac to singletrack will find plenty to enjoy on the park’s scenic drive.

In St. George, summer visitors will have the opportunity to take in a show at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. This stage is nestled within a red rock canyon, offering concertgoers a once-in-a-lifetime open air show under the clear desert sky. (Read: Exploring the Arts in St. George )

Where to Stay Spend the night in luxury digs at one of St. George’s resorts, or camping in the nearby Red Cliffs Recreation area.

Red Cliffs Recreation Area and Cedar City

• Sand Hollow State Park
• Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

After a relaxing night of culture, it’s time to get dirty! Depending on your tolerance for thrill-seeking, your morning can be spent riding ATVs and OHVs across the red dunes of Sand Hollow State Park , or floating across Quail Creek Reservoir on rented stand-up paddle boards. 

No matter your choice of morning activity, save plenty of time to explore the Red Cliffs Recreation Area for the remainder of the day. Again, you have a choice between the red-rock rimmed Upland area, and the fragile desert ecosystem of the Lowland zone. Visitors interested in ecotourism can carefully explore the Lowland area with a guide to learn about the sensitive species and microbiomes that hold this transition zone together. Those with kids in tow are welcome to comfortably explore the City Creek area (or the red rock playground of Pioneer Park) just north of St. George.

Where to Stay After a day spent ripping around Sand Hollow State Park, reserve a room in Cedar City for some well-deserved pampering (Read: 24 Hours in Cedar City ).

Tips for Prepared Travelers Things to know about Off-Road Vehicle Use

Brian Head to Dixie National Forest

• Brian Head in Summer
• Dixie National Forest
• Cedar Breaks National Monument

Now for something completely unexpected: a lush, green high alpine forest in the middle of red rock country. Dixie National Forest never fails to surprise travelers driving through the Zion region. One moment you’re looking out at mesas and buttes straight out of classic westerns, then you turn a corner to find yourself in an entirely different world. Because this area doesn’t fit with the “classic” national park vacation many visitors have in mind, it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. That makes it a perfect place to explore for anyone who loves actually “getting away” during a vacation. The centerpiece of the day’s activities is Cedar Breaks National Monument , another hidden gem that is often overlooked. Geologically similar to Bryce Canyon National Park , this natural amphitheater is a few million years older and slightly more weathered than its national park doppelganger. That said, it still scratches that itch to sample Utah’s iconic hoodoo spires in a more laid back, remote location — though at 10,000 feet above sea level can require taking your time to acclimate.

Where to Stay Camping under the crystal clear Milky Way in Cedar Breaks National Monument .

Slot Canyon Adventures Near Kanab

• Wire Pass Slot Canyon
• Lake Powell (Glen Canyon)

Spend the final day of your journey heading south for the border — with Arizona, that is — in search of slot canyons to explore. These canyons on the Utah-Arizona border range in difficulty from leisurely strolls to technical multi-day expeditions. No matter your comfort level with the claustrophobic walls of Utah’s slot canyons, they are always more enjoyable with the aid of a local guide. After enjoying breakfast in Kanab , join up with a tour operator to get the most out of the nearby slot canyons such as the family-friendly Peekaboo Canyon or a multi-day trek through Buckskin Gulch , the longest navigated slot canyon in the state.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Expert Tips for Your Next Canyoneering Adventure

Extend Your Stay Once you’ve reemerged into the desert sun, you can return to St. George for your flight home, or call in sick for a few more days and extend your vacation nearby at  Lake Powell .

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Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

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Last updated: December 13, 2023

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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.

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3-Day Zion National Park Itinerary | Best Trip Tips & More

Zion National Park has incredible scenery that provides a backdrop for hiking, camping, river walking, swimming, and more. It has stunning red rock formations, towering sandstone cliffs, and diverse landscapes.

Visitors commonly combine a trip here with one to nearby Bryce Canyon National Park, referring to it as a Bryce and Zion getaway.

A USA National Park road trip can truly be one of the best experiences of your life, particularly if you enjoy the great outdoors. There are several fantastic parks in the US, and most will more than meet your expectations. Zion National Park in Utah is definitely one of them. 

Tip: Download this national park checklist for the ultimate guide to US National Parks.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Zion National Park

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3-day zion national park itinerary map.

You can copy and download the itinerary below, but I recommend printing it because you can’t see it if you have no service.

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

3-Day Zion National Park Itinerary

With all that said and understood, it’s time to plan a fantastic three-day Zion National Park itinerary for your visit. 

Day One of Your Zion Itinerary

Day one of your Zion National Park itinerary starts with a bang, as you will behold two of the most iconic attractions within the park. 

Emerald Pools Trail

• Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 620 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Emerald Pools in Zion National Park is an ever-popular spot for visitors. It’s essentially a desert oasis adjacent to the Historic Zion Lodge. There are three sets of pools, Upper, Middle, and Lower, and each offers visitors a choice of trails to explore. Note that swimming is not allowed in these pools. 

The short 1.2-mile round-trip loop from the Zion Lodge leads to the Lower Emerald Pools. If you’re up for a bit more exploration, embark on the 2-mile round-trip journey to visit the Middle and Lower Pools. For the full experience, take the 2.5-mile round-trip hike that encompasses all three pools.

The Upper Emerald Pool is probably the most interesting. It’s positioned among sheer cliffs on three sides and a boulder foothill on the fourth, creating a natural amphitheater. 

The Lower Pool is wheelchair-accessible, while the trails leading to the Middle and Lower Pools are also wheelchair-friendly. The trail from the Middle Pool to the Upper Pool has an uneven sand and rock surface and a moderate to strenuous grade that is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Holiday fun means holiday food and a good lunch will be essential to enjoying the rest of your day. The Zion Canyon Brew Pub offers unique burgers, artisanal ales, and local brews.

What makes it even more exciting is that you might be lucky enough to enjoy some live music if you’re there on the weekend. All of this is set in the amazing scenery that Zion National Park offers. The pub is situated at the park’s entrance. The pub’s patio runs along the Virgin River, so this is definitely the place to take in the splendor.

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Take on the narrows or the riverside walk trail.

• Distance: 2.2 miles (out-and-back), but up to 10 miles if you continue along the Narrows
• Elevation Gain: 194 feet
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

In the afternoon, take on the Narrows hike or simply do the Riverside Walk, which is essentially the first half of the Narrows experience. 

Two route options are generally available: Bottom-Up and Top-Down. The Top-Down option is less appealing, partly because it requires a permit and overnight camping. 

To do the normal Narrows hike adventure, catch the Zion shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava, the last park shuttle stop. The Riverside Walk starts here and has a paved path suitable for wheelchairs. 

Even if you’re not tackling the Narrows, the Riverside Walk is worth exploring. When the Riverside Walk comes to an end, you can enter the Virgin River proper to continue your water-borne hike upstream into the narrow canyon. 

The Riverside Walk serves as the starting point for those looking to venture into the Narrows. Simply follow the river as far as you want and turn back when you feel you’ve gone far enough. The good news is that the return walk is quicker because of the downstream flow.

Keep an eye out for the wildlife. Visitors may spot birds, squirrels, and other animals along the way. 

Some hikers venture as far as Orderville Canyon, while others explore areas like Wall Street. The ultimate turnaround point is Big Springs, located five miles from the Temple of Sinawava, resulting in a 10-mile round-trip hike. 

Important: Keep a sharp eye on river conditions and weather, as flash floods are known to occur in the region. Talk to the rangers at the Zion Visitors Center if you are uncertain. 

Sunset at Canyon Junction Bridge

Finally, after what might be a fairly challenging day on the walks, get to a really amazing sunset point at Canyon Junction Bridge. Take the Utah SR-9 until you find a small parking area just beyond the entrance to Zion’s Visitor Center.

Canyon Junction is a notable location within Zion National Park. To reach the Canyon Junction Bridge, take the Pa’rus Trail from the visitor center. You can park either at the visitor center parking lot or the Watchman Campground and follow the signs. 

At the end of that walk, you can admire the breathtaking scenery directly from the bridge.

Day Two of Your Zion Itinerary Day

Angels Landing is regarded as one of the most beautiful day hikes in the world. That’s how you will start your second day on your Zion National Park itinerary. 

Hike Angels Landing

• Distance: 4.3 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,827 feet 
• Difficulty: Challenging

Angels Landing is a prominent rock formation and one of the most iconic landmarks in Zion National Park. The trail to the site was opened in 1926 and is a challenging hike, ascending approximately 1,500 vertical feet. 

The summit itself reaches an impressive elevation of 5,790 feet. Some sections do seem precarious, but a safety chain railing accompanies most of the trail. 

Note that a permit is required for the Angels Landing chain section. As it’s fairly challenging, some safety considerations are required. You can get your permit at the Recreation.gov website .

While the chain portion of the trail may cause a little nervousness for some, there’s an alternate area that offers a less daunting option. You also will not need a permit for the non-chained section. So don’t miss the opportunity to at least see why this trail comes with such a prestigious reputation. 

Side fact: How Angels Landing got its name isn’t officially documented. But, it’s believed to have been named by Methodist minister Frederick Fisher in the early 1900s. The name is said to reflect the idea that only angels could land on its summit.

Lunch at Oscar’s Cafe

Head back to Springdale and indulge in something quite fun. One of the hundreds of reviews of Oscar’s Cafe claims it has “The best Turkey Burger in the world!” 

The restaurant otherwise offers Tex-Mex, burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast options. It also has a surprisingly decent wine cellar, too!

Hike Canyon Overlook at Sunset

• Distance: 1 mile (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 187 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging

The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is short, but it does present a truly breathtaking sunset vista. This is a trail you can take the whole family on, as it’s easy to navigate (though not wheelchair accessible). 

The Canyon Overlook Trailhead is on the east side of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

When you reach the Canyon Overlook, you get to see the vast Pine Creek Canyon. The fading sunlight hits the sandstone walls in a stunning display. Just another example of the magic present in Zion.

Day Three of Your Zion Itinerary

There’s so much to see on a Zion National Park trip that it can be daunting to fit everything into a three-day Zion National Park itinerary. 

So, for your last day, you have the choice between three equally juicy hiking options. Choose between The Subway, the Watchman Spire, or the Observation Point. 

Option 1: The Subway 

• Distance: 7 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 1306 feet
• Difficulty: Very challenging

The famous Subway is a semi-technical slot canyon hike. Most adventurers prefer a top-down approach for this hidden canyon, as attempting it bottom-up is exceptionally challenging. You will need to wade, swim, scramble, and climb your way through this little adventure. 

You will start at Wildcat Trailhead off Kolob Reservoir Road, approximately 15.3 miles above the town of Virgin. 

The path leads down the left fork of North Creek, and the waterway serves as your route trail most of the way. This is a demanding route, and you will traverse waterfalls, navigate boulders, and scale cliff faces. It’s a good idea to pack ropes you can use to hoist and lower backpacks.

The semi-technical section of the route ends at the bottom of the Subway. As you progress through the “tunnel,” keep an eye out for the large boulder adorned with dinosaur tracks.

Keep some energy in reserve for the very end. The sign marking the trail up the ridge to the Left Fork Trailhead is the exit from the canyon. There’s one more steep climb out of the canyon at this point. 

Note that the water may be very cold in some parts of the trail (depending on the time you visit), and you will need to swim in at least a few of the spots. 

Option 2: Watchman Trail

• Distance: 3.1 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 636 feet

The Watchman Trail is not as well-known as some of the others on this list. It sits along the Pa’rus bike trail and is sometimes unfairly overlooked by visitors. 

The Watchman offers views of Springdale and is, in fact, a perfect introduction to the wonders of the park. The trailhead is the closest one to the South Entrance of the park, so you won’t even need to take the Zion National Park shuttle to get there. 

The good news for inexperienced hikers is that the trail isn’t too difficult. It does not head to the top of the spire. On the canyon overlook trail, hikers can enjoy a scenic third-of-a-mile loop trail along the Watchman bench.

Option 3: Observation Point via East Mesa Trail

• Elevation Gain: 702 feet

The cutely named Mount Baldy is the home of the esteemed Observation Point. The point itself provides a magnificent position overlooking one of the widest points of Zion Canyon. 

Some say you can see every major point of interest from here. It makes for a breathtaking sight, and it is well worth the effort to get there on at least one of your days, if not the last. 

The hike to Observation Point is challenging and achieves an elevation gain of nearly 1,000 feet. The path takes you through steep terrain, with only occasional level stretches in Echo Canyon. 

Please note: The Observation Point trailhead has changed. The popular Weeping Rock Trail has not been accessible due to rockfall. You can access Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail or the longer East Rim Trail.

How to Get to Zion National Park

Zion National Park can be found near Springdale and Kanab in the southwest corner of Utah. It’s 170 miles, or a few hours’ drive, from Las Vegas, Nevada, which acts as a useful starting point for many visitors to the park. 

Las Vegas airport happens to be the closest major arrival point for long-distance travelers. Most visitors who fly into the area use this airport or the Salt Lake City International Airport, although that is a lot further away at 274 miles. One advantage to flying into Salt Lake City is that smaller flights can be connected to Saint George or Cedar City.

Saint George is just 49 miles from the park, while Cedar City is 19 miles away. If you do fly, you can also easily rent a car at the airport for your Zion National Park road trip.

How to Enter Zion National Park

Zion National Park has three entrances to choose from. While you do not need permits to visit the park, you will need to pay an individual park fee of $35, which gives you park entrance for a week. Here’s a quick note on each.

Side note: The America the Beautiful Pass is the ultimate money-saver. This pass offers you unlimited entry to all US National Parks for an entire year and only costs $80. >>> Purchase your pass here

The South Entrance

This is considered the main entrance and is the most popular option. It’s near the town of Springdale, which offers several hotels and restaurants for visitors. Shuttles leave from Springdale to the park’s visitor center. 

You will need to use shuttles to get into the park for much of the year (especially spring, summer, and fall), as private vehicles aren’t allowed into the park. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is located within Zion National Park and starts from this entrance. 

Whether you take the Zion Canyon Shuttle or go by private vehicle when allowed, you’ll be awed by the views of the amazing landscape. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the primary route through the main canyon of the park, providing access to many of the park’s iconic features and trailheads.

Side note: There is another interesting attraction you may consider if you are near the South Entrance: The Zion Human History Museum. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the human history of Zion National Park and the surrounding region.

Tunnel or East Entrance 

Also known as the tunnel entrance, the east entrance is near the towns of Mt Carmel and Kanab. Constructed in the 1920s, this somewhat fascinating engineering marvel was actually intended to facilitate access to the eastern section of the park and create an additional scenic route for visitors. 

PS: The distance from Zion to Bryce Canyon is a mere 83 miles and takes less than two hours.

Kolob Canyons Entrance

If you’re keen on a lesser-seen part of the park, try the “highway entrance” off the I-15, known as Kolob Canyons, situated in the northwestern part of the park. The trails and drives accessed from this entrance are far less crowded. One of the many highlights is the five-mile Timber Creek Overlook drive.

Some notable features in the Kolob Canyon area include the Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest freestanding arches, and the Timber Creek Overlook. The panoramic views of the canyons and surrounding landscapes from this point are spectacular.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Usually, the best time to visit a holiday destination is quite a subjective choice. In the case of Zion National Park, though, March to April and then October to November come highly recommended. Most things are open, and there are slightly fewer crowds to navigate.

Still, it’s best to get into the park early, preferably before 9 am. In the summer and surrounding months, you’ll need to consider that only park shuttle options are allowed from the visitor center. If you want to avoid competing for space there, it’s best to get in early as well. 

Zion National Park in Summer

June – August

Summer is the peak season and hottest time of the year in Zion National Park. It can reach 100 °F (38°C) on some days. Yet, if one were being honest, it’s not necessarily one of the best national parks to visit in summer . 

There are regular thunderstorms in the region, and high rainfall in the mountains increases the risk of flash flooding in the canyon. The river waters have also recorded high levels of toxic cyanobacteria in the Virgin River and surrounding streams during the warmer months.

There are few shaded areas on the hikes, so the best advice is to do them early and bring plenty of hydration. 

A Note on Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are most common in Utah during the summer months, from late spring to early fall. They can be intense and dramatic, particularly during the warmer months. The state’s diverse geography, which includes mountains, plateaus, and deserts, contributes to the formation of thunderstorms. 

 They often feature lightning, strong winds, and heavy precipitation. Flash floods are a significant concern, especially in slot canyons and areas with steep terrain, just like in Zion National Park.

Zion National Park in the Fall

September – November

Fall is considered a much better option to explore Zion National Park. For one thing, you will not have to deal with the summer crowds of peak season. The weather is more comfortable and mild, too, ranging between the 60s and 70s °F (15-25 °C).

November is your best bet to take advantage before the snow arrives. Note that there may still be a thunderstorm or two during this time. Nights will get cold, so bring appropriate layers to protect yourself after warmish days. The water in the river is also cold, so if you do plan to swim or wade, a wetsuit or drysuit may be a good choice. 

Zion National Park in Winter

December – February

Zion National Park should be added to the list of the best national parks to visit in winter . There are far fewer people hustling through the park, which makes for a much more peaceful and serene experience. 

The downside is that the park is wet and cold during winter. It often drops below freezing at night. That said, for those who love the wintertime with a hint of snow, it could be the perfect nature getaway. 

Roads and trails are icy and a bit more treacherous, and some roads are indeed closed for safety reasons. A few hiking trails may even require special equipment like microspikes. It’s a good idea to check in with the visitor center and park rangers before settling on any specific plan. 

Zion National Park in Spring

March – May

Next to fall, spring is probably another one of the best times to visit Zion National Park. 

The weather maintains a pleasant medium in the 60s and 70s °F (15-25 °C) during the day, and there are far fewer thunderstorms on average. The blossoming flowers and the trees coming to life offer an enchanting and exciting visual experience. 

The Virgin River tends to swell in the spring due to snowmelt, so there are high water levels that can result in the closure of the Narrows hike. If experiencing the Narrows is a top priority, it might be wise to plan your visit for a different time of the year.

Spring break means there are more crowds, though. This happens in much of the country in March most years, with April being Utah’s kick-starter month. So expect some swell in visitor numbers at this time. 

Extending Your Trip to a Bryce Canyon/Zion National Park Itinerary

If you would like to extend your trip, you can add a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park . As the parks are just an hour away from one another, seeing both of these exceptional parks is a great idea.

It would be ideal to extend your Zion and Bryce Canyon itinerary by around an extra two days if possible. 

Top Tip: On the other hand, you don’t have three days, try this handy itinerary for one day in Zion National Park .

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Zion National Park Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Zion National Park.

Why Is Zion National Park So Famous?

Zion National Park is primarily known for its landscape, in particular its sandstone cliffs and deep canyons. The sandstone landscape also shows off interesting, streaking red colors, especially at sunrise and sunset. 

One of the key attractions is the Zion Canyon, a deep and narrow gorge carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. The towering sandstone walls of the canyon, reaching up to 2,000 feet in height, provide a dramatic backdrop for awesome pictures.

The park also features iconic landmarks like Angels Landing and the Narrows, offering ambitious hikes and opportunities for breathtaking views.

Is Zion National Park Expensive?

In Zion, the fee for a private vehicle with a seven-day pass is around $35. Individual entry fees for pedestrians or cyclists are lower. There’s a decent range of accommodations available close by, so visiting the park should fall within most budget ranges.

Is Zion Park Part of the Grand Canyon?

Zion National Park is not part of the Grand Canyon. It’s situated in southwestern Utah. The Grand Canyon, on the other hand, is located in northern Arizona. The Grand Canyon is significantly larger and older than Zion Canyon.

Can You Swim in Zion National Park?

Swimming is allowed in most sections of the river, but tubing is prohibited. You may not swim in the Emerald Pools attraction at all.

Tip: The Pine Creek Waterfall swimming hole in Zion National Park is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Tours Of Zion National Park

What to pack for the best hikes at zion.

• Sunscreen:  Utah gets HOT! Even in the winter, we were hiking in bright sunny weather at times.   >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes:  If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes by hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before).  >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir:  Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste.  >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses:  It can get sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses.  >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks:  The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.    >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable.  >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things:  The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days and if you are hiking the narrows! >Click For These Cute Shorts
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts : Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Sports Bra:  For women. >Buy One Here
• Jacket: In case you go during the winter months.   >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:   I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass.   >Get It Here
• Sandals: If you are hiking the Narrows then I suggest good sandals. >Click Here For These
• Trekking Poles: I highly recommend this if you are hiking the narrows. It really helps with balance. >Buy Some Here
• Map For Zion: A map is essential so you don’t get lost. I love National Geographic’s maps. They are good quality >Buy One Here

Claim your FREE Hiking Checklist

Ready to start hiking? Grab my free hiking checklist and never forget anything at home!

How Many Days to Spend in Zion National Park

Three days may be the perfect amount of time to spend exploring this divine wilderness. Of course, more is always better. Take a look at a great way to split a three-day Zion National Park Itinerary.

However, if you want to see Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks all in one go, extending your stay to five days is ideal.

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Looking for a place to stay while visiting this beautiful park? Here are a few suggestions to consider. 

Luxury | Brian Head Lodge 

This beautiful luxury Zion Lodge is situated in the scenic location of Brian Head and conveniently located within seven miles of Cedar Breaks National Monument. It is about 50 miles from Zion National Park. 

The area surrounding the hotel is popular for hiking and skiing. The Zion Lodge even offers bike rentals for those looking to explore the surroundings. >>> Check Availability

Mid-Range | Holiday Inn Express Springdale

Situated just 1.6 miles from the stunning Zion National Park amidst the captivating red rock cliffs, the Holiday Inn Express in Springdale is a superb middle-budget option. 

The hotel makes for a good base if you are also planning to visit Bryce Canyon, which is just 85 miles away. It’s also just yards away from the above-mentioned Oscar’s Cafe. >>> Check Availability  

Budget | Super 8 by Wyndham

The Super 8 is in downtown Hurricane, Utah, about 2.5 miles from the useful but small Hurricane Airport. If you’re a golf player, you may want to take advantage of this hotel’s location. 

Coral Canyon Golf Course is just a 12-minute drive away, while the stunning Zion National Park is located 17 miles from the hotel. >>> Check Availability

Camping | Zion View Camping

Zion View Camping in Hildale offers accommodations, free bikes for use by visitors, and barbecue facilities at an outdoor fireplace.

At the campground, every unit includes outdoor furniture for your convenience. There’s a seating and a dining area in all units as well. For guests with children, the campground conveniently provides outdoor play equipment to keep them busy during your downtime. >>> Check Availability

Camping in Zion National Park

If you’re hoping to camp in Zion itself, you’re not short of options. You can take your pick from three stunning options: the South Campground, the Watchman Campground, or the Lava Point Campground.

Being some of the only accommodations within the park itself, these campsites book up quickly. So, if you want to enjoy a truly rustic outing in the natural expanse that is Zion National Park, book one of these campsites at least six months in advance. >>> Check Availability

Final Thoughts on Planning a Zion National Park Itinerary 

Zion National Park stands as a monument to the astonishing beauty of nature. The towering red cliffs stand in majestic support of the serene flow of the Virgin River. Visiting Zion National Park should be on any keen hiker’s bucket list.

This is a great place to navigate the awe-inspiring canyons or discover hidden gems like the Pine Creek Waterfall swimming hole. There are plenty of places to stay in or around the park. The local eateries and restaurants offer surprisingly good food and a cheery atmosphere. Have a good Zion trip!

PS: If you’re unfamiliar with hiking, check out these guides on wildlife safety tips and some Leave No Trace principles for US and Utah national parks. 

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How to Plan a Trip to Zion National Park: Complete Guide

Planning a Trip to Zion National Park

So, you’re going to Zion ?  First up, great decision! It’s one of my favorite Parks and made it on my list of the best National Parks in America .  However, trips to Zion National Park do take some planning.  Either there are lots of people and things can be full (summer) or not everything may be open (winter, spring and late fall).   

But don’t let that deter you.  When planning trip to Zion National Park, there are some basic steps to follow.  I have outlined them all here to help you plan your Zion National Park trip and make it as easy as possible.  

I tend to follow these steps in order, but you should use this Zion National Park trip planner in the way that makes most sense for you, and you may find yourself doing things in a slightly different order.  That’s fine, of course.  

For more information about Zion, read my Guide to Zion National Park . 

If you are planning to visit Zion Canyon National Park by yourself, make your planning easy and stress free with a detailed itinerary. I have 1-, 2- and 3-day itineraries for Zion National Park that include all the park highlights, give you choices based on your preferred activity level, and take all the stress out of planning your trip. 

Check out the three Zion National Park itinerary options

TOP TOUR : Book a small group tour of Zion now TOP HOTEL PICK : Check availability now FIND THE CHEAPEST CAR RENTAL : Search Discover Cars for the best deals FIND THE CHEAPEST FLIGHTS : Search Skyscanner for the best deals GET TRAVEL INSURANCE : Get insured with Travelex before you go

No time to read about planning a trip to Zion National Park now?  Pin It and save it for later:  

Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.  Read my  Disclosure  for more information. If you have any questions or have other resources you love, please comment below.

1. Choose when to visit Zion National Park  

The first step is to decide when you are going to take your Zion National Park vacation. 

When is a good time to visit Zion National Park?  Well, it depends.   Zion National Park is open all year and each season has pros and cons. 

In summer, it can get well over 100°F/ 38°C. This is also when the park is most crowded.  Spring and fall are cooler (between 60°F/ 15.5°C and 90°F/ 32°C).  Winters are cold.  Spring is when the snow in the mountains melts, so canyons can flood.  Fall color is usually best in late October.  

To see more information about the pros and cons of each season, read my detailed post on the best time to visit Zion National Park . 

2.   Decide how long to visit Zion National Park   

How many days to spend in Zion National Park?  Well, this also depends.  You may not have a choice, and if a long weekend is what you have, or a day trip from Las Vegas is all the time you can spare, then you will pick the highlights and have a great time.

If, however, you have more flexibility, how many days in Zion National Park will depend primarily on what you want to do.   

There is a lot to do, including some of the most epic hikes in America, and plenty of adventure activities.  You can also relax and enjoy stunning scenery from stops on the shuttle bus or from pullouts on the one main road through the main canyon.   

Also worth visiting is Kanab , just over an hour from Springdale. It makes a great base for further explorations in the area. Here is a helpful list of things to do in Kanab . 

Read more detailed information in my guide to How Many Days to Spend in Zion .

3. Decide what kind of trip to take  

Hand in hand with deciding what to do is deciding how to go to Zion National Park.  There is no one best way to visit Zion National Park.  There are a few choices and which one you choose will depend on how you like to travel. 

First though, where is Zion National Park located?  Zion National Park is in Utah in the Southwest of the United States, a few hours’ drive northeast of Las Vegas. 

(a) Take a Tour  

Most of this planning guide is to help you plan a trip independently, but if you’d prefer the ease and comfort of a tour, there are a few options.  

A long road trip  

7-day west and southwest tour : The tour starts in Las Vegas and drives along the stunning coastal road past Big Sur to San Francisco.  From there, in summer you head to Yosemite National Park and in winter to Monterrey and the fantastical Hearst Castle.  Then to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Bryce Canyon and from there Zion National Park before ending in Las Vegas.  What a trip!  Book the 7-day west/ southwest tour here . 

11-day west and southwest tour : This one starts in Las Vegas and goes straight to Zion National Park.  From there, you’ll head to Bryce Canyon, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.  Then Monument Valley; Antelope Canyon and Horsehoe Bend near Page; and on to Grand Canyon. You’ll loop back to Vegas before heading north through Death Valley and on to Yosemite National Park before ending in San Francisco.  Book this amazing 11-day tour here .  

A day trip from Las Vegas  

There are a couple of options for day trips from Vegas if your time is more limited. 

Zion only in one day : This small group tour makes for a long (11 hours) day, but you will travel by luxury 4WD or minivan to the main canyon and have time to travel along the canyon and see the main sights.  Book the one-day in Zion tour her e  

Zion and Bryce Canyon in one day : You’ll be busy (it’s a 14-hour day), but you will get to see two of America’s best national parks in one day.  First off Zion, then you’ll travel up via Checkerboard Mesa to Bryce Canyon and then back to Vegas. Book the one-day tour to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks here   .

A short tour   

If you have a little more time but still want to have the hassle of planning taken away, there are a couple of 2- and 3-day options. 

2-day tour to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks .  The tour picks you up in Las Vegas and heads to Bryce Canyon, where you’ll spend the afternoon and evening. The next day is the fairly short drive to Zion National Park, where you’ll send the bulk of the day before heading back to Las Vegas in the evening. Book the 2-day tour to Zio and Bryce Canyon he re . 

3-day tour to Zion, Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon National Parks + Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon . The tour starts in Las Vegas and goes to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park in Utah on the first day.  Day two is Arizona and the stunning Antelope Canyon and legendary Monument Valley.  Day three is Horseshoe Bend and Grand Canyon’s south rim before heading back along the famous Route 66 to Vegas. Book the 3-day southwest highlights tour here . 

(b) Travel independently    

If you’ve decided to plan your trip yourself, whether you plan to take a road trip to Zion National Park, combine a trip to Zion with a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park and I strongly recommend this ( more on this below ) or just focus on Zion itself, this planning guide is here to help. 

4. Learn how to get to Zion National Park   

If you are taking a tour, obviously you can skip this section, but if you are planning to travel independently, then you will need to decide how to go to Zion National Park. There are two basic choices. 

(a) Fly in   

How to fly to zion national park .

There are a few options for flying into Zion National Park.  The most common choice for flying to Zion National Park is to fly into and out of Las Vegas.  Although the location of Zion National Park is in Utah,  Las Vegas’ McCarran airport in Nevada is the closest major airport (170 miles away).  It takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive from Vegas to Springdale, which is just outside Zion National Park. Note that when you cross state lines, you change time zones.  

The other major airport is in Salt Lake City, 300 miles away.  There are small regional airports in Saint George (49 miles) and Cedar City (60 miles), but renting a car and driving from Vegas is the most popular option.  

READ MORE : For more details (and more options), read my Guide To The Best Airports Near Zion National Park

Driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is easy.  Just head straight up highway 15 and turn right on to 9.  You can see driving directions for travel to Zion National Park from Las Vegas here . 

If you prefer not to drive to Zion National Park, although there is no train to Zion National Park, you can get a bus to Zion National Park.  The Las Vegas to Zion National Park bus goes to Springdale. 

You can (and, in fact, have to) get a free shuttle from Springdale to Zion National Park for most of the year, so it is not necessary to have a car to get around the main part of the park once you are get to Springdale, so this is definitely an option.  

Combining Zion National Parks and Bryce Canyon National Parks is common since they are close to each other. 

If you are planning a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks from Las Vegas, I recommend starting in Bryce Canyon (about four hours from Las Vegas) and then driving to Zion, so that the longest part of your trip is out of the way at the start and you get the best views of Zion as you drive down the canyon (see Driving Through Zion section below). 

The distance from Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park is 72 miles/ 117 km and it takes about 1.5 hours.  For driving directions to Zion National Park from Bryce Canyon, click here . 

(b) Take a road trip and drive there in your own car  

Depending on how far from Zion you live and how long you have for your vacation, a road trip that includes Zion is an option.  You’ll save money on a rental car and see more.  

 If you are doing this as part of a big road trip, then you will need to work out the logistics from where you are traveling from.  The approximate distance to Zion National Park and standard driving times for common places are: 

• Grand Canyon to Zion National Park : 340 miles / 550 km | 6 hours 
• Flagstaff to Zion National Park : 250 miles / 400 km | 4.5 hours 
• Hurricane, Utah to Zion National Park : 22 miles / 35 km | 30 minutes 
• Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park : 70 miles/ 120 km |1.5 hours 
• Salt Lake City airport to Zion National Park : 310 miles / 500 km | 4.5 hours 
• Page, AZ to Zion National Park : 120miles / 190 km | 2 hours 15 minutes 
• Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park :  124 miles / 200 km | 2 hours 40 minutes 
• Moab to Zion National Park : 344 miles / 553 km | 5 hours 15 minutes 
• Phoenix to Zion National Park :  400 miles / 645 km 6 hours 45 minutes 
• Denver to Zion National Park : 635 miles / 1020 km | 10 hours 
• Los Angeles to Zion National Park : 430 miles / 630 km | 7 hours 
• San Diego to Zion National Park :  490 miles / 785 km | 7.5 hours 
• Santa Fe to Zion National Park : 550 miles / 890 km | 9 hours 

Driving through Zion National Park  

Can I drive through Zion National Park?  

No, for most of the year, there is no driving in Zion National Park, other than to pass along the Zion – Mount Carmel highway from the East Gate to the main South Gate, to stay in the National Park lodge or the scenic Kolob Terrace Road.  

If you plan on driving through Zion National Park, note that soon after entering the East Gate (which you will do if you are coming from Bryce Canyon National Park), there is a long tunnel.   

How long is the tunnel in Zion National Park? The Zion – Mount Carmel Tunnel is 1.1 miles long and is an engineering marvel. 

Be aware that if you have a large vehicle (11’4″ (3.4m) tall or taller or 7’10” (2.4m) wide or wider, including mirrors, awnings, and jacks), you will need a tunnel escort.

You will need to pay $15 for a permit when you enter the park and travel within designated hours, which vary throughout the year.  The fee covers a ranger closing the tunnel to two-way traffic so you can travel safely through it crossing the mid-road line.   Check for dates/ times on the park’s website.  

Zion Parking  

There is almost no parking inside the park other than at the lodge, which is for guests only.  However, there is parking just outside the main entrance of the South Gate and at several locations in Springdale. 

You can then get the frequent, free shuttle to Zion National Park.  There are pickups at the main entrance and in Springdale and multiple stops in the park.  

5. Book airfare and rental car, tour   and get hike permits (if applicable)

Now that you have decided how you are going to get there, the next step is to start booking things.   

Use the links above to book a tour. If you are traveling independently: 

Book a flight to Las Vegas here

Rent a car in Las Vegas here .  If you want to save money on car rental, read my article on the cheapest ways to rent a car (on my other website) before you book.  

If you are getting to Zion National Park by bus, you can book the shuttle bus from Las Vegas to Zion (Springdale) here   and the shuttle bus from Zion to Las Vegas here . 

There are two incredible hikes in Zion that you need to get a permit for. permits for both are issued through (separate) lottery systems.

• The Subway (Left Fork) . Read how to get permits here .
• Angel’s Landing . Read my guide to How to Get Permits for Angel’s Landing for more information.

6. Plan your itinerary  

You’ve already done some rough planning in order to determine how many days to go for, and you may have done this more detailed planning already, but if you haven’t, now is the time to plan a day-by-day outline of what you’ll do. 

Of course, your plans may change with the weather and other unexpected things, but because Zion can be so busy and there is so much to do, I recommend planning out your days and then swapping things around if you need to (and can).  

If the shuttle is packed, never fear. There are alternate ways to reach the park and plenty of other things to do. Read my Guide to Visiting Zion Without the Shuttle for more information.

Read More: Best Photo Spots in Zion National Park

7. Pick and book accommodation  

Like other national parks in the USA, there are several places to stay in Zion National Park, including a lodge and several campsites in Zion National Park itself. 

However, there are actually a lot of accommodation options because, unlike many other national parks, there is a town right by the park entrance, as well as several other small towns near Zion National Park, including Hurricane, St George and Kanab. 

The nearest town to Zion National Park, Springdale, is literally right outside the main park entrance and is where the free shuttle bus into the park starts. 

Read More: Guide to the Zion National Park shuttle

Where to Stay in Zion National Park  

1. lodge inside zion national park  .

Like many other National Parks in the USA, there is a lodge in the National Park, the Zion Lodge, Zion National Park .  The lodge at Zion National Park is in the middle of Zion Canyon, so its location is hard to beat, and there is an enormous cottonwood tree that is lovely to sit under.

2. Zion National Park Campgrounds  

There are three campgrounds inside Zion National Park .  

Mid-March to the end from November, the Zion National Park campgrounds are usually full, so reservations are recommended .  

a. South Campground  

• 0.5 miles/ 800 m from South Entrance of the Park 
• 117 sites (no hookups)  
• restrooms at nearby Watchman Campground  

b. Watchman Campground   

• 0.25 miles/ 400 m from South Entrance of the Park
• 176 sites (69 for tents only)  
• the best option for Zion National Park RV camping: no full hookups, but there is a dump station  

c. The Lava Point Campground  

• This is on Kolob Terrace Road, about an hour’s drive from Zion Canyon.  

If you are camping, check out my detailed buying guides. They will help you make the best decision for essential camping gear so your vacation to Zion is perfect:  

• Best 4-Person Tent
• Best 6 Person Tent
• Best 8 Person Tent
• Best Truck Tent
• Best Air Mattress for Camping
• Best Portable Solar Panels for Camping
• Best Tent Heaters
• Best Camping Fans
• Best Generators for Camping
• Best RV Generators
• Best Camping Fridges
• Best Yeti Coolers
• Best Tent Fans
• Best String Lights for Camping
• Best Solar Lights for Camping
• Best Portable Air Conditioner for Camping

3. Lodging near Zion National Park (Springdale and beyond)  

Staying in an Airbnb is a great option and the good news is that there are plenty of great Airbnbs in Springdale. 

I have curated a hand-picked list of the top vacation rentals in and around Springdale .  Take a look.  

If you’d rather not stay in an Airbnb, here are my top picks for other accommodation options: 

* Based on highest booking.com ratings at time of writing.  

If none of these appeal, check out other hotels near Zion National Park here.  

8. Book travel insurance  

You should never travel without travel insurance.  If you’re American and have health insurance, it is quite possible that your regular health insurance will cover regular medical expenses when you are out of state (but also possible it does not – always check with your health insurance company). 

However, it still won’t cover trip cancellation, damage or theft of property while traveling, or emergency repatriation.  If you are hiking and heaven forbid something happens and you need to be medi-vaced out, it will cost an absolute fortune if you have to pay yourself.  If this all sounds like Greek to you, check out my Guide to Buying Travel Insurance (on my other blog). 

A great insurance option is Travelex .  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can swap this link for  either choose the best travel insurance plan for your trip here or get a quote right now: 

9. Decide what to bring to Zion National Park  

What to take to Zion National Park will depend somewhat on when you go.  However, some of the essential things to bring to Zion National Park include the Lonely Planet guidebook. You can buy the Lonely Planet for Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park s here.  The Lonely Planet for Southwest USA is here if you are travelling more in the area. 

When you are ready for your trip, check out my Essential Packing List for your trip in general and the Packing List for Day Hikes to make sure you have everything you need for hiking. 

How to Plan a Trip to Zion National Park: Step-by-Step Summary

Here is a simple summary of the steps to plan your trip to acadia national park. you’re welcome to share this image on your site using this code and attribution:.

Have a fantastic trip!  Do you have any other tips for how to plan a trip to Zion National Park?  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know.

If you liked this post, please share the love and Pin It to your National Parks and Zion National Park boards!  

About the Author  

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert .

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and all of the main national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks. 

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides , comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications , including Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

Parks Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases .

The Essential Zion National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Zion with this Zion National Park travel guide, with info on Zion’s campgrounds, must-do trails, permits, park shuttle & more.

Zion National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in Southern Utah and for a good reason. Narrow slot canyons, red and white sandstone formations, 3,000-foot vertical walls, and the Virgin River make the main canyon of Zion National Park a spectacular place to explore.

When planning a trip to Zion National Park, it is easy to get overwhelmed with questions. Where are the best hiking trails? How does the Park shuttle work? Do I need a permit? Where can I camp? In this Zion National Park Travel Guide, I answer all of these questions and break down everything you need to know for an amazing trip.

Ready for adventure? Start planning your trip to Zion with this Zion National Park Travel Guide!

Important Reminder: As it goes in all of the destinations we share, please practice  good trail etiquette  and remember to  Leave No Trace . This means packing out all of your garbage (including toilet paper) and following the established rules.   In the desert, this also means   learning how to protect cryptobiotic soil  and how it has a huge impact on our ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

While Zion National Park can be visited year-round, temperatures are most pleasant in the months of April, May, early June, October, and November.

Summertime is very hot and busy, but it is a nice time to hike in the Virgin River in the Zion Narrows . Make sure you bring hiking sun protection and wear appropriate clothing for hiking in the desert .

Late July through September is considered flash flood season . If you are visiting Zion National Park during this time, pay close attention to the forecast and do not hike in any narrow canyons (including the Narrows hike) if rain is predicted.

Winter can also be a great time to visit Zion National Park . Crowds are fewer and the top of the canyon looks especially beautiful with a light dusting of snow, although trail access is more limited in icy conditions. If you plan to visit Zion in the winter, be sure to check out our guide to cold weather layering .

How to Get to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in Southern Utah around a 2 1/2 hour drive from Las Vegas and a 7 hour drive from Los Angeles. It’s a great destination as part of a larger Utah road trip itinerary or can be a standalone destination in itself.

If you’re looking to fly in for a visit to the park, the nearest airport with commercial flights is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. From there you’ll want to rent a car for your trip as there isn’t easy public transportation to the park from there.

Zion National Park Layout

Zion National Park has two main regions. The main Zion Canyon , which should be on any first-timers itinerary and is the focus of this blog post, is most easily accessed via SR-9 which connects to the I-15 just north of St. George, Utah. The SR-9 runs directly into the Park’s South Entrance which is immediately past the small town of Springdale.

As soon as you enter the Park through the South Entrance, the Visitors Center will be on your right. The Visitors Center is worth a quick stop to pick up a map and get your bearings. The Park employees at the Visitors Center can also inform you of water availability on the trails, which is important to know before if you are heading out on any overnight hikes.

The other region of Zion National Park is the Kolob Canyon area . This area is located in the northern end of the Park and is accessed directly from I-15 (Exit 40 near Cedar City, Utah). The Kolob region offers a little more solitude, big peaks, and the second-largest natural arch in the world.

If you want to visit both parts of Zion, keep in mind that these two areas of the park are not connected by a direct road running through the park.

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Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Zion national park camping.

There are two drive-in campgrounds in the main Zion Canyon and they are less than 1/2 a mile from the Visitors Center at the entrance of the park. Sites are $20 for tent camping or $30 for a site with an electric hookup. All sites have picnic tables, a fire pit, and access to potable water, bathrooms, and trash containers. No showers are available at the campsites.

Reservations are highly recommended. If you can’t get a spot, there are many dispersed camping options just outside the Park.

Zion’s Watchman Campground

Zion National Park’s Watchman Campground is directly behind the Visitors Center and has a total of 190 tent and electric sites that are available year-round. Reservations are required from March through November and can be made online . Reservations are accepted 6 months in advance and fill up quickly, so as soon as you have your trip dates, you should immediately make a reservation. Regulations and a map of Watchman campground can be found here.

If you’re visiting Zion National Park in the winter, Watchman Campground has first-come, first-served campsites available from the end of November through February.

Best campsites : While I found all of the Watchman Campground sites to be decent, the best campsites based on views, space, and/or shade are located on the outside of the D loop from D19 through D35. I really loved D21. C1-10 were also nice but had little shade. Typically, I would be drawn to the Walk-in Tent Sites, but these felt cramped and had absolutely no shade, so I would not recommend the Walk-In sites.

Zion’s South Campground

Zion National Park’s South Campground is just north of the Visitors Center on the main road and has a total of 117 non-electric sites. The campground is open from March through October and sites are only available through reservations up to 14 days in advance. A map and regulations for the South Campground can be found here .

Best campsites : The campsites along the road are a bit noisier than the rest of the sites. The best sites are the ones along the Virgin River and Pa’rus Trail. These include 58-63, 68, 71, 72, 74, 77, 78, 80, 82, and 125-128.

The Zion National Park Lodge is the only in-Park lodging in Zion. It’s open year-round and accommodations include historic cabins, hotel rooms, and suites, all with private porches or balconies to take in the majestic views.

There’s also a restaurant on-site and the Park shuttle (see below) services the lodge multiple times a day so you can make the most of your stay in the Park. Prices start at $220/night.

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Other Zion National Park Lodging Options

Zion canyon campground & rv resort.

If both campgrounds in the Park are full, another option is Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort in Springdale. While a bit pricier (starting $59/night), this campground has showers unlike the campgrounds in the Park. The sites next to the river are nice, although these are an additional $20/night.

Zion Trailer Rentals

If you prefer RV camping over sleeping in a tent ,  Zion Trailer Rentals will deliver and set up an RV travel trailer to any campground in the Zion NP area. They book up fast as most campsites for RVs are reserved up to 6 months in advance during peak season.

If camping isn’t your thing or it’s simply too hot, there are several hotels in Springdale including a few with swimming pools. For a higher budget ($200-350/night), check out the Desert Pearl Inn , Cliffrose Lodge and Gardens , or the Hampton Inn . For lower budgets ($100-$200), try the Zion Park Motel or Holiday Inn Express .

Zion National Park Permits and Fees

All visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of $35 per vehicle. The entrance pass is good for 7 days. If you are planning to stay longer or visiting other National Parks in the next year and you would like to save money on Park admission , then you might consider purchasing an Interagency Annual Pass . This pass costs $80 and waives entrance fees to all lands owned by the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Forest Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service for one year.

Permits are not needed for most day hikes within Zion Canyon. Permits are only needed for overnight backpacking and wilderness camping, the top-down Narrows hike , Angel’s Landing (permit info below), or a day hike in the Subway. If you are planning on backpacking in Zion, all of the information regarding permits and reservations can be found here .

Zion National Park Shuttle

Zion canyon shuttle.

Generally, from early March through November, cars are not permitted to drive in the Park along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Luckily, the Zion Canyon shuttle operated by the Park Service is free, fast, and easy, and you do not need to reserve shuttle tickets. The shuttle drops off at all major trailheads in the park and it’s very easy to use.

If you visit the Park during shuttle season, the windows in the bus are huge, so you can enjoy the scenery while listening to the audio narrator tell you all the geology and history of sites you’ll pass in the Canyon. If you visit outside the shuttle season, you can still listen to the shuttle narration in your own vehicle by downloading it here .

The Park shuttle departs from the Visitors Center every 6-10 minutes and makes stops throughout the Park. Just jump off wherever you feel like exploring. When you are ready to move on, just wait at a stop and catch a shuttle going in the direction of your next stop. There are stops at all of the major hiking trails, and all the stops are clearly marked on the Park map provided at the Visitors Center.

Shuttle start and end times vary depending on the season, so be sure to check when the last shuttle of the day is before you head out on a hike. If you miss it, it’s a long walk out!

Springdale Shuttle

If you are staying in Springdale or there is no available parking at the Visitors Center, there is also a free shuttle from town to the Vistors Center where you can then catch the Zion Canyon shuttle.

Amenities Near Zion National Park

If you forget something at home, there is no need to worry. You can get pretty much whatever you need in Springdale which is right down the road from the Zion National Park entrance. Keep in mind that goods in Springdale are going to be more expensive than at home.

• Groceries, firewood, and ice can be purchased at The Canyon Market or at Sol Foods . The Canyon Market also has some camp kitchen supplies if you forget any cooking necessities.
• Liquor, beer, and wine can be purchased at the Switchback Liquor Store . It’s a state-run liquor store, so it’s closed on Sundays, but the plus side is that they sell full strength (>3.2%) beer if you’re into that.
• Cafe Soleil is an awesome, funky cafe with local art for sale. They have free wifi, friendly staff, and delicious coffee. The food also looked amazing. I highly recommend the dirty soy chai latte (chai with a shot of espresso)

What to Do in Zion National Park

Below are a few of my favorite outdoor adventures and things to do in Zion National Park that I consider a must if you have the time.

1. Climb Angel’s Landing

Shuttle Stop: The Grotto Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet Difficulty: Strenuous Permit required? Yes

Angel’s Landing is the most famous trail in Zion National Park and it isn’t for the faint of heart. That said, anyone who is in decent physical shape and can handle a series of uphill switchbacks can do it (although probably not recommended for those with a fear of heights…unless you want to conquer those fears).

Everyone who wants to hike Angel’s Landing will need a permit . Permits are available via a lottery system two months in advance. Find more information about the Angel’s Landing permit process and apply for your permit on the Zion National Park’s website .

The first 2 miles of the Angel’s Landing hike are paved and well-traveled. We saw families even with small children on this section of the trail. The ascent is fairly steep but there are plenty of places to rest along the way where you can take in the views of the Canyon and the Virgin River below.

After hiking up a series of steep and short switchbacks called Walter’s Wiggles, you reach Scout’s Lookout. At Scout’s lookout, you get a really nice view of the summit and can see down the length of the Canyon. This is a good point to decide whether you are in a condition to continue. Past this point, the trail becomes very exposed as you climb up the spine of the mountain that is less than 5 feet wide in some places. Hiking this section is a thrilling and dizzying experience that requires slow, deliberate steps while making use of the chains and guard rails that have been installed by the Park Service.

After scrambling up 500 vertical feet, you reach the summit where you are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Canyon.

Tips for Hiking Angel’s Landing:

• This trail can get very crowded and the chains can get backed up during the middle of the day. To avoid the crowds, do this hike very early in the morning or the late afternoon which also happens to be the best times of day for photography due to the position of the sun.
• If at any point you become uncomfortable, stop, take a deep breath, and turn around if that’s the right move for you. It is nothing to be embarrassed about.
• You need two free hands. Make sure you have a backpack for your camera, water bottle, and other belongings.

2. Hike to Observation Point

Note: The Observation Point via East Rim Trail (below) is currently closed due to a major rockfall. Check the official National Park Service Zion trail description page for updates. You can currently access Observation Point by hiking the Observation Point via East Mesa Trail .

Shuttle Stop: Big Bend Length: 8 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 2,150 feet Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

While longer with greater elevation gain, you may find that Observation Point is a less strenuous hike than Angel’s Landing. It is also less crowded and was my favorite day hike we did in the Canyon. The trail starts with a series of switchbacks leading up from the Canyon floor. At the top of these switchbacks, the trail turns east into a steep slot canyon providing relief from the sun.

Once you exit the slot canyon, the trail continues to climb around the backside of the mountain overlooking an expansive area called Echo Canyon. This section of the trail provides new topography and different vegetation than what is experienced in the main Canyon and the drop-offs begin to get steeper.

You keep ascending and with one mile to go, the trail wraps back around providing sweeping views of Zion Canyon. During this section, you are on the edge of a vertical drop off with nothing between you and the Canyon floor. Luckily the trail is wide and solid rock, so as long as you watch your footing, there is nothing to worry about.

Eventually, as you reach the Canyon rim, the trail evens off, and the plateau jets out to Observation Point. From here, you tower above Angel’s Landing and have wide-open views of the Valley floor and both the East and West Canyon rims. For more photos, see my blog post: The Epic Hike to Observation Point .

3. Hike The Zion Narrows

Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava Length: 2.2 miles + Elevation Gain: 60 feet Difficulty: Depends on how far you go…

The hike to the Zion Narrows from the bottom up begins with an easy paved walkway called the Riverside Walk at the very end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Due to its accessibility, you will encounter lots of families, so don’t expect solitude. However, it’s a nice stroll along the Virgin River if you have some time to kill.

Beyond the end of the paved trail is the mouth of the Narrows, which is a 16-mile slot canyon with soaring walls, springs, and sandstone grottos. Hiking the entire Narrows requires a fair amount of logistical planning, but if you are feeling adventurous and have some tennis shoes, you can keep walking upriver as far as you like to do some exploring. Just keep an eye on the time and check the weather before heading upstream. If rain is in the forecast do not proceed.

If you have more time, you can also backpack the Zion Narrows . To this day, it’s one of my favorite backpacking trips in Southern Utah.

Note: The Narrows has been temporarily closed in the past due to high levels of cyanobacteria in the Virgin River. Be sure to check the Zion National Park website for updates before heading on your trip or check with the Visitor’s center upon arrival for the latest information.

4. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

From the Canyon Junction to the East Entrance, the section of the SR-9 road is called the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever done with endless places to pull off and explore.

While there are not many marked trails in this area, the bountiful slick rock makes for some easy hiking. Unless you are planning on venturing far from the road, you probably don’t need to plan in advance. Just keep an eye on your surroundings and make sure you always know how to get back to the road.

If you are feeling really adventurous and want to do some deeper exploring, photographer Joe Braun has a section on his website devoted to hiking in Zion’s Upper East Canyon that is worth a read. We stopped at Checkerboard Mesa Canyon and spent a few hours tromping around in complete solitude.

Additional Zion National Park Resources

The book and map below provide information that can complement this Zion Travel Guide. I purchased both of these before my trip and found them very useful for planning.

• Hiking from Here to WOW: Utah Canyon Country – This is a fantastic hiking book by Kathy and Craig Copeland. They cover a bunch of hikes in Zion and the surrounding area, including Angel’s Landing and Observation Point. They do an excellent job of describing the hikes, and I would recommend this book to anyone planning to spend significant time in Southern Utah.

• Zion National Park Map from National Geographic – This map gives a very good lay of the land and is more detailed than the map provided by the Park Service. It shows all of the shuttle stops, major hikes, backcountry campsites, and possible water sources on the trails.

What are your favorite things to do in Zion National Park? Do you have any additional tips to add to this travel guide for planning a visit? Leave a comment below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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61 Comments

I am planning a trip to Zion for this spring (end of March/early April). When you visited last April, were most of the trails hike-able? Was snow ever a problem?

It varies from year to year, but when I went last April all of the trails were clear. If there is snow, it will likely only be at the top of the canyon and at higher altitudes. In that case, you could stick to trails at lower elevations. I’d recommend checking out this page to get a better idea of the weather. Let me know if you have any other questions! http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/weather-and-climate.htm

Hey Kristen, sawadii kha!

I am researching a trip Zion and came across your post via another blog. Thanks for the super helpful tips and accessible approach.

Were the narrows super awesome? Any other day hikes you recommend?

The Narrows were really amazing. I’d recommend doing it from the top down. You’ll get to see some of the more isolated parts of the Park and encounter less people. The Subway is also a really cool day hike. You need a permit, but it’s totally worth the effort. Let me know if you have other questions. Thanks!

I really appreciate this article…thanks for providing such great information in one place! I live in Utah and have grown up travelling to the Parks, but I’m still amazed at the beauty of Zion every time I visit. I’m excited to follow along on your adventures!

Thanks so much for the comment and glad you found the post helpful! Zion is so amazing…every time it gets better. I also Love your Utah hiking post too! As a new Utah transplant, I’m going to have to check some of these out. Thanks – Kristen

I’m planning on leaving L.A. around 7 pm and getting there around 2 am.. What do I do if I’m waiting for a spot at the south campground? Is there any overnight parking that I can park and wait till morning to find a open campsite?

There is a ton of BLM land surrounding the park where you can camp for free and no reservation is needed. Here is a map that shows all the BLM areas around the park: http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/upload/BLM_Camping_South.pdf Have fun!

Hey Kristen, I am so excited that Linda showed me your blog!! I have had a trip to Zion planned for months now and this would have been so helpful when I was starting, but it is still really helpful now! We are all going to take a trip over there labor day weekend from Thursday to Monday. We are camping the Narrows Saturday night, and from your blog post it looks like Angel’s Landing and Observation Point would be really good day hikes for maybe Thursday and Friday. Do you have any suggestions for other fun little day hikes or things to see to get the most out of our first Zion trip? Thanks so much!

Hey Monique! Great to hear from you. You should definitely do Angel’s Landing. I would suggest doing that first before the holiday crowds show up and do it as early or late in the day as possible when it will be less busy. If you do it early in the day, you can continue hiking up that trail towards the West Rim. Observation Point is also awesome and the view is even better than Angel’s Landing in my opinion. You can also do a side trip to Hidden Canyon from that trail if you have extra time. As for other stuff, the drive up Highway 12 to the other end of the park is very cool and there are a zillion places you can pull off and hike around. Hope that is helpful! Have a blast and hopefully I can connect with you and Linda soon. -Kristen

If you had a choice between doing the Zion Narrows Top Down Route or doing Angels Landing and Observation Point, which would you suggest? I only have one day there so all 3 are impossible.

In warmer months, like May – August, I would say the Narrows. It’s really something special. In colder months, the Narrows would still be nice, but you’d need a dry suit, so you need to think about whether or not you want to hike that far in a dry suit. You also need a permit for the narrows even as a day hike, while Angel’s Landing and Observation Point don’t require a permit. So that is also something to consider.

I am planning a trip to Zion and your posts have been incredibly helpful. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much Paul! Have fun out there.

Hello, I am planning to visit Zion in the second week of June of this year. I would like to take my family through the narrows. I have my beautiful wife, and a 3 and 1 year old girls. Would you say that this is a good hike for them for the day? Also, where is a good place to park the car? I know that there is a shuttle, but knowing of a good spot for parking the car would be great advice. Also, would doing the subway be a bad idea with children? thank you for sharing your pictures and information. Very helpful information. Spot on.

Hey Timothy –

I’m not sure the Narrows is appropriate for kids that young…The current is slow but can still be powerful and I think it might be difficult for kids that young to manage. What you could do is take the Riverside trail from the road end to the mouth of the narrows and then make a decision then. You don’t need a permit to hike it from the bottom. The Subway is a pretty difficult day hike so I also don’t think that would be a good option.

Parking is by the visitors center or in town. Hope that’s helpful.

Cheers, Kristen

Awesome blog post! Really helpful information!

We are two photographers and also wrote a blogpost about Zion NP: http://www.travelingwolf.com/blog/2016/5/19/zion-np

Stay awesome!

Thanks for the info. Just boked my trip for November.

Hi Kristen! My husband and I are planning a 2 week camping trip to the national parks in Utah and Arizona the last week of April-May for our honeymoon. How much time would you say that we should plan to spend in Zion? Thank you!

Sounds like a great trip! I’d give yourself at least 3 days in Zion. That will give you time to do the Narrows, Observation Point, and Angel’s Landing, which I think are the main highlights.

Hi Kristin Thanks for all the information here. We are planning a backpacking trip this fall in Zion but cannot find a map of the backcountry campsites. Any idea where I can find them? Thanks

I have this Nat Geo map: http://amzn.to/2nr4sYl and it has all of the Zion backcountry campsites shown

Hi Kristin! First thank you for sharing all this great information. I am planning a Zion, Escalante and, if time, Bryce trip with a 10′ vintage trailer attached to a 4WD truck. Do all of the camping spots you mention allow a tiny trailer? (heck, its smaller than some people’s tents LOL) I am also older and I think some of the advice you gave concerning safety and doability for kids might just help me as well! I fancy myself a tough old lady, but the altitude and heat will certainly put a limit on what I can do. How is the heat normally in early June? Thanks!!

Sounds like you are going to have an awesome trip Kathy! You should be great to go with your trailer and truck. Check out this information from the NPS for more details, https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/campgrounds-in-zion.htm , The heat definitely can be warming up in June but luckily you are going early June and just remember if you are able to do any higher elevation hikes that will help with the heat.

Thanks Kristin for a great blog and tourist guide. I plan on visiting Zion for 2 days. I am in fairly good physical condition, so the different hikes you have highlighted here shouldn’t be too much of a challenge. How would you recommend I arrange my itinerary. I assume I would take the shuttle each day to the different trail start points? Any advice would be greatly appreciated Thanks Graham

Graham, that is awesome to hear you are heading to Zion. I would definitely check the weather conditions when you get there and then make decisions based on the weather. The Narrows has recently been closed so that could adjust your itinerary. Also keep in mind to be aware of the day you hike the Narrows as it is highly likely your shoes will need a day or two to dry out fully! Have an awesome adventure! -Kim

Any advise for hikes with kids? I’ll be in Zion in a month with my 5 year old and 9 year old. I’d love to do angels landing and observation point but I think it’s more than they can handle

Emily that is so exciting to hear you are going to be in Zion. Angels Landing and Observation Point are definitely a bit tough on kids. I would definitely recommend the paved walk along the narrows and exploring the narrows a little bit–the really nice thing about the narrows is that you can go as far as you want and then turn back. Weeping Rock and Emerald Pools trail are two other great trails for kids.

Hi Kristen,

I found your blog a few months back and I love how easy you make it to explore such beautiful places! I’ve googled and Googled like crazy but I always come back to your blog cause it makes more sense! My boyfriend and I will be visiting Zion at the end of July (weather permitting) and we only have a day there. After reading your blog I am assuming that the Narrow would be best for us to try just to get some views in but we are also considering camping overnight as well. I have only camped once in my adult life, plenty as a kid, and my boyfriend hasn’t at all haha. While I know we can figure it all out, do you recommend that this is good place for new camper to stay a night? Also are there any campsite there are right near or on the water? Thanks so much!!

I’ve done a bit more research on the Narrows and we’re not sure that we want to hike in the water without having a shower to head back to before we drive back home to Phoenix afterward, any recommendations on quick walks for drives so we can see the park as best as possible?

The Watchman Trail and Angel’s Landing would be alternatives. However, most likely in the Narrows you won’t be more than knee deep depending on how far you go up.

The campgrounds in the Park have clean bathrooms, safe drinking water, and easy access to all of the sites in the park. You’ll need to arrive early in the morning to try to snag one of the first come first serve sites though, since they go fast. The campgrounds in the park are located right on the Virgin River. There are also privately owned campgrounds in town if the park ones are full. Have fun!

Hey Kristen, Some friends and I are planning a last minute trip to Zion and I am trying to figure out what I need to do. We are big into adventures and just want to do a couple days of backpacking and camping in the wilderness. Do we have to stay at a campground or can we just take off hiking and set up camp when we get tired or find a good spot?

Hello, Larry, thanks for reaching out. Have you checked out the Zion National Park website yet? Here is the link for more information on backpacking there: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm . You can make reservations at backcountry campsites up to 3 months in advance and you do need to plan ahead as you will need to get a wilderness permit as well. If you are unable to get a permit last minute for everybody in your group there are still incredible big adventures in the park.

Your blog post has been so helpful! I am planning literally a last minute trip to Zion for this coming weekend! Planning to leave CO early Friday AM (leave Zion Tuesday AM) but of course won’t arrive until later Friday evening, so do you know of any places I could car camp for the night as I’m sure most spots will be taken. I am fond of dispersed camping and plan to head to REI in the AM to pick up the Zion map you mentioned! Also, I have found some open days for Sunday or Monday night I believe in the narrows from top down with availability, but I was just wondering how that works (hike with my entire pack from top down and spend the night at whichever place I found an opening for, spend the night and then finish the hike out the next day? Are all of the campsites listed on the reservation website within the narrows or do I need to stay in the narrows campsites for the top down?) Is it super strenuous from top down having a full pack with gear, tent, etc? Thanks so much!

Hey Meleah, so sorry we didn’t get back to you in time before your trip! We hope you had a great adventure in Zion.

My husband and I will be going early in October. What trails do you recommend? Are the Narrows an option at this time of the year?

Hi, Rosie! Thanks for stopping by. So great to hear you are heading to Zion. Our favorite hikes in Zion are Observation Point ( https://bearfoottheory.com/zion-national-park-observation-point-hike/ ), Emerald Pools, Angels Landing & the Narrows. The Narrows are open in November but the water temperature is definitely dropping so just make sure you are prepared–remember you can always rent gear in town for hiking the Narrows.

Hi Kristen, Love your blog! Are guided hikes in Zion recommend? Or will we easily and safely be able to navigate on our own? Thanks in advance!

Hello Shayna, you can easily navigate hikes on your own in Zion. Make sure to stop in at the Visitor Center and talk with the Rangers if you need any additional suggestions or support–they are great!

Hi Kristen! Thank you so much for this amazing and informative site. We are planning a trip to Zion in either April/May or October. I’ve seen a few things online about the tent caterpillar infestation at the campgrounds in April/May, which can apparently make things unpleasant, because they rain down from the trees and cover tables, tents, and any other surface. Did you have any problem with tent caterpillars while you were there? Thanks so much!

Hi! Thank you so much for all the great info! I love reading your posts. I am so excited about an upcoming hiking trip to Zion in April. We are coming from Texas and are planning to stay in Kanab. We will be hiking for 3 days and hope to hike Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point and see what else we might be able to get in. When driving in, can we park at canyon junction to get on the shuttle for the day, or will we need to go on to park at the visitors center? Thanks!

Hi Jennifer sounds like you have an amazing trip planned! There is VERY limited parking at Canyon Junction, I would plan to park at the visitor’s center–the shuttle system is really good in Zion.

Thanks! Do you have a favorite place for watching sunrise or sunset?

Just curious. My family collects National Park Junior Ranger items, and I was wondering, if in your travels you have collected any Jr. Ranger badges and patches? And if you have, do you have any extras for sale or trade? It is a hobby we do as a family; travel to National Parks and do the Junior Ranger program collecting Junior Ranger items. Pat

Hello Pat! Thanks so much for reaching out! My nieces love completing & earning their Jr. Ranger badges as well! We do not have any extras for sale/trade but we wish you best of luck in visiting all the parks.

Hi Kristen, Thanks for an amazing site with a lot of helpful information! I’m planning for a solo trip to Utah (from Sweden!) at the end of August and Zion will be my first stop. I’m planning for 3 days, and consider for the longer day hike observation point or west rim trail. Which one do you recommend? How about getting to the trail head för west rim trail? I’m a bit nervous about hiking alone, but your site gives a lot of courage 🙂 Thanks!

The West Rim is best done as an overnight backpacking trip and requires a shuttle. So since you are traveling alone, I’d recommend Observation Point. There will be a ton of other people on the trail, so you won’t feel all by yourself. Do note that the Observation Point trail is currently closed due to rockfall. Hopefully it will be open by August.

Hi Kristen: my husband and I are trying to figure out a good hiking trip September/October this year…I have always wanted to see Zion/Bryce area but my husband has his sights set on Mt. Shasta. We live in Southern California and will drive where ever it is we go too. We will stay in a hotel/lodge – we have no camping gear and honestly it scares the heck out of me to stay in a tent…We are avid hikers…any advice you can give would be appreciated!

Hi Valerie! September/October is a great time for a hiking trip because crowds disperse after Labor Day weekend and the weather is still nice. Shasta, Zion, and Bryce are all good options. Mt Shasta is a large mountain that requires more serious mountaineering to summit, but the area surrounding Mt Shasta has plenty of hiking trails, lakes, and waterfalls. From my limited experience in the Shasta area, things are more spread out so you’ll likely need to do a bit of research to determine where you want to base yourself and where you want to hike. Zion is gorgeous and is one of my favorite national parks next to Yosemite. What’s nice about Zion is that there’s a lodge directly in the park (Zion National Park Lodge) so you can stay right in the park surrounded by beautiful scenery and access plenty of hiking trails from there. Bryce can be done as a day trip (2 hrs one way) from Zion, or I imagine there are lodging options in that area as well although I’m not directly familiar. I’d recommend doing a little more research on both locations (Shasta and Zion) and to look up photos of both regions so you and your husband can get an idea of what you prefer. Have a wonderful trip!

Thank you for explaining that some of the best times to visit Zion National Park are in the Fall around October and November. My wife and I love to go hiking. We hate the heat though so it would be nice to go explore the park this Fall if COVID-19 hasn’t closed it down.

Thanks for reading, happy hiking!

Hi, my husband and I will be in Vegas the first weekend in October and we are planning to spend a day in Zion. Do you think the water will be too cold to hike the Narrows? We would be going from the bottom up and probably only going about 4 miles in. Since that would be 8 miles round trip, I just can’t physically go any further than that.

Hi Sherri – Zion Outfitters has average water temps by month .

Update. Tickets are no longer needed for the Zion Shuttle. Once you have entered the park paying the fee or using a park pass, you can board any shuttle for free without needing tickets.

Hi Barb, thanks for letting us know! We just updated the post to reflect this 🙂

Awesome guide! We loved our time in Zion last year and want to go back. We hired a local guide company to try canyoneering for the first time and it was a blast! Check these guys out if you’re thinking of trying it: https://allwaysadventure.com/canyoneering-adventures-in-east-zion/

Hi Chad, thanks for the recommendation!

Hello Kirsten, Is Zion National Park Lodge ideal place to stay and use it as a base for 5 days exploring Utah’s mighty fives?

It’s about a 5 hour drive (one-way) from Zion to Arches National Park, so you wouldn’t be able to do that in a day. Realistically, you’d probably only be able to visit Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef if you decide to base yourself at the Zion National Park Lodge.

3/16/24. A article update is needed. Please note that the Las Vegas airport has changed its name from McCaren to Harry Reid International Airport. A ceremony was held December 15, 2021.

One Day In Zion National Park Itinerary: 5 Best Day Trip Ideas

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: March 14, 2022

Are you planning a day trip to Zion National Park? We’re going to show you 5 different ways you can spend the perfect one day itinerary in Zion National Park , from sightseeing and hiking to photography and avoiding crowds.

Planning a one day trip to Zion is hard, there’s so much to see and do that fitting it all in is near impossible. You’ll have to compromise, but we’re sure we can set you up to have the best possible day in Zion. Who knows, you might end up spending 5 days in the park trying out each option.

Let’s get stuck into everything you need to know about planning a one day itinerary for Zion National Park!

Can You Visit Zion National Park In One Day?

One day is easily enough time to visit Zion National Park if you just want to get a taste for the park or if you’re not interested in hiking any of the major adventure trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows.

We have personally visited Zion on two separate occasions and each time we stayed for 3 days. But that’s only because we hiked almost every trail in the park.

We’ll get into 5 different ways you can visit Zion National Park in just one day in this guide.

Zion is one of the best national parks in the United States and we want you to plan the perfect trip for your travel style.

What Should You Do With Just One Day In Zion?

With just one day in Zion, you can either choose to spend the day driving and getting to know each area for your next visit, hike several of the lighter trails or choose one of the most adventurous hikes and use up your full day.

Zion is renowned as a phenomenal hiking arena. It is home to several of the best hikes in Utah and is essentially a playground for adults.

However, there are many other types of activity you can do in Zion that tend to go under the radar.

We’ll cover those activities below so you can see what else is available.

Want to visit Zion on a day trip from Las Vegas? Our popular guide to the 10 best Las Vegas day trips includes visiting Zion National Park for one day by yourself or as part of tour.

Zion Entrances, Distances And Airports

Zion National Park is located in southwest Utah near its border with Arizona and Nevada. Compared to some popular US National Parks, Zion is very easy to access by road and air.

Let’s take a look at the most important things you need to know about getting to Zion.

Entrances To Zion National Park

Zion is made up of three distinct areas and each requires you to enter through a different route. The main canyon is accessed by two entrances, whereas the other areas only have one entrance and exit point.

Zion Main Canyon Entrance

There are two entrances to the main Zion canyon.

First – South entrance is near the town of Springdale and easily accessed by Las Vegas and the amazing Valley of Fire State Park , or from Salt Lake City via I-15.

Second – East entrance is perfect for onward travel to Bryce Canyon National Park, Coral Pink Sand Dunes , the best things to do around Kanab and Grand Canyon National Park via the impressive Zion-Mt Carmel tunnel.

Most visitors to Zion will only use south entrance.

Only those who are also including trips to Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon or other parts of Utah and Arizona as part of wider southwest USA road trips will need to use east entrance.

If you are planning a one day Zion National Park itinerary, are you also planning to visit other parts of the area?

Consider entering via one entrance and leaving via the other so you can see all of Zion in one day.

Our Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip itinerary is optimized for a 3 day visit to southern Utah. Two days are spent at Zion and one day is spent in Bryce Canyon.

This is the perfect amount of time for visiting the two parks together.

Kolob Terrace

If you want to hike The Subway, you are going to leave Springdale and drive to the tiny town of Virgin. Take a right turn onto Kolob Terrace Road and park at Left Fork trailhead.

There are also plenty of other hikes on this road, including West Rim trail beginning at Lava Point.

It is important to note there is not an entrance station to access Kolob Terrace. You will have to display your national parks pass or buy your entrance pass at one of Zion’s visitor centers before parking along this road.

You can pick up an entrance pass at either the main visitor center in Springdale or in Kolob Canyons visitor center.

We highly recommend you buy an America the Beautiful annual national parks pass if you plan to visit multiple parks in the next year. That way you don’t have to worry about paying entry at any parks, including Zion.

Kolob Canyons

If you choose to go hiking in Kolob Canyons, you do not need to worry about paying entry in the main visitor center in Springdale. Kolob Canyons has its own small visitor center and you can pay there if you don’t have an annual pass.

There’s just one road in and out of Kolob Canyons stretching for 5 miles up and then 5 miles back down to the entrance.

Distances And Drive Times

Let’s go over distances and drive times to the main Zion visitor center in Springdale from popular origin points in the area.

• Las Vegas To Zion Distance – 160 miles
• Las Vegas To Zion Drive Time – 2 hours 45 minutes
• Salt Lake City To Zion Distance – 305 miles
• Salt Lake City To Zion Drive Time – 4 hours 30 minutes
• Bryce Canyon To Zion Distance – 85 miles
• Bryce Canyon To Zion Drive Time – 1 hour 50 minutes
• Grand Canyon South Rim To Zion Distance – 250 miles
• Grand Canyon South Rim To Zion Drive Time – 4 hours 45 minutes
• Los Angeles To Zion Distance – 425 miles
• Los Angeles To Zion Drive Time – 6 hours 30 minutes

Zion is fairly easy to access from many of the major national parks and cities in the US southwest. Even Los Angeles is only 6 hours and 30 minutes drive.

Technically you could drive up on Friday, spend a night and then have one full day in Zion before driving back on the Sunday for a weekend break.

Best Airports To Use

Las Vegas McCarran is the closest and best international airport to use for Zion National Park. Salt Lake City International Airport offers a second international option and St George provides the closest regional airport to Zion.

Las Vegas McCarran Airport to Zion is under 3 hours to drive and you can fly into Las Vegas from most major airports around the world.

Domestically in the US, you will be able to fly cheaper budget airlines into Las Vegas if you are visiting Zion on a budget.

Read our comprehensive guide to the 4 closest airports to Zion National Park next for more details.

Zion Canyon Shuttle Bus

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is only open to private vehicles if you visit Zion in the Winter months between December and mid March. Between mid March and the end of November, you can only access the main canyon via shuttle bus.

However, you can drive the Zion-Mt Carmel highway which passes through Springdale and up to the East Rim year round.

The shuttle service in Zion is frequent and easy to use. The NPS trialled a reservation system for advanced shuttle tickets in 2021 but it didn’t last long as it was causing chaos.

Our best advice for getting the shuttle bus in peak season is to arrive as early as you can at the main visitor center so you can get a free parking spot.

Free parking spaces at the visitor center are a hot commodity.

You will have to pay to park in a private parking lot in Springdale or you might not even be able to find a spot on the busiest days.

Best Time To Visit Zion National Park

Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit Zion if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, have a chance at picking up hotel rooms with any sort of value and enjoy favorable hiking conditions.

But Winter is also a fantastic time to visit Zion in our opinion.

Our December visit was so much more relaxing compared to our October visit. We were able to pick up a next day permit for The Subway and scored a cheap hotel room in Springdale.

Summer brings out the Disneyland crowds in Zion, plus it’s hot and hotel rooms in Springdale inflate their prices substantially.

If you only have one day to spend in Zion National Park, it is important to choose the time of year you visit wisely. Overcrowding can prevent you being able to see the best views or hike the popular trails in Zion.

Read our in depth guide to the best time to visit to Zion in which we break things down by season and month.

Best Hikes In Zion National Park

Angels Landing, The Narrows and The Subway are the quintessential adventure hikes in Zion. Whereas Emerald Pools and Zion Canyon Overlook are the top family friendly hikes.

But there are many more hikes in Zion suitable for all levels and hiking abilities.

Our incredibly popular guide to the 20 Best Hikes in Zion National Park goes into great detail about hiking and permit information.

Let’s take a brief look at hikes in each difficulty category throughout all regions of Zion:

• Pa’rus Trail – Easy hike, flat and paved for the entire family to enjoy starting at Zion visitor center.
• Kayenta Trail – Connects the Grotto to Lower Emerald Pool, easy hike but moderate drop offs.
• Riverside Walk – Flat and easy paved path leading to The Narrows trailhead.
• The Grotto – Connects Zion Lodge to Scout Lookout and Angels Landing.
• Weeping Rock Trail – Short family hike to a waterfall, but closed due to landslide.
• Zion Canyon Overlook Trail – The best short trail in Zion leads to an incredible canyon view.
• Timber Creek Overlook Trail – Very short hike leading to stunning views over Kolob Canyons.

Moderate Hikes

• Emerald Pools Trail – Unmissable family hike to three pools and two waterfalls in the main canyon.
• Sand Bench Trail – Very sandy and exposed trail shared with horse riders in peak season.
• Scout Lookout Trail – Steep trail to the staging area for chain section to Angels Landing.
• The Watchman Trail – Great hike starting at the main visitor center, perfect for sunrise or sunset.
• East Mesa Trail – East Rim hike to Observation Point, requires 4×4 high clearance to reach trailhead.
• Many Pools Trail – Relatively unknown hike to multiple small pools near east entrance.
• Middle Fork Trail – Taylor Creek trail crosses a river multiple times before ending at Double Arch Alcove.
• South Fork Trail – Hidden hike in Kolob Canyons through a box canyon to Namaste climbing wall.

Strenuous Hikes

• Angels Landing Trail – Notorious razor thin climb from Scout Lookout to an incredible summit vista.
• The Narrows Trail – Bottom up day hike into Virgin river slot canyon is the most iconic hike in Zion.
• The Subway Trail – Epic hike into Zion wilderness with a maximum of 80 daily permits and no obvious path.
• Observation Point Trail – Hugely popular hike to one of the best viewpoints in Zion but closed as of Spring 2022.
• La Verkin Creek Trail – Long but stunning hike in Kolob Canyons ending at Kolob Arch.

Wilderness Hikes

• East Rim Trail – Starts at east entrance and leads to Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain and Observation Point.
• West Rim Trail – Starts at Lava Point and descends into the main canyon via Angel’s Landing.
• Chinle Trail – Very quiet loop hike starting in Rockville joining with Coalpits Wash and Scoggins Wash.

Zion Hiking Permits

Zion’s most popular hikes Angels Landing, The Narrows top down, and The Subway bottom up and top down all require permits. You must obtain hiking permits in advance or as a next day walk in permit on site in Zion.

It is important to note that day hiking The Narrows bottom up does not require a permit, so you can walk up this famous river slot canyon anytime throughout your visit to Zion.

You can choose between 3 time periods each day when you apply to hike Angels Landing. The Narrows top down and The Subway in both directions do not have time periods within each day.

Here are the permit information pages you need for each hike:

• Angels Landing – Permit information .
• The Narrows Top Down – Permit information .
• The Subway Bottom Up and Top Down – Permit information .

Is There Anything To Do In Zion Besides Hike?

Zion is overflowing with amazing things to do other than hike awesome trails but very few people know about it. Many activities are season dependent so you need to choose your dates carefully.

In truth, we have only ever hiked at Zion ourselves but that’s because we love to hike and Zion is about as good as it gets for unique trails in a national park.

In fact, the three most popular hikes in Zion are all included in our popular guide to the 50 best hikes in the United States .

But if we were to return with our families, we would consider looking into other more inclusive activities.

And that leads us nicely into the next section on the best things to do in Zion!

Best Things To Do In Zion National Park

Hiking is the best thing to do in Zion National Park and most people visit the park to hike. But if you look beyond the trails, there’s a surprising amount of other ways you can spend you time in what is one of the best places to visit in Utah and its most famous national park.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things you can do in Zion National Park and add to your itinerary (other than hiking!):

• Bike the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
• Rock Climbing and Canyoneering
• Horseback Riding
• Tubing on the Virgin River
• Join a NPS led ranger program
• Take a guided tour
• Photography
• See Checkerboard Mesa
• Watch sunrise and sunset
• Explore Springdale
• Bird Watching
• Drive through Zion

Driving Through Zion National Park

You can drive through Zion National Park from east to southwest but you can only drive through Zion’s main canyon in the Winter months from December to mid March. This is one of the best reasons to visit Zion in Winter.

However, the drive you can all year is incredibly scenic.

Entering from the east entrance you will drive through the Zion – Mt Carmel Tunnel and zig-zag down into Pine Creek Canyon, before cutting through the canyon floor until you reach the Virgin River and Springdale.

Once in Springdale, you are situated in the southern parts of Zion’s main canyon, with towering canyon walls flanking each side.

In Spring, Summer and Fall, the only way you can access the main Zion Canyon is via shuttle bus, bicycle or foot.

Need a hand organizing your visit to Zion? Our popular 40+ page Zion National Park Guidebook can help you with planning every aspect of your trip.

5 Awesome Ideas For Your One Day In Zion National Park Itinerary

OK, so now you know almost everything there is to know about Zion, let’s piece the jigsaw together in a variety of ways so you can plan the perfect one day Zion National Park itinerary.

Each idea listed below is a completely different way you can day trip Zion. Figure out what you like the sound of and work it into your plans.

We will begin each itinerary in Springdale, which would assume you enter via South entrance or spend a night in the town before your full one day in Zion National Park.

In Winter you can drive your car into the canyon which makes a huge difference for how efficiently you get around.

However, most people visit Zion from Spring through Fall so we will assume you have to take a shuttle into the canyon.

1. Sightseeing – A Relaxing Way To Spend One Day In Zion

Let’s start with a low key sightseeing day trip to Zion.

You would drive the most scenic roads and take a free shuttle into the main canyon during peak season to gently stroll around the riverside.

Here’s how you could spend a relaxing one day itinerary in Zion:

• 8:00am – Jump straight on a free shuttle bus into Zion Canyon and get off at stop #6 – The Grotto.
• 9:00am – Eat breakfast on a picnic table surrounded by enormous canyon walls and colorful tree leaves. Look out for birds, deer and hikers starting or ending Angels Landing. You’ll be able to tell the difference!
• 10:00am – Either walk half a mile to Zion Lodge or take the shuttle one stop back to #5 – Zion Lodge.
• 10:30am – Walk around the historic lodge and grab a coffee on the balcony terrace area for a different angle view of the West Rim walls.
• 11:00am – Walk along the Virgin River at the beginning of Emerald Pools Trail. Maybe even go as far as Lower Emerald Pool, which is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
• 12:00pm – Take a shuttle back to the main visitor center.
• 12:30pm – Grab lunch and a beer in Springdale (we’ll cover restaurant options later).
• 1:30pm – Jump in your car and drive over to Kolob Canyons, enter and drive all the way to the end.
• 2:30pm – Walk up the very short Timber Creek Trail for spectacular views over Kolob Terrace and Kolob Canyons.
• 3:30pm – Drive back to the main canyon but go beyond Springdale and all the way up through Zion – Mt Carmel tunnel.
• 5:00pm – Drive as far as the small parking area for Checkerboard Mesa and take photos of unusual checkered patterns on the sandstone hill.
• 5:30pm – Turn around and pass back through the tunnel, but park up on one of the sharp U bends right in time for sunset.
• 6:30pm – Grab dinner back in Springdale.

Travel Tip : If you plan to drive onward to Bryce Canyon after Zion, simply continue to the east after Checkerboard Mesa or after sunset from the switchbacks on the main road.

2. Light Hiking – Combine Top Sights With Easy Hikes

You can combine some light to moderate hiking with seeing the best sights in the main canyon. This is arguably the best way to spend one day in Zion National Park because it is the perfect compromise.

Here’s how you could lightly hike your way through a Zion National Park one day itinerary:

• 7:00am – Hike The Watchman Trail for sunrise, it starts right behind the main visitor center in Springdale.
• 9:30am – Grab breakfast in Springdale.
• 10:30am – Walk along Pa’rus Trail to shuttle stop # 3 for Canyon Junction and then take another shuttle to stop #5.
• 12:00pm – Hike from Zion Lodge to Lower, Middle and Upper Emerald Pool.
• 1:30pm – Continue hiking along Kayenta Trail until you reach the trail for Scout Lookout and Angels Landing.
• 2:00pm – If you feel up to the steep climb, go up to Scout Lookout to see what all the fuss is about surrounding Angels Landing.
• 2:00pm* – Alternatively, take a shuttle to the last stop # 9 for Temple of Sinawava and hike Riverside Walk so you can see the start of The Narrows.
• 4:00pm – Shuttle back to the visitor center and hop in your car.
• 5:00pm – Drive up Zion – Mt Carmel highway and pass through the tunnel. Turn right the second you leave the tunnel and park in a small parking lot.
• 5:30pm – Hike to Zion Canyon Overlook right in time for a special sunset. Stay for stars if you’re into astrophotography but don’t forget your head torch.
• 7:00pm – Head back to Springdale for dinner or drive on to Bryce Canyon National Park.

3. Adventure Hiking – Spend Your One Day On The Best Adventure Trails In Zion

Most visitors to Zion National Park want to hike a combination of Angels Landing, The Narrows and The Subway. They are the three famous adventure hikes in Zion and we personally enjoyed every one of them.

But if you only have one day in Zion National Park, you are going to have to figure out exactly how you want to approach your adventure hike.

Hiking The Subway is going to take you pretty much all day. You would be able to include another shorter hike such as Zion Canyon Overlook but fitting in The Narrows is asking too much.

If you’re a quick hiker and you get organized with permits ahead of time, you could hike The Subway and Angels Landing in one day but we would only recommend this if you are an experienced hiker.

Here’s how you could spend one day in Zion if you’re preferred itinerary consists only of adventure hiking:

Hike The Narrows

You can hike The Narrows top down or bottom up. Top down requires a permit and some canyoneering skills like repelling. So most people just day hike from the bottom up.

The beauty of hiking in The Narrows is that you can go as far as you feel comfortable, then turn around and go back on yourself.

However, if you want to ‘complete’ The Narrows, you have to hike all the way to Big Springs. You will know you reach Big Springs when you see 3 small waterfalls side by side.

We hiked to Big Springs during our first visit to Zion in October 2019 and it remains one of the most memorable hikes we’ve done to date.

Day hiking The Narrows bottom up took us 8 hours roundtrip so you need to give up your entire day in Zion to reach the end.

You need to be careful of high water levels and sudden flash flooding of the Virgin River inside the slot canyon.

If you want to have a realistic shot at reaching Big Springs in Spring, Fall or Winter, you will need to hire waterproof equipment from Zion Outfitter before entering the canyon.

The Dry Pants Package includes waterproof boots and pants, neoprene socks and a pole. You will not get far inside The Narrows without a pole, do not forget to take one.

For an additional charge you can also hire a waterproof backpack.

Remember to take plenty of food and water with you.

The hike is unique because you’re submerged in water for hours with no sunlight but you will still sweat a lot underneath waterproof gear.

Hike Angels Landing and The Narrows

Can you hike both Angels Landing and The Narrows in one day?

Yes, you can.

But you will need to get your Angels Landing permit organized in advance so you can choose either the earliest or latest time possible.

If you win an Angels Landing permit for the middle time slot, you will struggle to get inside The Narrows.

We recommend you try to win a morning slot and go up Angels Landing for sunrise. During our second visit to Zion in December 2021, we hiked to the Angels Landing summit for sunrise and had the whole thing to ourselves.

Once you’re down from Angels Landing, you will have to go back to the visitor center to hire your waterproof gear at Zion Outfitter, unless you visit Zion in Summer when the water is warm enough.

Take another shuttle all the way back to the last stop, hike Riverside Walk and you’re in The Narrows. We would suggest aiming to go as far as Wall Street.

Wall Street is around 2 miles into The Narrows, for a total of 4 miles roundtrip wading through water. Watch your daylight hours and turn around at a sensible point!

Don’t forget you still have to add in the mile back to shuttle stop #9 along Riverside Walk.

Hike The Subway

Similarly to The Narrows, you can hike The Subway either top down or bottom up. Both require permit but only the top down version requires you to rappel through narrow canyons.

The Subway is a phenomenal day hike in Zion National Park. Our favorite part of day hiking from the bottom up was the fact it is capped to just 80 hikers each day, which means you can seriously relax.

Hiking The Subway is going to take up the whole day for most hikers. So, any more hikes added on are just a bonus but don’t count on them.

You will need to leave Springdale and drive to Virgin, before turning onto Kolob Terrace Road and parking at Left Fork Trailhead. You must display your bottom up permit on your dashboard.

Spend your day weaving through vegetation, crossing the river, lightly bouldering, climbing steep banks and effectively forging your own path.

Archangel Falls is stunning but The Subway tunnel and emerald pools are just extraordinary. We didn’t want to leave!

4. Avoid Crowds – Skip The Main Zion Canyon And Hike In Kolob Canyons

Kolob Canyon offers a quiet escape from overcrowding inside the main canyon. What many park visitors don’t realize is that hiking in Kolob Canyons is incredibly scenic.

We think the implementation of permits for Angels Landing will lead to more visitors hiking in Kolob Canyons in future, so get in now while it’s still quiet.

Here’s how you could spend a peaceful day trip hiking in Zion:

• 8:00am – Drive to Kolob Canyons, pay to enter and check out the visitor center to make sure all trails are open.
• 8:30am – Park at the first parking lot on Kolob Canyon Rd and start hiking the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek.
• 9:45am – You will pass by 2 historic log cabins before reaching Double Arch Alcove, which is an awesome concave rock formation climax to the trail.
• 11:00am – Back at the car, drive round to the next parking lot which doesn’t have any signs or obvious trails.
• 11:15am – Cross the road on the bend and you’ll find a trail leading away, this is South Fork of Middle Creek and its our hidden hike lasting around 4 miles roundtrip, which ends at Namaste wall.
• 1:45pm – Drive to the next parking area at Lee Pass which is the trailhead for La Verkin Creek Trail. This is a 14 mile round trip hike so we definitely don’t recommend trying to hike this one now.
• 2:00pm – After checking out the trail, get back in your car and finish driving to the end of Kolob Canyon Rd.
• 2:15pm – Hike the very short and easy trail to Timber Creek Overlook. This is one of the best viewpoints in Zion National Park and well worth the drive over.
• 3:30pm – Drive back to Springdale in time to hike The Watchman or Zion Canyon Overlook for sunset, or continue onto your next destination.

Note: There are no places you can eat or buy food inside the Kolob Canyons area of Zion. Take your own packed lunches, snacks and water.

5. Capture Landscapes – Spend Your Zion Day Trip Shooting Photography

Zion is an incredibly photogenic landscape and there are many ways you can spend one day shooting the best locations from sunrise to sunset and stars.

After hiking most of the famous trails in Zion, our next visit will be a purely photography based trip and we can’t wait to see the park from a different perspective.

Here’s how you could spend one day in Zion with a photography only itinerary:

• 7:00am – Early start and head over to Zion Canyon Overlook to shoot an amazing sunrise. You can see Pine Creek Canyon illuminate as the sun rises behind you.
• 9:00am – Just a short distance east you can snap photos of Checkerboard Mesa and Many Pools.
• 10:30am – Head back down into the main canyon and walk the Pa’rus Trail for awesome canyon walls shots. You can also start shooting images of the Virgin River.
• 12:00pm – Shuttle to stop #5 for Zion Lodge and hike to Lower Emerald Pools for waterfall photography. You might need a tripod and ND filter for a classic smooth water effect.
• 1:00pm – Continue to Upper Emerald Pool for a second waterfall and a cool shot of towering sandstone walls converging.
• 2:00pm – Hike Kayenta to The Grotto to shoot a stunning part of the Virgin River, The Great White Throne and the hike to Angels Landing.
• 3:00pm – Consider hiking to Scout Landing for awesome down canyon shots. If you get a permit, hike some of Angels Landing with your camera but put it away for the narrow chain section.
• 5:00pm – Shuttle back but not all the way to the visitor center. Get off at Canyon Junction, cross the road and stand on the bridge looking back over Pa’rus Trail. You can photograph a quintessential Zion frame as the sun is setting.
• 5:00pm* – Alternatively, hike up to The Watchman for sunset.

2 Days In Zion National Park Itinerary

2 days in Zion National Park allows you to slow down, relax and combine many of the best hikes with the most amazing viewpoints. You won’t have to sacrifice on one of the famous adventure hikes but you still won’t have time to do them all.

We know this is a guide on how to spend one day in Zion National Park but it can’t hurt to show you examples of what you could do with more time!

One option is to simply combine any 2 of the 5 ideas above and create a 2 day itinerary for Zion National Park.

However, the benefit of having more time is that you don’t need to compromise as much, which is what most of the ideas above are based upon.

Here’s how hikers could spend 2 days in Zion National Park:

Morning – Day 1

• Hike The Watchman for sunrise and grab breakfast back in Springdale.
• Get a permit in advance and hike Angels Landing in the mid morning.
• Hike along Kayenta to Emerald Pools Trail and see all three pools.

Afternoon – Day 1

• Grab a late lunch in Springdale.
• Drive up to hike around Many Pools and Checkerboard Mesa.
• Hike Zion Canyon Overlook for sunset.
• Spend the whole day hiking The Narrows or The Subway.
• Or spend the whole day hiking in Kolob Canyons.

3 Days In Zion National Park Itinerary

3 days in Zion National Park allows you to create any kind of itinerary you like, including all of the best adventure hikes, viewpoints, photography locations and even popular sunrise or sunset spots in the park.

If this is your first time visiting Zion, we would suggest you try to allow for a minimum of 2 days but 3 days would be better.

Here’s an example of what you could do with a 3 day Zion National Park itinerary:

• Spend the whole day hiking The Narrows bottom up.
• Hike Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, Pa’rus Trail and The Watchman during the day.
• Finish with Zion Canyon Overlook for sunset.
• Spend the day hiking The Subway bottom up.
• Alternatively spend the day hiking Middle Fork, South Fork and Timber Creek Overlook in Kolob Canyons.

Where To Stay In Zion

Springdale is the best place to stay near Zion National Park but Virgin, La Verkin and Hurricane offer more affordable back up options for those on a low budget.

We’ve stayed a night in each of La Verkin, Hurricane, Zion Lodge and Watchman Campground, as well as two nights at different hotels in Springdale.

So we’ve got a good idea about which places work best on a visit to Zion!

Even if you’re planning a one day itinerary for Zion National Park, you still might need to spend a night nearby either before or after your trip.

We’ve written a complete guide on exactly where to stay in Zion National Park , which explains each area in detail to help you make the best decision on a hotel. But if you already know you want to stay in Springdale, you should read our guide to the best hotels in Springdale Utah on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere.

Here’s a summarized version if you’re short on time:

Zion Lodge is the only official national park run accommodation option in Zion, but we have to say we were left unimpressed.

It is overpriced and overrated in our opinion.

You can choose between a hotel style room or a semi detached cabin. Breakfast is included but you’ll have to pay extra for coffee.

You’ll find two restaurants and a gift shop on site. Both eateries are poorly rated on google and there are much higher quality options in Springdale.

• You can book a room in Zion Lodge directly here .
• Or try to find a better deal with TripAdvisor here .

Best Hotels In Springdale

Springdale offers a wide range of fantastic hotel options and amenities, all within walking distance of the Zion Canyon shuttle.

Hotels in Springdale are close to the park entrance and you don’t have to worry about getting a parking space at the visitor center, just leave your car in the hotel parking lot.

The only downside is hotels here do inflate prices in the Summer months during peak season. You will pay for the convenience, but it is well worth it.

Here are a handful of the top rated hotels in Springdale with ratings as per previous guests:

• Zion Park Motel
• Flanigan’s Inn
• Best Western
• SpringHill Suites
• Cliffrose Curio

Alternative Options

Virgin, La Verkin and Hurricane offer more affordable hotels because you lose the convenience of being right on the doorstep of Zion National Park. Here’s our guide to the best places to stay in La Verkin UT on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere.

If you can’t find availability or you are priced out of a room in Springdale, check prices at these hotels:

• Marriott Fairfield in Virgin
• La Quinta in La Verkin
• Sleep Inn & Suites in Hurricane
• Zion Ponderosa Ranch on Upper East Rim
• Abbey Inn in Cedar City (near Kolob Canyons)

Still can’t find anything?

Consider camping at either South campground or Watchman campground .

But you’ll need to be quick as campsites fill up as soon as they are released.

Where To Eat In Zion National Park

Zion is fortunate to have the town of Springdale on its doorstep. Along with a wonderful selection of hotels comes a whole host of excellent places to eat.

The same can’t be said of many other popular US national parks, so we’re grateful for Springdale!

Here are some of the top rated places you can check out for coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner in Springdale:

• Deep Creek Coffee Company – Coffee, healthy breakfast and lunch options.
• FeelLove Coffee – Artisan espresso and coffee, light breakfast options.
• Camp Outpost – Breakfast, lunch and dinner rotisserie style with craft beers.
• Oscar’s Cafe – Tex-mex, burgers and sandwiches served all day.
• Spotted Dog Cafe – Popular and highly rated casual bistro serving meat and fish.
• King’s Landing – Upscale bistro with excellent food and atmosphere.

You are spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in Springdale when compared to the likes of Yellowstone, Yosemite and Grand Canyon.

There are plenty more options that we didn’t cover, but we’ll let you unearth them yourself during your visit to Zion National Park!

Our Popular Zion Guides

• Hikes – 20 Amazing Hiking Trails In Zion National Park
• Road Trip – Zion to Bryce Canyon 3 Day Road Trip
• Seasons – Best Time Of Year To Visit Zion National Park
• Winter – 10 Things To Know About Visiting Zion In Winter
• Airport – 4 Best Airports Close To Zion National Park
• Hotels – Best Places To Stay Near Zion National Park

Our Popular Itineraries

• Yellowstone – 4 Days Itinerary In Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Canyon – One Day Itinerary At Grand Canyon South Rim
• Yosemite – 3 Days Itinerary In Yosemite National Park
• New York City – 4 Days Itinerary In New York City
• San Francisco – 3 Days Itinerary In San Francisco
• San Diego – 3 Days Itinerary In San Diego

Want more Utah content? Head over to our Utah Travel Guides to explore the Mighty Five National Parks and beyond.

We hope this guide to the perfect one day in Zion National Park itinerary helps with planning your trip!

Have you been to Zion? What would you do with just one day in the park?

Don’t forget to read our popular guide to the 50 best places to visit in the USA next!

Please let us know if you have any questions or need help planning your visit to Zion by commenting below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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How To: Plan Your Trip to Zion

A Mecca for Outdoor Enthusiasts

So, you’re making the pilgrimage to Zion National Park, but where should you start? Let me help you plan your trip to Zion to ensure it’s an unforgettable experience. I’m not just a fanatic of Zion, I’m a local to Zion. I live under an hour away in nearby St. George, Utah . I try to visit Zion as often as possible and once you get out here for yourself, you’ll know why!

If you’re planning a trip to Zion, you’ll probably want to know how to get there first, right? Zion National Park sees many visitors from western states like California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, etc. Much of those visitors coming from western states opt in for the road trip and drive. Zion is about a 25 minute drive from US Interstate 15, not too far off the beaten path.

Things to Do

Perhaps the biggest part of planning your trip to Zion is for the activities & experiences you’ll be able to enjoy. I lived a short while in upstate New York and a few years in The Netherlands – and yes, they are beautiful places, but they’re radically different than the American Southwest.

Zion National Park is truly one of the most magnificent and unique places in the whole world. In accordance with Zion’s majestic, unique landscape, your trip should be filled with majestic, unique experiences. Here are a few things you can plan to do in Zion:

• Hiking:  Hiking is a no-brainer in Zion. Though distance and difficulty vary, there’s something for everyone! Some of the worlds’ most famous hikes are found right here in the canyon! Some of the popular hikes include; Angels Landing , The Virgin River Narrows & The Subway . Zion does however have many other not-so-popular hikes which I highly recommend. A couple of these are Emerald Pools and the Zion Overlook . For our complete list of hikes in Zion, click here .
• Climbing:  Okay, so I’m personally no Alex Honnold.. Okay, I’m the farthest thing from Alex Honnold. I’m not a climber, but this whole area (not just Zion) is incredible for rock climbing. I’ve got lots of friends who love to rock climb and boulder. Some local places are Moe’s Valley, Prophecy Wall, Snow Canyon State Park, Black Rock, Chuckwalla, etc. Check out this page for more info.
• Canyoneering:  Canyoneering is HUGE in Zion and if you don’t know what canyoneering is, it’s basically just hiking from one end of a canyon to the other, but it often times involves climbing, rappelling, swimming, wading and other physical activity. It’s an exhilarating sport and Zion is often called “the Mecca for canyoneering”. Visit our Canyoneering page to learn more.
• Rappelling:  Rappelling is kind of like rock climbing, but it’s all about the decent. It’s a blast! Southern Utah is decorated with beautiful cliffs and canyons, so it’s naturally a hot-spot for rappelling. If you’ve got an adventurous heart, you may want to look into rappelling while here.
• Swimming:  Obviously, most resorts & hotels in Zion have a swimming pool and on a hot summer day (which if you’re not familiar to the Southwest heat.. it’s generously over 100° fahrenheit – HOT!) it’s a great activity to relax and cool off. Now, hear me out, hotel swimming pools are nice and all, but I’m mostly talking about swimming in the natural waters of Zion. There are several places in Zion where you can hop in swimming pool of mountain runoff. Splashing into the beautiful water of the desert is seriously one of my favorite things. Summed up.. Don’t hesitate to pack a swimming suit.
• Tubing:  Yes, tubing! During certain parts of the year you can rent an inflatable tube and float down the cool Virgin River as it winds meanders below the heavenly sandstone spires of Zion. The experience is that of a relaxing and even spiritually cleansing kind. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip. I highly recommend it!
• Concerts & Shows:  Springdale (the little town next to Zion) is really one of the neatest little towns in America. Much like Jackson Hole, Durango or Leavenworth (if you don’t know those towns – look ’em up!) it’s full of character and charm. One of the treasures of Springdale, Utah is the O.C. Tanner Outdoor Amphitheater where you can see different concerts & shows. One of these is the Siva Pasefika luau dinner show starting in June 2020. Be sure to check out the O.C. Tanner  schedule while planning your trip to Zion.
• Dining:  Again with that S p r i n g d a l e place! I live about 45 minutes away from Springdale, but I happily make the trip out there for dinner all the time. In fact, there’s so much good food in Springdale that when you walk the street during the evening, your nose is filled with the savory aromas of all kinds of food – American, Mexican, Southwest, Thai, Chinese and more. I’m not even exaggerating it. Springdale is a feast for the belly, eyes, nose, and soul.
• Festivals:  Because Zion is a top destination for tourism and travel, it’s naturally become a destination for festivals. The 12th annual Zion Canyon Music Festival takes place September 25th & 26th 2020. Zion Canyon Native Flute School takes place from March 7th to March 12th 2020. Other festivals and events include half marathons, Ragnar races, birdwatching, plein air painting and more!
• Art: A lot of people might overlook this, and I won’t be offended if you do, but Zion offers an incredible opportunity for art enthusiasts. I love creating art and I also love viewing art. Springdale has several art galleries where you can look at photography, oil painting, pottery & ceramics, watercolor, etc. If you are an artist yourself, Zion is a great place for photography, but also setting up an easel and painting plein air!

What to Pack

When planning your trip to Zion you should be very attentive to what you pack. There’s obviously a lot that goes into packing and since I’m not your mother, I can’t do it for you. But I can give you a few helpful tips. Keep in mind there are a couple rental places in Zion for you to rent your adventure gear, so you don’t have to pack it all. There’s also a Walmart in nearby Hurricane, Utah.

The most important things to pack are water, sunscreen, worn in hiking shoes and a swimming suit 😉 . Always pack some kind of water when you’re hiking around in Zion. Bring a camelback, water bottle, whatever suits you best. Sunscreen is also very important. Zion gets lot’s of sun and sunburn can lead to heat exhaustion and other short term as well as long term ailments. Use sunscreen! Depending on the time of year, you’ll either want light, breathable clothing or heavy, warm clothing as Zion can be either very warm or very cold.

Weather in the Park can be all over the map. Hot or cold, rain or shine, always check the weather before you go. Flash floods in Zion’s narrow canyons have killed many people. Just recently, a woman slipped on ice and fell to her death from Angels Landing. Be mindful of the weather and it’s impacts on hiking conditions. Read our Weather page for more information.

When to Come

The most popular season in Zion National Park is in late spring and summer (although it’s getting more and more popular throughout the year). A lot of factors go into when you should plan your trip to Zion. Weather, prices, work, crowds, etc. I’ve already written a blog post about this very thing – When is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park?

I’m a believer that sometimes the best adventures are in the direction of the wind, so make your plans flexible to allow some spontaneity. But, by all means, make a plan. Zion might be a once in a lifetime opportunity for you and you deserve a once in a lifetime experience.

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An Amazing Southern Utah Roadtrip: Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks

For years I’ve been saying that I need to spend more time exploring the amazing natural beauty that the U.S. offers.  So often, the lures of European food and culture call me, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or…basically anywhere else.  And that’s a shame.  So I finally put a Zion and Bryce Canyon itinerary together…a perfect long weekend soaking on stunning scenery!

This trip was on my 2017 , 2018 , aaaaannnnnd 2019 “10 places I’m dying to visit” list.  And I finally did it!!  So here’s everything you need to know for planning a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon.

How this post is laid out:

• Why these parks should be on your itinerary
• What time of year is best

How to get there

• Where to stay
• A roadtrip route
• 2 Days in Zion National Park
• 1 Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
• A few odds and ends

Why it should be on your itinerary

You can’t go wrong when it comes to national parks and natural beauty in Utah…not to mention the surrounding states like Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado.  These two had been on my list for a long time, so were my first choices.  I tried to figure out adding on one of the eastern Utah parks but we just didn’t have the time.

One thing that’s great about both Zion and Bryce are that they’re really good choices for casual walkers and hikers, and even have quite a bit of wheelchair access on some of the trails.

Both have good shuttle systems within the park, making it easy to get around.  And even if you only want to see beautiful scenery from a car or static position, you’ll be spoiled for choice.  For seeing and doing a ton with only a few days, these parks are a perfect option.

Other inspiration & tips for visiting this area: 

A Long Weekend Exploring Zion National Park (& tips for Zion During COVID )

A First-Timer’s Guide to Bryce Canyon National Park

Sunset at Yant Flat & Candy Cliffs Near St. George, Utah

Sunrise at Bryce Canyon National Park

The North Rim: Grand Canyon Day Trip

Exploring Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park

A First-Timer’s Guide To St. George, Utah (a perfect base)

What you need to know to plan your trip

One of the biggest things to consider on a Zion and Bryce Canyon itinerary is your ability to nail down housing.  Generally you’ll need to plan ahead, since housing around both parks is somewhat limited and fills up early—particularly in peak season.

We lucked out and I was able to find what I needed for a long weekend only 6 weeks ahead of time, but we also weren’t traveling in peak season and we managed to avoid higher-demand times like spring break.

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When to visit

There’s no *wrong* time to visit either of them, though the dead of winter will be tough.  It depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re visiting both parks, you also need to consider the differences in climate.  The temperatures at Bryce are typically cooler than Zion due to its higher elevation.  You’ll be around 8,000 feet elevation, whereas you’ll spend most of your time in Zion in the 4,000-6,000 feet range.

When we visited at the beginning of April, Bryce still had quite a bit of snow (though temperatures were pleasant) and major parts of the park (including most of the hiking) were not yet opened back up from the winter.  At that same time we were wearing tank tops to hike, as Zion got quite hot and dusty during the day.

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For us, I think, that time of year was perfect (maybe October would have been similar?).  We didn’t have to deal with insane crowds, which was definitely one of our big priorities.  We also were more focused on pretty walks and easy or moderate hikes, rather than any of the most famous intense hikes.  The trade-off in timing and lack of crowds was that some of the hikes we would have liked to do weren’t open yet.

I wouldn’t visit any earlier in the year for Bryce, though…there were still big chunks of the park closed due to snow and ice.  April and like September/October for me seems perfect.

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Neither of these parks is super close to civilization, so you’ll probably need to fly somewhere and then rent a car and drive (unless you’re doing a long roadtrip from somewhere else).

There are a few options, and they will help dictate how you structure your itinerary.  Your three main options would be Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and St. George (Utah), and it partly depends on how you want to structure your Zion and Bryce Canyon itinerary.

Las Vegas is weirdly one of the best options, and it’s only a couple hours’ drive from there to Zion.  There is a shuttle from Vegas to St. George, but I still think you’ll need a rental car either way.  In general I think it would be a bit challenging and limiting not to have a car for this trip.  Vegas is about 4 hours to Bryce Canyon.

For renting a car, I always search in a few different places and compare both the prices and specific offerings/benefits.  My go-to’s are  DiscoverCars  and RentalCars.com .

I flew into Salt Lake City, but only because we had family there and so that’s where I met up with my parents.  The drive from there to Zion was about 5 hours (Bryce is about 4 hours), so it’s not the most convenient airport.  It is a gorgeous drive, though.

It’s worth checking flights into St. George, Utah, as well…a smaller airport for sure and could be more expensive, but you might get lucky.  It’s only about an hour from Zion.  This was my view flying into Salt Lake.

Tl;dr …the Las Vegas airport is probably the closest and most convenient if you’re flying and *only* doing these two parks.

Where to stay in Zion and Bryce Canyon

There are several good options, including staying inside the park at  Zion Canyon Lodge .  We stayed at the Desert Pearl Inn right outside the park, which came highly recommended.  It was awesome, couldn’t have been happier.

One new option that looks amazing and I’d love to try out is AutoCamp Zion .  It’s a glamping resort that gives super easy access to the park, and has a variety of accommodation types including reguilar suites and fancy airstreams.

My deeper post on Zion gives some great tips for getting a room with a a view and what to expect at the hotel…room was huge, and had a nice pool area too.  The Desert Pearl’s location is super central to both the park and the shops and restaurants of Springdale, with a shuttle stop right out front.

With Bryce Canyon I had pretty limited options, partly because of the time of year.  I got lucky and found exactly the housing I wanted with less than two months’ notice…in “shoulder season”, but that was perfect because it meant fewer crowds and less heat.  We stayed at Bryce Canyon Lodge, right within the park.

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A Utah roadtrip route

Solely due to when I could lock down the housing I wanted, we decided to do Zion first and then Bryce Canyon.  If you’re only doing these two parks then it doesn’t matter which you do first.

If you’re going over to the other Utah national parks (on the east side of the state), then it makes sense to do Zion first, then Bryce and head on east.

If, instead, you want to do the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, etc., then Bryce might make sense to do first since Zion is a closer and more direct drive to those places.  Google Maps is your friend…just know that a lot of the driving is a bit slower.

For reference, here is the route we drove.  You can view the live map here .  Like I mentioned above, this is probably not the most efficient route but it worked well for us.

We started our roadtrip with a 5-hour drive from the northern suburbs of Salt Lake City down to Zion National Park.  The scenery is beautiful, but it is a long drive (we got out early in the morning to avoid rush out in Salt Lake City).

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A weekend in Zion National Park 

We spent two days at the park, which doesn’t sound like much.  But you can actually do a ton in that amount of time.  You can certainly explore all of the main shuttle stops, catch a sunrise and sunset if weather permits, and do a few short hikes or one longer one.  If you’re interested in really exploring the many amazing hikes then you could easily spend a week or more.

I’ve done a much deeper post on Zion, including maps, photography tips, some recommendations for hikes, where to eat, and more.  In this post I’ll hit some of the highlights and how this part of the trip connected to the other parts.

Here’s an in-depth look at our weekend at Zion National Park

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You’ll want to spend some time with the official Zion National Park website to make sure you’re aware of up-to-date info on hours, fees, trail or road closures, activities, and anything else you’ll need to know.  You should also snap a photo of the shuttle stop map for later reference.

Being able to get around and park *inside* the park is tough, just so many people and cars and very limited space.  So you’ll want to park your car for the majority of your stay and use the shuttle system both in Springdale and inside Zion.  Both run smoothly and frequently, and the connection point between them is fast, efficient, and easy to use.  Assume you’ll be able to catch a shuttle at any of the stops every 5-15 minutes.

Shuttle stops inside Zion National Park (in order):   Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Museum, Canyon Junction, Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto, Weeping Rock, Big Bend, and Temple of Sinawava

You might also like:  Planning A Visit To Zion National Park During COVID

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I recommend that one of the first things you do upon arrival is to take the shuttle all the way around the park to get oriented.  It takes about 40 minutes round trip if you don’t get on and off, and will give you a good sense of the “lay of the land”.

I did jump off a couple times briefly, but overall it helped me plot which things to prioritize…particularly lighting for photography based on time of day.

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A few view highlights in Zion National Park

• Jump off at #3 for the views of the Sentinel
• Then hop off at #4 for the views and a quick (seriously like 2-minute) hike up Court of the Patriarchs.  Great early afternoon, as well as in the morning.
• Both sunrise and sunset are tough to photograph at Zion (due to the high canyon walls), but the Watchman viewpoint at the bridge near shuttle stop #3 is pretty for both.  I have more sunset and sunrise considerations in my deeper Zion post .

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And then there’s the hiking …Zion is perhaps most famous for two specific hikes:  the harrowing and stunning Angel’s Landing hike, and the cold, wet, and gorgeous Narrows.

But it has a wide variety to offer, for all fitness levels.  From the 3-minute jaunt up to the Court of the Patriarchs view, to the 1.5-hour Lower Emerald Pools, to full-day hikes, anyone can find something.

Three fairly easy “real” hikes are Lower Emerald Pools (1-1.5 hours round trip), the Pa’arus Trail (~2 hours round trip), and Riverside Walk (1-2 hours round trip).  All are basically flat.  The latter brings you right up to the mouth of the Narrows (which was closed due to flooding when we visited).

For something a little more difficult try the Upper Emerald Pools and Kayenta (both were closed when we were there)

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One activity that sometimes gets overlooked at Zion is exploring the eastern side of the park.  This can only be done by car, and is a great way to spend a half day.  It’s like you’re in a different park—the geography, colors, overall look are all quite different to the main canyon.

If you’re planning a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon you can do this little drive as its own half day, or you can just build in some extra time on your drive from Zion to Bryce…it’s the same drive as you’ll have to take in order to get from one park to the other.

The first little bit is still in the canyon, so you get some great angles of the iconic cliffs but from further away—easier to photograph.

Eventually you’ll come to two tunnels…a shorter one (in the pic below) and then on that’s INSANELY long.  The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel was built in the 1920s and is honestly *still* really impressive.  It’s over a mile long, and pitch dark except for occasionally tiny windows (for ventilation, I assume).  It’s a bit disconcerting but cool.

Where to eat and drink in Zion Canyon:  Cafe Soleil, Meme’s Cafe, Deep Creek Coffee, Oscar’s Cafe

Where to stay:   Desert Pearl Inn

Where to get booze:   Switchback Liquors (shockingly good selection for how tiny it is)

So that wraps up Zion National Park.  On our last morning, we grabbed a delicious breakfast at Meme’s Cafe, and then headed back over Canyon Junction Bridge and through the eastern side of the park once more.  Only this time we didn’t turn around.  It was onto Bryce!

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Bryce Canyon is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Zion.  Once out of Zion National Park, we drove through pastureland for a while.

There was a cool little gas station/trading post kind of place somewhere in that area (would have been on our left) where I purchased some gorgeous agate bookends.

Otherwise nothing much of note until we got to Dixie National Forest and Red Canyon.  This is just a bit before you hit Bryce Canyon, and it is so cool and vivid!  With the blue skies, the intensely orange rock really popped.  We pulled over and climbed around a bit to stretch our legs.

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We were already running later than we would have liked, so just got out and climbed around for a bit.  But if you have time there are a number of cool hiking trails in the park.

I’m just so in love with this rich burnt orange, deep green trees, and vivid blue skies!

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And that’s me, that tiny little gray speck on the big tower there.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce is in one of the smallest national parks in the U.S., but also in the top-10 busiest.  The park gets over 2.7 million visitors a year, coming to see the otherworldly “hoodoos” of Bryce Canyon Amphitheater—cool geological erosion-created rock formations.

It’s a perfect park for a short visit, with a very unique landscape…making it a great pairing with Zion!

Here’s a deeper look at our time in Bryce Canyon

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You can plan your trip using the  official website , which will be up-to-date on everything from weather to road and trail closures as well as hours and fees.  Generally the park is open 8a-8p in the peak season and more like 8a-6p during the fall and spring (winter hours are even shorter).

I’d recommend stopping at the Visitor Center early in your visit, to get some good maps and recos for views, which trails are closed, and more.

For us, being there at the beginning of April, we benefited from the crowds being light, but there was still a lot of ice and snow so we couldn’t do much hiking or get down and see the hoodoos up close.

The Mormon settler after whom the park is named called it “one hell of a place to lose a cow” (literally still makes me laugh every time).  They just look like something from another planet.

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As a visitor, though, it’s really easy to get around the park.  There’s just one long road running through the park, with well-marked turn-offs.  There is a shuttle system that runs much of the year (roughly April 12 – October 20), though it wasn’t in service when we visited so our car was fine for getting around (I have to assume it’s super crowded in peak season).

Sadly most of the trails were closed while we were there due to ice, snow, and mud, but we could walk the Rim Trail from Sunrise Point out to Inspiration Point. We still saw tons of gorgeous views…while I was sad we couldn’t get down to walk among the hoodoos, the trip was still worth it.

You can’t go wrong with views at Bryce Canyon but here were a few of my faves:

• Natural Bridge
• Inspiration Point – awesome during the day, and gorgeous at sunrise
• Sunset Point – excepting my sunrise pics, probably my favorite views overall

We weren’t able to hike it, but my friends told me that Queens Garden/Navajo Loop is a great easy/moderate hike that still gets you down among the hoodoos.  Additionally, take a drive all of the way to the end of Highway 63 (about 15 extra miles), as there are tons of beautiful lookouts.

Rainbow and Yovimpa Points are the last two, with insanely far views on a clear day (you can see to the rim of the Grand Canyon!).  We could only go as far as Natural Bridge when we were there.

Sunrise is really where the magic happens at Bryce.  Because the amphitheater faces east, the sunsets aren’t as interesting.

I’ve written an entire post about watching the sunrise wash over Bryce Canyon Amphitheater , jam-packed with gorgeous photos and tips for when and where to make sure you make the most of it.

Where to eat and drink:   Bryce Canyon Pines, Bryce Canyon Lodge; I can’t vouch for Fort Zion Restaurant & Virgin Trading Post but heard it was great

Other things on the route back to Salt Lake City

After finishing at Bryce Canyon National Park, in general we were driving back toward Salt Lake City, but meandered a bit.  We first drove toward Escalante-Grand Staircase National Monument…the drive is INSANE and changes scenery constantly.  The pics below don’t really do it justice.

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We *tried* to stop off and do Zebra Slot Canyon .  I was really wanting to try a slot canyon hike, and this one had been recommended.

But the info I received wasn’t great on how long the hike actually took and we ran out of time…had to turn back partway before getting to the canyon.

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Finally we drove up toward Capitol Reef National Park and just kind of skirted it before heading back to Salt Lake City so I could catch my flight.  We didn’t feel like our Zion and Bryce Canyon itinerary was cheated in any way…these would have been total bonuses but we were ultimately just short on time.

Extra tips if you’re planning a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon:

• Utah has some strict alcohol laws.  Towns mostly don’t have bars or pubs.  At the grocery store you can only buy beer, and for wine or liquor you have to go to the liquor store.  Liquor stores aren’t open on Sundays and close early on Saturdays typically.  There’s only one in Zion that we found, and didn’t find one in Bryce.  Worth stocking up in a bigger city if you care.
• I didn’t get a chance to try this out, but a friend told me to consider visiting Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, “the little Zion”.  As you drive up the center of the park and park close to each site with little walking required to visit.  As beautiful, unique and precious as any national park—and far less crowded.
• The Circle D Eatery between Bryce and Capitol Reef is supposed to be great.

So have I convinced you that a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks should be at the top of your list??  Hit me up in the comments with any questions, I’ll do my best to answer them!

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Comments (6)

July 29, 2022 at 11:14 am

Hey I’m planning a trip out West probably Sring 2023 need some help gonna fly into Vegas from Atlanta be with couple of buddies…I certainly need an itinerary for this trip.

May 12, 2021 at 3:07 pm

Just booked my trip based on your post. 3 nights in Zion 2 nights in Bryce & 2 nights in SLC. Thank you, such helpful tips!

May 13, 2021 at 8:02 am

You’re welcome–you’re going to have such an amazing time!

July 29, 2022 at 11:30 am

How was your trip?? I’m planning Zion Bryce In the Spring 2023,. Suggestions would be helpful fly from Atl to Vegas. Couple of buddies be going definitely want to hike up Angels Landing

April 26, 2021 at 12:28 pm

Did you stay in the same place and take a day trip to Bryce? Or did you stay in both Zion and Bryce. Trying to decide how to do that! 🙂

April 26, 2021 at 7:11 pm

On the trip where I went to both Zion and Bryce, I stayed separately in Springdale (Zion) and Bryce Canyon Lodge. That was easier than day trips and those were our only destinations. On my trip last fall I was based in St. George long-term and so did Zion as a day trip, and you could do Bryce that way too but it’s further away. I’d recommend staying closer if you’re able, to get the most out of the Bryce experience (including sunrise which is stunning!).

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• Zion National Park /
• Zion Ponderosa /
• Zion Ponderosa Activities

How to Plan the Best Zion National Park Vacation

As one of the top-rated adventure resorts in the U.S ., we get a lot of questions from folks wondering how to plan the best Zion National Park vacation . Whether it’s been a while since you’ve been to southern Utah, your first time visiting Zion, or if it’s your regular playground, these tips will get you on your way to planning the best Zion National Park visit.

1. When and where—choosing a vacation destination

The best part of planning a vacation is deciding where you want to go. First, ask yourself the big picture questions: Do you want to visit the mountains, a city, or the beach? Do you want to explore and have great adventures, sit back and relax, or immerse yourself in local culture? Once you’ve narrowed down the type of vacation you want to take, it’s easier to settle on a specific destination. For example, would you like to visit all five of Utah’s national parks, or spend your vacation thoroughly exploring one, like Zion National Park?

The time-frame of your vacation can depend in large part on the destination, and vice versa, especially if planning around school breaks. If your dream is to hike the Zion Narrows , spring isn’t the best time of year to come due to rain and snowmelt. If you’re looking to avoid the summer crowds, late fall or winter can be a better option for visiting Zion National Park.

2. How much time do you need to visit Zion National Park?

For travelers with limited vacation time, maximizing your getaway is essential. Plan enough time to travel and then to enjoy your destination and fit in all of the activities you wish to experience. Just like with finances, budget your time to have the type of vacation you want to have and experience all of the Zion adventures on your bucket list . While you can see the park in a day or two , staying for three days up to a week allows you to experience so much more that the Zion area has to offer.

3. Budget for your Zion vacation

When budgeting for your vacation, consider transportation costs, food options, types of recreation, and your desired lodging type. Sharing a vacation rental with family and friends can be as economical as a hotel room, and will generally offer a more comfortable environment with amenities and space to spread out. Including guided experiences in your budget can often provide for some of the most memorable experiences on your trip. Don’t forget that you may do some souvenir shopping for yourself or for friends and family!

4. How you’re getting there

Where you’re coming from will largely determine how you get where you’re going . Overseas travelers will obviously rely on air travel; so will many vacationers from across the U.S. The majority of Zion Ponderosa guests fly into either Salt Lake City or Las Vegas. Both are major airports with service offered by a number of airlines and several rental car options. Zion National Park is just a five-hour drive from Salt Lake City and a three-hour drive from Las Vegas, making Zion a great midweek or weekend destination for Utah and Vegas locals. Denver’s airport is also an option for travelers wanting to explore the Rocky Mountains and southern Utah region. Southern California road trippers can escape to the world-famous Zion landscape with a half-day drive.

5. Plan Ahead              

A successful vacation is all in the details. Whether you like to fly by the seat of your pants for a quick weekend getaway, or plan way in advance for a family vacation, nailing down the practicalities can make or break your trip. While it’s nice to have some flexibility, it helps to make reservations for lodging, meals and adventures so you end up doing instead of wishing.

6. Plan Activities

If you’re headed to Zion, chances are you have sightseeing and adventures on your wish list. We suggest making advance reservations for activities like Jeep tours, guided hikes and canyoneering adventures to ensure availability and that you get the most out of your vacation time. After all, no one wants to show up only to find out tours are sold out. Of course, if that does happen, there’s still plenty to do in Zion .

7. Stay Somewhere Amazing

Amazing doesn’t have to mean expensive. These days, hotels near Zion are no longer limited to deciding between a fancy hotel or a budget motel. . The trend toward staying in vacation homes and rentals has revolutionized the vacation lodging industry. Guests love the idea of having multiple bedrooms and space to spread out, especially when traveling in large groups. Glamping, a glammed up version of tent camping, is one of the hottest travel trends for 2019.

Whether you’re coming to Zion for a quick weekend getaway from Vegas or California, or are bringing the whole clan for an extended family reunion, choosing the right lodging can make or break your stay. Zion Ponderosa’s excellent lodging includes:

• Vacation Home Rentals
• Cabin Suites
• Studio Cabins
• Conestoga Wagons
• Tent Camping
• and RV Camping

Zion Ponderosa’s many lodging options are located right on the eastern edge of Zion National Park. So close, in fact, that you can walk to Observation Point , one of the most beautiful views of Zion National Park. But what truly makes Zion Ponderosa stand out above the rest? Amenities that can turn a simple trip into a full vacation experience. From the pool and hot tub, mini golf, and tennis courts, to on-site dining and all-out adventures like Jeep tours, guided hikes and canyoneering, Zion Ponderosa is the key to planning the best Zion National Park experience.

Featured photo (top) by  Rich Martello/Unsplashed

Lodging Menu

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• Zion National Park
• Angels Landing
• Emerald Pools
• The Narrows
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Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon: Ultimate 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary (2024)

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The Grand Circle is a popular place to plan a route for a one week family friendly adventure, in the US southwest. A road trip through Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon here will let you hit all the highlights this beautiful area has to offer. You could take multiple trips through here and still not see everything, as there’s so much to do.

We’ve put together our one week road trip itinerary , an action packed introduction to all the best hikes, sites, tips and places to visit you won’t want to miss. 

Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon Itinerary: A Family Friendly One Week Road Trip

• Day 1 : Las Vegas / Hoover Dam tour
• Day 2: Drive to Zion. Stop at Valley of Fire along the way.
• Day 3: Zion National Park – full day
• Day 4 : Zion – most of the day  and drive to Bryce Canyon late afternoon, early evening
• Day 5: Bryce Canyon – full day
• Day 6: Drive to Page, AZ – Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend & Lake Powell
• Day 7: Drive to Grand Canyon, Half day visit in Grand Canyon, Evening Drive to Las Vegas

We love road tripping through America’s southwest. So read on for all our top recommended activities, accommodations, hikes, viewpoints and tips for visiting each Park.

We’ve also included some FAQs at the end to help answer commonly asked questions.

Table of Contents

How Many Days do you need in Zion & Bryce?

You will need at least 3 days when visiting Zion and Bryce to really see the highlights of both parks. Zion is a larger park, and a bit more difficult to get around in peak season (you must use the in park shuttle), so we recommend at least 1.5 to two days here.

You can see the highlights of Bryce Canyon in one day, including hiking, and driving to all the view points in the Canyon itself.

While we have worked out a 7 day road trip through Utah, Arizona and Nevada, if you have an extra few days, 10 – 14 days would be ideal and allow for a slower, and less jam packed pace, especially if you have younger kids.

For a 10 day trip , I would add an extra day in Page, AZ and spend the day on Lake Powell, and do a full day in Grand Canyon, before taking the day to drive back to Las Vegas.

There is a lot to see and do along that route back. You can also do this road trip in reverse Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce.

👉 Save money on entrance fees with the annual  America the Beautiful Park Pass.

Covers entrance fees for driver and passengers for over 2000 National Park and Federal Rec Sites . Especially useful if you are planning on a long road trip or visiting more than one park in a year.

Road Trip Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

Day One: Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV is a popular place to fly into given its a top tourist destination, with cheap flights from all over the world. 

It’s the perfect place to start on your Las Vegas, Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon Itinerary.

Las Vegas also tends to have the lowest car rental rates around .

Starting your Zion to Grand Canyon road trip here is to your advantage , if you need to rent a car .

Things to do in Las Vegas

Besides wandering the strip which is an adventure in itself, there are endless options of how your family could spend the day in and around Las Vegas:

• Take a Hoover Dam Tour – half a day
• LINQ High Roller (super cool ride in America’s tallest observation wheel)
• Take a Hop On – Hop Off Bus Sightseeing Tour
• See a family friendly magic show or the Cirque du Soleil . Michael Jackson’s One was fantastic.
• Marvel Avenger STATION in Treasure Island, for your superhero fans
• Las Vegas Night Helicopter Flight & Neon Sign Museum
• Madam Tussauds Wax Museum
• Medieval Knights Tournament themed dinner show
• Hot Air Balloon Rides
• Indoor Skydiving, ziplining, mini golf, and arcades

LOCAL TIP : Short on time? Take a day tour from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, lunch included.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

• Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort is a well recommended resort by families. Enjoy their 5 heated swimming pools, a game room, plus it’s an all-suite resort.
• Mandalay Bay is another family friendly option, with two outdoor splash swimming pools complete with a lazy river and a real sand beach. As well as easy access to the Shark Reef Aquarium.

Las Vegas, Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon Itinerary

Day two is the start of your Las Vegas, Zion, Bryce Grand Canyon Itinerary on the road.

Grab a self driving audio tour , so you can learn and be entertained as you drive.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

Day Two: Las Vegas to Zion National Park & Valley of Fire 

Day two, you’ll drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park.

It only takes about 2.5 hours direct to drive along this scenic route, with breathtaking views.

So you have some time to play with if you want a little extra time in Las Vega s. Or take a stop at  Valley of Fire along the way, as the geology and formations are different from Utah, which is interesting to  compare. 

LOCAL TIP: You lose one hour on the drive as Las Vegas is on PST and Utah is MDT.

Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire is a Nevada State Park less than an hour from Las Vegas. 

You can stop here for an hour, or half a day.  Visit the Visitors Centre first, to get the scoop on what’s open, where to hike and more. 

In the Valley of Fire you can see hoodoos, caves, 2000 year old petroglyphs and wildlife. Keep your eyes open for Big Horn Sheep, snakes, and vultures. 

The Beehives is an easy stop with kids which takes only a short time. Enjoy the strange beehive looking sandstone formations and desert flora and fauna. Climb to the top of a dome to see what you can see.

If you are hiking around, make sure you have a good travel and hiking backpack for your kids, to carry their own water bottle, a snack, and a light jacket or sweater.

Other Valley of Fire ideas include:

• Enjoy the landscape – drive along Mouse’s Tank Road
• Check out Elephant Rock – near the east entrance
• Climb to Rainbow Vista – this 1 mile hike offers  a panoramic viewpoint of the Valley of Fire. The last bit is a hill climb.
• Hike the Fire Wave – one of the most gorgeous spots in the valley, this 1.5mile out and back  hike will take you to amazing white and red patterned sandstone. Photo op!

Things to know:   Day use fees are $15 per vehicle for non-Nevada license plates ($10/car with). There is also no food services in the park, so make sure you pack lots of water and food.

Cool fact: This park derives its name from red sandstone formations, the Aztec Sandstone, created 150 Million years ago by shifting sand dunes.

Where to Stay in Zion 

The closest town to Zion National Park is Springdale, UT, which is about a 30 minute drive from the park itself. This tiny town has a population of less than 1,000 people, so  tourists make up a vast majority of the people in this town.

As parking is limited at the Zion Visitors Centre, and you need to use a shuttle in the Zion Canyon portion most of the year, we recommend staying close to the park.

• Zion Lodge – In the Park is the only lodging (besides camping) available in the park itself. While more rustic accommodations, it gives you access to the park, and stargaze worthy skies right from your front door.
• Cable Mountain Lodge is a fabulous choice for its proximity to the park, plus it has a pool, great amenities, and beautiful Zion views. It’s within walking distance to the park entrance. So you can leave your car at the Lodge, and only have to take the Zion Canyon Shuttle in the park itself. 

Springdale, UT Hotels

Other family friendly options if you prefer staying in Springdale, UT  near Zion National Park:

• Affordable & Traveller’s Favorite Chain Hotel – Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park
• Cliffrose Springdale  Curio Collection by Hilton

👉 Check out all the Best places to stay in & near Zion & Bryce

Day Three: Zion National Park

Day three will be a full day in Zion National Park . The Zion Canyon section of the park is popular, and for good reason.

From stunning Canyon views, to once in a lifetime hikes to instagram worthy shots in the Narrows and Angel’s Landing, this picturesque park really highlights the beauty of this earth. 

Day Three: Zion Itinerary includes:

• Sunrise walk along Pa’rus Trail (up to 2 hours): If ambitious, wake up early and watch the sun’s rays light up the Towers of the Virgin. This easy, multi use trail starts at the Visitors Centre and follows the Virgin River towards the Canyon Junction for 3.5mi / 5.6km. You don’t have to walk far to see stunning views.
• Riverside Walk (1.5 hours): To beat the worst of the crowds , shuttle early morning all the way to the last stop, #9 Temple of Sinawava, and the start of the Riverside Walk. This trail is an easy, paved, and wheelchair accessible path ending at the river and the start of The Narrows hike. The Narrows is a strenuous hike in the river itself, so requires proper gear and preparation to do the full hike. It is fun though to dip your toes in the river and  hike a little ways along the Narrows, for the experience.
• Zion Lodge for Lunch: Take Shuttle to Zion Lodge for Lunch. Picnic on the grass or eat at the restaurant. Make reservations ahead, as the restaurant does get busy.
• Hike the Lower Emerald Pools trail (1 hour)  – after lunch head to the trailhead near the lodge and walk this easy 1.2mi / 1.9km roundtrip trail. This is a fun hike for kids, as you can walk behind the misty waterfall and wends its way through a shady forest so perfect for those hot summer months. You can extend the hike by also walking the Upper or Middle Emerald Pools trails as well.
• Visit  the Zion Human History Museum (1 hour)  – On the way back to the Visitors Centre, make a stop at the Zion Museum if it’s open. Learn more about the rich human history of the park from American Indian Culture, to pioneer settlement and the effects of water in Zion. 
• Sunset watching – Take a Zion sunset jeep tour to watch the sun go down over Zion National Park.
• Stargazing – The open night skies are the perfect place for stargazing. Ranger led  fascinating stargazing tours (seasonal) are an option
• Stargazing at Kolob Canyon Viewpoint on the other side of the park – If you haven’t worn out your hiking legs by this point, the Timber Creek Overlook Trail starts at the viewpoint and is only a 30 minute hike that  follows the ridge to views of Timber Creek, Kolob Terrace, and the Pine Valley Mountains

Grab your free Mini Road Trip Planner Here:

Check out these not to miss Zion activities if you have more time:

• Popular Guided Tour – Guided Tour to Peekabo Slot Canyon in Kanab, UT close by.
• Horseback Riding – Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride
• Jeep Tour – East Zion Checkerboard Overlook Jeep Tour
• Zion UTV Tours – Fun family friendly UTV Tours with sandboarding & hikes through Peekaboo Canyon

Things to know about Zion: 

Zion Shuttle – During the busy tourist season, cars are not allowed in the Zion Canyon portion of the park. You will have to use the Zion Canyon Shuttle , unless you’ve booked  a tour.

Phone and cell service in Zion is almost non-existent , so come prepared for that. Wifi available at Zion Lodge for a fee.

Tips for kids: The National Parks Junior Ranger program is a fun thing to do with kids in parks across the US. Zion’s is fantastic as well. 

This program offers fun and educational activities for kids to do while they are out exploring. You can pick up the Junior Ranger Handbook at the Visitors Center, or download from the NPS website.

LOCAL TIPS: Check out our top kid friendly tips for beating the crowds and heat in Zion .

Day Four: Zion to Bryce Canyon

Day four is focused on seeing more of Zion Canyon in the am, then driving to Bryce Canyon in later afternoon or early evening.

Day four Zion to Bryce itinerary includes:

• Weeping Rock & Court of Patriarchs (1.5 Hours)  (If open) & Watchman Trail (2 hours)  OR
• Angels Landing Trail (4 hours) – Everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs to have a permit.
• Drive to Bryce Canyon (1.5 -2 hours)

Get an early morning start by taking the first shuttle out to Weeping Rock then back to the viewpoint of the Court of Patriarchs.

As of this writing they are closed due to rockfall, so check ahead to see if they’ve re-opened.

For easy to moderate hiking, choose the Weeping Rock, Court of Patriarchs and Watchman Trail option:

• Weeping Rock is an easy, short but steep 30 minute return hike. Stop at Shuttle Stop #7. This trail ends at a rocky alcove, where the porous rock seeps water, hence the name. Look out for exhibits along the way.
• Court of Patriarchs is at Shuttle Stop #4, and is a quick and easy two-minute trail to a viewpoint above the trees. Here you can see the Patriarchs – Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as The Sentinel and Mount Moroni. Stop in early morning as the light starts to peak above the Patriarchs.
• Watchman Trail (2 hours) is a delightful moderate, family friendly  hike that starts right from the Visitor’s Centre. This is a great option if the Zion Canyon Shuttle is busy, as there’s no need to take it! The Watchmen Trail follows the Virgin River ending at a viewpoint of the whole area. See if you can identify the Temples & Towers, lower Zion Canyon, Watchman Peak and Springdale town in the distance.

👉 Grab more fun Zion ideas: Comprehensive One Day Guide to Zion National Park

Angels Landing

Choose Angels Landing if you want the full Zion experience, and can handle a strenuous hike.

One note, there can be up to an hour or more wait to summit and take your pics, during the busiest months.

Angels Landing via the West Rim Trail is a strenuous, but rewarding 4 hour return hike to the infamous red rock at the edge of the world photo op.

This hike however is not suitable for young kids, or people who are afraid of heights, as there are long drop offs, and the last bit is a steep narrow trail to the summit.

LOCAL TIP: Everyone who hikes Angels Landing now needs to have a permit.

How Far is Bryce Canyon from Zion?

Bryce Canyon is approximately 80 miles (128 km) from Zion, and  the drive takes about  1.5 -2 hours. Drive the Zion – Mt Carmel Highway through the Zion tunnel, built in the rock in the 1930’s. Continue following route 89 north, towards Bryce Canyon, until you get to route 12. Turn onto Route 12 east, until you reach Bryce Canyon City.

• Canyon Overlook Trail – If you have the time and desire, pull into the parking lot on the right, just after the Zion Tunnel for the Canyon Overlook Trail. This is a one hour easy to moderate trail (1 mi / 1.6km round trip) to a wonderful viewpoint for Pine Creek and the Lower Zion Canyon.

There is so much to see and do in both Zion and Bryce, that there really is no need to stop along the way. 

However if you are looking for more to do, Red Canyon in the Dixie National Forest is a fun place to stop.

Enjoy the vermilion-colored rock formations and ponderosa pine forests. The Birdseye Trail is a moderate 0.8-mile hike with close-up views of this spectacular rock.

Day Five: Bryce Canyon One Day Itinerary

Bryce Canyon is such a gorgeous area, known for its hoodoo rock formations. I’ve put together our family friendly one day itinerary that takes in some short hikes, and drivable viewpoints. 

👉 Want more Bryce Canyon ideas? Grab your Complete Guide: What not to miss in one day in Bryce

Things to know about Bryce Canyon National Park:

Bryce Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, year round, with the closest town being Bryce Canyon City. You will need to buy a pass to enter.

Parking can be a challenge in Bryce, so the parks service recommends taking their free Bryce Canyon Shuttle service.

It can pick you up from major hotels in Bryce Canyon City and drop you off at the four most iconic viewpoints of Bryce Canyon National Park; Bryce, Inspiration, Sunset, and Sunrise Points.

If you’re driving, we recommend the Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour , to listen and learn as you drive the park.

✅ Grab the Zion & Bryce Self-Driving Tour

The park is broken up into three scenic areas: 

• Bryce Amphitheatre – Sunrise & Sunset Points, Inspiration Point, Bryce Point, portions of the Rim Trail, and trailheads for Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden Trails.
• Scenic Southern Drive (includes the Natural Bridge and Rainbow Point); and 

One Day in Bryce Canyon Itinerary

As you only have one day in Bryce, focusing on the Bryce Amphitheatre area is a must. Especially if it’s your first time.

Morning Activities in Bryce Canyon include: 

• Watch the Sunrise – Choose either Sunrise, Sunset or Bryce Point  if ambitious, and early risers.
• Check out the Visitor’s Centre, located at the entrance to the park, just beyond the pay stations. Knowledgeable rangers can give you all the latest park info, and help plan your day.
• Early Morning Hike to Mossy Cave (start by 9am) & Picnic Snack – Mossy Cave Trail is located along highway 12, and is a very kid-friendly easy hike to a small you guessed it mossy cave, and waterfall. The hike only takes about an hour, and is a streamside meander  following the river, coming up close to hoodoos, and arches. It’s extremely popular as it’s the only trail that doesn’t require a 1,000 foot descent into the Amphitheatre . So go well before 10 am or after 6 pm to avoid the crowds.
• Lunch at Bryce Lodge (make reservations) – Bryce Lodge restaurant  is one of the few food services in the Park. You can also check out the General Store (at Sunrise Point) or the Valhalla Pizzeria & Coffee Shop adjacent to the Lodge for food.

Afternoon Activities include: 

Your afternoon In Bryce Canyon will focus on hiking in the Bryce Amphitheatre . To experience the beauty of hoodoos and brilliant shades of red and orange, plus taking in other viewpoints. 

Three hiking options to choose from:

• Easy Hike (1 hour) – Sunset Point to Sunrise Point (or vice versa) . This part of the Rim Trail is partially paved and is the easiest trail in the park for views of the hoodoos and amphitheater from above.
• Moderate Hike (2-3 hours) – Recommended hike –  Navajo Loop Trail & Queen’s Garden Trail ( Start at Sunset Point). For the full Bryce Canyon, hike in a clockwise direction down the Queen’s Garden Trail to see wide awesome views of the Bryce Amphitheater in front of you, then back up through the Navajo Loop Trail.
• Moderate Hike (1-2 hours ) – Easiest into Bryce Amphitheater – Queen’s Garden Trail Start at Sunrise Point following the Rim Trail, before descending into the canyon. For an up close look at the hoodoo and arches formed of rock, worn by erosion. Trail ends at the Queen Victoria walk.

Next drive or Shuttle to the following Viewpoints:

• Inspiration Points:  Lowest viewpoint, so you feel closest to hoodoos.
• Bryce Point: Bryce Point is the most famous and popular viewpoint. The sunset from here is spectacular. Here you can view the entire Bryce Canyon amphitheater from a cliff-side viewing area.

Evening Activities – Dinner &  Stargazing

If you still have energy, star gazing is a must!

Take a walk along the Rim Trail between Sunrise  at Sunset Point. You can stargaze along the way, or at either point.

Where to eat: After all this hiking, and outdoors time you and your travel companions will be hungry.

For dinner try out the Stone Hearth Grille , but make sure to make reservations ahead of time, to avoid disappointment. Open March thru October – 5 to 9 PM

Where to stay in Bryce Canyon, UT

There are fewer places to stay here in Bryce Canyon  than in and around Zion National Park.

In the park itself, you have the Bryce Lodge or camping at the North Campground and the Sunset Campgrounds. Both have about 100 sites, but do not have RV hookups for electrical, sewer or water.

Here are some other highly recommended and reviewed accommodation options near the National Park.

Family Friendly Places To Stay Near Bryce Canyon

• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel  is one of the nicer hotels in the area, and should be top of your list of where to stay in Bryce Canyon City. Guest love their free breakfast, an outdoor pool and fitness area and easy access to the shuttle route to the park are some of its perks.
• Luxe Bryce Canyon home is a family friendly option with a bit more room to play with.  In addition to three bedrooms, there’s a child’s playground, free WIFI and parking and a kitchen. Which is perfect if you are looking to do a little cooking yourself. Plus as it’s only 1 mile from the park so you can be there in no time at all. 
• Bryce Glamp And Camp is a cool alternative to camping, in mountain view luxury domes . Includes kitchenette, bathrooms, space for up to 4 people, all in a stunning setting.

👉 Grab more ideas of the best places to stay between Bryce and Zion

Day 6: Bryce Canyon to Page, AZ (Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend & Lake Powell )

Ideally you would have two  days in the Page, AZ and Lake Powell area , when heading to the American Southwest.

With only one, you’ll need to make some choices. Leave Bryce Canyon, UT early in the morning to ensure you have a full day in this area, and arrive in Page, AZ by breakfast time.

Visiting Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, as well as boating or swimming in Lake Powell are all fun things to do with kids of all ages. 

If you arrive by breakfast , you’ll have time to spend half a day visiting Antelope Canyon and/or Horseshoe Bend, then the other half doing water sports, boat tour, or hanging out on the beach at Lake Powell.

Things to know :

Antelope Canyon : Antelope Canyon is a sacred place for the Navajo people, and they believe that this canyon is where you go to pay respect to Mother Nature. So be respectful during your visit.

• You also must take a guided tour of Antelope Canyon.
• You can check out all our tips and recommendations for Antelope Canyon tours here .

Where to Eat: Stop in at R.D. Drive-In   at 143 S Lake Powell Blvd in Page, AZ for family friendly eats. This family owned business serves everything from hamburgers, burritos and chicken sandwiches to dipped cones, and desserts.

The “Rainbows” an ice cream-slushie combo, are perfect for a hot day.

How far is Bryce Canyon to Page, AZ

The drive from Bryce Canyon to Page, AZ is about 150 mi / 243km and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Follow route 12 back to route US-89 S, past the Zion Junction and straight to Page, AZ. Lake Powell is located off route 89, about 15 minutes before Page as well. 

Antelope Canyon, AZ

Antelope Canyon is located  a 20 minute drive east of Page, Arizona in the Navajo Nation.

This  area is actually two slot canyons, the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon , plus the Antelope Canyon X. 

You aren’t allowed to wander around on your own, and must take a guided tour of Antelope Canyon .

The world of sandstone and the wavy, orange, red, and tan hues of the canyon walls beckon.

• Upper Antelope Canyon: The Upper Antelope is considered the easiest canyon to travel, as its entrance and length are both at ground level. This slot canyon is a 660 feet long, in-and-out trail which is great for families with smaller children who are preschool age or younger. If you’re visiting in summer for the famous light beams, visit between 11:00am and 1:30pm.
• Lower Antelope Canyon: Lower Antelope Canyon is a lesser travelled one-way trail that is approximately 1,335 feet long, which gets great light year round.
• Antelope Canyon X: This canyon is the shortest walk at only 334 feet in and out. It does have some light beams, and lighting is good before 2pm.

Antelope Canyon Tours

As you must book a tour to be able to visit Antelope Canyon . Here are a few of the most popular choices, that also allow children.

Tours typically leave from Page, AZ and take between 1 and 2.5 hours. 

For the Upper Canyon Tours try this popular 90 minute small group Antelope Canyon Tour. Experience the narrow slot canyon made of dramatic sandstone wall, while learning the history and geology of the area.

For Lower Antelope, these 60 minute family friendly tours are a blast. Walk, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of the area, which is shallower than the Upper Canyon.

Horseshoe Bend, AZ

Horseshoe Bend, in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is located 7 miles from Antelope Canyon. You can hike, fly over or boat along this 1000 ft (305 m) deep, horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. 

The overlook hike is a gentle slope of 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round-trip, over flat terrain, suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and hikers. There are even two shade stations, as it is a very sunny and hot trail.

Horseshoe Bend is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The busiest times are between 9:00am to 11:00am in the morning and 4:30pm to 6:30pm in the evening. 

Horseshoe Bend parking lot and trailhead is located off US Highway 89. The City of Page, AZ charges $10/car to park. 

LOCAL TIP: Watch your kids carefully. While some areas have railings, it is a 1,000 ft /305 m drop to the Colorado River below.

Lake Powell 

Lake Powell twists and winds its way for 186 mi /299 km straddling  Utah and Arizona.

Here you can rent house boats to small watercraft including kayaks and jet skis at the Wahweap Marina and even do boat tours. Lake Powell Resort is the main rental place for these.

Lake Powell is the perfect way to spend the afternoon, or a full day. Waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, cliff jumping and spending time at the beach are all favourite activities here. 

Lake Powell is also a world class fishing destination, for all you anglers out there. Try fishing for northern pike, wide-mouth bass, catfish, crappie, and  walleye.

Cool Fact: Lake Powell is a man made lake, formed after the  Glen Canyon dam’s diversion tunnels closed in 1963. Did you know that it took 17 years for the lake to reach its full capacity? Nope me neither.

Where to stay in Page and Lake Powell, AZ:

Page and Lake Powell, AZ can provide you with many unique accommodation options from renting houseboats, to camping on the beach, or more traditional hotels, motels and resorts. I’m all for renting a houseboat, how cool is that. 

Lake Powell Accommodations

Camping – Lone Rock Beach – Lone Rock Beach is a gem, as it is the only beach you can drive onto for camping. Come out of your tent in the morning to impeccable views of the Lone Rock monolith. Fun fact: “The Impossible Astronaut,” the first episode of the sixth season of Doctor Who, was filmed at Lone Rock Beach. 

Lakeside Resort: Lake Powell Resort located at the Wahweap Marina is a fun option. With a restaurant onsite, family rooms, pool,  fridges in room, plus easy access to their boat tours and rentals, it’s a one stop place to stay.

Family friendly places to stay in Page, AZ 

• Family Favourite with Mountain Views : Country Inn and Suites by Radisson (Page, AZ) – What families love : includes free  breakfast, family rooms, fitness centre, free private parking, and gorgeous mountain views. Restaurant onsite.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powell (Page, AZ) – What guests love : The indoor Pool, free hot breakfast buffet and Wifi. Family rooms available.   5 Minutes from Horseshoe Bend and 15 from Lake Powell Marina.
• Pet Friendly: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham (5 minutes from Lake Powell) – What guests love: Pet friendly with free breakfast & wifi plus an outdoor pool and laundry access. The Days Inn offers panoramic views of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, the Navajo Indian Reservation, and the Vermillion Cliffs along the Colorado River
• Budget Friendly: Lake Powell Motel & Apartments (Page, AZ) – What guests love: Homey feel, budget friendly, and units with kitchens and patio garden views. Free WiFi and private parking. Very clean and family friendly.

Day Seven: Page, AZ to South Rim of Grand Canyon & Las Vegas

The Grand Canyon was formed over 200 million years ago by erosion and the Colorado River.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sight to behold. 

If you have an extra day you might consider spending more than half a day here, then taking a more leisurely drive back to Las Vegas, the next day.

The drive from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas has some great spots to stop along the way.

Drive from Page, AZ to Grand Canyon

The fastest route from Page, AZ to the Grand Canyon, South Rim is approximately  150 miles, and just under 3 hour drive. If you have time, stop at Horseshoe Bend along the way, for epic photos, if you didn’t have a chance yesterday.

South Rim of the Grand Canyon

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon gives you the iconic views  of what you think of as the Grand Canyon.

View chiseled rock, amongst the great depths of the winding Colorado River. More facilities including the Visitors Centre, accommodations and restaurants are  located at the South Rim. So it’s a good place for a first visit. 

As you’ll only have about half a day, you’ll need to be choosy about what you want to see.

• For a first time visitor, a visit to the Grand Canyon Village and Hermit Road  / walk along the Rim Trail is a must. 

Stop first at the Visitors Centre, and the Mather Point viewpoint. Then take a walk along the Trail of Time between Yavapi Point and the Grand Canyon Village.

Follow your adventure up by taking the shuttle along the rest of Hermit Road.

Jump on and off at various viewpoints as you are inspired. You can also hike the full 7 mile Rim Trail and catch the shuttle back.

Here is a list of family friendly things to do on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon:

• Grand Canyon Visitor Center – Stop in for your  free map of area. Take a few moments to  visit the geological exhibits, watch the documentary, and see historic artifacts. You can also buy souvenirs, rent bikes,  and check out their ranger led programs.
• Drive along the Rim Road or take the park and ride options along 4 routes. 
• Mather Point Viewpoint – short walk from Visitor Center for your first majestic views. Can walk along the trail from Mather Point to the next viewpoint Yavapi or drive.
• Yavapai Point – Yavapi Point  has fabulous views at sunset for that WOW factor.
• The Trail of Time – The Trail of Time is the easiest part of the Rim Trail which running 1.3 miles between Yavapai Geology Museum and Grand Canyon Village. Perfect for families with little kids.
• Grand Canyon Village – The Grand Canyon Village started growing in 1901, when the steam train arrived. Several historic buildings from that area are here to check out, including the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, the Hopi House,  Kolb Studio and the historic landmark El Tovar.
• Hermit Road   – 7 mile scenic drive from Grand Canyon Village to West Rim. You’ll need to hike, bike or use the shuttle in summer as cars are not allowed between March and November.  See 10 awe inspiring viewpoints of the Grand Canyon.
• Desert View Drive – 25 mile long scenic drive from GC Village to the Desert View Watchtower in the east. Has about 10 pullouts and viewpoints a long the way. Climb the Watchtower for epic views.
• Sunrise or sunset – Maricopa Point, Hopi Point or Yavapi Point

Things to know:

Grand Canyon National Park:

• As with all National Parks there are fees to enter. $35 / car which is good for seven days.   
• Grand Canyon is a remote area, so make sure you carry an extra set of car keys, your car is gassed up and in good repair. The nearest gas station and mechanic is not close by. 
• Hermit Road is only open to private cars December to February. You will need to use the shuttle the rest of the year. 

Drive from Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

The drive back to Las Vegas from the South Rim or the Grand Canyon Village is roughly 4.5hrs.

There are a few places you may want to consider stopping along the way if you have some extra time.

• Route 66 from Flagstaff to Kingman, Arizona – explore Historic Downtown and Railroad District of Flagstaff to learn more about its history and visit the Wupatki National Monument.
• Bearizona Wildlife Park , Williams, AZ  (short distance from Flagstaff) – Drive through Safari Park. You can see bears, elks, mountain goats, mule deer, wolves, and bison, in a more natural habitat. Pet some animals at the petting zoo.
• Hoover Dam – if you didn’t visit when you first arrived in Las Vegas.
• Lake Mead Recreation Area – The reservoir is created by the Hoover Dam and is a pleasant place to stop for a picnic. It’s also a popular summer destination for boating and lake cruises, kayaking, swimming, biking and hiking the trails. 

How Long Is the Drive From Zion To Bryce Canyon?

The drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon takes around 1.5 hours directly, and is about 80 miles / 128km. There are plenty of stops and sights to see as you drive if you have extra time. Some of the highlights include Many Pools Slot Canyon, Red Hollow Slot Canyon, Red Canyon, and a detour to Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Should you spend more time in Bryce or Zion?

Zion needs more time than Bryce, as it is a larger, more spread out park with longer hiking options, such as the Narrows and Angels Landing. The minimum amount of time you will need is two days in Zion and one day in Bryce Canyon. Zion is a much busier, more difficult park to navigate, given you must use the Zion Canyon Shuttle most of the year.

Planning for at least three days will give you enough time to do those not-to-miss hikes, take some epic photographs and see the best viewpoints. 

How Far is Bryce Canyon from Antelope Canyon?

Bryce Canyon to Antelope Canyon is about a 160 mi / 257 km drive, which takes about 3 hours via US-89 S. Antelope Canyon is located near the Arizona / Utah border, just east of Page Arizona. 

How far is Grand Canyon from Antelope Canyon 

The Grand Canyon is  147 mi / 236km from Antelope Canyon and is about  a 3 hour drive. Due to the relatively short distance, Antelope Canyon is a popular day trip from the Grand Canyon. 

The most common route is via AZ-64 E to US-89 N through the Navajo Nation.

If AZ-64E is closed you will need to drive the long way around, through Flagstaff, AZ. It’s a bit longer of a drive at 221 mi / 355 km and will take approximately  3 hour and 45 minutes.

Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon: One Week Family-Friendly Itinerary

Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce is one of the best road trips in the USA for good reason. Gorgeous ever changing landscapes, this route offers nature at its best. From dramatic waterways, to slot canyons, and wildlife, this is a one week trip you and your family are sure not to forget.

Related family travel destinations and travel planning tips:

• Simple ways to save money on road trips
• Fun RV Gift Ideas
• 150 Road Trip Questions to spark conversations
• Easy Road Trip Activities for Toddlers & Preschoolers
• Best Walkie Talkies for Road Trips

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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great overview, however, there are no hotels listed for grand canyon?….any help in that regard?

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Planning a trip to Zion National Park

With insider tips from real park rangers

The jewel of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks, Zion is home to some of the most iconic views and trails in the National Park Service. And everyone seems to know it. Overcrowding at this park is common. But if you know where to go, you can find an escape on even the busiest of summer weekends. 

Written for you by park rangers

Who knows a national park best? Yep, the rangers who live and breathe its fresh, clean air every day. That’s who we turned to for help in creating this guide. Roadtrippers has partnered with the Association of National Park Rangers and convinced its rangers to spill their secrets for your benefit.

Getting to Zion National Park

Timing your visit to zion national park, things to do in zion national park, hiking in zion national park, staying in and around zion.

• Eating in and around Zion
• How many days for Zion

Your Zion National Park map

Here’s a map of all the highlights in this guide. Use it to plan your trip to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport (LAS) is the closest major airport to Zion. From Las Vegas, the drive is about three hours. Alternatively, you could fly into Salt Lake City (SLC) and drive five hours to the park. There’s a smaller airport in St. George (SGU) which has service on American (from Dallas and Phoenix), Delta (from Salt Lake City), and United (from Denver and Los Angeles). While the airport is conveniently located just an hour from the park gates, flights tend to be more expensive. 

Because of astronomical visitation numbers, the park has increased service on the free Zion Canyon Shuttle through the park. It now runs daily from March to November with some additional weekends in February. During these periods, shuttles arrive as often as every seven minutes. However, simply getting into the park and finding a parking spot can still be extremely challenging. By 9 a.m., most lots are full. Consider paying for parking in the gateway town of Springdale and hopping on the free Springdale Shuttle to the visitor center.

When the Zion Canyon Shuttle is running, you can’t take your own vehicle on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, but you can drive on Highway 9 through the southern portion of the park from Mount Carmel Junction to Springdale. Regardless of whether you’re just driving through or not, you’ll be required to pay the park entrance fee. Large vehicles (wider than 7’10” and/or taller than 11’4”) are required to pay an additional $15 for a tunnel permit and must be escorted through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Escort hours vary; make sure to check online in advance. Some vehicles are prohibited, so read the rules prior to your visit.

Unlike many national parks, Zion is a year-round destination. Peak visitation spans nearly the entire year with large crowds possible from February through November. Know that no matter when you visit, the temperature will likely change dramatically throughout the day—sometimes by as much as 30°F—so wear layers. 

Utah schools have a fall break in mid-October that may not be on your radar when planning a visit. After all, October is typically an ideal time to visit most national parks because of decent weather and thinner crowds. However, at Zion, the crowds seen during fall break can rival those seen during the summer season.

With close proximity to Springdale and seamless shuttle access, Zion is one of the easiest national parks to get to, which is both a blessing and a curse. Crowding here is a real issue. But the scenery is so stunning, you’ll find it worth any inconvenience. 

Zion has two regions: the uber-popular Zion Canyon and less-visited Kolob Canyons. While Zion Canyon has the famous sites, Kolob offers impressive landscapes on long-distance trails. In fact, the trails here only see 20 percent of the Zion Canyon traffic.

Visitor centers Zion has two visitor centers: Zion Canyon Visitor Center near the south entrance in Springdale and Kolob Canyons Visitor Center in the northwest corner of the park. Both centers are staffed by rangers who can answer any questions that you may have about your visit. Plus, check out the long list of ranger-led activities throughout the park.

Visitors can see the 22-minute park film at the Zion Human History Museum near the south entrance. You also can stop in the Zion Nature Center just north of South Campground.

If you’re visiting with kids (ages 4-13), pick up their Junior Ranger booklets at any visitor center—or better yet, avoid the long lines at the information desk by downloading them online before you come.

Sunrise, sunset, and star viewing For one of the most memorable moments of your Zion vacation, you’ll need to wake up early… really early . Watch the changing colors on the rocks as the sun creeps up at the Canyon Overlook Trail viewpoint. You’ll need to make a pre-dawn drive to the Upper East Canyon and hike in about a half mile. Make sure to arrive early enough; you won’t want to miss it. Another good location for sunrise photography is the Towers of the Virgin behind the Zion Nature Center.

For sunset, head to the bridge over the Virgin River near the Canyon Junction shuttle stop or go to the viewpoint at the end of Kolob Canyons Road. The sand formations along Kolob Canyon Terrace also are dramatic in the late-afternoon sun.

The night skies over Zion are something to behold. Again, the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint is a perfect spot. Look eastward toward the cliffs for the darkest skies. In Zion Canyon, watch from the museum patio or paved Pa’rus Trail .

Biking Biking is permitted on all park roads including Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and on Pa’rus Trail, a 1.75-mile paved path that hugs the Virgin River from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Canyon Junction. You’re not allowed to ride your bike through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.

Zion National Park Visitor Center

Kolob Canyons Visitor Center

Know this: It’s impossible to have a bad view in Zion. So while you may be tempted to head out on the most well-trodden hikes in the park, the reality is that on busy days, you’re not going to enjoy yourself as much if you’re sharing the trails with hordes of people. Remember, there are more trails in the park than just Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.

Zion Canyon

Emerald Pools The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is an easy, family-friendly, 1.2-mile (round trip) paved path that leads to the gorgeous green waters of the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls. The entire hike takes about an hour. The Upper Emerald Pool Trail is slightly more challenging, as it climbs to the pool at the base of a cliff. It’s a 3-mile hike when added to the end of the Kayenta Trail.

Weeping Rock Short and steep, the Weeping Rock Trail showcases Zion’s hanging gardens. Here you can catch water droplets that have been making their way through the canyon walls for 1,200 years.

Angel’s Landing The 5.4-mile (round trip) Angel’s Landing Trail (via the West Rim Trail) is not for the faint of heart. The trail has steep drop-offs, and there are sections where only a chain provides support as visitors pass in both directions. The trail takes you to a central peak in the middle of Zion Canyon. The out-and-back trail includes 1,500 feet of elevation gain and takes roughly four hours to hike. If you’re not confident in your own footing, do not hike this trail. Furthermore, it’s not appropriate for young children or those with a fear of heights. If you’re looking for an easier option, choose the 1-mile (round trip) Canyon Overlook Trail . Located on the east side of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, this trail is not on the shuttle route and requires you to drive your own vehicle to the trailhead.

Parking is extremely limited here, so arrive early in the day.

The Narrows The Narrows is an unforgettable gorge with soaring walls, sandstone grottos, natural springs, and hanging gardens in the upper reaches of Zion Canyon. It measures 16 miles long, up to 2,000 feet deep, and at points, only 20 to 30 feet wide. It’s a hike not to be taken lightly.

You begin the hike at Temple of Sinawava on the paved Riverside Walk that follows the Virgin River. This trail is popular and quite crowded. The herd starts to thin when you reach the river crossing. From this point on, hiking The Narrows means hiking in the river. In fact, at least 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, walking, or swimming in the water; proper footwear is imperative. 

The river is cold, no matter how hot the day may be, and much of  the hike is in the shade.

Before you attempt to hike The Narrows, make sure to check in with park rangers at the visitor center. There is a real and serious threat of flash flooding in the gorge, especially in mid-summer and fall. It’s safest to hike when there’s little chance of rain in the forecast. If you heed the warnings and prepare for the conditions, this hike likely will be the most memorable of your trip.

The water can get deep for young children; consider hiking The Narrows with older children only.

If you’re looking to do the more grueling 16-mile, 12-hour hike from the top of The Narrows or to camp overnight, you’ll need a permit .

Kolob Canyons

If the crowds are thick, consider hiking the 14-mile (round trip) trail to Kolob Arch , one of the largest natural arches on earth. Alternatively, if you’re just looking for views on this side of the park, consider the Timber Creek Overlook Trail where you can see as far as Mt. Trumbull in the Grand Canyon. 

If you visit during the spring, this section of the park puts on a colorful wildflower show.

Angels Landing Trail

The Narrows

Riverside Walk

The two most popular campgrounds in Zion are South (no RV hookups) and Watchman (some electric sites) near the south entrance; reservations are imperative. Many of the sites are fully exposed to the sun, so expect it to be hot, especially during the summer; the riverside sites are the most desirable.

Lava Point Campground is about a 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on the Kolob Terrace Road. It has six primitive campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. RVs longer than 19 feet are not allowed on the road to the campground.

There are no campgrounds in Kolob Canyons. 

In the center of Zion Canyon, Zion Lodge offers year-round accommodations: historic cabins with two double beds, gas-log fireplace and private porch; and hotel rooms with a private porch or balcony.

In nearby Springdale, expect prices to be on the high side and don’t arrive without reservations. Cliffrose Springdale is just a 10-minute walk to the visitor center. The Cable Mountain Lodge holds the distinction of being the closest to the park’s boundary and has the added benefit of larger units with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens. It’s a great option if you’re part of a larger group visiting the park. 

St. George has numerous hotels that can accommodate most budgets and is about an hour’s drive from the south entrance.

Zion National Park Lodge

Watchman Campground

Eating in and around zion national park.

At Zion Lodge, you’ll find Castle Dome Cafe , a seasonal snack bar with patio seating and more upscale Red Rock Grill with impressive views.

From the visitor center, you can walk into Springdale for a bite to eat. Some favorite spots include:

• Zion Canyon Brew Pub : This restaurant boasts outdoor seating mere feet from the park boundary, but admittedly, you pay for the convenience.  Instead of a full meal, this ranger recommends drinks and a plate of loaded nachos.
• Cafe Soleil : If you’re looking to pick up a picnic lunch, stop here for wraps, sandwiches, and paninis.
• The Park House : In the morning, fuel up before heading out on the trails. The restaurant caters to those looking for vegetarian or vegan options.

Zion Canyon Brewpub

Cafe Soleil

How many days should you plan to spend in zion national park.

While its massive backcountry trail system can make for an incredible extended stay, the unbridled beauty from basically any spot in the park coupled with easy access makes Zion a perfect one-day trip. However, if it’s your first visit, try to spend at least two or three nights and venture to both Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons.

For the perfect road trip, combine a trip to Zion with these other national parks: Arches , Canyonlands , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , and the north rim of the Grand Canyon .

Add Natural Bridges National Monument to the list. It’s an undiscovered gem.

Plan Your Trip Now

Discover the most incredible people, places, and experiences worth the detour. Click below to start your trip to Zion National Park or enter a starting point . Click below to start your trip from to Zion National Park.

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Where to Stay In And Around Zion National Park: Our Favourite Places

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Published On: April 28, 2024

Zion National Park spans over 146,000 acres of pure beauty. You’ve got the teetering climb up Angel’s Landing, the Narrows and its novelty hike through the river, and so many viewpoints that you’ll struggle to decide which to visit first. The hikes just astound you in Zion National Park. But with so much to do, it is no wonder we always get questions about where to stay in Zion National Park and what the best Zion National Park lodging is. After countless visits to this park (Which is one of our favorites in the USA), we put together this deep dive into the area to help you decide.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Stay in Zion National Park

You have a few different options for finding places to stay in Zion National Park. There are limited choices if you’d like to stay inside the park itself (think one hotel and lots of campgrounds), or you can stay in one of the nearby towns, just a short drive or walk to the park entrances. These towns have much more choice in terms of hotels, and you’ll just need to drive into the park each morning to enjoy its popular trails. Zion National Park lodging is pretty varied.

In this guide, we’ll weigh everything up for you to choose the best Zion National Park lodging for your trip. Whether you want a hot tub, fitness center, or private deck overlooking amazing views, we’ve got you covered. Here’s where to stay in Zion National Park.

1. Zion National Park Lodging (Inside The Park)

So, let’s start with the most obvious option first. For many, staying in the park itself makes sense if you’re visiting Zion National Park .  Waking up overlooking red-tinged sandstone views just sounds magical, doesn’t it?

Staying inside the park is possible, but you must be organized or very flexible. There’s only one hotel option with the park – Zion Lodge. We’ll discuss this hotel more in a second. Still, you must understand that if you want a hotel experience inside Zion National Park, check availability and book in advance. Obviously, with just one hotel option, rooms go fast, especially in peak months like summer.

Otherwise, there are many campgrounds to choose from, so pack your tent or start up your campervan: South, Watchman, and Lava Point Campground are all great options. And camping inside Zion National Park is great fun.

Luxury: Zion National Park Lodge

Zion National Park Lodge  is the only hotel actually set within Zion National Park. The historic lodge dates back to 1924 and offers rustic cabins with a ridiculously convenient location. While it might not be the most extravagant luxurious accommodation choice, it definitely qualifies as the most luxurious place to stay in Zion National Park, given that it’s the only place you can bag an actual hotel room. There’s also a quiet, imposing beauty to the property, with a dark wooden exterior lit up against its sandstone cliff backdrop.

Zion National Park Lodge is open year-round and has fantastic views. It’s easily one of the best hotels in the region, and its excellent location sets it apart. There’s an on-site restaurant, free parking, and comforts like free Wi-Fi and TVs in each cabin, room, or suite. If you want comfort inside Zion National Park, you’ll have to check availability at Zion National Park Lodge, which provides easy access to the park’s attractions.

Mid Range: Under Canvas Zion

Okay, we’ll be completely honest:  Under Canvas, Zion   technically  straddles the Zion National Park border on its north-western Kolob Terrace region. However, since the only other options inside the park are campgrounds, we decided to highlight one of the few potential glamping sites. You’ll be right on the Zion border and get a more remote experience with the comfort of deluxe glamping tents.

Guests can enjoy a fire pit, horseback riding tours, hot air ballooning, and on-site yoga sessions. The tents feature huge beds; some have stargazer elements, with transparent sections to admire the night sky. Under Canvas Zion might be a rather cheeky addition to the ‘inside Zion’ section, but the promise of gorgeous glamping sites on the national park border should be a strong enough selling point for you. Definitely check availability for its glamping tents.

Budget Hotel: South Campground

South Campground  is where to stay in Zion National Park if you are a hardy camper and happy to ‘rough it’ to stick to a budget. It is further into the park than its neighbor, Watchman Campground. The campground is basic but has water access, showers, a laundry room, and toilets. There’s even a playground for families.

You can bring a tent or an RV. It is an easy walk into Springdale for town amenities or a stroll to the shuttle for Zion’s main trails and attractions. You are literally minutes away from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Pa’rus Trail. You can also walk to the Zion Human History Museum in as little as 20 minutes. Considering you are camping inside Zion National Park, you still have easy access to more formal attractions and town amenities. It’s a nice balance that makes South Campground worth considering if you’re traveling to Zion on a budget.

Pros Of Staying inside Zion National Park

• It is an excellent location to access all the trails, which gives you a head start if you want to access trails early in the morning to beat the crowds.
• You don’t have as much driving time as you can use the free shuttles and walk around the park. Many attractions are just minutes away from the accommodation in Zion National Park.
• You get gorgeous views galore and experience Zion when most people go home.

Cons Of Staying inside Zion National Park

• You do miss out on amenities like restaurants, with limited choices for dining inside the park. If you want a restaurant meal, you’ll have to head to Springdale, just outside the south Zion National Park Entrance or stay at Zion Lodge so you can dine at the on site restaurant.
• There is little diversity in terms of hotel options and pricing. If you look at hotels outside Zion National Park, you’ll find better value for money.
• You’ll only see Zion rather than get to explore other areas as well.

2. Springdale

Springdale is the trusty second-in-command for staying near Zion National Park; most visitors choose this as their base. If you missed the boat and found Zion National Park Lodge to be booked out or just fancy more hotel options, Springdale is your best shout. The town is literally steps away from the south entrance of Zion National Park, meaning you could still walk to any of its main attractions if you really wanted to – just with the added bonus of more hotel choices and better amenities. Springdale is a great location if you want proximity to Zion’s attractions but a more urban experience than you get from in-park lodging. It is where you can stay in Zion National Park for utter convenience.

Zion’s south entrance is served by a mandatory Zion Canyon Shuttle for much of the year. This shuttle runs through Springdale itself, meaning you don’t even need to spend extra driving time. When staying in Springdale, you’ll be a short walk from your nearest pick-up point.

Aside from being really convenient, Springdale is also a gorgeous town. The small handful of houses, restaurants, and hotels sit against a backdrop of sandstone cliffs, and the Virgin River snakes through the town. Thanks to the scenery, it feels like you are already in the park, and you won’t miss out on any of that ‘wow factor’.

Luxury: Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection

Cliffrose Springdale   is a beautiful 4-star hotel on the riverfront in central Springdale. Upscale and immensely sophisticated, we greatly admire how Cliffrose Springdale balances modern and traditional design. Its stunning architecture uses wood and sandstone to seamlessly blend into the environment while showcasing large, modern windows for abundant natural lighting. Inside, each room offers a private deck or balcony with plush bedding and contemporary decor.

However, the real reason we added this luxury hotel to this guide is its hot tub, fire pits, and seasonal outdoor pool. It has a real outdoor ambiance where guests can relax with different activities after a busy day in Zion National Park. Imagine soaking in a hot tub at your lodging after a long day in Zion.

Furthermore, Cliffrose Springdale is a designated stop on the Springdale shuttle to the park, so reaching the main Zion trails is easy.

Mid Range: Red Rock Inn Cottages

Red Roc k Inn Cottages  has comfortable rooms and an unpretentious vibe. Guests get homely rooms with flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and coffee-making machines. Each room has views of Zion Canyon or the property’s serene garden areas. And if you do want to upgrade your experience, you can splurge on a special room with a private hot tub. Red Rock Inn Cottages are the perfect Zion National Park lodging for anyone wanting a comfortable stay.

Guests get a complimentary breakfast and parking. In summary, Red Rock Inn Cottages is just a beautiful property to use as a base, putting lots of effort into its interior design and making it visually appealing. This lodging is where you can stay in Zion National Park to kick back in a hot tub and embrace homely comforts. Check availability in advance as this is a popular accommodation choice and is open year-round.

Budget: Zion Canyon Cabins

Zion Canyon Cabins  are adorable log cabins situated centrally in Springdale. These cabins are ideal for nature lovers or those who like a more rustic aesthetic. Even better, they are some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Springdale—which, remember, tends to hike accommodation prices up given its incredible location and access to Zion National Park.

Zion Canyon Cabins have a seasonal outdoor pool and communal fire pits. The communal fire pits are great for meeting new people, and there’s an outdoor grill and BBQ area for cooking. It might seem a little pricey, but it’s worth reiterating that Springdale accommodation prices are higher than in other areas. There’s just a premium price tag because of its convenient location. Still, comparably, Zion Canyon Cabins are your best option for snagging the most competitive price.

Pros Of Staying in Springdale

• You can easily catch the shuttle, drive, or walk into Zion National Park. Springdale is really convenient, and it is located next to Zion’s south entrance.
• Springdale has many amenities, including many hotel options and restaurants, so you can budget better with more choices.
• Springdale is widely recognized for its beauty and is a genuinely pretty little town and place to stay. You’ll enjoy a backdrop of sandstone cliffs and the nearby Virgin River; you don’t miss out on natural beauty by staying in Springdale.

Cons Of Staying in Springdale

• Springdale is the top choice amongst those wanting to stay outside Zion National Park, so it gets busy. Remember to check availability and book in advance. Also, be prepared for crowds in peak seasons.
• Springdale needs more attractions (if we are being picky). It is beautiful, but otherwise, it is a launchpad to see Zion National Park rather than a tourist destination in its own right.
• Prices can be slightly hiked up for tourists because Springdale is such a ‘through-town’.

3. Mt Carmel Junction

Cast your eyes to the other side of Zion National Park; Mt. Carmel Junction is a short 15-minute drive from the eastern Zion National Park Entrance. Unlike staying in Springdale, you’ll need to drive your way into the park. It isn’t close enough to be within walking distance, but you’ll be driving to Zion National Park on the Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive. The ‘commute’ into the national park is one of the most scenic drives in the region, and it’s still pretty easy access.

Mt. Carmel Junction is tiny and a really sweet place to stay. If you want somewhere slightly less popular (read: busy) than Springdale, this is where to stay in Zion National Park. It has several restaurants, gift shops, and an all-necessary fuel station. Accommodation is limited, but you have many hotels and RV parks to choose from. If you want to feel a little in the sticks, Mt. Carmel Junction is ideal. It has decent amenities but is much less touristy.

Mt. Carmel Junction is also a great place to explore places apart from Zion National Park. You’re just a short drive from the Belly of the Dragon Trail, which starts by walking through a vast tunnel and Elkhart Cliffs Slot Canyon. You are just a 20-minute drive from Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, too. It’s a great location to get more out of your trip and detour from the standard tourist trail. The nearby hiking trails are much quieter than the major trails in Zion, so it’s a nice balance for your itinerary.

Luxury: Zion Mountain Ranch

Zion Mountain Ranch   is the most luxurious accommodation option in Mt. Carmel Junction. The historic ranch has a mixture of wooden cottages and luxurious suites—all adorned in luxurious, traditional old Western style. And even better, there’s a herd of bison on an on-site reserve, which is amazing for animal lovers and those wanting to spot wildlife when visiting Zion.

There’s parking and an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and evening meals. Zion Mountain Ranch is secluded and a great place to embrace the more rural, authentic atmosphere of Mt. Carmel Junction. Definitely check availability for its stunning suites.

Mid Range: Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge

Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge   is a little more modern, offering fantastic mid-range accommodation in central Mt. Carmel Junction. Guests get access to queen and king rooms, with the option to upgrade to suites. The room decor is light and boutique-style, providing a peaceful space to retreat to after all your sightseeing and hiking in Zion National Park. There are complimentary toiletries in each, as well as in-room entertainment.

You can find a large outdoor pool on-site, 24-hour reception, and laundry facilities. The latter is a nice touch, considering you’ll get so mucky in Zion National Park. Of course, there’s free WiFi and parking, and overall, it is a reasonably priced and comfortable experience in Mt. Carmel Junction.

Budget: Mt. Carmel Motel & RV Park

Located just north of Mt. Carmel Junction’s center is  Mt. Carmel Motel & RV Park , the region’s best budget-friendly accommodation. Mt. Carmel Motel & RV Park is undoubtedly the most competitively priced place to stay in the area, with basic but comfortable rooms and a handy location to head into Zion National Park. The motel is modest and down-to-earth but in a tasteful way.

The motel has only six rooms, so you are guaranteed a more lowkey atmosphere. Each room has a mini fridge, microwave, and coffee machines. Of course, this is great for keeping your eating bills low, and you can upgrade to a cabin option that features its own private kitchen for a self-catered stay, too. If you want a budget stay in the Mt. Carmel area, this motel is for you.

Pros Of Staying in Mt. Carmel Junction

• Mt. Carmel Junction offers a more authentic and less touristy experience. It is more relaxed than other places like Springdale.
• You have loads of different places to sightsee nearby, including slot canyons and trails that take you through tunnels. All of these trails are much quieter than those in Zion National Park, giving you more balance for your itinerary.
• The driving route to Zion National Park takes you on a scenic highway and only takes 15 minutes.

Cons Of Staying in Mt. Carmel Junction

• You aren’t within walking distance of the park, so you must be happy driving.
• There are limited amenities in Mt. Carmel Junction, so it isn’t suited to anyone wanting many bars and restaurants.
• Similarly, you are limited in terms of hotel options. You should book accommodation in advance to avoid it selling out.

4. Hurricane

Hurricane is the furthest option when researching where to stay in Zion National Park, approximately 30 minutes from Zion’s south entrance. So, why bother with the drive? Well, Hurricane is the closest city to the national park, meaning tons of amenities for your visit and lots of entertainment. If you’re more of a city lover, Hurricane is the most entertaining place to stay near Zion National Park.

Hurricane has the Hurricane Valley Heritage Park Museum and Pioneer Corner Museum for tourists. You can also visit Quail Creek State Park, Sand Hollow State Park, and Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It’s a great base to explore many different attractions around Utah. It also has more residential attractions, like a cinema, golf courses, splash pad, coffee shops, and many parks. It’s where to stay in Zion National Park if you want a busier city experience while away from Zion’s hiking trails. You have everything you need on your doorstep.

Hurricane is our top recommendation for anyone who wants endless entertainment choices and many hotel options. If you book a stay in Hurricane, you’ll have a much more packed itinerary.

Luxury: The Dwellings

The Dwellings   is boutique accommodation just north of Hurricane’s center. It’s out of the hustle and bustle and offers tastefully decorated deluxe studios, complete with private terraces. If you want a luxury base in Hurricane, The Dwellings is a fabulous choice. Each studio features a kitchenette and hot drinking-making facilities. Guests have a self-contained living space, with bedrooms and adjoining seating areas, plus ample access to outdoor space.

Spending long days in Zion, it’s nice to know you have somewhere peaceful to retreat to and rejuvenate. For extra peace of mind, there’s parking on-site and family rooms for those who’d like them. The hotel was only built in 2020, so the decor is trendy and tasteful too.

Mid Range: Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane

Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane  is located in the heart of Hurricane and is the place to stay if you want a mid-range property in the heart of the city’s action. As a chain hotel, this property is more like a traditional hotel experience, with a grand lobby and guest room layout. The 3-star hotel has a 24-hour reception desk and a spacious car park. It is a great base in Hurricane and ticks all the necessary boxes for a very reasonable price.

Each room has an ensuite with complimentary toiletries, and you get a fridge that comes in handy for storing grocery-bought food and saving money on eating out. Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane has an onsite outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and business center. Overall, it is a welcoming and reliable base when staying in Hurricane.

Budget: Hurricane Hideaway Lodging

Hurricane Hideaway Lodging  has hotel rooms that are about as central as you can get in Hurricane. You’ll have doorstep access to the city’s entertainment and amenities like restaurants, perfect for getting the most out of your experience. It is only a few minutes on foot from the Hurricane Valley Heritage Park Museum and a tasty Peruvian restaurant, Peruvian Flavors. You are a block away from Hurricane’s shop-lined Route 9. For a budget-friendly rate, great location, and comfortable rooms, you can’t top this hotel.

Each room comes with coffee machines, minifridges, and microwaves. Anyone passionate about budget travel knows the magic of this magic combination. You’ll be able to squirrel away leftover food safely and make the most of grocery shopping. You also get a private bathroom, WiFi, TV, and access to communal outdoor seating. It is a great deal if you want to experience Zion National Park on the cheap.

Pros Of Staying in Hurricane

• You get a city atmosphere with many more activities and entertainment. This is ideal for staying entertained in the evenings when you likely aren’t spending time in Zion National Park anyway.
• Hurricane has many more hotel options, so you can find better deals and rates.
• There’s a lot to explore nearby, including museums in the city center and state parks around its outskirts.
• You are only a 30-minute drive from the national park, which is still very convenient.

Cons Of Staying in Hurricane

• You aren’t within walking distance of the national park, and the drive isn’t gorgeous, like Mt. Carmel Junction’s scenic highway. You’ll need to be happy driving at least an hour return each day.
• Hurricane is a city rather than a scenic town, so you will get a different scenery and views than you would staying in Springdale.
• Hurricane is busy. Get ready for crowds.

FAQ’s About The Best Areas to Stay in Zion

You now know exactly where to stay in Zion National Park. Are you choosing to stay near the quiet eastern entrance? Or beautiful Springdale or the citified Hurricane? Choosing a location is as crucial as deciding on your lodging. Though, of course, weighing up between a hot tub or pool is pretty exciting.

Before you go, though, let’s look at some of the most commonly asked FAQs. Here’s some quickfire information that could help you narrow down your choices.

Where do people stay when visiting Zion National Park?

Most people stay in Springdale, as it’s the closest town outside the national park and has the most hotel and amenities options.

Is it better to stay inside or outside Zion National Park?

It depends on what you enjoy doing. Overall, we’d recommend staying just outside of Zion National Park. You won’t notice much of a difference if you stay in Springdale.

Is it better to stay in Zion or Bryce Canyon?

Both offer similar accommodation choices, with one central hotel in each park and a cluster of hotels near the park entrances. However, Bryce Canyon is generally a little quieter, as Zion National Park is the most popular of the two.

How many days do you need in Zion National Park?

You need at least three days in Zion National Park. We suggest more than three days if you want to hike a few significant trails (think the Narrows and Angels Landing). You’ll need some downtime in between, and you don’t want to tire yourself out on major trails only to miss the shorter routes and experiences.

Where not to stay in Zion National Park

When staying in and around Zion National Park, we recommend staying within a 30-minute drive. You want to maximize your time in the park, and by staying further away, you’ll lose a considerable chunk of your day to driving. This is worse for your energy levels and itinerary and means other people are more likely to beat you to those precious few car parking spots. Make your life easier by staying close to the park and its entrances. Similarly, while vacation rentals and Airbnbs are great, having a more formal lodging site is great for added luxuries at the end of a long day.

These are a few of the places near Zion National Park that we’d suggest avoiding:

Hildale is a town bordered by Colorado City on the Arizona border. It has some pretty gorgeous glamping sites and a history closely interlinked with Warren Jeff’s cult—which is interesting for anyone interested in darker US history.

However, more suitable options exist for those looking to stay near Zion. We recommend avoiding this spot as it takes over an hour to reach the national park by car. Travel time will take up a considerable portion of your day and tire you out before you even arrive.

If you’re looking for glamping, check out Under Canvas Zion instead. It’s located in the Kolob Terrace region, just a 35-minute drive from the park.

2. St. George

St. George is the first port of call when you enter Utah from Nevada, and if you’re driving from Las Vegas, you’ll pass straight through this southwestern city. It’s a cool place, with petroglyphs, dinosaur remains, and doorstep access to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. An excellent place to stop on a road trip? Absolutely. But we wouldn’t recommend staying here if you want to visit Zion National Park.

St. George is just a little bit too far from the park entrance, taking around an hour one way by car. You’ll probably drive through Hurricane, too, which means you often catch city traffic at peak hours.

Instead, stay in Hurricane itself for half your daily journey time and then take a day trip to St. George to see all it has to offer on non-Zion day.

Kanab is difficult to rule out because it is a quirky border town. However, it is a bit too far to justify choosing it for accommodation when visiting Zion National Park. It takes roughly an hour to reach the park from Kanab.

We will say, though, to stay in Mt. Carmel Junction and then make a day trip to Kanab. Kanab has Little Hollywood Land and dozens of nearby trails, including Moqui Cave Natural History Museum and a couple of slot canyons.

Why we love Zion National Park

To be honest, who doesn’t love Zion National Park? The park is overflowing with character and good looks. You can admire the sandstone canyon walks and narrow ridges or walk through rivers. It’s the sort of national park that challenges preconceptions. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the  best national parks in the USA .

Zion National Park is an easy passion point for us as we love our hiking trails and US national parks. There’s so much to see. Check out some of the attractions around Zion National Park, too; don’t just pigeonhole yourself into walking the major trails. Visit the lesser-visited slot canyons and state parks dotted around its edge.

Its surrounding area is just part of Zion National Park’s beauty and allure; deciding where to stay in Zion National Park is a great decision. Whether you pick a spot near a Zion National Park entrance, stay inside the park itself, or pick a more distant base—like the exciting city of Hurricane—we hope you have a wonderful time.

Plan Your Next Trip to Zion With These Resources

• 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah
• Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5
• The Very Best Things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah
• Best National Parks – USA Edition
• 12 Bryce Canyon Hikes That Will Blow You Away

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Mosey to spectacular overlooks, hike to Emerald Pools, walk to Weeping Rock, and stroll on Riverside Walk. These five hikes and a little drive will give you a good idea of what Zion has for those willing to do some planning.

3 Days, 2 Nights in Zion National Park

Drive to Zion National Park

Salt Lake City to Zion: 4 hours 23 minutes, 308 miles Las Vegas to Zion: 2 hours 33 minutes, 160 miles

Check into Accommodations (around 2:00 pm)

Day One Afternoon: Zion Orientation

Scenic Drive Hwy 9 (2-3 hours)

Time this so you can see the sunset (early evening drive). Drive Hwy 9 through Zion National Park, up through the mile-long tunnel and east into the park's  Checkerboard Mesa  area. Pick up a map and guide as you enter the park.

Entrance Fees (good for seven days): $30 per vehicle $25 per motorcycle $15 per pedestrian

Hike Canyon Overlook (1 hour, 1 mi/1.6 km round trip)

This short moderate hike on a well-marked trail leads to an overlook offering incredible views of lower Zion Canyon. If you time it right, the sunset will light up the whole canyon. The trailhead is at the parking lot just beyond the east entrance of the tunnel. Cross the street and begin the easy 1 mile hike. This hike is great for people who want to see a beautiful overlook of Zion who don't necessarily like long hikes and it's great for kids.

Return back to your accommodations by following Hwy 9 back into Springdale.

There are many Restaurants in Springdale for a delicious dinner.

Stop at the local market, Sol Market, to get water and snacks for the day. You will want a day pack to carry things in since you will be gone for the entire day.

Explore Zion Canyon

Catch the park shuttle near your motel/hotel in Springdale. The city shuttle will take you to the park entrance once in the park you will switch to the Zion Canyon shuttle. Get out at each of the shuttle stops to view and photograph the sights, and to hike.

Hike to Emerald Pools

(1 hour, 1.2 mi/1.9 km round trip to the lower pool)

Emerald Pools consists of three different pools. The hike to the lower pool is easy, moderate to the middle pool, and strenuous to the upper pool. Lower route ends at lower pool and three waterfalls and has beautiful views of Zion Canyon.

Eat the snacks you brought or stop at the cafe at Zion Lodge near the trailhead of the Emerald Pools hike.

Weeping Rock (1 hour .4 mi/.64 km round trip)

Take the easy stroll to this alcove where drops of water fall continuously from the cliff face and ceiling. It takes about 5-10 minutes to hike. Hanging gardens decorate the alcove. This is always a favorite with visitors and is cool in the summer. The trail begins at the Weeping Rock parking area in Zion Canyon.

Hike Riverside Walk

(1.5 hours, 2 mi/3.2 km round trip)

Follow the paved trail along the Virgin River upstream to the base of Zion Narrows. The trail winds through hanging gardens of wildflowers in spring and summer. The trail is easy with minor drop-offs. The trail begins at the end of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive- Temple of Sinawava. Add a little extra adventure and incredible scenery by walking up the Virgin River Narrows a mile or two. Bring an extra pair of shoes and a walking stick. The trail is the river and you are walking on slippery rocks as you go up the Narrows.

Eat Dinner in Springdale.

Check out of hotel

Stop at the local market to get water and snacks for the day. Pack a lunch and at least two liters of water. A small backpack is nice to carry items since you will be getting on and off the shuttle and taking short hikes. Take the Zion shuttle to The Grotto stop.

Hike Angels Landing

(4-5 hours, 5 mi/8 km round trip)

Angels Landing  is an amazing hike for people looking for adventure. It's strenuous, has long drop-offs and narrow trails, and is not for anyone fearful of heights. The hike ends at the summit high above Zion Canyon floor. The last .5 mil follows a steep narrow ridge; chains have been added for safety. It is really wide once you get up on top and you get a beautiful bird's eye view up and down the canyon. Eat Lunch. On the way down take your time. Your legs may be tired from the ascent and you want to be sure footed. Note: You need a permit to hike Angel's Landing. Get a permit here .

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Las Vegas to Zion National Park: A One Week Road Trip

A re you looking for a great family road trip? We’ve got the perfect itinerary that is full of natural beauty! Let’s travel from Las Vegas to Zion National Park, and explore the amazing destinations along the way. 

Las Vegas to Zion National Park – Southwest Road Trip

It is possible to take a day trip from Las Vegas to Zion. The drive is 2.5-hours each way, but why rush? You don’t want to breeze past the natural wonders and incredible memories that await you in the American Southwest. And you’ll want at least a couple of days exploring Zion. So we created an 8-day itinerary that showcases some of America’s most unique beauty, even if it means taking a few detours. 

So pack your bags and come along as we create the ultimate Las Vegas to Zion National Park itinerary. 

When is the best time for a Las Vegas to Zion National Park road trip?

Fall is an amazing time for a southwest road trip. The weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. Winter and even spring might include a rare snowfall, and summer can reach extremely high temperatures, especially in the desert. If you have the time, we choose fall, but spring is a good alternative.

Day 1: Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

Begin your journey at the Las Vegas airport (LAS), where you will hire a rental car and head to stop #1 – Grand Canyon National Park. It’s about a four-hour drive to the main park, so we recommend skipping any Vegas sightseeing for now. 

The sooner you arrive at the Grand Canyon, the better. You’ll likely want to allow enough time to check out the visitors center at the park entrance and use the free shuttles to access different viewpoints. Plus, you can stretch your legs along part of the Canyon Rim Trail, which has fantastic views of the canyon and the Colorado River. 

For the best sunset views, head to Hopi Point. After that, you’ll likely be ready to rest up for another exciting day tomorrow. 

Where to Stay

El Tovar Hotel is a historic hotel right on the rim of the Grand Canyon. There’s an onsite restaurant, a nice little gift shop, and free parking. 

Under Canvas Grand Canyon offers a unique glamping experience less than 30 minutes from the National Park. Luxe tents feature private bathrooms and comfortable beds. Plus, there’s a restaurant and fire pits onsite. 

Clear Sky Resorts is about 25 minutes from Grand Canyon Village. Here, you can stay in unique glamping domes with fantastic star-gazing opportunities. 

Day 2: Grand Canyon to Page

On the second day of your adventures, you’ll take your time heading to Page, Arizona. There’s no huge rush to begin this two-hour drive, so finish up any Grand Canyon sightseeing in the morning to make it to Page by early afternoon.

Just south of Page, you’ll want to stop at Horseshoe Bend, which features a ¾-mile hike out to the scenic overlook. This is a great place to see the Colorado River in action, and stretch your legs for a bit. 

The next stop is Glen Canyon Dam, a massive dam set among the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Arizona. This is an easy and quick stop with lots of nice scenery. 

Glen Canyon Dam created Lake Powell, the final stop on today’s journey. It’s stunning to see, as the lake reflects the desert scenery. It’s a popular destination for all kinds of watersports. 

Where to Stay in Page

Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell has a great location near Page’s best destinations, so you won’t have to drive far after seeing Glen Canyon Dam and Horseshoe Bend. There’s also onsite breakfast, a pool, and nice views. 

Shash Dine’ EcoRetreat is a unique opportunity for glamping in the Navajo Nation. The property features bell tents, covered wagons and a cabin, so families are sure to find an accommodation to suit their needs. Star gazing here is second to none and guests can enjoy cookouts and stories around the fire pit.

Day 3: Page, Upper Antelope Canyon, & Lake Powell

Get an early start on Day 3, as you’ve got a lot to see in and around Page, Arizona. One of the most memorable attractions nearby is Upper Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon located on Navajo land. You must book a tour to see the canyon – visit  the official Antelope Canyon site here  to see approved tour companies. Tours typically last about an hour and a half. 

Another great thing to do in the area is join a boat tour on Lake Powell . These guided journeys are the best ways to see the lake’s scenery without worrying about navigating the tricky waterscape. 

There are many great options, so consider choosing something that aligns with your tour of Upper Antelope Canyon. A Lake Powell day tour could include hiking stops, or you can opt for a simple (and scenic!) dinner cruise. 

You’ll stay put in Page tonight, so there’s no need to change hotels yet. 

Day 4: Page to Zion National Park

It will take a little under two hours to reach Zion National Park . We recommend leaving early, as there’s so much to do once you arrive. Begin your adventure at the Visitors Center, as it will help you get your bearings and allow you to learn about this unique place. 

After you get your bearings, hop back in the car and head to the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. This is a can’t-miss, and you may want to explore some of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive as well. 

Today is a great day for a couple of short hikes: Pa’rus Trail is 3.5 miles roundtrip and close to the Visitors Center. Or, for something even easier, consider the 1-mile Grotto Trail, which has excellent wildlife viewing. 

Plan to spend a little time exploring the nearby town of Springdale, Utah. It has a charming small downtown area and is close to Grafton Ghost Town, which kids of all ages will love to see. 

Where to Stay near Zion National Park

Zion Wildflower Resort has covered wagons that sleep up to six people – they’re a unique stay and are super Instagram-worthy. Or, opt for one of their private bungalows or glamping tents. 

Cliffrose Springdale is a riverfront hotel within walking distance of the Zion Visitor Center. There’s onsite breakfast, a seasonal pool, and a waterfall hot tub. 

Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites is in a quiet, scenic setting just outside the park. Enjoy free breakfast, a seasonal pool, and private balconies. 

Day 5: Zion National Park

Today is your full day in Zion National Park! You’ll get to see some of the best sights around the park and simply enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. 

The most popular hike in Zion is the Narrows, so if the weather is right, you should plan on including this. You’ll walk through the narrowest parts of the gorge, surrounded by thousand-foot walls.

It can be tricky since you have to wade through the river, but it’s a really fun adventure for kids who are old enough to enjoy it. Be sure to check in with a local outfitter to ensure you have the right gear.

If you’re lucky enough to get a permit to hike Angels Landing , it’s an incredible adventure. However, it is steep and strenuous, so make sure the entire family is up for it (or willing to sit it out while the rest of the group embarks). 

Have you ever heard of Zion’s Emerald Pools? Hiking the lower Emerald Pool will take you to a stunning waterfall. Upper and Middle Emerald Pool trails will take you to even more sweeping views. 

Beyond hiking, you can also swim in the Virgin River or bike along the Pa’rus Trail. Be sure to explore the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if you didn’t get it in yesterday!

This will be your second night staying in Zion, so there’s no need to change hotels tonight.

Day 6: Zion to Las Vegas

It’s time to return to Vegas, but our adventure isn’t over yet! We’ll get to see Snow Canyon State Park , a true gem that’s just an hour west of Springdale. 

Here, you’ll be surrounded by sandstone cliffs, volcanic cinder cones, and petrified cliffs. There are 38 miles of hiking trails throughout the state park. We recommend Johnson’s Canyon and Lava Flow trails for their varied landscapes. 

To really get into the Western spirit, consider joining a horseback riding tour through Snow Canyon State Park – it’s a great way to enjoy the incredible scenery. 

If you have extra time, check out nearby St. George, Utah. Kids will love the Dinosaur Discovery Site, and its downtown area has cute shops and restaurants. 

St. George is less than two hours away from Las Vegas. You’ll spend the next day out on the town, so you can take your time getting there. 

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Feel free to opt for a family-friendly Vegas hotel tonight. For family vacations, we recommend the  Bellagio Hotel & Casino ,  Wynn Las Vegas , or  The Venetian Resort Las Vegas .

Day 7: Las Vegas

You’ve seen some of the best scenery in the American Southwest. Now it’s time to enjoy a short visit to Sin City. 

For family-friendly fun near the Las Vegas Strip, we recommend checking out Stratosphere Adventures, TopGolf, the Pinball Hall of Fame, and the Bellagio Fountains Nighttime Show.  If you need more ideas, you’ll want this list of the best family-friendly activities in Las Vegas or the best things to do in Las Vegas with teens .

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, consider checking out Red Rock Canyon or taking an off-roading tour of the desert . 

This will be your second night in your Las Vegas hotel. 

Day 8 – Las Vegas to Home

Your Las Vegas to Zion National Park road trip has come to an end. Now it’s time to return to the airport and fly back home. Some families plan for a later flight to pack in a little more Vegas excitement. Or, you might be ready to catch an early flight and rest up at home. 

What was your favorite day of your road trip? From the noisy streets of Las Vegas to the echoing walls of Zion, you’ve seen some of the best scenery in the United States. Now it’s time to plan for your next family road trip!

The post Las Vegas to Zion National Park: A One Week Road Trip appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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How to plan your dream vacation

Sometimes you crave a vacation — but actually taking one feels out of reach. Maybe you're struggling to find the time or save up the money. Or maybe you just can't seem to launch those plans out of the group chat. Overcome that planning inertia and take the big trip of your dreams. Here's where to start your search, organize your logistics and enjoy yourself.

MARIELLE SEGARRA, HOST:

You're listening to LIFE KIT...

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

SEGARRA: ...From NPR.

Hey, everybody. It's Marielle. You remember the early part of the pandemic when the days of isolation stretched into months? At night, I would lay on the floor of my apartment with my eyes closed and listen to guided meditations, to try to take myself to a happier place. One time the prompt was something like, picture yourself doing something that brings you great joy. The first thing that popped into my head was an image of me wandering the cobblestone streets of some small European village, probably in France. The sun was shining, and every step I took was a feast for the eyes. Medieval houses, colorful flowers resting in vases on outdoor tables, patisseries with gorgeous pastries in the window, just waiting to be eaten.

I didn't realize until that moment just how much I missed traveling and how badly I wanted to look at something outside of my four walls or the blocks of my neighborhood. The next year, I took a three-week trip to the U.K. and France, and I ate those pastries and wandered until my feet hurt and filled a hole that had been growing inside of me.

Big trips can do that. Lale Arikoglu knows what I'm talking about. She's the articles director at Conde Nast Traveler.

LALE ARIKOGLU: On a really basic level, I think it's just being able to have a break from the crush of regular life, whether that's work or childcare or school, wherever it may be, you know, the opportunity to just take yourself out of your routine and be somewhere else and get to immerse yourself in that place to me is, like, the main draw of it.

SEGARRA: Now, when we talk about a big trip, that could mean different things depending on your travel style and your budget. You know, it might be a long road trip or an extended stay at a cottage in the woods or a multi-city tour on another continent. But it's typically something you save up for and plan months in advance. Lale has a big trip coming up. She's going to Peru.

ARIKOGLU: I've been waiting to do it for a long time. The reason to go there is for a friend's wedding. And now I'm building a trip around it, and it's going to be about ten days long with multi-stops, you know, having to choose multiple places to stay. And logistically, you know, it's actually taking some thought and some planning. One of the things that we're going to do when we're there is hike Machu Picchu. There's a group of us going. And Machu Picchu - it's a dream to see and experience.

SEGARRA: Now, it's easy to get bogged down in trip planning. And it might stop you from booking the thing entirely, but Lale says, do it. It's worth it.

On this episode of LIFE KIT, Lale shares her best tips on planning the big trip of your dreams. We'll talk about where to start your search, what logistical questions you should ask yourself and how to actually relax and enjoy yourself once you're there.

SEGARRA: Let's say I do want to take a big trip, right? I'm feeling that itch to travel, but...

ARIKOGLU: Right.

SEGARRA: ...I don't have a destination in mind yet or a duration. I'm really starting from scratch. Where does the planning start?

ARIKOGLU: When you start the planning, you've really got to think what you want to get out of the trip. You know, If you really just want to decompress and relax and rest, then you probably don't want to do some like multi-stop European city trip, right? You probably don't want to hike Machu Picchu. Perhaps it is that you're incredibly bored of your surroundings, and you need adventure and you need excitement. And therefore, you're going to be thinking of some really different destinations. It might be that you're traveling alone for the first time. You've decided to do a solo trip. You know, where is a place that might feel comfortable for you as a solo traveler, but still feels like it's taking you out of your comfort zone? So I think it's sitting with yourself and thinking, OK, what is, like, the goal here? That's takeaway one. Ask yourself what do you want to get from this? Set the mission of your trip.

It feels like another really important detail at the beginning is budget, right? Like, how much money do you realistically want to spend on this trip or can you afford to spend?

ARIKOGLU: And, you know, that's going to look different for everyone. If we're talking big trips, rarely are they spontaneous, right? You're planning for a long time. So that also allows you to save and finance for it. No, there's lots of great savings apps that can just, you know, that take a little bit of money out of your paycheck every few weeks, and you can kind of start, like, a travel fund that way. I think that's quite a nice way to do it. But I think, you know, you can do a big trip on a budget. It doesn't have to be, I think, a lavish, international trip. I mean, you know, we're going into spring and summer, there are so many incredible national parks to see, there are so many amazing, very diverse, different cities. There's, like, so much on your doorstep, so I think you can really argue, you don't have to cross continents to have a big trip. And so if that feels a more affordable way to get away for a couple of weeks, then, you know, look in your backyard.

SEGARRA: Right. I wonder, too, like, part of budget, besides money, is also time. Like, how much vacation time do you have? Do you have any tips for people who don't have that much vacation time?

ARIKOGLU: So I think if you look at the calendar and you look at where the holiday weekends fall, There are some tricks to being able to kind of, like, turn your limited number of vacation days into - kind of you can stretch it out if you bookend it with a holiday weekend or something like that. But on the flip side, it's also most expensive time to travel, right? There is an argument for choosing shoulder season, so that's not traveling to a destination when it's at its peak. And this is great for your own personal experience, but it's also in terms of helping that destination deal with overtourism, overcrowding. If we're talking about Europe, for example, the summers are getting hotter. So avoiding those really intense, hot, summer seasons can actually be really advantageous for your own travel plans.

SEGARRA: Yeah. That seems like maybe the next thing to consider as you're planning a big trip before you start looking at destinations is what time of year are you looking to travel?

ARIKOGLU: Definitely. And that's more of a luxury for some people because If you're having to navigate school holidays, then you're a little bit more limited. But again, it's sort of when you're thinking about carving out those goals and what you want to get out of the trip. Maybe it's the seasonality that's really important. Maybe it's all you want is hot weather and a beach. You know, if you're planning some summer travel, you could totally flip things on its head and go experience winter somewhere. I went to Patagonia when it was entering into their fall in Chile, and it was a really magnificent time to be there, and it was when New York City was going into spring. It felt like upside-down land to be choosing to do that, and it was so wonderful. It was great.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think there's a lot of room for creativity there. And also, as you said, like, it opens up more possibilities if you consider going places during the shoulder season.

ARIKOGLU: And you get to be in a place and actually be in the place with the people who live there. One thing in August, if you go to Europe, everyone who lives there has, you know, gone off somewhere else on vacation to escape the heat and the tourists, and so, you know, you're in Rome with just all the other tourists and none of the Romans.

SEGARRA: All right, so takeaway two. Before you land on a destination, think about your constraints. What time of year do you plan to travel? For how long? What budget are you working with? If you're short on time, you can make use of holidays or pick a destination closer to home. If you're short on money, think creatively. You know, maybe you do a road trip through some parks or cities nearby.

SEGARRA: It seems like another thing to consider here is, how much do you like crowds? Because for me, it kind of ruins a trip or an experience if everywhere I go is super crowded. I get very overwhelmed by that and overstimulated.

ARIKOGLU: And it's also, you know, who are the crowds? Because there's been times when I've gone somewhere and I've gone and done the same bucket list site that everyone else is, and you're sort of standing there and you're thinking, What am I actually here for? Well, what is the purpose of this? What am I getting out of it? What am I giving to this destination other than just being another member of the crowd?

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think that's an important question, right? 'Cause, like, we have been talking about what are you looking to get out of it, for the most part. But there's another side to this - right? - and it's what am I giving? And also, what am I taking? Like, am I taking too much from this place?

ARIKOGLU: I think about that a lot. When you're planning, be really thoughtful about where you're spending your money. When you're choosing a hotel, is it a hotel that is locally owned? What restaurants are you booking? Where are you shopping? Where are you buying your souvenirs? You know, I think there's lots of ways to be really thoughtful about, you know, how you spend your money, and that can go into your budgeting, as well.

SEGARRA: I know there are certain places that at a certain time, at least, they said, please, tourists, like, please stop coming or stop coming during this time.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. When a destination says that, I mean, it's something to be taken so seriously because they're usually destinations that have an infrastructure or an economy that really relies on tourism. So things have to have gotten pretty bad for a destination to say, take a beat, not right now, and listen to that, and, you know, the place will be better for it when you do go see it.

SEGARRA: I picture it as if you were, like, going to - going over, like, a friend's house uninvited, or, like, if they were like, please, today's not good. Like, our whole family's sick, like, we're all throwing up, and then you were still banging on the door, like, hey, what are you doing? Can I come stay over?

ARIKOGLU: I think that is a perfect analogy. Perfect. And no one wants to be that person.

SEGARRA: No.

ARIKOGLU: I'd hate to be that person.

SEGARRA: That'd be weird behavior.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah.

SEGARRA: Takeaway three, travel responsibly. Research the places you're interested in, and make sure they want tourists at the time you're looking to visit. When you're booking, consider putting your money toward the local economy rather than international chains. Also, learn about whatever destination you choose. Be open to the cultural practices and languages there. And be a respectful visitor.

Anything else that people would want to figure out before they start narrowing down or looking at destinations?

ARIKOGLU: I think it's also thinking about who you want to travel with. Someone can be your best friend, but they can be your worst roommate. I think travel's kind of the same, so kind of finding someone to travel with or a group of people to travel with who you're aligned with in the planning stage, rather than when you get there and then you suddenly discover you all want to do different things. So I think communicating right off the back what you all want out of the trip and what you're excited about and also being really honest with each other about finances.

If you're on a group trip, I mean, it's like splitting the bill, but a thousand times worse. And so I think if you can kind of, like, set some parameters at the start and be really honest about what you feel comfortable spending money on because inevitably, there is going to be some people on the trip who want to spend more money on some things than others.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And it seems like that conversation, there should be some form of that before you book anything.

ARIKOGLU: Yes, 100%. And, you know, I think even if you don't feel comfortable doing it, speaking up if something just feels too expensive.

SEGARRA: All right. So takeaway four, figure out who you're traveling with. You might prefer to travel alone, or if you're going with friends, partners, or family, just make sure you're on the same page about what you want from the trip - the pace, the activities and how much money you can spend.

SEGARRA: OK. So it sounds like we've given people a lot of things to consider before they choose a destination. Once they've done this soul searching, how can they start to find destinations that fit those desires and limitations?

ARIKOGLU: For me, part of the fun of travel planning is doing the research, whether it is a trusted travel publication or reading some books you love or going on to - you know, there's, like, a ton of just, like, online communities of people who love swapping travel tips and actually, I think, can be really helpful.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think it can be helpful maybe to in the brainstorming stage to just, like, not go in too deep but just make a list of places that seem exciting to you and that might fit your parameters. Like, I have a Google Doc, and it's just, like, places that I would be really excited to go.

SEGARRA: When you are considering a destination, how helpful is social media - is - like, seeing where your friends are going or where influencers are going? Is it a good idea to follow those trends?

ARIKOGLU: I think it can be useful in picking things you want to do once you're there, particularly if it's, like, based around, like, big events or openings. You know, we have our best places to go list that runs every year. It could be, like, new train routes, new hiking routes, new museums that have opened, things that are happening in destinations centered around an anniversary. So, you know, kind of consulting those sorts of lists and rounds up as well can be very helpful. But I think, you know, going back to what we were talking about in terms of over tourism or overcrowding - you know, on social media, you will see people at the same spots time and time again. And they're usually spots where just around the corner, there's also something equally beautiful to see.

SEGARRA: Yeah. Like, I remember when Santorini was really popular. And it's like, whew - like, if you could actually see what was going on behind that photo, like, you would hate being there because it's so - it's just way too many people...

ARIKOGLU: Right. Right.

SEGARRA: ...All lining up to take a picture in - against that beautiful backdrop.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And, you know, it's Santorini. It's all beautiful. It's all amazing.

SEGARRA: OK. So takeaway five is to choose a destination. And cast a wide net when you're brainstorming 'cause you never know what's going to catch your eye. Also, Lale says, do your best to think outside of the current travel trends. Though you can use them for inspiration.

So once you've got a destination in mind, how can you start to sketch out the details of the trip? And I guess I should say, how much detail do you really need to figure out?

ARIKOGLU: So I was going to say, don't overschedule yourself, and don't overbook yourself. I think I've been guilty of doing that before, and then you realize that you have no downtime. It might seem like you're being really efficient, but you need a little bit of spontaneity on your trip. Don't overschedule. If there are a few key things you really want to do that you feel you will be crushed if you don't get to do it, then book it. Make sure that's arranged all in advance. So maybe it's finding one thing on each day of your trip. That's what you center your day around and you can frame your itinerary around that, but I wouldn't overschedule.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And then I think when you look at these things potentially sketched out on different days, then you say like, you know, that seems too busy. What's the most important to me here? Like, which of these activities do I want to book ahead?

ARIKOGLU: Right. You know, if you're suddenly realizing - you're like, I am cramming a lot in if I try to go to these three places, then choosing which one to let go.

SEGARRA: Yeah. 'Cause that's always a consideration, too. Like, if you're flying somewhere far, you might think, well, I'm already going to Poland, should I also do Germany?

SEGARRA: There's that impulse, you know? Or I'm going to Poland, so I want to see all of Poland. But that can make for a very frenetic kind of trip.

ARIKOGLU: And you wouldn't tell someone who was visiting America to be like, well, you've come all the way to America, so if you're going to New York, then you also need to go to New Orleans.

SEGARRA: Right, right. Exactly. That's Takeaway 6 - keep your schedule light and malleable. Lally recommends picking only one activity to do for each day of your trip and then building a flexible itinerary around those.

You know, it occurs to me that another element of a big trip when I'm going into them - I know that something's going to go awry during it.

ARIKOGLU: Always (laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah.

SEGARRA: I remember being in Barcelona when I was in college. I went by myself for, like, a week. And I speak Spanish, but it wasn't fluent at the time. And I just got - I just missed being able to easily say what I wanted to say, and I went into, like, a Wendy's or something because I just wanted something kind of American. And I got some chicken nuggets. I couldn't think how to say nuggets in Spanish. Like, I was like, is that even a word, like, in Spanish, or did they just say nuggets? And I just broke and started speaking in English because I was trying to only speak Spanish. And I was like, I give up. Like, can I get some chicken nuggets, please?

ARIKOGLU: The true American in you comes out screaming at chicken nuggets in a foreign McDonald's.

SEGARRA: Yeah, yeah, give me my nuggies.

ARIKOGLU: (Laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah, I just - like, sometimes you just need to go roll up into a ball and eat your chicken nuggies and be by yourself for a minute and then come back out, you know?

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. I mean, like, travel so much of the time is sort of, like, infantilizing because you're so powerless. But it's, like, the same in an airport. You're just sort of powerless at a certain extent when things go wrong. And I think my approach to it - to sort of very taxing and challenging air travel schedules, with connections and potential miss flights and lost luggage and all the things that come with that - is to sort of just give myself up to the airport gods, and just as soon as I'm, like, through TSA, just be like, what will be will be. I'll get there eventually and just, like, I'm powerless. And that's been, like, for me, quite liberating. And it also means that I'm not the person screaming at some poor gate agent when things go wrong.

SEGARRA: Yeah, it's a moment of - it's actually an opportunity for mindfulness. Like, I think that could even be helpful going into a big trip, to tell yourself, like, something is going to go wrong. Yeah, just keep that in mind.

ARIKOGLU: Oh, my God, so much of travel is about being tired and hungry.

SEGARRA: We're really selling this.

ARIKOGLU: I know.

SEGARRA: (Laughter).

ARIKOGLU: I'm like, my whole job is to travel. It's great.

SEGARRA: Isn't it terrible? Yeah.

SEGARRA: I try to remind myself, like - what is the point? - like, go back to those goals. What is the point of this? It's to have a good experience, to meet those needs, to give myself what I've been craving.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And I don't know. This sounds a little cheesy and a little trite, but anyone who gets to travel is really lucky. Ultimately, it's a real privilege that you get to do it. And it's such a freedom and it's such a special thing.Don't make it stressful.

SEGARRA: That's our final takeaway. Something on your trip is bound to go wrong. So once you're there, sit back and try to surrender. After all, traveling in the first place is a treat.

SEGARRA: OK, jet-setters, time for a recap. First, figure out what you want from this vacation. Decide your budget and time constraints. Commit to traveling ethically. Make sure you're aligned with the people you're traveling with. When you choose a destination, cast a wide net and have fun with the research. Don't overschedule yourself, and once you're there, relax and roll with the punches. For more LIFE KIT, check out our other episodes. We've got one on how to find cheap flights and another on how to pack your suitcase like a pro. You can find those at np.org/lifekit. And if you love LIFE KIT and you just cannot get enough, subscribe to our newsletter at np.org/lifekitnewsletter. Also, we love hearing from you, so if you have episode ideas or feedback you want to share, e-mail us at [email protected].

This episode of LIFE KIT was produced by Margaret Cirino. Our visuals editor is Beck Harlan and our digital editor is Malaka Gharib. Meghan Keane is our supervising editor and Beth Donovan is our executive producer. Our production team also includes Andee Tagle, Clare Marie Schneider and Sylvie Douglis. Engineering support comes from Robert Rodriguez. I'm Marielle Segarra. Thanks for listening.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

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UNC Basketball: Elite Center Now Planning Trip to Chapel Hill

UNC basketball may be one step closer to finally fulfilling its goal of landing a transfer big man. 

• Author: Cam Robertson, All Tar Heels

In this story:

It’s no secret that head coach Hubert Davis and the UNC basketball program have set out to reel in a top transfer to play in the post next season. After being linked to names such as Oumar Ballo, Aaron Bradshaw, Danny Wolf, and Jonas Aidoo, it was clear Davis and the Tar Heel crew had an offseason goal.

RELATED: Tar Heel Coaches Make Bold Move on Transfer Trail

But while the Tar Heels have struck out on many of those transfer targets, they may be gaining the inside track on landing one of the best remaining big men in the transfer portal.

On Friday, 247Sports reported that the Tar Heels had secured a visit with Rutgers transfer big Clifford Omoruyi, with the visit tentatively scheduled for the beginning of May.

UNC has been linked to Omoruyi in recent weeks and appeared in his top 12. However, it had appeared that the Tar Heels may have fallen behind in the race after the top-shelf transfer scheduled visits with Alabama and Kansas State.

That doesn’t appear to be the case anymore, with Omoruyi now set to add UNC to that list.

The 6-foot-11, 240-pound senior played four seasons at Rutgers, starting 101 of the 124 games he played with the Scarlet Knights. Across 32 games as a senior, Omoruyi averaged 10.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks while earning a spot on the Big Ten All-Defensive Team for the second year in a row.

ALL the Big Cliff highlights! Omoruyi was two blocks away from a triple-double... 13 PTS 13 REBS 8 BLOCKS #TheKnighthood 🛡️⚔️ pic.twitter.com/HJVb2hQGX4 — Rutgers Men’s Basketball 🏀 (@RutgersMBB) February 10, 2024

He currently ranks No. 8 overall among the nation's transfer, according to the 247Sports portal rankings, and would fill a massive hole left in Chapel Hill by the departure of five-year starting center Armando Bacot.

With the school’s all-time leading rebounder having exhausted eligibility, Hubert Davis and the UNC basketball staff have been searching for a physical force inside to pair with Jalen Washington down low.

Clifford Omoruyi’s ability to rebound and block shots at a high level would be a perfect fit in Chapel Hill to complement one of the best returning rosters in the country.

Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI for more UNC basketball news.

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