Zion National Park hosts magnificent scenery, from towering canyon walls with a blend of red and white rock to the greenish hues of the Virgin River, earning it a place among our favorite National Parks in the United States.
For avid hikers such as us, Zion is essentially paradise.
A number of the finest one-day hikes in the United States are located in Zion – particularly Angels Landing and the Virgin Narrows – and there are also a handful of other treks that are to some degree concealed attractions, though it’s difficult to refer to anything in Zion as “hidden” considering it’s one of the most visited parks in the country.
We spent four days exploring Zion National Park during our recent trip (Matt has visited multiple times before), and we created this complete Zion National Park itinerary to aid your perfect trip planning 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.
Let`s get started planning an amazing trip to Zion National Park.
2023 Update: If visiting the Angels Landing trail in 2023, permits will need to be secured in advance. After hiking it in 2021, it was hoped this might occur because there were so many individuals on the narrow, exposed trail that it felt somewhat dangerous. Additional 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%.
Table of Contents
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 extensive we would advise spending in Zion.
In our opinion,2 days in Zion National Park provides a suitable baseline. With 2 days, one could plan a Zion National Park itinerary incorporating one of the longer hikes in Zion (such as Angels Landing), the scenic drive connecting the East Entrance and Zion – Mt. Carmel tunnel, and some shorter hikes in the canyon.
However, there are plenty of activities and sights available in the area to occupy 3 days in Zion National Park. Here are some suggestions, and how much additional time you should budget for adding them to your itinerary.
- Another Lengthy Hike (+1 day): Want to do another long hike like the famous Narrows or Observation Point (which places you above Angels Landing)? Add another day – both of those hikes will take the majority of a day to finish.
- Kolob Canyons (+1 day): Did you know there’s another equally beautiful section of the park that just a tiny fraction of visitors to Zion see? 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 explore.
Below the detailed itinerary, you`ll find suggestions for adding an extra day, and how to see Zion in just one.
Getting Around Zion National Park
Getting around Zion is a little more complex 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.Â
Below, we’ll cover both shuttle routes.
The Zion Canyon Shuttle
The transportation system within Zion Canyon is actually quite effective for transporting 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.
Transportation was provided from the visitor center, which had abundant parking but filled up early in the day, even in spring (so it`s best to start early). There were nine stops through the canyon on the shuttle, and taking it to the end of the line took approximately 15 minutes, give or take a couple minutes.
Experiencing the park using the shuttle is generally smooth, particularly if you`re remaining inside the boundaries, but anticipate long queues in the summer months. We advise starting as early as you can for that reason – the peak time for the shuttle is around 9-10am.
In the summer, the first shuttle of the day departs at 6am. For the rest of the year, it leaves at 7am.
2023 Updates: In 2023, an advance reservation was necessary to utilize the shuttle (and it was somewhat of a nightmare, if we’re candid). Fortunately for you, the reservation system has been removed in 2022 and all shuttles will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional 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, making it quite easy to travel from Springdale into the park.
Keep in mind that while the shuttle delivers you outside the park entrance, you will need to bring your National Park Pass or pay the $35 entry fee to cross the pedestrian bridge into the park. There may be a wait here, so an early arrival is advised.
Tips for Planning Your Zion National Park Itinerary
Here are a few suggestions we learned from our Zion trips that may or may not assist in your planning.
- The Two Main Areas of Zion National Park: There are two primary sections of Zion National Park – Zion Canyon, which is the more visited 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 sees far fewer visitors (though is certainly worth the detour!). Zion Canyon is home to most of the iconic sights in Zion – Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows. Kolob Canyons features a superb five mile scenic drive, the Taylor Creek trail, the Timber Creek Overlook, and some excellent backpacking routes.
- Fees for Entering Zion National Park: Unless arriving by motorcycle or bicycle, the cost to enter Zion National Park is $35, providing entry for seven continuous days. Alternatively, if planning a wider road trip around Utah and intending to visit more than three National Parks in the following 12 months, an America the Beautiful Pass will prove worth the cost (at $80, it starts saving money after three parks…we`ve toured 14 over the past 12 months).
- Park Entries: There are three entrances to Zion National Park. The most popular and crowded is the southern entrance, which you’ll enter from the town of Springdale. There are multiple lanes, so the backup isn’t usually too significant. 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 eastern end of the park along Highway 9. From here, you’ll drive down a Highly 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.
- Before embarking, make sure to check the park`s website for the latest updates on conditions within the protected area. For instance, access to certain trails may be restricted as was recently the case for two routes due to rockfall incidents. To stay informed of current circumstances, refer here prior to departure.
- Services within Springdale: Springdale is the closest town to the park and is literally located right outside the southern entrance to the park. The area known as ” Zion Village,” where the Springdale Shuttle drops visitors off, has an assortment of amenities for guests – there’s a brewery, a coffeehouse, a grocery store, an outfitter that can rent bicycles and equipment for hiking the Narrows, and more. Deeper into Springdale, numerous restaurants and cafes can be found. We enjoyed Deep Creek Coffee and Sol Foods Marketplace, though be prepared to pay a little extra at the latter – it`s not inexpensive but has a great selection, including many gluten free groceries.
Complete 2 Day Zion National Park Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide
For the purposes of this itinerary, we will assume you have arrived in Zion the previous night, have two full days to explore the park, and are ready for 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 schedule.
Day 1: Angels Landing & The East Side of the Park
During your first day in Zion, you will undertake one of the top day treks in the United States before venturing to the less frequented Kolob Canyons region of the park to appreciate the scenery along the memorable drive.
End your day by hiking the Watchman Trail just before sunset with a beer in your daypack to cheers to an incredible trip to Zion as the sun goes down.
Hiking Angels Landing
Angels Landing is a excellent hike. It is also not an effortless hike, so absolutely do not underestimate it – pack sufficient water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and snacks. It covers around 5 miles roundtrip, with nearly 1,500 feet of elevation gain. And it is essentially straight up the complete way.
There are a few other points to note about this hike.
First, it is extremely crowded. Imagine hundreds of people trying to navigate the chained sections of the trail simultaneously.
It’s not especially fun, so we’d advise as early a start as you can get. If you board 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 changeable, and they are important. 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 rainfall is occurring, and if it rained the previous day, be very cautious (especially on the last section). It will likely be breezy at the top, which isn’t a huge problem.
Last, for those who experience discomfort in high altitudes (a sentiment understood all too well, your honor), the end of this hike may prove unsettling. Specifically, the final third of a mile involves climbing a very exposed narrow ridge with chains while others attempt to descend the same narrow pathway.
We halted at Scout Lookout as we didn’t feel at ease with the conditions and number of people present. And we have no regrets regarding that decision.
Getting a Permit for the Angels Landing Trail (Updated for 2023)
Due to 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.Â
First is the seasonal lottery. This represents the best approach for securing permits in advance.
However, here is the list I was able to compile based on my research. Contact me at [email protected] if I missed one!
Note that there is a $6 non-refundable application fee, which covers the application for up to six hikers.
Below are the applicable lottery dates you’ll need.
- To hike between March 1 – May 31, 2023: The opportunity to secure a permit for this time period will be available starting on January 1, when the lottery opens and applications can be submitted until January 20. On January 25, the permits will be awarded. This link provides access to apply.
- To hike between June 1 – August 31, 2023: Registration opens April 1, registration closes April 20, permits issued April 25. Here is the URL to apply (coming soon).
- To hike between September 1 – November 30, 2023: The lottery application period opens on July 1, the application period closes on July 20, permits will be issued on July 25. Here is the link to the application (coming soon).
- To hike between December 1, 2023 – February 28, 2024: 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, individuals will receive an email indicating whether they were granted permits and charged $3 per permit, or did not obtain 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 are sent to those who received permits. Note that in the day before the lottery, all fees are non-refundable.
It is important to note there is a $6 non-refundable application cost for this lottery opportunity, covering submissions for up to six potential hikers.
Additional information on the Angels Landing lottery – such as a helpful explainer video – can be found here.
Hiking the Angels Landing Trail: What to Expect
The hike begins from the Grotto shuttle stop, where you’ll cross a footbridge over the Virgin River and head right. The trail meanders somewhat, with a few gradual rises before you reach the base of your first set of switchbacks.
The climbs occur rapidly. There is no need to feel afraid about taking a break to admire the views looking out towards the canyon, which become more spectacular as you ascend higher.
The path levels out for approximately a quarter mile before resuming switchbacks, delivering you to Walter`s Wiggles.
This part of the hike had my mouth agape at the architectural achievement. They are steep switchbacks carved straight into the mountainside. At the top, the chained section begins.
Initially, you’ll traverse a shorter section requiring a couple climbs with limited handholds and a chained section where you’ll need to hold the chain to pull yourself across a slick rock face.
There, visitors are treated to Scout’s View, a spectacular viewpoint where the top of Angels Landing and both directions down the canyon can be seen.
We halted here without regret concerning undertaking the hike to this point. Those seeking to continue atop follow the chain (and swarms of people) escalating to the scenic overlook situated at the summit, then return by the former route.
If the permit process mentioned proves too complex or you couldn`t reserve a pass, two other excellent trails in the region to explore are Observation Point trail (which offers even more picturesque perspectives I`ve heard) and the similarly-renowned 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.
Excellent hikes occur here—notably middle fork of Taylor Creek—which one may or may not feel up to after Angels Landing in the morning. Furthermore, another sunset hike tonight arrives, so we`d advise reserving Taylor Creek for another visit (or including if more time presents).
Travel the full five mile scenic road, and be certain to halt at essentially all of the pullouts to marvel at the red rock formations.
Unfortunately (or advantageously, depending on your perspective), we were there on an unplanned day of snow and fog, so while we missed most of the beautiful panoramas because they were obscured by fog, we did get to see some of the red rock formations with a light dusting of snow, which was a treat.
Upon reaching the end of the road, take a brief walk up to Timber Creek viewpoint.
The Watchman at Sunset
For sunset, head up to the Watchman, a brief 3 mile hike that leaves from the main visitor center just inside the south entrance of the park.
A few years ago, we added this step to our family vacations. We don’t overthink it – a few days after our trip, we simply go around the dinner table and everyone expresses their favorite part of the vacation.
There’s a trail encircling the top of the elevated landmass where one can obtain numerous perspectives of the tower and the surrounding landscape from different vantage points, and we think it’s best appreciated with an icy beverage and some well-earned snacks following exertion.
Wait until the golden light of the setting sun brings out the reddish hues for the best illumination and photos. It’ll happen about 15 minutes before sundown on most clear evenings.
We had experienced this same hike at sunrise previously, and it was equally beautiful. However, the mountains behind prevent the light from illuminating the Watchman until well after sunrise, explaining why we’re recommending it at sunset.
Day 2: Shorter Hikes in the Canyon + The Watchman at Sunset
On your second day in Zion, explore some of the shorter hikes along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in the morning, then travel by car through the eastern region of the park and end the day with another sunset hike.
You’ll spend most of the day within the canyon, so plan to have lunch while there.
Either pack a picnic lunch (we generally opt for a sandwich and some salty snacks like plantain chips or salt & vinegar chips) or plan on getting lunch at the Zion Lodge – they have a full restaurant and café service.
The Emerald PoolsÂ
Begin your day early and board an initial shuttle heading 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 stopping during any Zion itinerary. It’s also relatively easy to access.
Most individuals disembarking at this stop will likely proceed up toward Angels Landing, toured yesterday, thus you`ll plausibly maintain the Kayenta Trail mainly to yourself after the other hikers continue up toward the inception of that trail.
Be certain to look back behind you every so often for superb views of the Great White Throne across the canyon.
Ultimately, you’ll see signs guiding you to the Emerald Pools. Begin by heading up to the Upper Emerald Pool to get the climbing done with (it’s a short climb).
Along the way, one will pass the middle Emerald Pool, which offers a nice perspective across the canyon. In the early hours of the day, the reflection in the calm water of the pool is worthwhile stopping for.
Upper Emerald Pool is at the conclusion of a sandy, rocky ascent, and is enveloped by sheer rocky cliffs that appear impossibly angled so that they jut out above 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 gracefully flow over the edge. You may get slightly damp here, but not excessively wet. If you’re concerned about a minor mist, put on a rain jacket before circling around the lower pool.
From there, continue along the paved path, which takes you to Zion Lodge (stop 5).
All-in, that hike will be approximately 2.5 miles long, with an elevation gain of 500 feet. If that amount of distance and climbing seems like too much, you can just do the lower pool by starting and ending at Zion Lodge, which is a flat, paved trail that is 1.2 miles.
Hidden Canyon
For another unique hike, board the shuttle and head to the Weeping Rock shuttle stop (stop 7).
This excursion takes you up into a narrow canyon flanked by Cable Mountain and the Great White Throne. Measuring around 3 miles with an elevation gain of almost 1000 feet, it`s not among the simplest routes in the region.
Similar to Angels Landing, there are tight, exposed stretches and chain-assisted climbs, so it probably isn`t the best hike out there for little kids.
Along the way, nice views of the canyon will be had and an independently standing arch must be passed under, which is somewhat cool. It’s a fun hike with some unique sections of climbing using chains, offering a different experience than most hikes done in Zion and elsewhere.
Important Note: This trail (along with all hikes from the Weeping Rock shuttle stop) is indefinitely closed as of April 2020 due to a major rockfall. Sitting here in December 2022, it remains 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 all the way to the final 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, take a nice and easy stroll along the Virgin River known as the Riverside Walk.
It’s generally level trail that meanders alongside the river, and you’ll have the ability to admire the blue-green hue of the water as you make your way to the end of the trail, which is the starting point of the world-renowned Narrows hike.
There are some stunning sections of trail where you’ll have the river in the foreground, with the towering red walls of the canyon in the background.
Traveling a little over a mile round trip along a generally level path makes this a perfect hike to do after a meal. It`s also suitable for families.
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 begin 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, constructed in the 1930s, and continue entirely to the eastern entrance of the park, where you’ll discover Checkerboard Mesa. The textures of the rock here, and truly throughout this whole section of the park, are extraordinary.
Be observant for the resident bighorn sheep, who tend to frequent the slick rocky slopes of the surrounding mountains along the roadway.
Canyon Overlook for Sunset
Continue back down towards the tunnel and find a spot near the Canyon Overlook trail commencement. You likely won’t locate parking at the entrance itself – it’s a compact lot for a hugely popular path – so if you notice an area along the road that is legally, take it and walk along the road to the entrance.
It’s a brief and fairly painless hike to a viewpoint offering a panorama of the canyon and switchbacks of the road below, making it a great conclusion for your time in Zion. Stay to see the sunset, or at least the last rays of light in the ravine (which disappears about an hour or two before sundown).
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 premier hikes in Zion – either the Narrows or Observation Point.
It depends on what you’re looking for, really.Â
Hike the Famous Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most exceptional hikes you’ll ever discover. You’ll commence from where the Riverside Walk finishes and head up the Virgin River, shadowing the canyon as it fluctuates between narrow and broad and transforms appearance and hue at each turn.
Be mindful that during spring, you require special equipment because 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 offers the finest view in the park, in our view, and is a great substitute for Angels Landing.
It’s a more extended and challenging hike at 8 miles and 2,600 feet of elevation gain if you do it from the canyon floor.
However, there exists an alternative route requiring additional transportation – heading to the East Mesa Trailhead (be advised the last 0.5 miles involves a rough and rutted surface – it is recommended to park and walk the remaining distance, particularly after precipitation) and ambling the 6.5 mile roundtrip route, gaining approximately 600 feet of elevation.
Here’s the view you get at the end.Â
You could also spend more time in Kolob Canyons and hike the hiking trail known as the Taylor Creek Middle Fork.
What to Do with One Day in Zion National Park?
If you only have one day in Zion, we recommend getting an early start to your morning.
Plan on doing a major hike – either Angels Landing,the Narrows, or Observation Point – early in the day.
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.”
Following that, if the Narrows hike wasn`t part of your itinerary, head to the Sinawava Temple shuttle stop and take the brief yet scenic Riverside Walk to become familiar with the Virgin River and its subtle yet distinctive blue-green hue, which provides a nice contrast with the red rocks of the canyon.
In the afternoon, head to the east end of the park, checking out the Checkerboard Mesa, looking for bighorn sheep, and doing the Canyon Overlook trail before finishing up for the day.
Where to Stay at Zion National Park
The most suitable lodging options when visiting Zion National Park are staying inside the park boundaries at the historic Zion Lodge or one of two campgrounds, or within the adjacent town of Springdale just outside the southern entrance to take advantage of proximity to park access.
Psst! Considering a site to stay in Zion? We have an entire guide committed to finding the ideal place to stay in Zion – you should definitely read that if you’re looking for further information on locations to stay.
Staying Inside the Park
We usually recommend staying inside national parks if possible – usually camping – to avoid sometimes long lines to enter the park in the morning.
Zion is no exception, and it’s particularly convenient because visitors are required to use the shuttle to access the canyon (except for December – February), and the lodging options inside the park mean you’ll be able to walk to the shuttle.
There is one lodge inside the park and two campground areas.
Zion Lodge
The Zion Lodge represents the sole location to lodge inside that park that isn`t camping. It’s inside the canyon with its own shuttle stop, which means visitors won’t have to deal with the parking and shuttle circumstances at the main visitor center.
They have a range of room selections, from spacious lodge rooms to private cabins. It’s a nice place, with many facilities 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… adequately acceptable. The location is usually satisfactory, but they’re rather worn due to constantly being at full capacity. And the price is generally high – you’re paying for the advantage of being inside the park.
The Zion Lodge is somewhat of an exception to that rule. It`s relatively decent, though it will still be expensive.
Staying inside the canyon might be worth it, given your proximity to numerous trailheads from which you can begin hiking adventures (like the trail leading to Angels Landing and Emerald Pools), as well as the park`s shuttle service providing ease of access to other areas.
Camping Options
There are two campground locations within the park boundaries, both situated near the south entrance Visitor Center.
We stayed at Watchman Campground, which is a nice campground located at the base of Watchman that accepts reservations up to 6 months in advance. The location is unmatched – 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 ahead for peak season (May – September), so make your reservations well in advance.
If you aren’t able to get reservations, check back often as cancellations do occur (that’s how we got a table – Alysha refreshed the park website several times each day).
South Campground is another camping choice, where it rests along the prominent roadway through the park rather than being separated like Watchman. It operates on a first arrival, first use basis (even so, reservations are required for 2021 starting two weeks in advance). The most desirable sites are the eight places to walk-in near the waterway – you leave your vehicle across the trail from the location, so you won`t have to haul all of your equipment an excessive distance.”
Outside the Park
The optimal place to lodge exterior the park will be the town of Springdale, which starts just outside the southern entrance of Zion.
The Cable Mountain Lodge, situated directly outside the entrance to the park – you can walk straight into the park and avoid parking and shuttling into the park altogether! – is both the nicest hotel in regards to style and amenities, and also the best location. It is somewhat pricier than other alternatives below, so if you’re on a budget it’s likely not for you.
The two additional hotels that are situated within walking distance (~0.5 miles) of the park entrance are Flanigans Inn and the Cliffrose Hotel.
- Flanigans Inn is an excellent option that offers nice amenities and an on-site eatery (the Spotted Dog) which consistently receives outstanding reviews.
- This accommodation is very highly rated, and offers a standard comparable to the Cable Mountain Lodge. Though it may necessitate more travel, it remains a suitable alternative if proximity to the canyon shuttle is a priority.
Do you have a thrill-seeking acquaintance who enjoys pushing limits down the mountainside or completing incredible tricks? Consider getting them a GoPro HERO11 Black to permit them to distribute video proof on social networking platforms or with friends and loved ones. Its stabilizer helps to capture smooth, professional clips. Moreover, it has a water-repelling lens so it won’t get ruined on the slopes.
There are some intriguing and special places to stay in Springdale and just outside of town that are worth bringing up if you want a truly unforgettable accommodation near Zion.
- The Red Rock Inn: Excellent placement in Springdale, within walking distance of the top supermarket in town (Sol Marketplace), the best coffee shop in town (Deep Creek Coffee Company), AND one of the best eateries (Oscar`s). They have standalone cottages, with breakfast delivered straight to your door.
- Wildflower: On our drive up Kolob Terrace Road, this location caught my attention. Situated approximately fifteen minutes outside of Springdale, guests can choose lodging like a stylish bungalow, a safari-inspired glamping tent, or a unique covered wagon. It`s an interesting place to stay, and while not directly in town, it`s only about a fifteen minute drive to the park entrance.
- Under Canvas Zion: We first encountered Under Canvas in Moab, when we expressed astonishment saying “how unique THAT looks” as we drove past. It’s a little more distant – about 30 minutes from the park entrance up Kolob Terrace Road – but it’s an interesting place with outstanding views of the surrounding landscape and stylish safari-style camping tents. It’s costly, but it`s one of the most exceptional ways to experience Zion, which is why it`s on this list.
The Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
We believe the periods of spring and autumn – often called the shoulder seasons – are optimal times for a visit to Zion National Park. Both timeframes will provide relatively comfortable weather without the scorching temperatures that arise during summer in the park, and fewer crowds than over summer months. However, conditions can prove less predictable. We went there in late April, and experienced sunny, mild afternoons in the low 70s along with snowfall over consecutive days.
During spring higher water levels make hiking the Narrows somewhat tricky – outfitters in Springdale must be visited to obtain waders and special boots as the water can reach your waist.
Autumn bears resemblance to spring in terms of temperature and crowds. However, you likely won’t have to worry too much about high water levels after a long, dry summer. Furthermore, the autumnal hues in Zion can be rather spectacular, with golden trees beautifully contrasting against the canyon walls` reddish rocks.
In the summer months, temperatures within the park can become extremely hot. It doesn’t experience the relative coolness like Bryce Canyon, around 3,000 feet higher. Expect highs over 100 degrees regularly. Plan to spend mornings and evenings outdoors when it’s slightly cooler, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from the sun with hats and sunscreen. Heat stress is a genuine threat – do not underestimate the summer heat.
Summer is also the busiest time to visit the canyon, which means planning visits and bookings ahead of time if joining large numbers of visitors. Longer waits for shuttles and longer entrance lines are expected during this peak season.
Winter is the low-traffic period, and it will be cold. Snow will be found at higher elevations, which makes hiking somewhat difficult. However, the canyon is truly beautiful with a light dusting of snow (which we got to experience…in April) and crowds are sparse, so it`s not a bad time to visit. Plus, you can actually drive into the upper canyon in the winter months! We`d likely choose winter over summer, to be honest.
Zion National Park is a treat – we think you`re going to love it. There is such a diversity of landscapes, a ton of great hikes, and it is the gateway to some of our other favorite spots in the states of Utah and Arizona.
If your travels will take you to the American Southwest, don`t neglect to consult our other detailed travel guides that can help in planning an unforgettable trip to the region.
- The top trails to hike in Bryce Canyon National Park
- How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon (Complete Itinerary)
- Hiking guides in Arches National Park
- 4 Days Exploring Arches, Canyonlands, and More in Moab
- Accommodation options in Moab, Utah
- 12 Remarkable Things to Do in Moab, Utah
A complete 10 day road trip itinerary for Utah`s national parks was listed in an item containing the link ” A Complete Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary (10 Days)
