Best Guide to Zion National Park, Utah

If you’re planning your Zion National Park first time trip then below you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting Zion National Park below.

While I don’t think I’d ever heard of Zion National Park before visiting as part of our three month USA road trip.

It’s definitely a popular National Park (one of the most visited in the US!) but it’s not quite on the level of The Grand Canyon or Yosemite, at least when it comes to how well it’s known in the UK.

If you’re wondering whether to visit Zion National Park, Utah then the answer should be “yes, absolutely!” This National Park has plenty of things to offer from jaw-dropping views to fear-inducing hikes, and incredible geology as well as scenic drives and a lush, gorgeous canyon.

Whether you’ve been before or you’re visiting Zion National Park for the first time, here’s everything you need to know including entrance fees for Zion National Park, where to stay, and the best things to do in Zion Park, Utah.

About Zion National Park

“Zion” means a place of peace and refuge and this National Park is a sanctuary with over 146,000 acres of cliffs, canyons, diverse plant and animal life, and uninterrupted beauty.

Unlike the other National Parks we’d visited before arriving in Zion, Utah, the main areas of Zion National Park are on the canyon floor. You’ll spend a lot of time looking up to the top of the canyon (a little like in Yosemite), rather than looking in like at Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon.

Zion National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and was the first National Park in Utah. For this reason, you can only access the park by shuttle bus and you can’t expect to have places to yourself. Having said that, things do tend to get quieter when you embark on one of the hikes in Zion.

Zion National Park was carved by water and a lot of time, the park’s main features consist of the Virgin River, the colorful rocks or mudstone, limestone, siltstone, and sandstone rising 1000s of feet into the sky, slot canyons, over 200 species of bird and greenery.

The elevation of Zion National Park ranges from 3,500ft to over 8,700 ft  (1,066 m to 2,650 m).

Zion National Park map

Below is a Zion National Park map that includes the best Zion hiking trails as well as all the pointers I include in my what to do in Zion guide.

If you click the image below (or here) you’ll open up this Zion map in your Google Maps app and you can use it to plan your trip and as you explore the park.

How to get to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is in Utah, close to Springdale town. We visited Zion after visiting Bryce Canyon National Park which is always one of Utah’s National Parks that make up the Mighty 5 National Parks.

The way to get to this park will depend on where you’re coming from. Below are some basic directions and distances for getting to Zion National Park in Utah.

Flights to Zion National Park

The nearest airports are McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City, Utah.

• From Las Vegas to Zion National Park: about a 2.5-hour drive to Zion. Go north on I-15, then take UT-9 east into the park.
• From Salt Lake City to Zion National Park: a longer 4.5-hour drive. Head south on I-15, then take UT-20 east, US-89 south, and finally UT-9 west into the park.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Driving to Zion Park Utah

If you’re driving from major cities nearby, here are some estimates for drive times:

• Los Angeles, CA: About 7 hours, go east on I-10, then take I-15 north to UT-9 east into the park.
• Phoenix, AZ: Around 6.5 hours, head north on I-17, take US-89 north, and then UT-9 west into the park.
• Denver, CO: About 9 hours, go west on I-70, then take US-89 south, and finally UT-9 west into the park.

Zion Park Entrances

There are three entrances to Zion National Park and there’s not really a best entrance to Zion National Park it just depends on the direction you’re coming from.

• South Entrance to Zion National Park: Main entrance in Springdale, Utah, used if coming from Las Vegas or other southwest locations.
• East Entrance: Along Route 9, used if coming from Bryce Canyon National Park or points in the east. Access to Zion-Mount Carmel Highway for a scenic drive. The Mount Carmel Tunnel is the way we came in.
• Kolob Canyons Entrance: On the northwest side, off I-15. Provides access to the less crowded Kolob Canyons area with various hiking options.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

These times are just a guide, always check for traffic, construction, and weather updates before you leave.

Public Transport to Zion National Park

Public transportation options to Zion are limited. Once inside the park, a free shuttle bus runs along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and in Springdale town, making it easy to get around.

Permits, passes and fees for Zion National Park

Here are some of the following permits, passes, and fees you may need to pay during your Grand Canyon trip.

Entrance fees to Zion National Park

The Zion National Park entrance fees cost $35 per car, this lasts for 7 consecutive days. If you’re entering by foot, bike, or by taking the Zion National Park shuttle bus then the entrance fee is $20 per person and under 15s are free.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

Fees for camping at Zion National Park

There are 2 campgrounds within the main canyon area of Zion National Park: Watchman Campground and South Campground. There’s also the Lava Point Campground which is about a 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on Kolob Terrace Road (closed in winter).

Zion camping is only permitted in designated campsites and not in pullouts or parking lots.

Both campsites in Zion are usually full by mid-morning and from mid-March to November you should expect to have reserved well in advance. You can reserve online up to 6 months ahead of your trip.

Campsites are $20 per night for individual campsites and $50 for group sites at the South Campground and at the Watchman Zion Campground, they’re $30 per night for electric sites and $20 for tent-only sites. It costs $15 to camp at Lava Point.

Hiking permits for Zion National Park

You will need a hiking permit for several of the best hikes in Zion National Park. This includes Angel’s Landing, The Subway hike, and the Narrows hike if doing it top-down (from outside the park to inside the park).

The Angel’s Landing permit is the most popular one of the three since this hike is so popular. When we hiked the trail back in 2017 there was no permit but the trail was super, super busy to the point where that was what the most dangerous thing about it was.

As of 2021, you must enter the Angel’s Landing Lottery in order to have a chance of getting a permit. You can read more about it online.

Backcountry permits for Zion

If you plan on going into the backcountry, or the Zion Wilderness, then you’ll need an additional Zion National Park permits on top of the park entrance fee.

Permits are required for all overnight backpacking trips, overnight climbing bivouacs, river trips, and canyoneering trips as well as for the day hike “The Narrows” in Zion.

You should reserve a Zion Wilderness Permit in advance of your trip to Zion. Permits can be reserved up to 2 months in advance of your trip.

There’s also the possibility of getting a permit on the day, but this is far from guaranteed.

Getting a Zion backcountry permit requires a $5 non-refundable fee as well as an additional fee depending on the size of your group.

• $15.00 – 1-2 people
• $20.00 – 3-7 people
• $25.00 – 8-12 people

You can find more information about backcountry permits for Zion here.

5 Best things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking

With so many amazing things to do at Zion National Park, it’s hard to narrow it down to just five but I’ve given it a go. Here are a few things to do for those of you wondering what to do in Zion National Park.

• Scenic Drives: One of the highlights of Zion National Park is simply taking a drive. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive both offer stunning views of the park’s varied landscapes, right from your vehicle. If you only have one day in Zion National Park be sure to make time for a drive!
• Visitor Centers and Museum: The park’s visitor centers offer fascinating exhibits about Zion’s natural and cultural history. The Zion Human History Museum, in particular, provides insights into the Native American cultures and pioneer settlers of the area.
• Wildlife Viewing: From the comfort of certain lookout points, visitors can observe a diverse range of wildlife. You may see mule deer, bighorn sheep, or numerous bird species, especially during dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
• Photography Opportunities: Zion National Park is a paradise for photographers. Its dramatic landscapes, changing light conditions, and plentiful wildlife make for incredible photo opportunities, even without embarking on a hiking trail.
• Ranger-led Programs: Participating in a ranger-led program is a great way to learn more about the park without extensive hiking. These programs often include educational talks, demonstrations, and guided tours that are accessible to all. Check at visitor centers for daily offerings.

5 Best Zion Hikes

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

There’s loads of hiking to be done in Zion National Park here are what I consider to be the top Zion National Park trails. If you’re looking for the best hikes in Zion National Park, these are a great place to start (I’d also add the Watchman).

• Zion Narrows trail: This unique hike takes you along and often through the Virgin River, at the bottom of a narrow canyon with walls a thousand feet tall. Due to the nature of the hike, proper preparation and checking weather conditions are vital, it’s often closed.
• Angels Landing Trail: One of the most famous hikes in Zion, the Angels Landing hike offers incredible views but is not for the faint of heart. The trail includes steep climbs and narrow ridges with drop-offs on both sides.
• Observation Point: A challenging uphill trek that rewards you with an incredible panoramic view of Zion Canyon. It’s higher than Angels Landing, offering a unique perspective over the park.
• Upper Emerald Pools: This Emerald Pools trail includes three trails of different lengths, leading to beautiful pools and waterfalls. It offers the opportunity to experience several Zion waterfalls in a single hike and is family-friendly.
• Canyon Overlook: A relatively short, easy hike that ends with a breathtaking view of Zion Canyon. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to experience Zion’s beauty without venturing onto the park’s more strenuous trails.

5 Best things to do near Zion National Park Utah USA

Staying near Zion for a little while? Make sure to check out these other great things to see near Zion.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: This park is famous for its unique geology, consisting of a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The weathering process forms unusual structures called hoodoos that are beautiful to behold.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: Just an hour away from Zion, you can explore vast dunes of red sand. There are hiking opportunities, but many people who go here enjoy sandboarding or ATV riding on the dunes.
• Visit the Town of Springdale: Located at the entrance of Zion, Springdale offers great restaurants, art galleries, and shops. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the local culture after exploring the park.
• Kanab: Known as “Little Hollywood” due to its history as a filming location for Western films and TV shows, Kanab offers movie history along with natural beauty. It also serves as a gateway to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
• Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: Located in Kanab, it’s the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals. Visitors can take a free tour, volunteer, or even arrange to take a dog on a sleepover.

Best Zion tours

If you have limited time, are a solo traveler, or are seeking guided trips to Zion National Park and other USA parks, these are fantastic options for guided tours departing from cities like Las Vegas.

These guided tours offer the convenience of pre-arranged transport and itineraries so that you don’t need to worry about logistics and directions.

• Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Small Group Tour from Las Vegas: This one day trip to Zion National Park from Las Vegas in a small-group tour provides return transport from Las Vegas and allows you to enjoy hiking and scenic drives at both Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
• VIP Guided Photography and Walking Tour of Zion National Park: Leaving from Vegas, this day trip includes guided walking and photographing tours around Zion National Park.
• 3-Day National Parks Tour Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and Grand Canyon: A awesome 3-day, 2-night excursion from Las Vegas, where you’ll discover the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon, and Monument Valley.
• 7-Days Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Arches, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon South Rim: This 1 week adventure from Vegas, takes you to Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, the Grand Canyon South Rim, and Monument Valley.

When is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park?

The best time to visit depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and planned activities. Remember to check the weather forecast before your visit to pack and plan accordingly.

Spring (March to May): Typically mild temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 80s degrees Fahrenheit (20-28 degrees Celsius). A great time to see beautiful wildflowers and full waterfalls due to winter snowmelt, especially enjoyable in April. However, some trails, like the Narrows, may be closed temporarily due to high water levels.

Summer (June to August): Most popular season for visiting Zion National Park, but also the hottest. Temperatures can go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), making midday hikes uncomfortable and risky. All trails, including the Narrows, are usually open, and the park’s shuttle service operates at full capacity. As you’re exploring, avoid the heat by planning hikes early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn (September to November): Fantastic time to visit with temperatures ranging from high 60s to mid-80s degrees Fahrenheit (20-29 degrees Celsius). Perfect for hiking and enjoying the changing colors of plants, especially in October. Less crowded than summer, but still can be busy.

Winter (December to February):

Least crowded season with cooler temperatures, highs in the 50s degrees Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius), and below-freezing lows. Main canyon remains snow-free, but higher elevations can receive snow, potentially closing some trails. Offers unique frosty views and a chance to see the park covered in snow, a rare sight for most visitors.

Where to Stay Near Zion National Park Ut

Zion National Park offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, including hotels and camping options.

Best Zion National Park Hotels

• Zion Park Lodge: The Zion Lodge is the only hotel within the park itself, offering a mix of cabins, suites, and hotel rooms. Perfect for hikers seeking a comfortable stay. Reservations definitely required.
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale: Modern rooms and daily breakfast buffet, located just 3 miles from the park. Pet-friendly for travelers with furry companions.
• Under Canvas Zion: Experience unique glamping in luxury tents bordering Zion National Park. Enjoy various on-site outdoor activities and breakfast options.
• Tyler Inn at Zion: Provides free private parking, mountain views, and air conditioning, creating a cozy environment with convenient amenities.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park: Ideal for comfort and active holidays, with a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary bikes for guests.
• Zion Glamping Adventures: In Hildale this place to stay near Zion offers glamping with free Wi-Fi, private parking, and daily American breakfast, perfect for adventurous travelers who appreciate a touch of luxury.

Zion National Park Camping

Zion National Park has three campgrounds available for camping enthusiasts:

• Watchman Campground: Open all year, reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
• South Campground: Partially closed currently, but you can reserve spots in the open areas two weeks before your visit.
• Lava Point Campground: About an hour’s drive from Zion Canyon, closed during winter.

Important tips + notes for campers at Zion Utah

• South Campground and Watchman Campground are located near the park’s south entrance. It can get hot in this desert area with limited shade.
• Camping is not allowed in Kolob Canyons or road pullouts/parking lots.
• Campgrounds fill up quickly from mid-March to late November, so it’s advisable to book ahead, especially for Watchman Campground.
• Basic amenities are available at each campsite, including flush toilets, drinking water, and trash containers. However, there are no showers or electrical outlets.
• Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill.
• Pets are welcome but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Hiking with pets is only allowed on roads and the Pa’rus Trail.

Other things to know before traveling if this is your first time to Zion National Park Utah

Having the accolade of one of the US’ most popular parks, Zion is busy all year round. You won’t find a lot of peace and solitude here and parking within the park boundaries can be a nightmare. However, it doesn’t have to be by following a few simple guidelines for your Zion trip.

• Zion Shuttle System: The shuttle service is mandatory from March through November, as private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during this period. Plan your day around the shuttle schedule to make the most of your visit.
• Crowds: Zion National Park is popular, and it can get crowded, especially in the summer months. If you wish to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or start your day early in the morning.
• Trail Difficulty: Trails in Zion range from easy walks to strenuous hikes. Make sure to research the difficulty level of the trails you plan to tackle and ensure they are suitable for your fitness level.
• Heat and Dehydration: It can get very hot in the park, especially in the summer. It’s essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Always bring plenty of water with you.
• Flash Floods: Zion is known for its slot canyons, which can be dangerous in the event of a flash flood. Check the weather forecast and heed any warnings from park staff about potential flood risks.
• Wildlife: Zion is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and many species of birds. Remember to respect the wildlife by keeping your distance and not feeding animals.
• Camping and Lodging: If you wish to stay overnight in the park, be aware that campgrounds fill up quickly, and reservations are often necessary. There are also lodging options in the nearby town of Springdale.
• Zion National Park Fees: There is an entrance fee to access Zion National Park, which varies based on the type of pass you choose. Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit other national parks.
• Protect the Park: Remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park’s beauty for future generations. This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and not removing natural or cultural features.
• The Time in Zion National Park: Keep in mind that Zion National Park is in the Mountain Time Zone. If you’re coming from a different time zone, remember to adjust your watches accordingly to ensure you’re on track with park schedules, tour timings, and sunset or sunrise viewings. This is particularly important if you are crossing from a neighboring state like Nevada, which is in the Pacific Time Zone and may be an hour behind Utah depending on the time of year. Always check what time is it in Zion National Park.

What to pack for visiting Zion National Park

For a more detailed Zion National Park packing list check out that guide. Below you’ll find the essential items to pack for Zion National Park to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Hiking Gear: Depending on the difficulty of your hikes, consider packing trekking poles, a quality backpack, and good hiking boots or shoes.
• Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Include lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for hotter days, a warm jacket for cool evenings, rain gear for unexpected weather, and a hat for sun protection.
• Food and Water: Bring plenty of water, especially in the summer months. The park recommends 1 gallon per person per day for strenuous hikes. Pack high-energy snacks or a picnic lunch for your hike.
• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and personal medication is a must. Also, consider sunburn relief and blister treatment supplies.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen with a high SPF, and lip balm to protect against the sun.
• Camping Gear: If you’re planning to camp, bring a tent, sleeping bags, cooking gear, food storage containers, and headlamps or flashlights. Remember that fires are not allowed in the park, so consider a camp stove for cooking.
• Photography Equipment: To capture the stunning scenery of Zion, consider bringing a camera, spare batteries or a portable charger, and additional memory cards.
• Personal Items: Don’t forget everyday items like toiletries, cash or credit cards, personal identification, any necessary permits or reservation confirmations, and your Parks Pass!

Remember that packing lists whether you’re looking for Zion National Park for beginners guides or have been before, can vary depending on the time of year, your planned activities, and personal preferences. Always check the park’s official website for the most up-to-date information and recommendations.

FAQs on visiting Zion National Park Utah

Final thoughts on this Zion National Park Guide

Zion National Park is one of the best United States National Parks in the parks service and as a result, it’s a pretty busy place.

This Zion National Park travel guide can help you prepare for your trip with the best places to stay near Zion and where to book them, as well as the best things to do in Zion National Park in Utah. You’ve also got information on entrance fees and permits for Zion as well as what to pack.

If you’re exploring more and doing a Utah road trip, then be sure to check out some of the other Utah Mighty 5 Parks besides Zion Utah, which include Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.

Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by Hannah