31 of the best things to do in Zion National Park (Including a SECRET hike!)

There are tonnes of fun things to do in Zion National Park Utah and we loved spending a few days exploring this park during our big American road trip.

Zion National Park is one of the most popular and busiest national parks in the whole United States National Park Service system.

This means Zion does get pretty crowded in the peak season but even with the crowds, you can find plenty of things to do in Zion that’ll get you a little off the beaten track and into the wild beauty of this park to see what makes it so loved.

Zion Canyon was carved by the Virgin River millions of years ago and it’s absolutely stunning. Unlike the desert landscapes and red rocks of Arches National Park, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef that make up the rest of Utah’s Mighty 5, Zion Canyon has lots of greenery and can be quite lush if you visit in spring as I did.

This beautiful national park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA without a doubt.

While many people just visit the Zion Canyon area, there is actually so much more to this national park. From red rock mountains to towering white temples and golden meadows, you could easily fill more than one day in Zion.

From canyoneering to hiking, scenic drives, best Zion waterfalls, and emerald pools, I’ll share the very best things to do at Zion National Park with you below. I’ve also included some information on the best time to visit Zion, where to stay (hotels + camping), and information on what to pack.

Best Zion Tours

If you’re short on time, a solo traveler, or want to have someone lead you around Zion National Park and other parks in the USA, you can book a guided tour from cities like Las Vegas to Zion and other parks.

On these tours of Zion, you don’t need to worry about transport and where to go as someone’s done it all for you.

Below are some of the best Zion tours that get great reviews.

• Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Small Group Tour from Las Vegas: With return transport from Las Vegas, this small-group tour takes you hiking and exploring Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
• VIP Guided Photography and Walking Tour of Zion National Park: From Vegas, you’ll head out to Zion for a day of walking and exploring Zion National Park
• 3-Day National Parks Tour: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and Grand Canyon: Escape Las Vegas on this 3-day, 2-night excursion to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon as well as Monument Valley.
• 7-Days Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Arches, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon South Rim: Visit Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and the Grand Canyon national parks and Monument Valley on this one-week tour from Vegas.

Best things to do in Zion National Park

There’s more to do in Zion National Park than you’d think at first.

There’s a huge backcountry to explore, cliffs to climb, rivers to walk alongside (or in!), and plenty of geology to learn about in the visitor center and as you wander around.

Check out these Zion National Park must-sees and you’ll quickly understand why it’s such a special place.

Zion National Park map

Below I’ve placed them all on a map of Zion National Park so you can see where everything is as you plan your Zion vacation.

The Zion Narrows hike

One of the best things to do in Zion is also one of the best hikes in Zion National Park: The Narrows Trail.

This trail is notorious for its short season due to weather conditions so if you get to hike it you’re very lucky!

We tried to do this hike only to find that the water was too cold from all the snowmelt for the park to allow hikers on the trail. At other times the trail gets shut due to flash flood concerns.

The best way to see if the trail is open is to check at the visitor center during your trip to Zion.

If it is open, then you’ll walk through the Virgin River and amongst the canyon as you go further.

You’ll need good shoes to walk this trail, even though you’re in the water. Closed-toe water shoes are a good shout for the Zion Narrows Trail and give you a little bit of warmth which you’ll likely appreciate after walking in the river for a while.

There are quite a few outdoor stores in Springdale, just outside of the park, where you can rent gear like neoprene socks, water shoes, and hiking poles which you’ll want so you don’t lose your footing on the river bed.

The Narrows is 16 miles long if you do the whole thing, but many choose to hike just the first few miles.

Start super early (getting the first shuttle of the day) as this is a very popular trail when it is open to hikers.

You can also book a guided hike of the Narrows in Zion. On this tour, you’ll get a guide who will teach you about the geology, formation, and plants and animals that call this canyon home. A picnic lunch charcuterie board (veggie/vegan options available) is included at the end of the hike too.

2. Catch the Epic Views from Lava Point

Lava Point is the best place in Zion to watch the sunset.

This scenic overlook in Zion is in the Kolob Terrace section of the park and it’s a bit off the beaten track and 100% worth a detour.

You’ll get pretty different views from here than you do from elsewhere in the park and there’s no hike required for these hidden gems in Zion national park. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking, this is one place to visit!

Simply drive to the lookout point, park your vehicle, settle down, and watch as the setting sun bathes the landscape in a golden light.

3. Bird watching in Zion

Zion National Park has over 290 bird species that call the park home and so if you’re into bird watching then pack your binoculars as you’re out exploring.

The different bird species favor different habitats throughout the park. Some like soaring from the cliffs, others prefer the quiet riverbanks.

I recommend getting one of the bird checklists from the visitors’ center so you can track what you’ve seen and see what to look out for!

4. Drive the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel

If you’re entering from the Zion National Park east entrance then you’ll come through this tunnel anyway, if you’re coming from the south I’d suggest checking it out when you leave!

The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel was completed in 1930 and today it’s one of the busiest places in the park.

It’s very narrow so if you’re in an RV they’ll usually have to close the traffic coming in the other direction to make sure there’s enough room to get through.

It’s a fun tunnel to drive through and has no lighting (apart from the car lights) making it super dark!

5. Hike the Angels Landing trail in Zion

You can’t go visit without doing one of the awesome Zion National Park hikes on offer. And the Angels Landing hike is one of the best hikes in the park!

From 2022 you’ve had to secure an Angel’s Landing Permit to hike the trail. When I hiked the trail in 2017 it was incredibly busy and actually pretty dangerous with the sheer number of people trying to walk two ways on a single-track path with steep drop offs. I’m hopeful the Angels Landing lottery system has made it a bit safer.

If you don’t manage to get a permit for the Angel’s Landing hike, you can still hike up to Scout Landing which has some awesome views. It just means you don’t get to do the chained section of the trial which is arguably the most fun.

If you’re a nervous hiker and/or scared of heights I don’t recommend it but if you’re okay with heights and physically fit then this will be one of the Zion hiking trails that you’ll remember for years to come.

6. Take a helicopter ride over Zion

For a bird’s eye view of the park’s majestic landscape, take a helicopter ride over Zion. Seeing the vast expanses of red rock canyons and green valleys from above is an experience like no other and offers a unique perspective on the park’s incredible topography.

This helicopter tour over Zion covers 55 miles of the park without you having to walk anywhere and the views are even cooler from up high! You’ll see some of the best places to see in Zion including Kolob Canyon, Smith Mesa, and the Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area as you fly.

7. Ride the shuttle bus along the Zion scenic drive

There’s actually no choice but to use the shuttle bus from March to November as Zion closes the majority of the park to cars and private vehicles. They also exclusively run the shuttle service for the holiday season near the end of December.

At first, this may seem a little annoying, but the buses run every few minutes and it’s far better for the environment and less stressful than sitting in traffic.

If you’re arriving in Zion after 10 am then don’t count on finding Zion National Park parking. It’s easier and more stress-free to park up outside of the park and ride the shuttle bus in.

There is no ticket or reservation required to ride the park shuttle or enter the park but you will need your park pass ($20 per person for a week or $80 for a year with the park pass to all parks in the National Parks Service)

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!

The Zion Canyon Line, or park shuttle, runs from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to destinations including the Zion Lodge and trailheads for hikes to Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, West Rim Trail, and the Narrows. 

You’ll also get some on-board narration about what you’re seeing so it’s almost like a free tour as well as transport.

8. Walk the Riverside Walk, Zion National Park

This was the first easy walk in Zion National Park that we did and the Riverside Walk is also the trail you’ll take to the beginning of The Narrows hike if that’s something you’re planning on doing.

If you’re looking for Zion National Park easy hikes then this is it:  it’s accessible and has virtually no elevation.

At roughly 2 miles long there and back, the route takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on how much time you want to spend soaking up the views.

You can walk just off the path and sit by the river too.

It’s really popular with families due to its ease, so if you’re traveling to Zion with kids then this is a great walk for you all to do together.

9. Go horseback riding in Zion National Park

From March to October, you can explore Zion National Park on horseback with organized tours through the National Park itself.

Going horseriding in Zion gives you a unique perspective on the park’s beauty and there are multiple tour lengths available including 1 hour rides to half-day trips.

You can also book horse rides in East Zion with some of the local tour companies. The ones below get great reviews:

• East Zion Twin Knoll Horseback Ride Experience: Set out on a guided ride to the top of Twin Knoll and enjoy views of Zion National Park, the Elkheart Mountains, and the Kaibab Mountain range during the loop on this 1.5-hour tour.
• East Zion Sunset Horseback Ride: Saddle up and soak up the views of Zion National Park from the back of a horse and head to a viewpoint to watch the sunset far from the crowds.

10. Take the Canyon Overlook Trail

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, make sure to add the Canyon Overlook Trail to your itinerary.

This trail is perfect for both novice hikers and more experienced ones looking to get a great view out over Zion Canyon.

The hardest part of the trail is the steps right at the beginning which can be a bit uneven and slippery. You’ll also be walking in sand for most of the walk so wear sensible hiking shoes like hiking boots or trail runners.

The trailhead for this Zion hike is just outside the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel and it’s an easy 1 mile round trip.

11. Try Canyoneering in Zion

Zion National Park’s unique landscape and slot canyons make it an ideal location for trying canyoneering.

Canyoneering is an activity that involves rappelling, climbing, hiking, and exploring slot canyons and tricky to get to places. With a guide to making sure you don’t get lost, it’s great fun and gives you a whole new take on the landscapes of this Utah national park.

This canyoneering tour in Zion also includes an ATV ride so you’ll get two super fun Zion activities in one.

12. Visit Zion Lodge

After a day full of exploration and adventure, Zion Lodge is the perfect place to unwind.

This is the only hotel-style accommodation that’s actually in Zion National Park and rooms here can be hard to book, booking up early in advance.

Even if you’re not staying here, you can enjoy dining in Zion National Park with incredible views over a tasty lunch.

There are two places to eat, the Red Rock Grill and the Castle Dome Cafe with the Cafe doing more ready. to eat or grab-and-go style food. They’re open for breakfast and lunch and the grill stays open until 9 pm for dinner.

So, whatever time you’re ready to eat, this is a great place to grab something.

13. Go Stargazing

As an International Dark Sky Park, Zion National Park is a fantastic place to admire the night sky.

Few places in the world offer such optimal conditions for stargazing with such minimal light pollution.

One of the best places for stargazing in Zion Nationa Park is from Kolob Terrace. You won’t get car headlights here so there’s even less light pollution than at other spots in the park!

14. Observation Point Trail 

Another of the best hiking trails in Zion is the Observation Point Trail. It’s a moderately difficult hike that’s just over 7 miles (11.3 km) long and takes you out to an incredible viewpoint from the top of the canyon.

Most people start this trail from East Zion and you should allow about 3 hours to complete it.

I also recommend starting this hike early since it can get very hot and there’s not much shade. Plus, it’s a good way to beat some of the crowds.

15. Check out the Weeping Rock Trail

In a similar part of Zion National Park is the Weeping Rock.

The Weeping Rock is a rock where water drips continuously from inside the rock to the outside so it’s not quite like most waterfalls since the water is coming from the rock itself.

On this Zion waterfall hike, the dripping creates a curtain of water that can vary from a few drips to something bigger depending on the season.

The path takes you right under the weeping rock itself so take care when walking as it can be slippery.

This site is an easy half-mile round-trip walk from the shuttle stop and it’s a must-visit in Zion.

16. Kolob Canyon

For a quieter, less crowded experience than down in Zion Canyon, head over to Kolob Canyon.

Though it’s smaller than the main canyon, it offers just as stunning views of red rock formations.

There’s a scenic drive here and there are also some hikes and great viewpoints. If you’re planning on spending a few days in the Zion area, I highly recommend checking out Kolob Canyon as it’s one of the best places to visit near Zion for sure.

17. Check out the Zion Emerald Pools

The Emerald Pools trail is one of the most popular trails in Zion and features 3 natural pools – Lower, Middle, and Upper – each filled with water that can look emerald green due to the algae and the lush vegetation.

Each pool can be accessed through different trails varying in difficulty, allowing you to choose based on your comfort and experience level.

However, it’s not really the pools that remain the highlight of this trail. Some of them are often a bit dried up these days depending on the time of year you visit Zion.

Don’t write this trail off though as you can still get amazing views as you hike off the canyon, and the river and there are also some waterfalls that cascade into the pools and provide a nice way to cool off if you’re getting hot after hiking in Zion!

18. Lower Pine Creek Waterfall Trail

The ‘secret’ Pine Creek Waterfall hike in Zion National Park is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park.

A short and easy trail with minimal (fun) rock scrambling takes you out to a beautiful pool and small waterfall that’s often not very busy, unlike spots along the Zion Riverside trail. It’s a great spot for a swim!

The start of the trail is just off the road heading towards the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel from the park’s South Entrance.

19. Go looking for Big Horn Sheep

The chance to spot the bighorn sheep in Zion is one of the things I loved about exploring this national park.

The big horn sheep have been living in the park since the 1970s. At first, 12 were introduced and now there are over 150!

You’ll often see them hanging out by the Canyon Overlook Trail but they can be seen all over the park.

20. See Checkerboard Mesa

Checkerboard Mesa is one of the coolest things if you’re wondering what to see in Zion National Park.

It’s an interesting and unique rock formation where rocks that have been carved and shaped by wind and water over thousands of years resemble a checkboard due to their unique pattern.

There’s a good place to pull over to view Checkboard Mesa as you drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway Scenic Drive.

Alternatively, you can book this super cool Jeep tour in Zion where you’ll get to go off-road and see Checkerboard Mesa and Jolley Gulch from above to fully appreciate them in all their glory.

21. Visit Kolob Terrace

One of the less-explored yet breathtaking areas of Zion National Park is the Kolob Terrace.

This area is full of Zion hoodoos, grassy plains, volcanic lava rock formations, and colorful mesas. One of the best things to see in Kolob Terrace is Lava Point but there are numerous trails and areas to explore.

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.

22. See the Court of the Patriarchs

The Court of the Patriarchs in Zion is one of the best places to go in the park.

From here you can see the towering red and white rock formations named after the biblical figures Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Not only is the geology of this rock wild to think about, but you’ll get incredible views of the canyon too.

23. Watchman Trail

Commonly considered one of the must-do hikes in Zion National Park, the Watchman Trail is a 2-mile trail that has incredible views of the iconic red spire known as the Watchman which stands at 6,500 ft tall.

Along the hike, you’ll also get views of other Zion landmarks such as the Beehives, Towers of the Virgin, West Temple, and the Altar of Sacrifice.

There are a couple of areas where the edge of the trail is steep, but most of the path is fairly wide, and the switchbacks aren’t especially strenuous.

It’s also a good trail for spotting big horn sheep!

24. Big Bend

Stopping off at Big Bend in Zion National Park is a must when you’re in the park

Big Bend is where the Virgin River meanders and bends around and it’s super cool to see. You’ll also get some great views of the Great White Throne to the south.

This is a great spot to spend a few hours relaxing while you’re in Zion and you can take a walk alongside the river or just sit and do nothing!

25. Kanarra Creek and Kanarra Falls

Visiting Kanarra Creek is a top activity when exploring Zion National Park.

This easy slot canyon hike is a unique experience you won’t find just anywhere!

It’s located a bit outside of the park, but it’s very easy to reach from the main road and it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Just drive along Highway 9 to a small place called Kanarraville, which is a bit south of Cedar City. Once you get off I-15, drive to the middle of this tiny town and head east on 100 North for about four blocks to reach a parking area.

Here, you’ll find a gate, a permit booth, and the start of the trail. You need a $12 permit to hike Kanarra Creek Canyon, which you can purchase online.

26. Hoodoos in Zion

Yes, Bryce Canyon isn’t the only Utah park with hoodoos!

Zion National Park also has these odd-shaped rock pillars. They’re located in the less crowded Kolob Terrace area of the park and you can get great views of them from across the road at the Hop Valley Trailhead.

27. Rappel down The Subway hike, Zion

The Subway in Zion National Park is undoubtedly one of Zion’s best hikes.

It’s in the Great West Canyon area and there are two approaches both of which require a permit.

If you hike from the bottom up, it’s a hard 9-mile round trip involving creek crossing and boulder scrambling. You’ll start and ends at the Left Fork Trailhead on Kolob Terrace Road.

If you choose to hike from the top down, prepare for a tough 9.5-mile hike that requires rappelling skills and swimming through cold, debris-filled water. This route starts at the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead and ends at the Left Fork Trailhead.

28. Hike the Hop Valley Trail

The Hop Valley Trail is a long hike in the Kolob Terrace region that can also be done as an overnight hike.

This trail takes you through the stunning Kolob Canyon, where the scenery transitions from gorgeous valleys to red rock canyons.

It’s also a great spot to see wildflowers and cacti in bloom if you visit in early summer.

29. Zion-Mt Carmel Highway Scenic Drive

The scenic drive along the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway is one of the most stunning routes in the national park system and one of the best scenic drives in Utah.

While you’re in this area, make sure to visit the Canyon Overlook and Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon.

As you drive, you’ll see huge, colorful rock formations and there are plenty of stopping places where you can park up and enjoy the views or head off on one of the beautiful hikes in Zion National Park.

The drive is on the east side of Zion, which is less crowded than the main canyon and where you can spot bighorn sheep.

30. Visit Peek a boo slot canyon near Zion National Park

Take a private tour of Peek a boo Slot Canyon in Zion National Park.

The journey involves an exciting ride on a UTV which can handle the sandy trails which your guide will drive. It’s one of the best things to do near Zion National Park. lodge

Once at the canyon, you’ll take a short, easy hike while learning more about the canyon’s geology. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to go sandboarding too on some dunes before heading back to Zion.

31. Visit the Zion Human History Museum

The Zion Human History Museum showcases the diverse history and impact of water on Zion National Park through displays of artifacts and archival materials.

These exhibits, which touch on topics from geology to local communities, demonstrate how water has shaped the landscape and attracted people to this area for thousands of years.

When the museum is open, park rangers are available to answer questions and you can watch a free park film.

Best things to do in one day in Zion National Park

Morning in Zion

Start your morning in Zion National Park with an invigorating hike on the Emerald Pools Trail, a classic and must-do experience in Zion.

Starting from the Zion Lodge, this trail features three sparkling pools and several waterfalls, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Zion.

You can choose between the lower, middle, and upper trails based on your fitness level and preference, and remember to take a camera!

After your morning hike, head back to the Zion National Park Lodge for a hearty breakfast. The Red Rock Grill in the lodge offers a range of delicious options and you can enjoy the surrounding views while refueling for the rest of the day.

Post breakfast, it’s time to venture into the heart of Zion Canyon with a scenic drive on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This road, which is closed to private vehicles most of the year, can be explored using the park’s shuttle system.

As you make your way along the drive, you’ll be treated to stunning views of some of Zion’s most iconic landmarks, including the Great White Throne and Angel’s Landing.

Get off at the various stops along the way to enjoy short walks and photo opportunities.

Afternoon in Zion

Around midday, plan for a picnic lunch at the Grotto Picnic Area. This spot offers picnic tables and restrooms. Be sure to pack a lunch before your trip or pick up supplies at the Zion Lodge.

After lunch, prepare for an afternoon of adventure with a trip to the Narrows, one of the park’s most famous hikes.

This hike takes you along and often in the Virgin River, right up the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. It’s a unique and adventurous experience and you can hike as far up the river as you’d like before turning back.

Just remember to check the weather and the flash flood potential before setting off.

Evening in Zion National Park

Once you’re done exploring the Narrows, it’s time for a well-earned dinner.

Head over to the Bit & Spur Restaurant and Saloon in Springdale, just outside the park. Here, you can indulge in a delicious meal featuring Southwestern-style dishes and refreshing drinks.

Cap off your day with a relaxing evening stroll around the Pa’rus Trail, an easy, paved path that starts at the South Campground near the park entrance and follows the Virgin River.

As dusk settles, you’ll be treated to a stunning display of stars.

Zion National Park is known for its clear, dark skies that make it an ideal location for stargazing. You could also opt for a ranger-led stargazing program if it’s available during your visit which is one of the best things to do in Zion at night.

What to pack for Zion National Park Utah

To enjoy your trip to Zion and get the most out of your experience, you should pack appropriately for the activities at Zion National Park you want to do and the Zion National Park weather you can expect.

I have a more detailed guide for what to pack for Zion National Park and this list below highlights some of the things you shouldn’t forget!

• Hiking Shoes/Boots: The terrain in Zion can be rugged and unpredictable. Having a solid pair of hiking shoes will keep your feet comfortable and secure during your hikes.
• Water Bottles or Hydration Pack: It’s crucial to stay hydrated in the dry climate of Zion. Bring plenty of water with you, especially if you’re planning on hiking the more strenuous trails.
• Snacks: High-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit can keep you fueled during long hikes.
• Sunscreen: With lots of sun exposure and little shade, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. I like to use Sun Bum sun cream.
• Hat and Sunglasses: These will help protect your face and eyes from the sun.
• Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Temperatures can get very high in Zion, especially in the summer months. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that can wick away sweat.
• Warm Layers: Even though Zion can get hot during the day, the temperature can drop significantly once the sun goes down. Bring warm layers for the evenings.
• Rain Jacket/Poncho: The weather in Zion can change quickly. A lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho can be a lifesaver in a sudden rainstorm.
• Backpack: A good hiking backpack is essential for carrying all your gear, snacks, and water during your hikes.
• Headlamp/Flashlight: Useful for early morning or late evening hikes and necessary if you’re planning any nighttime Zion Nationa Park activities like stargazing.
• First Aid Kit: Always useful in case of minor injuries. Make sure it includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication you may need.
• Camera: The stunning views in Zion are worth capturing. A good camera or a smartphone with a good camera will allow you to capture these memories.
• Swimwear and Quick-Dry Towel: If you’re planning on hiking the Narrows or taking a dip in the Virgin River, you’ll want to have swimwear and a quick-dry towel handy as well as some good water shoes.
• Walking Stick or Trekking Poles: These can provide additional stability and support on uneven terrain, especially on trails like the Narrows where you’ll be walking through a river.
• Binoculars: Great for wildlife viewing and getting a closer look at distant features.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Spring (March to May):

This is one of the best times to visit Zion National Park due to mild temperatures, which range from the high 60s to low 80s degrees Fahrenheit (20-28 degrees Celsius).

This is usually the best time for wildflowers and full waterfalls thanks to winter snowmelt. And one of the best things to do in Zion National Park in April is to enjoy the flowers in bloom.

However, some trails, like the Narrows, may be closed due to high water levels from snowmelt.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular season in Zion, but also the hottest.

Temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), making hiking in the middle of the day uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.

On the plus side, all trails, including the Narrows, are usually open, and the park’s shuttle service runs at full capacity.

To avoid the heat, plan your hikes early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Autumn (September to November)

Fall is a fantastic time to visit Zion National Park.

Temperatures range from the high 60s to mid-80s degrees Fahrenheit (20-29 degrees Celsius), making it perfect for hiking.

When it comes to things to do in Zion National Park in October, enjoy the changing colors of the plants. The fall foliage, especially in the higher elevations, adds a beautiful touch of color to the park. It’s also less crowded than in summer, although it can still be busy.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the least crowded season in Zion and temperatures are much cooler, with highs typically in the 50s degrees Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius) and lows often below freezing.

While the main canyon usually remains snow-free, higher elevations can receive snow, which can close some trails.

The upside is that you can enjoy stunning frosty vistas and possibly experience the park in the snow, a rarity for many visitors.

Remember that these are average temperatures and they can vary. Always check the weather forecast before your visit to pack and plan accordingly. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the activities you’re planning on doing.

How to get to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near the town of Springdale. Here’s how you can get there:

Flights to Zion National Park

The closest airport to Zion is McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City, Utah.

• McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas): It’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas to Zion. You would head north on I-15, then take UT-9 east right into Zion National Park.
• Salt Lake City International Airport: The drive from Salt Lake City to Zion is longer, roughly 4.5 hours. You would 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 National Park

If you’re driving from other major cities in the region, here are some rough estimates for drive times:

• Los Angeles, CA: The drive is about 7 hours. You would head east on I-10, then take I-15 north to UT-9 east right into Zion National Park.
• Phoenix, AZ: It takes about 6.5 hours from Phoenix. You would head north on I-17, take US-89 north, and then UT-9 west into the park.
• Denver, CO: The drive from Denver takes around 9 hours. You would head west on I-70, then take US-89 south, and finally UT-9 west into the park.

Remember that traffic, road construction, and weather conditions can affect these drive times, so always check the current road conditions before you leave.

Public transportation options to Zion are limited and once you’re in the park, a free shuttle bus operates along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and in the town of Springdale, making it easy to get around.

There are three entrances to Zion National Park.

• South Entrance: This is the main entrance, located at the south end of the park in Springdale, Utah. This is the entrance you’ll use if you’re coming from Las Vegas or other points in the southwest.
• East Entrance: The East Entrance is located on the east side of the park, along Route 9. If you’re coming from Bryce Canyon National Park or other points in the east, you’ll use this entrance. The East Entrance offers access to the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which is a scenic drive through the park.
• Kolob Canyons Entrance: The Kolob Canyons Entrance is on the northwest side of the park, off of I-15. This entrance provides access to the Kolob Canyons area of the park, which is less crowded than the main canyon and offers a variety of hiking options.

Each of these entrances gives you access to different areas of the park, so depending on what you’re interested in doing during your visit, you may want to choose one entrance over the others.

Entrance Fees for 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 Zion National Park 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!

Where to stay near Zion National Park

Despite being small there are plenty of places to stay near Zion National Park. And, if you’re a camper there are campsites outside of the park in case the campgrounds inside the park (see below) are already full.

Best Zion National Park Hotels

Check out these highly recommended hotels near Zion National Park and Zion National Park accommodation.

• Zion Park Lodge is one of the best places to stay in Zion National Park and is the only hotel within the park itself. This historic building has a mixture of Zion National Park cabins, suites, and hotel rooms to stay in. It’s a perfect place to spend the night before or after a day’s hiking but you’ll need to make Zion Lodge reservations!
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale: Modern rooms and a daily breakfast buffet, just 3 miles away from Zion National Park, also pet-friendly, perfect for travelers bringing their fur friends.
• Tyler Inn at Zion: Free private parking, mountain views, and A/C, a great choice for those who want a homely environment with amenities.
• Under Canvas Zion: For a unique glamping experience, stay in luxury tents that border Zion National Park, offering plenty of on-site outdoor activities and a choice of breakfast every morning.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park: Seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and free bikes for guest use, an ideal pick for those who love both comfort and active holidays.
• Zion Glamping Adventures: Based in Hildale, this place offers glamping with free Wi-Fi, private parking, and an American breakfast every morning, suitable for adventurers who love a touch of luxury.

Zion National Park Camping

Zion National Park has 3 different campgrounds for you to choose from.

Firstly, there’s the Watchman Campground, which stays open all year round. You can reserve a spot up to six months in advance here.

There’s also the South Campground which is currently partially closed but you can reserve a spot in the open spaces two weeks before your visit. Lastly, there’s the Lava Point Campground, about an hour’s drive from Zion Canyon. This one’s not open in winter, though.

The South Campground and Watchman Campground are located near the park’s south entrance at Springdale. This is a desert area with few trees, so it can get quite hot. Some spots have shade, but many do not. Summer temperatures can reach 95°F (35°C), and it rarely goes below 65°F (18°C) at night. The Virgin River runs along the edge of each campground, providing a few riverside campsites.

There’s no camping allowed in Kolob Canyons, only in the designated campsite areas. You also can’t camp in road pullouts or parking lots.

The campgrounds are usually full from mid-March to late November, so booking ahead, especially for the Watchman Campground is a smart move to secure a spot.

Each campsite provides basic amenities, such as flush toilets, cold drinking water, and trash containers, but there are no showers or electrical outlets.

You will also find a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill at each site.

Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Only roads and the Pa’rus Trail are open for hiking with pets.

FAQs about what to do in Zion National Park

Final thoughts on the best things to do Zion National Park

There are a tonne of awesome Zion National Park things to do even if you want things to do other than hiking in Zion.

This National Park in Utah with its stunning red cliffs, dramatic canyons, unique flora, and diverse fauna, offers something for everyone, and driving the scenic routes through the tunnel is an absolute must, as is taking the shuttle bus from one end of the park to the other.

If you’re looking for more USA travel guides, check out my guides on the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park, what to do in Arches National Park, the best hikes in Bryce Canyon, and the best things to do in Vegas for free.

Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by Hannah