21 of the Best Zion National Park hikes

There are so many awesome Zion National Park hikes that are dotted all over the park.

Of course, you’ve got the famous Angel’s Landing hike which is probably the most popular in the park. There’s the unique hike in Zion National Park where you walk through a river canyon: The Narrows, and there are riverside walks, slot canyon scrambles, and strenuous hikes up to incredible viewpoints over Zion Canyon.

With all the USA National Parks we visited across the US on our three-month USA road trip we tried to get in at least one hike.

Zion National Park, Utah was no exception. How could it be when there are so many incredible Zion National Park hikes?

If you’re planning a trip to Zion and want to do some Zion hiking then be sure to check out this list of Zion National Park’s best hikes!

Best Zion National Park hikes

Zion National Park is a great park for visitors looking to hike whether you’re an experienced hiker or not.

These best hikes in Zion range from easy to strenuous and they’re varied in type too. Hiking is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park so make sure you get out there.

Take a look at the brief hike guides for some of the best hikes in Zion National Park below to see which ones pique your interest!

Zion National Park map

Check out this Zion map which shows some of the Zion National Park trails as well as the top things to see in Zion. You can open it up in Google Maps by clicking the image below (or here).

I still recommend getting AllTrails+ while hiking Zion Canyon as cell service can be hit and miss and with the app you can save offline maps for use without data. It’s my preferred choice when it comes to using a Zion National Park trail map.

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.

Best Day Hikes in Zion National Park

Check out these day hikes in Zion National Park for your visit to this beautiful place! All distances are for the round trip and there are trail maps included for this list of the best Zion hikes too.

Lower Emerald Pool Trail

• Distance: 1.4 miles / 2.3 km
• Time: 0.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 128 ft / 39 m
• Shuttle stop: #5 – Zion Lodge (Note: Closed trail bridge at Zion Lodge so start from Shuttle Stop #4 or #6 instead)
• Trail map

The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is one of the best easy day hikes at Zion National Park.

This trail is a popular hike in Zion with kids as it’s easy, takes you along a paved path, and has a super pretty waterfall and pool at the end. Though tempting, remember, you are not allowed to swim in the pools.

From Zion Lodge, it’s an easy 0.5-mile walk to Lower Emerald Pools Trail. If you wish, you can actually continue on to Middle Emerald Pools or go even further and climb the stairs up to Upper Emerald Pools. The latter two pools involve a steeper, rougher trail so bear that in mind.

Another thing to note is that this is a super popular hike in Zion National Park and so can be very crowded. If you’re looking for solitude, this isn’t where you’re going to find it.

You can make this into a loop trail by returning via the Kayenta Trail if you wish. This is one of the best Zion National Park easy hikes.

Weeping Rock Trail

• Distance: 0.3 miles / 0.5 km
• Time: 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 36 ft / 11 m
• Shuttle stop: #7 – Weeping Rock
• Trail map

The walk to Weeping Rock is another of the best easy hikes in Zion National Park.

Weeping Rock Trail is short and pretty easy overall despite there being some sections that are at a steeper gradient. It’s also on a paved trail so while it seems accessible the steeper gradients can cause an issue.

You’ll head uphill to a rocky alcove where water drips from the rock and creates a hanging garden of fern and moss. The trail has some exhibits along the way to help you learn more about the area and how these rock formations were created.

As this is such a short and easy hike it can get crowded.

Riverside Walk, Zion National Park

• Distance: 2.2 miles / 3.5 km
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy with a few hills
• Shuttle stop: #9 – Temple of Sinawava

The Riverside Walk was our first hike in Zion, really it’s more of a walk and it’s perfect as something to do in Zion as a family or just an easy walk, taking in the views at a relaxing pace.

You’ll head alongside the Virgin River on a paved trail to the base of a narrow canyon where The Narrows Zion National Park trail starts.

The trail is mostly paved with just a few hills along the way. Note that only the first 0.4 miles (0.6 km) are wheelchair accessible as the path gets steeper.

The Riverside Walk Zion National Park is the best trail for families.

Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

• Distance: 1 mile / 1.6 km
• Time: 30 mins
• Difficulty: Easy, but uneven and rocky in places
• Elevation: 163 ft / 50 m
• Shuttle stop: No shuttle to this trailhead, parking is very limited
• Trail map

The Canyon Overlook Trail is a short, family-friendly hike on the east side of Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel that gives you an amazing view of Zion Canyon.

The trail is only a mile long and goes up 100 feet in height from the parking area to the overlook so it’s not particularly challenging.

This is one of the best places in Zion National Park for sunrise as the sun begins to light up the canyon floor. At the end of the trail, you’ll also have great views of Pine Creek Canyon and Lower Zion Canyon.

This trail is quite uneven and rocky with lots of long drop-offs, but most are fenced for safety so it’s not too precarious.

Hop Valley Trail

• Distance: 6.6 miles (point to point) or 13.2 miles round trip / 23.5 km total
• Time: 6 hours (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Elevation: 1811 ft / 552 m
• Trail map

The Hop Valley Trail is a longer trail that starts in the Kolob Terrace region of the park and goes into the beautiful Kolob Canyon.

On the way, you’ll pass through open fields, meadows, and stunning red rock canyons. In June you can often enjoy your hike accompanied by beautiful wildflowers.

It’s a long hike, so you should have a plan for someone to pick you up if you’re not planning to walk back to the trailhead. It’s also possible to do this as an overnight backpacking trip with the required permits.

One thing to note is that this trail is mostly on thick sand which can slow down your hiking from what you’re used to.

Lower Pine Creek Waterfall

• Distance: 0.7 miles / 1.1 km
• Time: 45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 56 ft / 17 m
• Trail map

The Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon is a popular spot for technical canyoneering in Zion National Park. But don’t worry if you’re not into rappelling! You can drive a bit towards the east entrance and find another part of the Pine Creek Gorge to hike around or just go to the pretty waterfall.

The details above refer to the walk to the Pine Creek Waterfall, and from here it’s much of a choose-your-own-adventure as to how much or little you want to add to this hike.

The creek bed is long and has many great entry points for hikers and it’s also a good option if you’re looking for less crowded hikes in Zion Utah. Plus, you’ll get some great views of the east side of Zion National Park.

Watchman Trail

• Distance: 3.1 miles / 5 km
• Duration 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, can be muddy after rain
• Elevation: 636 ft / 194 m
• Shuttle stop: #1 – Visitor Centre
• Trail map

The Watchman Trail Zion is a well-known trail near the south entrance to Zion National Park super close to the visitor center.

Walking this path you’ll get to enjoy some amazing views of some of the best things to see in Zion National Park including the Towers of the Virgin, lower Zion Canyon, Watchman Peak, and the town of Springdale.

The trail can get muddy when it’s been raining recently so take extra care if this is the case during your visit. Otherwise, it’s a round-trip hike of 3 miles with a moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for most ages and abilities.

Angel’s Landing trail

• Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip
• Duration ~ 4 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging, due to steep and narrow sections
• Elevation Gain: 1,488 feet (453 meters)
• Shuttle stop: #6 – The Grotto

The Angel’s Landing trail in Zion National Park is a true classic, best suited for those who are comfortable with heights. It was the best hike in Zion that we ended up doing.

The trail begins with a steady incline through a shaded area called Refrigerator Canyon before taking you to the infamous steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles and then coming out to Scout Lookout.

At this point, the trail gets scarier as you’ll walk about 0.5 miles along a narrow ridge with long drop-offs on either side.

Chains are bolted into the rock to assist you and when we did this hike in 2017, before the current permit system, it was incredibly busy with people trying. togo both directions on this narrow path. Hopefully, the permit system has now managed the crowds to a point where it’s not quite as busy.

Once you make it to the summit of the Angels Landing hike, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the canyon below.

To hike this Zion trail you’ll need to enter the Angel’s Landing Lottery and get your Angel’s Landing Permit in advance of your trip.

Timber Creek Overlook Trail

• Distance: 1.1 miles / 1.8 km
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 256 ft / 78 m
• Trail map

This easy and highly rewarding trail located in the Kolob Canyon section of Zion National Park gives you panoramic views of Kolob Canyon that are incredible.

The trailhead is at the end of the East Kolob Canyon Road, and it’s a fairly short and easy walk from there to the overlook.

From the trailhead looking north, you can see a mountain ridgeline that includes Horse Ranch Mountain, Paria Point, Beatty Point, Nagunt Mesa, Timber Top Mountain, and Shuntavi Butte. Then, from the end of the trail on a clear day, you can even see Mt. Trumbull at the north rim of the Grand Canyon!

This is a great Zion hiking trail for families or hikers looking for a relatively easy but stunning hike.

Note: The road to the trailhead is currently inaccessible but the hike remains open. See here for more information or ask a park ranger.

Hidden Canyon Trail

Currently closed due to 2019 rockfall damage

• Distance: 3.1 miles / 5 km
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 971 feet / 296 m
• Shuttle Stop: #7 – Weeping Rock (when open)
• Trail map

The Hidden Canyon Trail is a fun Zion National Park hike that’s not for those scared of heights.

Similar to the Angel’s Landing hike, it has some sections with chains to assist you as you make your way along trails that hug the sides of steep cliffs. Unlike when you hike Angels Landing, however, the Hidden Canyon Trail doesn’t ascend quite as high, making it a slightly less strenuous alternative.

The trail ends at a set of pools surrounded by slick rock that can become a raging waterfall during heavy rainstorms and there’s an entrance to Hidden Canyon through a free-standing arch. There’s also a bouldering route just past the potholes that continues another half-mile up the canyon before the route may get too technical for some visitors.

As you go up the side of a canyon wall you’ll reach a smaller “hidden” canyon with sandy paths and stunning natural beauty.

Observation Point

This trail is closed indefinitely due to a rock slide – alternative approach below

• Distance: 6.8 miles / 10.9 km
• Duration: 4.5 – 5 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Elevation: 2644 feet / 806 m
• Shuttle stop: #7 – Weeping Rock
• Trail map

Observation Point is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park where you’ll get amazing views of Angel’s Landing, the Virgin River, and Zion’s signature red rock landscapes.

The trail is hard as it’s quite long and includes a lot of elevation gain but I promise it’s worth it when you see the views from the top!

On your way to the summit, you’ll wind through Echo Canyon to a viewpoint on the rim of Zion Canyon. Echo Canyon offers some much-welcomed shade on a hot sunny day. Unfortunately, that doesn’t last and before you know it you’ll start to climb again right after leaving the canyon.

These switchbacks are tight and steep and after taking a left onto East Mesa Trail, you’ll have a final push before coming out to Observation Point.

Observation Point from East Mesa

• Distance: 7 miles / 11.3 km
• Duration: 2.5 -3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 702 ft / 214 m
• Trail map

Observation Point from East Mesa is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park and offers some breathtaking views of the park. While the Observation Point trail from inside the park remains closed, this is a great alternative that takes you out to the same viewpoint only there’s much less exertion required on your behalf.

You’ll start at the East Mesa Trailhead, which is outside Zion National Park, and travel through Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and BLM land.

The road to the trailhead can be quite rough, so it’s recommended to take the shuttle from Zion Ranch. This also helps reduce the disturbance to the land owners which can help stop the trail from being closed to future hikers.

There are some gentle uphill stretches and when you come out to the overlook you’ll get those incredible views of Zion Canyon and its landmarks.

La Verkin Creek Trail

• Distance: 17 miles / 27.4 km
• Duration: 7-8 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation: 2274 ft / 693 m
• Trail map

The La Verkin Creek Trail is one of the more peaceful trails in Zion National Park where you’ll head into the lesser-visited Zion Wilderness Area.

The main highlight of the trail is Kolob Arch which is one of the world’s largest natural arches. You’ll see it about halfway into the hike and you can get quite close to it which is pretty cool.

You’ll definitely want your bug spray for this one though! The bugs can get very bad here.

The Narrows Zion

The Zion Narrows hike is one of the most famous hikes in Zion National Park.

This unique trail takes you through the canyon from the bottom up (or top down, see below), with around 60% of the journey spent wading, walking, and even swimming in the river – so expect to get wet!

One thing to bear in mind is that the trail often closes during parts of the year due to harsh weather, fast river currents, or the risk of flash floods. Be sure to check current trail conditions at the visitor center before making your way to the trailhead.

There are two ways to tackle The Narrows: the more popular bottom-up approach starting from the Riverside Walk at the Temple of Sinawava, or the challenging top-down hike from Chamberlain Ranch.

If you opt for the latter, be prepared for a long, strenuous hike that can be completed in one demanding day or split over an overnight backpacking trip and you’ll also need a permit. If you choose to hike from the bottom up, you can go as far as you’re comfortable with, then turn back, so you don’t need to commit to the full 16 miles.

Regardless of the route you choose, hiking The Narrows is an unforgettable experience!

Wading through the Virgin River and being surrounded by the high canyon walls, eroded over thousands of years, is like stepping into a storybook.

The Zion Narrows Hike (bottom-up)

• Distance: 8.9 miles / 14.3 km
• Duration: 4+ hours
• Difficulty: Moderate (depends on river flow)
• Elevation: 696 ft / 212 m
• Shuttle stop: Temple of Sinawava, stop #9
• Trail map

Starting from the Riverside Walk, the Narrows bottom-up trail takes you up the river, with incredible views of the canyon including the part nicknamed Wall Street, a narrow section of the canyon where the walls close in overhead.

This route is popular since you can hike as far as you wish before turning back.

The furthest point you can go to without a permit is Big Springs.

Zion Narrows from the top down

• Distance: 16 miles / 25.9 km
• Duration: 7 hours to two days (backpacking top-down)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Elevation: 2077 ft / 633 m
• Trail map

The ultimate adventure on Narrows is hiking from the top, down.

This way you’ll cover the entire length of the Narrows as you wade through the Virgin River.

You can do this as an all-day hike in Zion, or as a backpacking adventure, camping along the way.

There are 12 campsites in the narrows and some of them can be reserved online 3 months ahead of your trip with the rest available to be reserved a day in advance at the Visitor Center. No camping is allowed in the last 4.5 miles between Big Springs and the Temple of Sinawava.

The trail starts at Chamberlain’s Ranch outside of Zion National Park and ends at the Temple of Sinawava, you’ll walk, wade, and sometimes even swim your way through the magnificent narrow canyon.

The first couple of miles are very easy and you’ll stay completely dry. After those, not. so much! Around 6.5 miles in, there’s a waterfall which you can walk around and then at 8 miles in the water typically gets much deeper.

Note: This hike requires a permit, so plan ahead.

North Taylor Creek Trail

• Distance: 4.8 miles / 7.7 km
• Duration: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 725 ft / 221 m
• Trail map

The Taylor Creek Trail is a moderately difficult hike where you’ll walk through the Kolob Canyons area, a quieter part of Zion National Park, and alongside Taylor Creek.

You’ll also see Double Arch Alcove—an impressive tye-dye stained arch amphitheater and two historic cabins from the 1930s—the Larson and Fife cabins.

The route linked above takes you along the North Fork which is often empty of other hikers. It’s an off-trail hike and not maintained so some sections may be overgrown. Always remember to leave no trace and respect any closures.

Lava Point Overlook

• Distance: 0.1 miles / 0.2 km
• Duration: 5 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: Minimal
• Trail map

The Lava Point Overlook trail isn’t so much a hike as it is a short stroll from the Lava Point Parking Lot to the overlook.

As one of the shortest trails in Zion National Park, it provides an incredible view-to-effort ratio that makes it well worth doing as you’re exploring Zion National Park.

Note: Access to this trail may be closed due to current road closures

The Subway, Zion National Park

• Distance: 7 miles / 11.3 km
• Duration: 6-10 hours
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Elevation: 1306 ft / 398 m
• Trail map

The Subway trail gets its name due to the canyon’s distinctive tunnel-like shape which looks a little like a subway tunnel.

If you’re an experienced hiker and canyoning then this is a must-do when visiting Zion National Park. When you embark on the Subway trail, you can expect a challenging, but rewarding day.

The most common way to hike the Subway is from the top down, which is a technically challenging route requiring canyoneering skills and exposure to cold water. As such, it’s recommended for more experienced hikers or those with appropriate guidance. During this journey, hikers will need to rappel and swim in certain areas, thus adding to the thrill and adventure of the hike.

Alternatively, the Subway can also be hiked from the bottom up (the trail details given above are for this option). This route eliminates the need for rappelling and cold swims, making it a slightly less demanding option.

However, regardless of the direction you choose, you should be prepared to trek through the water. Having waterproof shoes or a plan for wet feet is a must.

Getting a permit for the Subway isn’t easy. You must enter The Subway lottery which costs $5. This measure is in place to control the number of visitors and reduce the environmental impact on this sensitive area.

The Pa’rus Trail Zion

• Distance: 3.2 miles / 5.1 km
• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 135 ft / 41 m
• Shuttle Stop: #3, Canyon Junction
• Trail map

The Pa’rus Trail is a flat, easy-going trail, making it accessible for families, wheelchairs, and bikes.

Starting from either the Visitor Center or shuttle stop #3, the trail winds along the river, and you’ll get to enjoy some of the best views of the park’s towering features. Plus, you can take in one of the most famous views of the Watchman from this hike.

You’ll find a few spots shaded by cottonwoods, ash, and maples where you can slip into the Virgin River to soak your feet on a hot day in Zion National Park.

Backpacking Zion National Park

If you’re an experienced hiker and are looking for something longer than a day hike in Zion then check out these Zion backpacking trails. Remember you’ll need Zion backpacking permits to camp overnight on these hikes.

East Rim Trail

The East Rim Trail is a fantastic option for those who love backpacking, enjoy long day hikes, or simply like to go for a casual hike and turn around when they feel like it.

This hike has two possible starting points – Observation Point, which involves a climb of over 2,000 feet to reach the top, or a point near the East Entrance that leads you down into the canyon.

Either way, you’re in for amazing views of Zion Canyon and the stunning Echo Canyon.

If you’re planning on completing the entire trail, which is 12 miles long, don’t forget to arrange your return transport in advance.

This trail does not have established campsites, so you’ll need a permit.

West Rim Trail

The West Rim Trail begins at the West Rim trailhead near Lava Point and traverses high alpine elevations.

You’ll be treated to wide-ranging views of the Wildcat Canyon area before you descend into Potato Hollow. As you climb out of Potato Hollow, you can opt for the Telephone Canyon Trail or stick with the West Rim trail.

This trail can be either started at the Lava Point Trailhead, in the Kolob Canyons, and end at the West Rim Trailhead, in Zion Canyon, or vice versa.

The total trail length is 16 miles, perfect for a backpacking trip with a wilderness shuttle. However, if you’re short on time or can’t manage a multi-day trip, you can start at the West Rim Trailhead at shuttle stop #6 (The Grotto) for a day hike.

This path begins with the same switchbacks that lead to Angel’s Landing, including Walter’s Wiggles. Once you get to Scout’s Lookout, the West Rim trail branches off to the left and runs along the canyon’s rim, offering awe-inspiring views of the canyon and cliffs around you.

If you haven’t planned for the long hike to Lava Point, simply hike along the rim until you’re ready to return to the trailhead, then just turn around and head back the way you came.

Backcountry permits for Zion

If you plan on doing some Zion backpacking in 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 3 months in advance of your trip. There’s also the possibility of getting a permit on the day, but this is far from guaranteed.

A 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.

What You Should Know Before Hiking in Zion National Park

• Research the Trails: Some trails at Zion are extremely challenging with steep inclines and narrow paths. Always research your intended trail to ensure it matches your fitness and comfort level.
• Bring Plenty of Water: The desert heat can be intense. It’s recommended to bring at least one gallon of water per person, per day.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear: Hiking boots or trail runners with good tread are a must. The trails can be rocky, steep, and in some cases, wet. Hiking boots provide the necessary support and grip.
• Check the Weather: Zion is prone to flash floods, especially in slot canyons. Always check the weather before embarking on your hike.
• Beware of Wildlife: Zion is home to various wildlife, including snakes and mountain lions. Always maintain a safe distance.
• Start Early: Trails can become crowded as the day progresses. Starting early also helps avoid the hottest part of the day.
• Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by staying on trails, packing out all trash, and not disturbing wildlife or plants.
• Zion National Park Permits: If you’re hiking Angel’s Landing you’ll need a permit, the same with the Subway and the top-down route for The Narrows.
• Shuttle Bus: From March through November, the park provides a free shuttle bus service as personal vehicles are not allowed in Zion Canyon.
• Crowds: Zion is a very popular park, especially from April to October. Plan accordingly and try to visit on weekdays or in the off-season if you prefer less crowded trails.
• Zion National Park elevation: The park sits at 4,000 ft above sea level.

What to pack for hiking Zion National Park Utah

When hiking in Zion National Park, you’ll want to ensure you have the following items I’ve listed below. If you want a more complete guide check out this packing list for Zion National Park in Utah.

• Good Hiking Boots: Good trail running shoes or boots will provide the grip you need on Zion’s varied terrain.
• Hydration Pack or Water Bottles: At least one gallon of water per person per day is recommended due to the desert heat.
• Hiking Socks: Breathable, moisture-wicking socks can help prevent blisters.
• Sun Protection: This includes sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen with a high SPF. The sun can be very strong in Zion.
• Snacks: High-energy food like granola bars, trail mix, or jerky can help keep you going.
• First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, and pain relief medication.
• Multi-Tool: A compact multi-tool can come in handy in many situations.
• Backpack: A comfortable, lightweight backpack to carry your supplies.
• Warm Layers: Temperatures can drop quickly when the sun goes down, so carry an extra layer of clothing.
• Rain Jacket: Weather can change rapidly in Zion. A lightweight, packable rain jacket can keep you dry.
• Headlamp: If you plan to hike early in the day or later in the evening, a light source is essential.

Where to Stay Near Zion National Park

There’s quite a lot of accommodation near Zion National Park to choose from. Springdale is the closest town to the park but there are a few other places within roughly a 30-minute driving radius too.

Top Glamping + Hotels Near Zion National Park

• Zion Lodge: This hotel is inside the park. It has cabins, hotel rooms, and suites. It’s good for people who want to be close to the hiking trails. Make sure to book early.
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale: This hotel is only 3 miles from the park. It has modern rooms and breakfast every day. It’s also good for people with pets.
• Under Canvas Zion: Here, you can sleep in fancy tents next to Zion National Park. You can do outdoor activities and have breakfast on-site.
• Tyler Inn at Zion: This place has free parking, views of mountains, and air conditioning. It’s comfy and convenient.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park: This hotel has a pool, gym, and free bikes. It’s good for people who want comfort and activities.
• Zion Glamping Adventures: In Hildale, this place lets you camp with comfort near Zion. It has free Wi-Fi, private parking, and breakfast every day.

Camping in Zion National Park

You can also go camping in Zion National Park Utah and when it comes to sleeping in a tent, Zion National Park has three campgrounds:

• Watchman Campground: This campground is open all year. You can book up to six months ahead.
• South Campground: Part of this campground is closed, but you can book spots in open areas two weeks before you come.
• Lava Point Campground: This campground is about an hour away from Zion Canyon and is closed in winter.

Tips for Campers in Zion, Utah

• The South Campground and Watchman Campground are near the park’s south entrance. It can get hot because there’s not much shade.
• You can’t camp in Kolob Canyons or on the sides of roads.
• Campgrounds can get full from mid-March to late November. So, book early, especially for Watchman Campground.
• Each campsite has toilets, water, and trash cans. But, there are no showers or outlets.
• Each campsite has a table and a grill for cooking.
• You can bring pets, but they must be on a short leash. You can only hike with pets on roads and the Pa’rus Trail.

Zion National Park entrance fees

The Zion National Park fee to enter is $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!

Best Time to Hike in Zion National Park

Zion National Park has quite varied weather and crowds throughout the year meaning that some times are better for hiking Zion Utah than others. Below is a rough guide to what to expect when planning a hiking trip to Zion.

• Spring (March-May): Temperatures range from 69°F (20°C) to 83°F (28°C). Spring is an excellent time to hike as the Zion weather is comfortable and the wildflowers start to bloom.
• Summer (June-August): Temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C). This is the hottest and busiest season. If you plan to hike in the summer, start early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Fall (September-November): Temperatures range from 79°F (26°C) to 67°F (19°C). Fall is a good time for hiking as the weather cools down and the fall colors come alive.
• Winter (December-February): Temperatures range from 52°F (11°C) to 42°F (5°C). This is the least crowded time to visit, but some trails may be closed due to snow and ice. Be sure to check trail conditions before you go.

What Zion National Park Hikes Are CLOSED Due to Rock Fall?

In 2019, a major rock fall occurred in Zion National Park closing some of the most popular trails. What happened is a massive piece of sandstone broke off the face of Cable Mountain causing a significant rock slide.

This rock slide shut off the access to the last portion of the Weeping Rock trail including access to Observation Point. As a result, the free Zion National Park Shuttle no longer stops at the Weeping Rock station and many of those hikes are closed.

• Hidden Canyon: (long-term closure due to a large rockfall).
• Observation Point: (via the East Rim Trail from Weeping Rock, long-term closure due to a large rockfall).

FAQs about the best trails in Zion National Park

Final thoughts on the best hikes Zion National Park

As you can see there are so many awesome Zion National Park hiking trails for all abilities and the time you have available.

The two most popular hikes in Zion are popular for a reason; they’re also two of the best. However, the Observation Point trail from the East is another of the Zion hikes that are well worth doing with incredible views and no need for a permit.

If you’re spending more time on a Utah road trip and visiting the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks then be sure to check out these other hiking guides which include the best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park, these fun Canyonlands National Park hikes, the best hikes in Arches National Park, or head across the Arizona to check out these hikes at the Grand Canyons South Rim.

Last Updated on August 3, 2023 by Hannah