Pa'rus Trail
A paved, 3.5-mile trail along the Virgin River, perfect for easy walks, bike rides, and is the only dog-friendly path in Zion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Pa'rus Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A paved, 3.5-mile trail along the Virgin River, perfect for easy walks, bike rides, and is the only dog-friendly path in Zion.
"The Pa'rus Trail is a great, easy way to take in Zion Canyon without a strenuous climb."
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Little shade here! Visit early AM or late PM in summer. Bring water!
🐶 Your Dog's Favorite Trail
The ONLY dog-friendly trail in Zion! Keep them leashed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Virgin River Views
Along the paved path
Follow the Virgin River for iconic vistas of The Watchman and surrounding canyon walls.
Dog-Friendly Stroll
Entire trail
The only trail in Zion where your furry friends are welcome! Enjoy a leisurely walk together.
Cycling Path
Paved 3.5-mile loop
Bike or e-bike this accessible path for a quick and scenic way to experience Zion Canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Dog-Friendly Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Little shade here! Visit early AM or late PM in summer. Bring water!
🐶 Your Dog's Favorite Trail
The ONLY dog-friendly trail in Zion! Keep them leashed.
🚴♀️ Bike or E-Bike It
Paved path is great for cycling. Rent bikes nearby!
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible
Perfect for families, casual walkers, or those seeking gentle views.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Little shade here! Visit early AM or late PM in summer. Bring water!
🐶 Your Dog's Favorite Trail
The ONLY dog-friendly trail in Zion! Keep them leashed.
🚴♀️ Bike or E-Bike It
Paved path is great for cycling. Rent bikes nearby!
🚶♀️ Easy & Accessible
Perfect for families, casual walkers, or those seeking gentle views.
💧 Find a Swimming Hole
After the second bridge, a great swimming spot awaits!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Pa'rus Trail is praised as an easy, accessible, and dog-friendly option within Zion, offering pleasant river and canyon views. While some find it less dramatic than other park trails and note the shared path with bikes can be annoying, its convenience and beauty make it a highlight for many, especially families and pet owners.
"Pa’rus Trail is a great, easy way to take in Zion Canyon without a strenuous climb. The paved path runs about 3.5 miles round trip between the Visitor Center and Canyon Junction, following the Virgin River with big views of The Watchman, West Temple, and other canyon walls.
There’s very little shade, and i went in the middle of the day in august when it was over 100 degrees fahrenheit out. But that’s my own fault lol. I knew i could handle it because it’s an easy hike but be careful in the summertime."
Jess Robach
"This is another amazing hiking / running / biking trail near the entrance of Zion National Park. The views are stunning as you stroll down this 3 mile path. We saw tons of dogs, people on bikes, and wildlife along the way. This is one of the top trails to visit at Zion, and it's right next to the Watchman Trail as well, which is an amazing but very different hike too."
A R
"One of our favorite trails in one of our favorite national parks!
We visited Pa’rus Trail during our USA trip, and it was a highlight of our time in Zion. The trail is easy and very accessible—perfect for a relaxed walk that still offers stunning views. It took us around 45 minutes at a comfortable pace, and we were surrounded by Zion’s breathtaking landscape the whole way. Great for families, casual hikers, or anyone wanting to soak in the beauty without a strenuous climb."
Halide Ebcinoglu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pa'rus Trail is conveniently located near the Zion National Park Visitor Center and Canyon Junction. You can access it directly from the Visitor Center or park at Canyon Junction. It's also accessible via the park shuttle system, with stops near its beginning and end points.
Yes, parking is available at the Zion National Park Visitor Center and at Canyon Junction. These lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The Pa'rus Trail is accessible from several shuttle stops, making it easy to reach without a car. It's a great way to avoid parking hassles.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking the Pa'rus Trail. Renting a bike or e-bike can be a fun way to cover the 3.5 miles and enjoy the scenery at a good pace. 
Yes, the Pa'rus Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. It's a great option for those with mobility challenges or families with young children.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Pa'rus Trail is located within Zion National Park, so you will need a valid park entrance pass to access it. Passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
No, there are no additional fees to use the Pa'rus Trail itself beyond the standard Zion National Park entrance fee.
The Pa'rus Trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's best to check the official Zion National Park website for any temporary closures or alerts.
Yes, the Pa'rus Trail is the only trail in Zion National Park that allows dogs. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Crowds can vary. It's generally less crowded in the early morning and late afternoon, especially outside of peak summer months. Weekends can be busier.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail offers lovely views of the Virgin River and iconic Zion formations like The Watchman. While not as dramatic as some interior canyon hikes, the open vistas are beautiful.
There is very little shade along the Pa'rus Trail, making it important to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hotter months.
You might spot deer, various bird species, and other small desert animals along the trail. Keep a safe distance and do not feed them.
Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center and at Canyon Junction, which are at either end of the trail. There are no restrooms directly on the trail itself.
Yes, after the second bridge, there's a known swimming hole along the Virgin River accessible from the trail. Be cautious of currents and water levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the Pa'rus Trail. You'll find food options in Springdale, just outside the park, or at the Zion Lodge if you take the park shuttle further into the canyon.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas, and the trail offers scenic spots to enjoy a packed meal. Remember to pack out all trash.
The Zion National Park Visitor Center has a small store with snacks and drinks. For more options, Springdale offers various restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, capturing the Virgin River, The Watchman, and the surrounding canyon walls. The open vistas are great for wide-angle shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the canyon.
Yes, if you're lucky enough to spot wildlife, the trail offers chances for photography. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens if possible.
No, drone use is prohibited in all national parks, including Zion, for safety and environmental reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a great place to spot wildlife like deer and birds. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is minimal. Consider renting bikes or e-bikes for a fun family adventure. It's a less strenuous way to cover the distance and adds an element of excitement. The trail's accessibility means everyone can enjoy the beautiful scenery together without the challenges of more rugged terrain.
🐶 Pet Owners
The paved surface can get hot, so consider your dog's paws and visit during cooler parts of the day. This trail offers a fantastic opportunity for your dog to experience the beauty of Zion. It's a relatively easy walk, making it suitable for dogs of various energy levels. Just remember to pack extra water for both you and your furry friend!
🚴♀️ Cyclists and E-Bikers
+1 It's a popular choice for those wanting to cover ground quickly and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. Be aware that it's a shared-use path, so always be courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists. Yield when necessary and maintain a safe speed. The trail offers a fantastic way to experience the lower canyon area and is a great alternative to waiting for the park shuttle if you're looking for immediate access to scenic biking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Pa'rus Trail: A Cyclist's Perspective
+1While the paved surface is smooth and well-maintained, it's important to be aware that it's a shared path. Cyclists often share the trail with pedestrians, families with strollers, and dog walkers. It's crucial to ride responsibly, maintain a safe speed, and be mindful of others. Some sections can feel a bit narrow, and you'll want to be prepared to yield or slow down.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, walking the Pa'rus Trail is also highly recommended. It's an easy, accessible route perfect for a leisurely stroll. The trail connects the Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, offering a pleasant way to enjoy the park's scenery without the intensity of more challenging hikes.
+1The Pa'rus Trail: A Dog-Friendly Oasis in Zion
While dogs are welcome, it's essential to remember they must be kept on a leash at all times. The trail is shared with cyclists and other pedestrians, so keeping your dog close ensures everyone's safety and comfort. Some visitors have noted that the paved surface can get quite hot in the summer, so consider booties for your dog or stick to early morning or late evening visits during warmer months.
The trail itself offers pleasant views of the Virgin River and the surrounding canyon walls, providing a scenic backdrop for your walk. It's an accessible option for all ages and fitness levels, ensuring that both you and your dog can enjoy a memorable outing in this stunning national park.
Understanding Zion's Weather and Trail Conditions
Monsoon season, typically from July to September, can bring sudden and intense thunderstorms. These storms can cause flash floods, especially in narrow canyons, and create hazardous conditions. While the Pa'rus Trail is paved and more open, awareness of weather changes is crucial. TikTok videos have captured dramatic weather events, including hail and flash floods, highlighting the unpredictable nature of Zion's weather.
Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures, making them ideal times to visit. Winter can be cold, with occasional snow, but generally sees fewer crowds. Always check the official Zion National Park website or visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any potential closures before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit