Zion National Park
Majestic Zion Canyon's towering sandstone cliffs and the Virgin River offer unparalleled hiking, climbing, and scenic drives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Zion National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic Zion Canyon's towering sandstone cliffs and the Virgin River offer unparalleled hiking, climbing, and scenic drives.
"Zion is a place that fills your spirit with adventure and gratitude."
Rent Narrows Gear
Get waterproof boots, socks, and a walking stick for The Narrows. Rent locally for a better experience.
Book Angel's Landing Permit
A permit is required for Angel's Landing. Apply in advance to secure your spot on this iconic hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Narrows
Virgin River
Wade through the Virgin River with towering canyon walls above. An unforgettable, unique hiking experience.
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Angel's Landing
West Rim Trail
A thrilling, steep hike along a cliffside with chains for support. Requires a permit and offers unparalleled views.
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Emerald Pools Trail
Zion Canyon
A family-friendly trail leading to lush pools and waterfalls, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
A short, rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views of Zion Canyon. Perfect for sunrise or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early!
+2Shuttle System is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent Narrows Gear
Get waterproof boots, socks, and a walking stick for The Narrows. Rent locally for a better experience.
Book Angel's Landing Permit
A permit is required for Angel's Landing. Apply in advance to secure your spot on this iconic hike.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Utah's desert climate is dry. Carry plenty of water, especially on strenuous hikes.
Check Flash Flood Alerts
Slot canyons like The Narrows can be dangerous during flash floods. Always check weather conditions. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent Narrows Gear
Get waterproof boots, socks, and a walking stick for The Narrows. Rent locally for a better experience.
Book Angel's Landing Permit
A permit is required for Angel's Landing. Apply in advance to secure your spot on this iconic hike.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Utah's desert climate is dry. Carry plenty of water, especially on strenuous hikes.
Check Flash Flood Alerts
Slot canyons like The Narrows can be dangerous during flash floods. Always check weather conditions. +1
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download park maps and trail information beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zion National Park is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, from towering sandstone cliffs to the Virgin River. Visitors are captivated by the diverse hiking opportunities, especially the unique experience of The Narrows and the thrilling Angel's Landing. While the park's grandeur is undeniable, some find the shuttle system and crowds to be a significant drawback, suggesting early visits are key to a better experience.
"Since we moved to Vegas we have been wanting to get to Zion, with family in town we finally made the trek.
It was Halloween and we couldn't have picked a better day. It was the last day of having to use the busses but that wasn't an issue. We arrived about 8am and we're able to park at the visitor center which was great. We got on our first bus with ease as there was no line at all. The trails were empty and we hit every stop and small hike with ease.
We saw plenty of wild life as we walked and we're able to really enjoy the park. Going late in the season was the best move we made.
Even with a govt shutdown the staff were there working hard and we're always friendly. The park is clean and beautiful and we really enjoyed our trip.
We will definitely go back in the late fall season again, the leaves were changing and the temps were perfect.
Definitely try and get to beautiful Zion if you're in the area."
Chris Amendola
"Words cannot describe how absolutely beautiful this park is especially when you come from a state on the other side of the United States, where you cannot see these kinds of rock formations and the vastness of nature. I would highly recommend going to this national park which also has national wilderness area within and several other areas.."
Patricia Burton (Trish)
"Really great time with the family. We stopped at the visitor center where the information was very helpful. We hiked 3 different trails which included my wife and two boys (10 and 4). Yes my 4 year old did it and outlasted my oldest haha.
We took the free shuttle bus and visited all 9 stops. We hike at stop 7 to see the waterfall. After we stopped at stop 6 where we hiked all the way to stop 5. There are two trails that connect to each other. We saw another water fall between 5 and 6.
After we ended our day at the lodge where we ate really good food. I got to enjoy a Rum Old Fashion which was pleasant. I loved the orange and spice combination.
The only downside was the museum was closed."
Christopher Madison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah. The nearest major airports are Las Vegas (LAS) and Salt Lake City (SLC). From these cities, you can rent a car and drive to the park. Springdale is the gateway town just outside the south entrance.
Parking within Zion Canyon is extremely limited and fills up very early. Most visitors park in Springdale and use the free town shuttle to reach the park entrance, or park at the Zion Visitor Center if available.
Generally, no reservation is needed to enter Zion National Park itself. However, popular hikes like Angel's Landing require a permit obtained through a lottery system.
This scenic highway connects the east and south entrances of Zion National Park. It features dramatic switchbacks and a historic tunnel. Oversized vehicles may require a permit and fee to pass through the tunnel.
Vehicles over a certain size (height and width restrictions apply) cannot use the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Check the park's official website for current dimensions and alternative routes or permits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Zion National Park is typically $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. An America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually) covers entrance to all national parks.
Yes, a permit is required to hike Angel's Landing. Permits are issued through a lottery system by the National Park Service.
The mandatory Zion Canyon Shuttle operates from March to November. It runs frequently along the scenic drive, stopping at major trailheads and viewpoints. You can catch it from the Visitor Center or Springdale.
You need to pay the park entrance fee to access the Zion Canyon Shuttle system, which departs from within the park. The town of Springdale also has a shuttle that can take you to the park entrance.
Zion National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and shuttle services have specific operating hours, which vary by season.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Iconic hikes include The Narrows (wading in the river), Angel's Landing (permit required, chains), Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook Trail. There are options for all skill levels.
The Narrows can range from easy to strenuous depending on how far you go. The bottom-up hike is accessible without a permit, but requires wading through the Virgin River. Renting gear is highly recommended.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. For The Narrows, waterproof boots and quick-drying clothing are essential. Layers are recommended due to temperature fluctuations.
Yes, the Pa'rus Trail is paved and accessible for strollers and bikes. The Emerald Pools Trail and Riverside Walk (leading to The Narrows) are also good options for families.
Risks include heat exhaustion, dehydration, falls on steep or slippery terrain, and flash floods, especially in slot canyons like The Narrows. Always check weather and trail conditions. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options within the park are limited. The Zion Lodge offers a restaurant and cafe. Many visitors opt to eat in Springdale, which has numerous restaurants and cafes.
Springdale offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to brewpubs. Zion Canyon Brewpub is a popular choice mentioned by visitors.
Yes, bringing your own food and snacks is highly recommended, especially for longer hikes. There are picnic areas available throughout the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo spots include the views from Angel's Landing, the towering walls of The Narrows, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway tunnel, and viewpoints along the scenic drive. Canyon Overlook Trail offers stunning vistas.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, with the sandstone cliffs glowing in warm hues. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities in shaded areas or slot canyons.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Check with the park service for details.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant rock formations. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, many tour operators offer guided photography tours in and around Zion National Park. It's worth researching local outfitters.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older children, the Emerald Pools Trail provides a moderate hike with rewarding views of waterfalls and pools. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the desert heat. The shuttle system makes it easier to access different trailheads without worrying about parking.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the free town shuttle in Springdale to get to the park entrance, and then the free park shuttle to explore Zion Canyon. Camping within or near the park can be a more affordable lodging option than hotels.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Solo hikers should prioritize safety by informing someone of their hiking plans, checking weather conditions, and carrying ample water and supplies. The park's shuttle system makes it easy to access trailheads independently.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking The Narrows: A Zion Must-Do
+1For a more comfortable and safer experience, it's highly recommended to rent specialized gear from local outfitters in Springdale. This typically includes neoprene socks, sturdy water shoes with good grip, and a walking stick for balance.
While the full bottom-up hike is an adventure, many visitors turn back at various points, enjoying the stunning scenery and the refreshing water. The sheer scale of the canyon walls and the feeling of being immersed in nature make The Narrows an unforgettable experience for many.
Conquering Angel's Landing: Thrills and Permits
+2Securing a permit involves entering a lottery system managed by the National Park Service. It's crucial to apply well in advance of your planned visit. If you are lucky enough to get a permit, aim for an early morning slot to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Even if you don't have a permit for the chained section, the hike to Scout Lookout offers incredible views and is a challenging trek in itself, including the infamous Walter's Wiggles switchbacks.
Navigating Zion's Shuttle System
The shuttle stops at key locations like the Visitor Center, Zion Lodge, The Grotto (for Angels Landing), and the Temple of Sinawava (for The Narrows). It's advisable to check the shuttle schedule upon arrival, as operating hours can vary. Arriving early in the morning is the best strategy to avoid long wait times for the shuttle, especially during peak hours.
+1While the shuttle is efficient, it can get crowded. Visitors are encouraged to be patient and prepared for potential queues. Springdale, the town adjacent to the park's south entrance, also offers a free shuttle service that connects to the park's main shuttle system, providing an alternative if parking within the park is full.
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