A Traveler’s Guide: What to Do in Zion National Park

Renowned for its towering red cliffs, verdant valleys, and a kaleidoscope of colors that shift with the sun, Zion is more than just a park; it’s a journey into an awe-inspiring wilderness. As you step into this natural wonder, you are greeted by the imposing beauty of Zion Canyon, carved over millennia by the Virgin River. Discover what to do in Zion National Park, in our traveler’s guide we’ve put together for potential visitors of the park.

Zion National Park isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that beckons the adventurer in everyone. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking challenging trails or a family looking for serene walks amidst nature, Zion has something to offer for all. With its diverse landscape, ranging from deep canyons to high plateaus, the park presents a plethora of activities that promise both thrill and tranquility.

In this guide, we’ll explore the myriad of wonders that Zion has to offer. From the iconic Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which winds through the heart of the park, to the hidden gems tucked away in its expansive wilderness, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning visitor, Zion National Park holds new discoveries and enduring enchantments with each visit.

Basic Park Information

Zion National Park, a gem in the landscape of southwest Utah, is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty. The park’s centerpiece, Zion Canyon, is famous for its soaring red cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop against the clear blue skies.

The park’s main thoroughfare, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, offers visitors a chance to journey through this stunning landscape. Along this route, you’ll find a series of trails that meander through dense forests and run alongside the gently flowing Virgin River. These paths offer not just scenic beauty but also a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The cost to enter the park is $20 per person or $35 per vehicle, which is valid for seven consecutive days. Alternatively, you can purchase an annual pass for $80, which grants entry to all national parks and federal recreational lands for a whole year.

Visitors are advised to check the park’s website before planning their visit as certain areas may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions or other factors. Additionally, permits may be required for activities such as backcountry camping, canyoneering, and rock climbing. It’s best to plan ahead and be prepared for your visit by researching the park’s regulations and recommendations.

Zion is acclaimed as one of the premier national parks in the United States, and for good reason. To optimize your visit, it’s recommended to enter the park earlier in the day. This early start helps you avoid the larger crowds, find parking more easily, and experience the trails in cooler temperatures. The park’s hiking trails range in difficulty from leisurely walks to strenuous treks. Visitors should come prepared with ample water and allow plenty of time to navigate these paths safely. Many of the trails offer shaded areas, providing a pleasant respite from the sun.

An encounter with the park’s diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep and various bird species, adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience. The park is accessible year-round, but it’s important to note that some areas and trails are seasonal. Before planning your trip, check the availability of specific park sections to ensure you don’t miss out on any highlights.

Restroom facilities are conveniently located throughout the park, including at various stops along the scenic drive and at the visitor center. This ensures comfort and convenience as you explore the vast expanse of Zion.

Getting Around Zion National Park

Navigating Zion National Park is an integral part of the adventure, and understanding the transportation options available can greatly enhance your experience. The park is well-equipped with a shuttle system designed to ease congestion and provide convenient access to its main attractions.

Zion Shuttle System

The Zion Shuttle is a free, no-reservation-needed service that efficiently transports visitors through the park. Operating on a frequent schedule, the shuttles travel north and south, stopping at various points of interest. Each shuttle stop offers unique sights and trailheads, allowing you to explore the park at your own pace. The round trip from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to the Temple of Sinawava takes about an hour and a half, making it a relaxing way to see the park’s highlights. It’s important to be mindful of the shuttle times, especially the last service of the day, to avoid a lengthy walk back to the visitor center.

Parking Insights

Parking in Zion can be challenging, particularly during peak seasons. The key to securing a parking spot is to arrive early, preferably before 8:30 am, especially on weekends. If you arrive later, you may find parking areas full, so planning an early start is crucial. Additionally, there are restrooms at the beginning of most trails, ensuring comfort and convenience during your hikes.

By utilizing the Zion Shuttle and planning your parking strategy, you can enjoy a stress-free visit, focusing on the breathtaking scenery and unique experiences that Zion National Park offers. This efficient transportation system allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park without the hassle of navigating traffic and parking.

Key Attractions and Activities in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a spectacular canvas of natural beauty, offering an array of attractions and activities that cater to every kind of explorer. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the key highlights:

1. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

• A Journey Through Nature’s Artistry: This drive is the lifeline of Zion, offering access to the park’s main valley. As you traverse this route, the towering cliffs of Navajo Sandstone rise dramatically, framing the lush valley floor and the meandering Virgin River.
• Tips for the Best Experience: The drive is most magical during sunrise or sunset when the cliffs glow with fiery hues. Note that during peak season, the road may be accessible only via the park shuttle.

2. Hiking Trails

• Diverse Trails for Every Adventurer: Zion’s trails range from easy nature walks to strenuous hikes.
• The Watchman: This trail offers a relatively easy hike with rewarding views of the Watchman Spire. The trail’s accessibility makes it a perfect choice for families and sunset watchers.
• Angels Landing: A legendary trail known for its breathtaking views and sheer drop-offs. The last segment, known as the Hogsback, is a narrow ridge with chain-assisted sections, offering a thrilling experience.
• The Narrows: Hiking The Narrows involves walking in the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls. It’s a surreal experience, best attempted with proper gear like sturdy water shoes and a walking stick.
• Hop Valley Trail: A peaceful trail characterized by its valley meadows and towering cliff walls. The Hop Valley Trail is less crowded, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil experience.
• The Subway: An adventurous semi-technical slot canyon hike offering unique tunnel-like formations and emerald pools. Requires a permit and preparation for wading or swimming.

3. Lava Point Campground

• High-Altitude Camping Experience: Situated at one of the highest points in the park, Lava Point offers a different perspective of Zion. The campground is relatively primitive, offering a more rugged camping experience.
• Stunning Night Skies: Due to its elevation and isolation, Lava Point is an excellent spot for stargazing, with minimal light pollution.

4. Unique Geological Features

• Big Bend: Here, the Virgin River makes a dramatic turn, creating stunning river views against a backdrop of massive cliffs, including the Great White Throne, one of Zion’s most iconic rock formations.
• Checkerboard Mesa: Recognizable by its grid-like pattern, this mesa is a testament to the geological forces of cross-bedding and erosion. It’s a popular stop for photographers.
• Canyon Overlook: The trail to Canyon Overlook is an adventure itself, passing through a carved rock alcove and offering views of lower Zion Canyon, Pine Creek Canyon, and the distant mesas.

5. Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive

• A Route Filled with Wonders: This drive encompasses a series of sharp switchbacks, leading to the impressive Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. The highway offers numerous pullouts with spectacular views of the eastern side of Zion.
• Engineering Marvels: The tunnel, with its gallery windows, is an engineering feat, providing glimpses of the stunning scenery outside.

6. Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon

• An Adventurer’s Dream: This slot canyon is ideal for experienced canyoneers. Its narrow passages, requiring rappelling and swimming, offer an exhilarating challenge.
• Breathtaking Scenery: The slot canyon’s sculpted walls and light beams create a photogenic and memorable experience.

7. Kolob Canyon

• The Park’s Undiscovered Treasure: Kolob Canyon is a secluded section of the park, featuring massive cliff walls and deep, narrow canyons. It’s less visited, offering a serene atmosphere.
• Trail Highlights: The Taylor Creek Trail and the Kolob Arch Trail lead to some of the park’s most impressive backcountry views and are great for day hikers looking for solitude.

8. Angels Landing

• A Hike Like No Other: The journey to Angels Landing is both exhilarating and challenging, involving steep switchbacks, narrow paths, and sheer cliffs. It offers some of the most spectacular 360-degree views in the park.
• Preparation is Key: This trail is not for those with a fear of heights. Hikers should be in good physical condition, carry plenty of water, and start early to avoid the heat and crowds. A permit is required.

9. The Narrows

• A Unique Water Hike: The Narrows is one of Zion’s most unique hikes, where you walk through the shallow waters of the Virgin River, flanked by towering canyon walls. The route can be tailored to different lengths, making it accessible for various skill levels.
• Seasonal Considerations and Gear Rental: The best time to hike The Narrows is late spring to early fall. Renting a drysuit, hiking poles, and proper footwear is highly recommended if you are not properly equipped, and hikers should be prepared for changing water levels and temperatures.

10. The Subway

• An Epic Adventure: The Subway is a semi-technical hike that requires rappelling, swimming in pools, and navigating through narrow passages. It offers stunning views of swirling sandstone formations and cascading waterfalls.
• Advanced Skills Required: This hike isn’t for beginners. Permits are required, and hikers should have canyoneering skills and proper gear. It’s also advisable to have a map and backup plan in case of flash floods or other emergencies.

These attractions represent just a fraction of what Zion National Park has to offer. Each site brings its unique blend of beauty, adventure, and tranquility, making Zion a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Practical Tips for Visitors to Zion National Park

Best Practices for Trail Hiking

1. Know Your Limits: Choose trails that match your fitness level. Zion offers a range of hikes from easy to strenuous.
2. Start Early: To avoid the heat and crowds, especially on popular trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows, start your hike early in the morning.
3. Stay Hydrated: The desert climate of Zion can be deceptively dry. Carry plenty of water, regardless of the trail’s difficulty or length.
4. Wear Appropriate Gear: Good hiking shoes with grip, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, a hat, and sunglasses are essential.
5. Leave No Trace: Stay on designated trails, dispose of waste properly, and leave natural and cultural artifacts undisturbed.
6. Wildlife Encounters: Observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed the animals. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in more remote areas.

Dining Options and Food Recommendations

1. Inside the Park: Zion Lodge offers the Red Rock Grill and Castle Dome Café, providing meals and quick snacks. Options are limited, so consider bringing your own food for more variety.
2. Springdale: The town of Springdale, located just outside the park’s south entrance, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores. You’ll find everything from casual eateries to fine dining, with many places offering views of the surrounding cliffs.
3. Picnicking: There are several picnic areas inside the park, such as the Grotto and Big Bend. Packing a picnic is a great way to enjoy a meal with scenic views.
4. Staying Hydrated: Many trailheads have water refill stations, but it’s wise to bring enough water with you, especially on longer hikes or during hotter months.

Preparing for Your Journey: What to Pack and Expect

1. Essentials: Pack sunscreen, a first-aid kit, a map of the park, and a portable charger for your phone. If hiking The Narrows, consider renting special water shoes and a walking stick.
2. Check the Weather: Zion’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers for changing conditions and a rain jacket, even in summer.
3. Backpack Essentials: Include high-energy snacks, a flashlight or headlamp, extra water, and a small towel or change of clothes if you plan to hike water trails.
4. Park Shuttle: Familiarize yourself with the park’s shuttle system, as it’s the primary mode of transportation to many trailheads during peak season.
5. Reservations and Permits: Some hikes require permits, and it’s best to check the park’s website for details. Make lodging or camping reservations well in advance.
6. Leave Early for the Park: Parking spaces can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Whether hiking the trails, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply soaking in the stunning natural beauty, Zion offers an adventure that resonates long after the journey ends.

Conclusion: The Enchanting Experience of Zion National Park

Summarizing the Zion National Park Experience

Zion National Park is a realm of natural wonders, a place where the grandeur of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and serene rivers blend seamlessly with a diverse array of wildlife and stunning geological formations. From the exhilarating heights of Angels Landing to the peaceful serenity of the Emerald Pools, each trail and viewpoint in Zion offers its unique brand of magic. The experience of hiking through The Narrows, wading in the Virgin River flanked by immense canyon walls, or marveling at the majestic Court of the Patriarchs, leaves visitors with a profound sense of awe and appreciation for the natural world.

The park is not just about its trails and scenic drives; it’s a destination that connects people with nature. Whether it’s spotting a bighorn sheep on a distant ridge, watching the sunset cast a golden glow on the sandstone cliffs, or gazing up at a star-filled night sky, Zion provides a multitude of moments that enrich the soul.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations for Visitors

• Plan and Prepare: To fully enjoy what Zion has to offer, it’s essential to plan your visit. Research the trails, check the weather, and be aware of any park regulations or requirements, such as shuttle services or permits for certain hikes.
• Respect the Park: Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles. The preservation of Zion’s delicate ecosystems and natural beauty depends on the responsible actions of its visitors.
• Embrace the Experience: Allow yourself to be immersed in the experience, whether it’s challenging yourself on a strenuous hike or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the park. Zion is a place to reconnect with nature and find peace away from the bustle of everyday life.
• Explore Beyond the Popular Spots: While iconic sites like Angels Landing and The Narrows are must-sees, don’t overlook the lesser-known trails and viewpoints. They often offer equally stunning scenery with fewer crowds.
• Visit in Different Seasons: Each season in Zion brings its unique beauty and challenges. Consider visiting in the off-peak seasons to experience a different side of the park.

Zion National Park is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you. It’s a testament to the timeless beauty of nature, offering a journey of discovery, adventure, and tranquility. For those who visit, Zion is not just a memory to be cherished; it’s a call to return, to explore further and deeper into its enchanting wilderness.