Zion National Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Zion National Park?

  • Hike the famous Angels Landing trail for stunning panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
  • Explore the Narrows, a thrilling hike through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls.
  • Visit the Emerald Pools, a series of scenic pools with waterfalls and lush vegetation.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to capture the beauty of the park from the comfort of your car.
  • Experience the Kolob Canyons for a quieter, less crowded part of the park, perfect for hiking and photography.

Introducing Zion National Park

Zion National Park , located in the southwestern United States state of Utah, is Utah's most diverse, oldest, and most visited national park. The main attraction of this 229- square-mile national park is Zion Canyon, a 15- mile-long and half-mile-deep canyon of red and tan Navajo sandstone cut by the North Branch of the Virgin River.

The park boasts towering mountains, sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, towering arches, and waterfalls. Standing at the valley floor and gazing out at the cliffs offers unparalleled beauty. Unlike the stark wilderness of Bryce Canyon National Park and Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park boasts a breathtaking landscape of mountains, clear waters, gurgling streams, and chirping birds. It's like a breathtaking natural landscape, offering a unique experience of the three natural landscapes of plateau, basin, and desert.

Because it is located at the junction of the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin, the unique and diverse geographical environment here allows many kinds of animals and plants to survive. It is understood that Zion Park has 289 species of birds and 75 species of mammals living here, and more than 800 species of plants grow freely. It can be seen how natural and pure the environment of the park is.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for travel. In summer, the daytime temperature may rise to around 40 degrees Celsius, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening. In winter, there are fewer people and you can see beautiful snow scenery, but river tracing may not be possible due to weather reasons, and hiking trails may also be covered with snow or closed.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Famous features include the White Throne, the Chessboard Mountains, the Kolob Arch, the Three Fathers and the Virgin River Pass.


Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Tickets

Cyclists and hikers: $ 20 per person

Motorcycle riders: USD 30 per person

Private car ( 15 seats or less) and passengers: US$ 35 per person

The pass is valid for 7 days

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Zion National Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zion National Park, established in 1919, is one of the most popular and visually stunning parks in the United States. Known for its impressive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse ecosystems, Zion is a sacred place for the Southern Paiute people and has been a significant site for Native American history. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural importance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Zion National Park is located in southern Utah, about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas and 4 hours from Salt Lake City by car. The nearest town is Springdale, where the park's main entrance is located. Public transportation options include shuttle buses during peak season, or you can drive into the park.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Zion National Park is open year-round, though certain facilities may be closed during the winter months. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the park is less crowded compared to summer. Summer can be extremely hot, especially for hiking.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance, and online reservations are available for camping and shuttle services.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For general park access, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to camp or use shuttle services during peak season (March-November), it is recommended to make reservations well in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Zion National Park, you will need at least 2-3 days. This allows time for hiking the main trails, sightseeing, and enjoying the park's scenic beauty.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Angels Landing trail for breathtaking views.
  • The Narrows, a unique river hike between towering canyon walls.
  • The Emerald Pools and the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pools.
  • Kolob Canyons, offering a quieter, more remote experience.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available through the park's visitor center, including ranger-led programs in English. Audio guides are available for purchase or can be downloaded in advance on your smartphone.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Angels Landing offers one of the best panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
  • Observation Point for sweeping views of Zion's cliffs.
  • The Kolob Canyons offers striking red rock views with fewer crowds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A popular 1-day itinerary includes: Start with a morning hike to Angels Landing or The Narrows, followed by lunch in the park. In the afternoon, explore the Emerald Pools, and end the day with a scenic drive or short walk in Kolob Canyons.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available, and the park offers star-gazing programs during the summer months. Special tours and programs are offered seasonally, including full-moon hikes and ranger-led tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Zion is very popular, especially in the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit in the off-season (late fall or winter) or during weekdays, early mornings, and evenings.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are several rest areas, restrooms, and visitor centers in the park. Food and water are available in the nearby town of Springdale, and there are a few shops in the park for souvenirs and essential supplies.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Zion offers some accessible trails, such as the Pa’rus Trail, and provides shuttle buses for those who need assistance. However, many of the park’s trails, such as Angels Landing, require a more strenuous hike.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, many places in the park and the surrounding area also accept credit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Oscar’s Café in Springdale offers casual dining with a great selection of local dishes.
  • Zion Canyon Brew Pub, serving craft beers and hearty meals.
  • Red Rock Grill in the Zion Lodge, offering casual dining with great canyon views.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many of the restaurants near Zion offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as salads, veggie burgers, and plant-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited in the area, but vegetarian meals are widely available.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Zion Lodge, located within the park offering rustic accommodations.
  • Springdale offers several hotels, such as Cliffrose Lodge and Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites.
  • Airbnb and camping options are also available in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Bryce Canyon National Park is a 1.5-hour drive and offers stunning rock formations.
  • The Grand Canyon is around 4.5 hours away and is another world-renowned natural wonder.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in the park and Springdale selling Zion-branded apparel, local art, hiking gear, and unique handmade crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Car rentals are the best option to explore nearby areas like Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon.
  • Shuttle buses and tour buses are also available to nearby attractions.