Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States and has a lot to offer its tourists, from the casual visitor to the adventurous hiker. You will need a minimum of two days to fully experience the beautiful views and trails that make up the park. Zion is an extremely popular National Park especially in the summer with over half-a-million visitors per month, so be prepared for this or take the time to visit in the off-season (Why you should visit National Parks in the Fall/Winter Season).
Here is my guide to visiting Zion National Park!
General Information
Zion National Park is open 24/7 all year long.
Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd. State Route 9 Springdale, UT84767
Park Website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
Visitor Hours: 8am - 4pm
Shuttle System: Spring - Fall
Private Vehicle Fee: $35
For the Casual Visitor
For the visitor that wants to experience Zion National Park at a slower and less adventurous pace, these suggestions are for you. The park is 148,016 acres, so there is space for everyone to enjoy a hike, drive, picnic, and more.
Walk to the viewpoint of the Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is often overlooked (pun intended) when compared to the other hikes offered within Zion Canyon but can definitely be rewarding for families that do not want to tackle the more challenging Angel's Landing. Starting at the east entrance of the 1.1-mile long tunnel that connects East Zion to the rest of the park, this 1-mile trail has little elevation and shouldn't take more than an hour.
Drive to Kolob Canyon
Kolob Canyon is the perfect location to get away from the large crowds that descend upon the park during the summer months. Located in the Northwest corner of the park, a 5 mile scenic drive allows visitors to gaze with wonder at the canyons made of Navajo sandstone that make up the truly magnificent landscape.
Experience the Zion Lodge Lawn Programs
Offered during the summer months, this ranger-led program is a perfect opportunity for children 8 and younger to learn more about the history of the park and its geological wonders. Located under the large cottonwood tree on the lawn of the Zion Lodge, this program is 30 - 45 minutes long. (There is a coffee station for parents' enjoyment as well)
Stroll past the Emerald Pools
The Upper, Middle, and Lower Emerald Pools are beautiful and unique while also giving hikers a different view of Zion Canyon. Connect the Kayenta Trail to the Emerald Pools and you will be able to hike between the Zion Lodge and the Grotto without taking the shuttle.
Take your dog for a walk on the Pa'rus Trail
As the only dog and bike-friendly path in Zion National Park, the Pa'rus Trail is an easy contribution to a day in the park. Although a slightly longer walk, the 3.5-mile trail is wheelchair accessible and ends with one of the most iconic Zion views.
For the Adventurous Hiker
These suggestions are for the visitor that wants to experience the wild side of Zion. From towering mountain top viewpoints to waist-deep water, Zion offers a lot for the adrenaline junkie.
Hold onto the chains of Angel's Landing
Angel's Landing might be the most iconic hike in Zion National Park. Starting relatively normal, the hike dissolves in 30+ switchbacks before reaching the last section of the hike where hikers need to hold onto a chain in order to maneuver to the summit. This hike is not recommended for people that are scared of heights, children, and people who lack the proper attire (Vans are not suitable for this hike!!)
Wade through the Narrows
The Virgin River carved out Zion Canyon over millions of years, so take the time and truly experience the power of this river rushing past you as you scramble over rocks and wade through deep sections of the Narrows. This hike does not end at a viewpoint or any significant milestone, however, day hikers can only go 9.4 miles before needing a backcountry permit. Since 60% of the hike is spent wading (and sometimes swimming) through rushing water, hikers will need to be prepared before venturing out on this hike.
Hiking the Narrows in the Fall/Winter Season? Check out Zion Outfitters or Zion Adventure Company for waterproof equipment!
Marvel at Observation Point
If you have seen a picture of Zion National Park, more than likely it was taken at Observation Point. If you are up for it, this hike and the view are best during sunset! But be warned, you might be hiking back in the dark since this hike is 8.0 miles. There is a shorter version that allows you to make it to the viewpoint in only 6.4 miles but this trail is more of a secret way. **(The first picture of this post was taken at Observation Point)**
Zion National Park is, without a doubt, a truly remarkable US National Park and should be on any tourist's bucket list. There a few other hikes and viewpoints that I have not listed within this post but I recommend researching and taking the time to explore during your own trip into Zion.
I hope you enjoyed The Ultimate Guide to Zion National Park!!
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