Zion National Park Trip Planning Guide

April 20, 2025by Ranger Tom0

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a geologic wonderland of towering sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, narrow slot canyons, and high desert plateaus. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., offering a rare blend of scenic drives, iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seasoned adventurer, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the ultimate Zion experience in 2025.

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Where Is Zion National Park Located?

Zion is located in the southwestern corner of Utah, near the town of Springdale. It sits at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert — a convergence that creates one of the most diverse ecosystems and landscapes in North America. The park is roughly:

2.5 hours from Las Vegas, NV
4.5 hours from Salt Lake City, UT
1.5 hours from Bryce Canyon National Park

The main entrance to Zion is through Springdale, UT, which borders the park’s south entrance. The less-traveled east entrance (via Highway 9) offers scenic views through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and connects to Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon itineraries.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Spring (March–May): Wildflowers begin to bloom, water levels in The Narrows are high, and daytime temperatures are ideal for hiking. However, some higher-elevation trails may still have snow.
Summer (June–August): The park is busiest during summer. Temperatures often exceed 100°F in Zion Canyon, so early morning hikes and hydration are essential. The shuttle system is mandatory during this season.
Fall (September–November): Cooler temps, fewer crowds, and vibrant autumn colors in the canyon. Late fall is an ideal time to hike strenuous trails without intense heat.
Winter (December–February): Zion is quiet and peaceful, though some trails may be icy. The shuttle doesn’t run, so you can drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive — a rare perk for winter visitors.

Note: Flash flooding is a serious risk during monsoon season (typically July to September), especially in slot canyons like The Narrows. Always check weather conditions and talk to a ranger before hiking.

Top Attractions in Zion

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

This iconic road takes you past Zion’s most famous landmarks, including Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, Court of the Patriarchs, and Big Bend. From March through November, access is via a free shuttle system. Scenic stops are well marked and offer access to many trailheads and viewpoints.

Angels Landing

One of the most well-known hikes in the world, Angels Landing features steep switchbacks, exposed drop-offs, and chains bolted into the rock. A permit is now required to hike the final stretch via the Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program. Those afraid of heights can stop at Scout Lookout for incredible views without the final scramble.

The Narrows

Hike through the Virgin River itself as you explore the towering walls of the Zion slot canyon. This hike requires wading and sometimes swimming, depending on water levels. Rent water boots, neoprene socks, and a walking stick from local outfitters in Springdale.

Canyon Overlook Trail

Short and sweet, this 1-mile roundtrip trail offers one of the best views in the park. Accessible year-round and located just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, it’s a great option for sunrise or sunset photography.

Kolob Canyons

Located in the lesser-visited northwest corner of the park, Kolob Canyons offers sweeping red cliff views, quieter trails, and a fantastic scenic drive. It’s a must for return visitors or those seeking solitude.

Best Hikes in Zion National Park

1. Angels Landing

Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft
Permit Required: Yes, via lottery
Summary: A thrilling, narrow ridge hike with some of the most iconic views in the park. Not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights.

2. The Narrows (Bottom-Up)

Distance: Up to 9.4 miles round trip (flexible)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Permit Required: No, for bottom-up day hikes
Summary: Walk through the Virgin River in one of the most famous slot canyons in the world. Best done in summer or fall when water levels are safe.

3. Observation Point

Distance: 8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,100 ft
Summary: Offers a bird’s-eye view looking down on Angels Landing. Trail from Weeping Rock is closed due to rockfall, but alternate routes via East Mesa Trail are available.

4. Emerald Pools Trail

Distance: 1.2–3 miles round trip, depending on loop
Summary: A family-friendly hike with waterfalls, pools, and shaded canyons. Lower Pool is easiest; Upper Pool is a bit more challenging.

5. Watchman Trail

Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~400 ft
Summary: Starts near the Visitor Center and offers great views with relatively low traffic, especially in the morning.

Waterfalls and Canyon Views

Weeping Rock: A short trail to a rock alcove with dripping springs — a lush contrast to the desert surroundings.
Emerald Pools: Series of seasonal waterfalls and hanging gardens, especially beautiful after recent rains.
Big Bend: Breathtaking bend in the canyon where towering cliffs rise on either side — excellent for photography and spotting climbers on Angels Landing.

How to Get to Zion

Closest Airports: Las Vegas McCarran (LAS), Salt Lake City (SLC), St. George Regional (SGU)
Car Rental: Recommended — no public transit to Zion
Zion Shuttle: Operates March–November inside the park and in Springdale. No private vehicles in Zion Canyon during shuttle season.

Travel Tips for Visiting Zion

Hydration is critical: High temps and dry air dehydrate quickly. Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Start early: Trailheads and shuttles get crowded after 9 a.m.
Watch for flash flood alerts: Especially critical in The Narrows and other canyon hikes.
Plan lodging early: Spring and fall fill up quickly — book months in advance.
Download offline maps: Cell service is limited within the park.

Top Photo Spots in Zion

Canyon Overlook Trail: Short hike with dramatic views of Zion Canyon
Tunnel View: Capture the entrance to the canyon from the east
Angels Landing from below: Shoot from Big Bend for scale and perspective
The Narrows: Bring a waterproof camera or case for dramatic canyon shots
Kolob Canyons Overlook: Sunset views over crimson cliffs

Zion National Park combines dramatic geology, unforgettable hikes, and soul-stirring vistas in a compact and accessible park layout. Whether you’re navigating the river through The Narrows, climbing the chains of Angels Landing, or simply soaking in the sunset from your lodge porch, Zion leaves a lasting impression. Plan ahead, stay safe, and prepare to be inspired by one of America’s true natural treasures.

Where to Stay

Camping & Lodging in Zion

Campgrounds

Watchman Campground: Open year-round, close to the Visitor Center. Electric sites available. Reservations required March through late November.
South Campground: First-come, first-served or reservation-based (check NPS updates). Seasonal availability.
Lava Point Campground: Primitive, located in Kolob Terrace. First-come, first-served. No water, open late spring to fall.

Backcountry Camping

Permits required for all overnight backpacking trips
Popular routes include West Rim Trail, La Verkin Creek Trail, and Kolob Arch

Hotels & Lodging

Zion Lodge: The only in-park lodging, located inside Zion Canyon. Book 6–12 months in advance.
Springdale, UT: Just outside the park, offering dozens of hotels, inns, vacation rentals, restaurants, and gear shops.

When it comes to lodging, Zion National Park offers visitors a variety of options to suit a range of budgets and tastes.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are campgrounds available within the park on Recreation.gov. These include Watchman Campground, South Campground, and Lava Point Campground, each offering its own unique charm.

If you prefer a home away from home, you can find a bevy of options on AirBNB and VRBO. From quaint cottages to luxury vacation rentals, these platforms offer diverse accommodation in and around Zion.

For a unique camping experience, try glamping in yurts or tents, or go traditional at KOA Campgrounds. If you prefer something more conventional, there are numerous hotels, motels, and hostels in the vicinity of the park.

Dining Options

Zion National Park and the nearby town of Springdale offer a range of dining options to fuel your adventures. Inside the park, Zion Lodge Dining Room offers hearty meals in a rustic setting.

Springdale hosts a variety of restaurants and cafes, from pizza joints like the Zion Pizza & Noodle Co. to finer dining at the Bit & Spur Restaurant and Saloon. For quick bites and coffee, check out Café Soleil. Be sure to stop by the Zion Canyon Farmers Market for fresh local produce.

Travel Tips & Safety

When visiting Zion National Park, safety should be your top priority. Apart from the regular outdoor gear, be sure to carry plenty of water to stay hydrated in the arid conditions. Zion can be family-friendly, but not all trails are suitable for young children or pets, so check the park’s pet policies and trail descriptions before setting out.

Flash floods and altitude hazards are real risks. Always check the weather conditions and talk to a ranger before hiking. Additionally, some trails and areas require permits for access, so check the park’s permit requirements in advance.

Latest Park Alerts

Before you visit, always check the latest alerts on the official NPS website. Be aware of the current weather, trail closures, wildfire risks, and road conditions. The park’s official alerts page can be accessed here: Zion National Park Alerts.

Get Involved

If you love Zion National Park and want to give back, consider volunteering. There are many opportunities for trail work, visitor programs, and citizen science. Volunteering is a rewarding way to contribute to the park’s preservation and learn more about its unique ecosystems. For more information about volunteering, check out the official NPS page: Volunteer at Zion National Park.

In conclusion, Zion National Park offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and adventures. It’s a place to connect with nature and create lifelong memories. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to explore one of America’s most iconic national parks.