Zion National Park is a well-known paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. Located in Utah, Zion stands out among Utah’s “Big 5” for its striking geological formations. It’s beautiful in any season and the hiking and climbing opportunities within Zion National Park are unmatched.
3+ days
Best Time to Visit: March-April, September-October for fewer crowds and milder temperatures
Getting Around: Springdale Shuttle, Rental Car
Currency: US Dollars
Note: Unless you are Visiting Zion during the winter months of December-February, you will need to make a shuttle reservation to have access to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and many of the popular trailheads. The park shuttles run daily from the spring through late November and only cost $1 per ticket. Make your shuttle reservation here. I recommend reserving in advance. Click here for additional shuttle information from the National Park Service.
Where to Stay
Zion Lodge – the only accommodation within Zion National Park. Be sure to make your plans early as rooms here fill up well in advance. The only drawback — no high-speed Wi-Fi and occasionally spotty cell service.
Camp – embrace the great outdoors and take your pick between South Campground and Watchman Campground, both located within Zion Canyon for roughly $20 per night. Or venture deeper into nature and camp at The Lava Point Campground – about a 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on the Kolob Terrace Road. Make a reservation to guarantee a camping spot.
Canyon Vista Lodge – a little-known gem that’s located at the far end of the Springdale strip, right outside the perimeter of Zion National Park. The lodge is on the Springdale shuttle route but seems secluded. The Virgin River runs behind the sprawling property and back patio. Needless to say, this place has views of the park that never end. There are four different suites to book with rustic four-poster and sleigh beds along with modern amenities.
Bumbleberry Inn – a family-friendly hotel conveniently located off the Springdale strip with easy shuttle access. Rooms on one side have balconies and patios with an unobstructed view of The Watchman, a spectacular peak inside the park.
Where to Eat
Bit & Spur – a casual dining spot with a Mexican food-focused menu and an array of microbrews on offer. Opt for their understated outdoor seating to watch the sunset under twinkle lights.
Deep Creek Coffee Company – Springdale’s go-to coffee shop. Their pastries are made from scratch daily.
Oscar’s Cafe – a local favorite for more than 20 years. Their menu includes hearty breakfasts, a complete list of burgers, vegetarian options, and tamales in a colorful setting.
Spotted Dog Cafe – treat yourself after a day of hiking with an elevated dining experience with options like Coffee Rubbed Short Rib or Rocky Mountain Trout.
Meme’s Cafe – one of the most popular breakfast options near Zion, especially known for their variety of sweet and savory crepes. They also have breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and paninis if crepes aren’t your thing.
Thai Sapa – a limited yet flavorful Thai menu featuring ingredients grown in the owners garden.
Where to Hike
Angel’s Landing via West Rim Trail
Shuttle Stop: The Grotto
Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Emerald Pools
Shuttle Stop: Zion Lodge or The Grotto
Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain:
Difficulty: Moderate
Observation Point
Shuttle Stop: Weeping Rock
Length: 8 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,150 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
The Watchman
Shuttle Stop: Don’t get on the shuttle, you can start from the Visitor Center
Length: 3.1 miles
Elevation Gain:
Difficulty: Easy
The Narrows
Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava
Length: 2.2 miles +
Elevation Gain: 60 feet
Difficulty: Depends on how far you go…
What to Do
Go on a trail ride. If you are looking to take in the natural beauty of Zion without hitting the trails on foot, consider horseback. Book a trip with Canyon Trail Rides (starting at $45 per hour).
Bike the Pa’rus Trail. The paved, 3.5 mile (one way) Pa’rus Trail is the only trail in Zion that allows cycling. The trail begins just past the shuttle bus line and follows the Virgin River through lower Zion Canyon. You can rent a bike right outside the park entrance from Zion Outfitter.
Go stargazing. National Parks are some of the best places in the United States to view the night sky. Check the Visitor Center for ranger-led programs to see stars, planets, and even the Milky Way when conditions allow.
Recharge with a yoga session. Zion Canyon Yoga offers private and group sessions within the awe-inspiring beauty of the park. Or start your day with a 2.5-hour class with Zion Guru that begins with a hike along the Watchman or Pa’rus Trails and ends with restorative yoga movements.
