Kevin Ferrandiz
in the last week
National ParkPopular
Zion National Park
Towering red rock canyons, narrow slot passages, and legendary trails create Utah's most dramatic outdoor playground
(47,053)
About
Zion National Park stands as one of America's most spectacular natural treasures, where massive sandstone cliffs rise thousands of feet above the Virgin River's winding canyon floor. This 229-square-mile wonderland in southwestern Utah draws millions of visitors annually to experience its otherworldly landscape of crimson towers, emerald pools, and narrow slot canyons carved by water and time.
The park's crown jewel, Zion Canyon, stretches 15 miles long and up to half a mile deep, accessible via the scenic drive that follows the Virgin River upstream. From April through October, the mandatory shuttle system transports visitors to nine stops along the canyon, each providing access to different trails and viewpoints. The most famous hikes include Angels Landing, a thrilling 5.4-mile round trip that culminates in a knife-edge ridge with chains for support and 360-degree views, and The Narrows, where hikers wade upstream through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls that narrow to just 20 feet apart in places.
Beyond the main canyon, the park offers diverse experiences for every fitness level and interest. The Emerald Pools trails provide family-friendly options leading to desert oases and waterfalls. Canyon Overlook delivers spectacular views with minimal effort. For those seeking solitude, the Kolob Canyons section in the northwest corner of the park features finger canyons and the world's largest freestanding arch. Canyoneering, rock climbing, and backpacking opportunities abound for adventurous souls, though permits are required for many activities.
Planning ahead is essential for a rewarding Zion experience. The park operates on a permit system for popular hikes like Angels Landing and The Subway, with lotteries held months in advance. Springdale, the gateway town at the park's south entrance, offers abundant lodging, dining, and outfitter services. The park itself features the historic Zion Lodge and two campgrounds that fill quickly during peak season. Entry costs $35 per vehicle and includes seven days of access, making it an exceptional value for one of nature's greatest spectacles.
What to See at Zion National Park
Zion Canyon runs 15 miles long and reaches up to half a mile deep, cut by the Virgin River through the Navajo Sandstone. The canyon's signature character comes from the relationship between the vertical walls — which in places rise thousands of feet — and the river and vegetation on the canyon floor below. Beyond the main canyon, Zion contains distinctly different sections: the Kolob Terrace, a high plateau reached by Kolob Terrace Road from the town of Virgin, sits roughly 3,000 feet above the canyon floor and offers hiking through pine forests and open meadows with completely different terrain and temperatures. The Kolob Canyons section, accessed from the northwest, features narrow finger canyons and the park's largest freestanding arch. Wildlife is present throughout the park; observe from a distance and do not approach animals.
Visitor Tips
- Summer heat in Zion Canyon can be severe, especially on exposed trails and in canyon bottoms where heat radiates off sandstone walls; mid-day conditions in June through August can become dangerous. An early morning start and a mid-day rest during summer are strongly recommended.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from July through September during monsoon season; canyon bottoms and any route that involves wading are vulnerable to flash flooding from storms that may be miles away and not visible from where you are standing.
- Cell service is limited or absent throughout much of the park — download offline maps, check trail conditions at the visitor center in person, and let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
- The Kolob Terrace and Kolob Canyons sections of the park offer a very different experience from the main canyon — less crowded and with different terrain — and are worth considering if the main canyon shuttle and trails are at capacity.
Planning Your Visit
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is served by the mandatory shuttle system during the operating season, typically March through November. Private vehicles are not permitted on the scenic drive during shuttle season; board at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to access the canyon's nine shuttle stops. The visitor center area has restrooms, exhibits, and ranger information. Two campgrounds in the park fill quickly during peak season and often require advance reservations. Springdale, immediately outside the south entrance, provides lodging, dining, and outfitter services. Cell service is limited throughout much of the park, including many trailhead and canyon bottom areas. Check nps.gov/zion for current shuttle schedules, campground availability, and any access updates before your visit.
Park Amenities
Pet Friendly
Free Parking
Accepts Credit Cards
Reviews (47,053)
See all on Google4.8
47,053 reviews
Google Reviews
Marty The tailgators
in the last week
Wow! Breathtaking! However, be aware of the entrance fees: US$35 per vehicle and US$100 per passenger if you're not American. I opted for the annual pass, which gives me access to about 60 national parks and also allows me to bring up to three other guests at no extra cost. As for the park, I hiked part of The Narrows, a water trail. The road trip to Mount Carmel and its spectacular rock tunnels was amazing. The on-site restaurant was more than affordable. A must-do!
kathykats
in the last week
Zion National Park completely exceeded my expectations. No matter how many photos or videos you’ve seen, nothing compares to experiencing it in person. The towering red cliffs, winding canyon roads, and scenic overlooks are simply breathtaking. I loved how well-maintained and organized the park is. The shuttle system made it easy to get around, and every stop offered a different perspective of Zion’s incredible landscape. Even if you’re not planning on doing the more challenging hikes, there are plenty of scenic walks where you can truly appreciate the beauty of the park. One of my favorite moments was simply taking everything in. The peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, and sheer scale of the canyon make you slow down and appreciate nature. It’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve left. If you’re visiting Utah, Zion is an absolute must. I already know I’ll be back someday to explore even more of what this amazing national park has to offer. 🌄❤️
Ecochic Kat
in the last week
There’s a reason this is such a popular park. Great hikes with awesome views. Don’t just plan on one day- multiple is better. Angel’s Landing may be the most famous and is rewarding but hiking up to Observation Point, you get to look down at those hiking Angel’s Landing and they look like little ants. Observation is challenging with the elevation and all the switchbacks. The day I hiked it I was hot then cold, zipping and unzipping jacket depending on sun or shade. I would have taken it off but since shade was cool and didn’t want the hassle of taking backpack on and off, I just pushed through. As scenic as those two hikes were, I think my favorite was Hidden Canyon, especially after going past the maintained area. There you see a different landscape than just the views of the towering cliffs and valleys. I was also impressed by the west side of the park which I did on a separate trip- less crowds and more rock climbers. There’s so many hikes throughout the park, I can understand why those who live close by are in such great shape- like the 70+ year old lady I had to jog to keep up with. Dogs are allowed at the campground but only on one trail - not the main or popular ones.
Jacob
in the last week
Miserable staff that go out of their way to make everyone suffer. The most common activity here is hiking the narrows, and most people leave their belongings in their cars, as instructed. However, the rental facility for boots is just outside of the park, and they give you endless hassle getting back into the park, so instead you have to hike a quarter mile back around through the south entrance, where you *don't get checked at all*. I watched people pay for a second set of entrance tickets just to save time. I watched bus drivers take joy in almost running bicyclists off the road and gloat about their right of way. I get it, they deal with a lot of jerks, but that's the job. Our tax dollars pay for this. Easily one of the NPs in the country.
Powered by Google