Understanding Entrance Fees and Additional Expenses at Zion National Park

If you’re planning a trip to Zion, knowing the entrance fees and preparing for any additional expenses you may encounter during your visit is essential. In this article, we’ll break down the entrance fees for Zion National Park and discuss other potential costs to help you plan your trip effectively. As of January 2023, the entrance fees for Zion National Park are as follows:

Zion National Park Entrance Fees

The lowest fee Zion charges is for weekly passes. Weekly passes are non-transferable and are valid on the day of purchase and for the next six days. Weekly passes may be applied toward the cost of an annual pass up to six days after its purchase.

1. Private Vehicle: $35 – Valid for 7 days, this pass covers all passengers in a single, non-commercial vehicle.
2. Motorcycle: $30 – Valid for 7 days, this pass covers one motorcycle and its riders.
3. Individual (on foot, bicycle, or horse): $20 per person – Valid for 7 days, this pass covers one individual entering the park on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback.

Please note that fees are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Annual and Lifetime Passes

If you’re a frequent visitor to national parks or plan to visit multiple parks within a year, consider purchasing an annual or lifetime pass.

1. America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass: $80 – This pass provides unlimited entry to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, for one year from the month of purchase. It covers the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle or the pass holder and up to three adults for sites that charge per person.
2. Senior Pass: $20 (annual) or $80 (lifetime) – Available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 and older, this pass offers the same benefits as the America the Beautiful Pass, with the added perk of a 50% discount on some amenity fees, such as camping or boat launching.
3. Access Pass: Free – This lifetime pass is available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities and offers the same benefits as the Senior Pass.
4. Military Pass: Free – Available for current U.S. military members and their dependents, this annual pass offers the same benefits as the America the Beautiful Pass.
5. Every Kid Outdoors Pass: Free – This pass provides fourth-grade students and homeschool equivalents with free access to national parks for one year.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While the entrance fee covers access to Zion National Park, there are other potential expenses to consider when planning your trip:

1. Lodging: Zion National Park has three campgrounds, with fees ranging from $20 to $50 per night, depending on the site and amenities. Reservations are recommended for the Watchman Campground and the South Campground. Alternatively, lodging options are available in the nearby town of Springdale, with a wide range of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts to suit varying budgets.

2. Shuttle Services: During peak season, private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, and visitors must use the park’s free shuttle service. However, if you’re staying outside the park, you may need to pay for transportation to and from the park, such as the Springdale Shuttle, which is $1 per ride or $7 for a week-long pass.

3. Guided Tours and Activities: While many visitors explore Zion National Park independently, several guided tour options are available for those interested in a more structured experience. These tours can range from half-day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips and can vary in price depending on the length, type of activity, and level of service provided. Additionally, popular activities like canyoneering or rock climbing may require hiring a guide, which can add to your overall expenses.

4. Equipment Rentals: Depending on the activities you plan to participate in, you may need to rent specialized equipment, such as canyoneering gear, bicycles, or water shoes for hiking The Narrows. Rental costs can vary depending on the type and duration of the rental.

5. Food and Dining: There are limited dining options within Zion National Park, with the Zion Lodge being the primary food service provider. Prices for meals at the lodge can be higher than those found outside the park, so it’s essential to budget for food costs accordingly. Alternatively, you can bring your own food and snacks or dine at restaurants in the nearby town of Springdale.

6. Park-Specific Expenses: Certain activities or facilities within Zion National Park may require additional fees, such as backcountry camping permits, which cost $15 for groups of 1-2 people, $20 for groups of 3-7 people, and $25 for groups of 8-12 people. These permits are required for all overnight stays in the park’s backcountry and can be reserved in advance or obtained in person at the visitor center.