Zion National Park Travel Guide (2026)

Zion National Park is one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States, featuring towering red sandstone cliffs that rise up to 2,000 feet, narrow slot canyons carved over millions of years, and the iconic Virgin River that continues to shape this magnificent landscape.

Located in southwestern Utah, Zion Canyon is the heart of the park and home to its most famous attractions. Over 4.5 million people have visited Zion in recent years, making it one of America's most popular national parks. The park offers adventures for everyone, from casual walkers enjoying paved trails to experienced canyoneers tackling technical slot canyons.

The park is famous for its thrilling hikes, including the legendary Angels Landing with its chain-assisted climb and exposed ridge offering 360-degree views of Zion Canyon, and The Narrows where you wade through the Virgin River between 1,000-foot canyon walls. Whether you've visited Zion before or planning your first trip, this guide will help you make the most of your adventure.

Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near the town of Springdale. The park is easily accessible from several major cities in the Southwest United States.

The closest major city is Las Vegas, Nevada, just 160 miles (2.5 hours) southwest of the park. Salt Lake City is 308 miles (4.5 hours) north, while Phoenix, Arizona is 408 miles (6 hours) south. The nearest commercial airport is in St. George, Utah, about 45 minutes from the park entrance.

Springdale serves as the gateway town to Zion, offering hotels, restaurants, gear rental shops, and easy access to the park's south entrance. The town is perfectly positioned at the mouth of Zion Canyon, making it the ideal base for exploring the park.

The best time to visit Zion National Park is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. During these months, you'll enjoy perfect hiking weather, fewer crowds than summer, and stunning seasonal colors.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Zion. Temperatures are comfortable for hiking (55-75°F), wildflowers bloom throughout the canyon, and waterfalls are at their peak from snowmelt. The shuttle system begins operating in March, and crowds start building in April.

Summer (June-August)

Summer is peak season at Zion, with very high crowds and temperatures often exceeding 100°F in the canyon. However, this is the best time for The Narrows hike, as water levels are lower and temperatures are warmer. Start hikes before 7am to avoid heat and crowds.

Fall (September-November)

Fall is arguably the best season to visit Zion. September and October offer perfect hiking temperatures (60-80°F), beautiful fall colors, and smaller crowds than summer. The shuttle continues running through November, and most trails remain accessible.

Winter (December-February)

Winter is the quietest time at Zion, with low crowds and budget-friendly prices. However, temperatures can drop below freezing, some trails may be icy or closed, and The Narrows is often too cold. The shuttle doesn't run, so you can drive your own vehicle into the canyon.

From March through November, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is only accessible via the free shuttle system. This helps preserve the park environment and reduces traffic congestion in the narrow canyon.

The shuttle runs from early morning (around 6am) until late evening (around 9pm during peak season), with buses arriving every 7-10 minutes. You'll park at the visitor center and board the shuttle there. The shuttle makes nine stops throughout Zion Canyon, including all major trailheads.

During winter (December-February), the shuttle doesn't operate, and you can drive your own vehicle into the canyon. This is one of the advantages of visiting Zion in the off-season, though be prepared for cold weather and potential snow.

Arrive early during peak season (June-August) as parking lots fill up by 8-9am. Consider staying in Springdale and walking to the park entrance, or use the free Springdale shuttle that connects with the park shuttle system.

Springdale is the best place to stay when visiting Zion. This charming gateway town sits right at the park entrance, offering easy access to Zion Canyon, excellent restaurants, gear rental shops, and a range of accommodations from budget motels to luxury resorts.

Zion Lodge is the only lodging inside the park, located in the heart of Zion Canyon. It offers hotel rooms and cabins with stunning views, but books up months in advance. Staying here means you're already inside the park and can start hiking early.

Camping is available at Watchman Campground (reservations required) and South Campground (first-come, first-served). Both are near the visitor center and offer easy shuttle access. Book Watchman campground 6 months in advance for peak season dates.

St. George is about 45 minutes from Zion and offers more budget-friendly hotel options, though you'll need to drive to the park each day. This works well if you're visiting multiple parks in the area.

Permits

Angels Landing requires a permit obtained through a lottery system. Apply 3 months in advance for seasonal permits or 1 day in advance for day-before permits. The Subway and other technical canyons also require permits. Most other trails, including The Narrows bottom-up, don't require permits.

Weather Preparation

Summer temperatures in Zion Canyon regularly exceed 100°F. Bring plenty of water (at least 1 liter per hour), sun protection, and start hikes early. Check weather forecasts before slot canyon hikes, as flash floods can occur even on sunny days. Winter brings cold temperatures and potential snow, requiring appropriate gear.

Crowds

Zion is one of the most visited national parks in America. To avoid crowds, visit in shoulder season (April-May, Sept-Oct), start hikes before 7am, or explore less-popular areas like Kolob Canyons. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

First-Time Visitor Advice

If you've never visited Zion before, spend at least 2-3 days to experience the park properly. Start with easier hikes like Emerald Pools or Canyon Overlook, then work up to more challenging trails. Rent gear in Springdale for The Narrows. Book Angels Landing permits and accommodations well in advance.