Zion National Park Travel Guide

Getting to Zion National Park can be done by various means of transportation. The park is located in southwestern Utah, and here are some common ways to reach Zion:

By air:

1. Nearest Airports:
   • St. George Regional Airport (SGU): Located approximately 50 miles from Zion.
     • This is a very small regional airport, meaning flights will be more limited and prices will most likely be higher. For more flexibility & better prices, fly into LAS in Las Vegas.
   • McCarran International Airport (LAS): Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, about 170 miles away. (This airport is also known as Harry Reid International)
   • Busy Bee Tip: We flew into LAS and drove to Zion in early April and the drive was BEAUTIFUL. We also loved this option because we got to spend a few nights in Vegas first, seeing shows and checking out fancy restaurants. The drive from Vegas to Zion took us about 2 hours.

Driving:

• Zion National Park is accessible by car via major highways.
• The main entrance is off State Route 9 in Springdale, Utah.
• Rental car companies operate at both airports listed above.

1. From Las Vegas: (approx 2 hour drive)
   • Take Interstate 15 North.
   • Exit onto Utah State Route 9 East towards Zion.
2. From Salt Lake City: (approx 4 hour drive)
   • Take Interstate 15 South.
   • Exit onto Utah State Route 20 East and then continue on State Route 9 South.

By Shuttle:

• Zion Canyon Shuttle:
  • If you’re staying in Springdale, Utah (the town right outside the park), the shuttle is a great way to get into & around Zion National Park. More details on this shuttle later in this post!
  • In an effort to reduce traffic congestion, Zion Canyon operates a shuttle system from early spring through late fall.
  • The shuttle stops at various points within the park, including the Visitor Center and trailheads.

Bus or Tour:

1. Some tour companies offer bus tours to Zion National Park from nearby cities, including Vegas. I’ve listed a few options with awesome ratings below!

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

The best time to visit Zion National Park depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the activities you plan to enjoy.

Busy Bee Tip: We visited in early April and found the crowds to be manageable if we got an early start. We typically tried to be on the first shuttle around 730 or 8 am, to ensure shorter wait times and less crowds on the trails (check the park website for the official schedule during your trip). We also left the park in the afternoons when crowds are at the highest. During these times we did other activities such as canyoneering, shopping in town, swimming at our hotel, or resting.

Busy Bee Tip: You’ll want to avoid popular vacation times such as spring break & summer break times if possible. Zion is very popular and the shuttles and trails get very full!

Busy Bee Tip: Because we were there in early April, the narrows were not hikeable due to melting snow and high water levels. If hiking the narrows is important to you, summer & early fall are the best times.

Spring (March to May):

• Weather: Mild temperatures, with highs ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
• Wildflowers: Spring brings colorful blooms, especially in April and May.
• Waterfalls: Higher chances of seeing waterfalls flowing due to melting snow.
• Crowds: Moderate crowds, less busy compared to summer (avoid school spring break times).
• Activities: Ideal for hiking and canyoneering, although some trails may still have icy patches in early spring.
• Narrows: The opening/closing times vary year to year, but the Narrows are usually hikeable by late May or June. If this trail is a must-see for you, plan to visit in the summer to ensure it’s open. You can check the recent opening dates on the National Park website.

Summer (June to August):

• Weather: Hot temperatures, with highs ranging from 90°F to 100°F (32°C to 38°C).
• Crowds: Peak tourist season, with much higher visitation and crowded trails and attractions.
• Activities: Early morning and late afternoon are best for hiking to avoid the heat and crowds. Canyoneering and river activities are popular.
• Narrows: This is the best time to go if hiking the narrows is on your list! Some years the narrows have been closed until late June, but this is not the norm. During the summer, the water is at its warmest, with lower water levels. Check the National Park site for updates.

Fall (September to November):

• Weather: Warm days and cool nights, with highs ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
• Fall Colors: Cottonwood trees and other vegetation start changing colors, particularly in late October.
• Crowds: Crowds begin to taper off after Labor Day but can still be significant, especially on weekends.
• Activities: Excellent time for hiking, especially in September and October. Canyoneering and other outdoor activities are enjoyable.
• Narrows: Fall brings cooler water levels, but the Narrows are generally still hikeable in the fall.

Winter (December to February):

• Weather: Cold temperatures, with highs ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C) and occasional snowfall.
• Crowds: Lowest visitation of the year, providing a quieter and more serene experience.
• Activities: Some trails may be icy or closed due to snow, but winter offers unique opportunities for photography and solitude. Lower elevation trails like the Riverside Walk remain accessible. Be sure to check the park website for trail & road closings.

Shoulder Seasons:

• Spring and fall offer a balance of mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit for many travelers.
• Winter provides a tranquil experience for those seeking solitude and photography opportunities, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential trail closures.

Zion National Park Entrance Fees

Entrance Fees (Private Vehicles & Pedestrians/Cyclists):

• Private Vehicle: $35. This fee includes all occupants of a private vehicle.
• Motorcycle: $30. This fee includes all occupants of a motorcycle.
• Per Person (Pedestrians, Cyclists, Individuals in Non-Commercial Groups): $20 per person.
• Busy Bee Tip: These are all weekly passes & are the cheapest option possible for entrance into Zion National Park. They are good for 7 days from purchase. The park does not offer daily passes. You will need to purchase these in person at any entrance gate. They do not sell passes online.

Zion National Park Annual Pass:

• Zion Annual Pass: $70. This pass provides unlimited entry to Zion National Park for one year from the date of purchase.
  • Busy Bee Tip: If Zion National Park is the only national park you plan to visit in a year & you plan to visit often, this is a decent option. If you have plans to visit more than one national park, check out the America the Beautiful Pass below.

America the Beautiful (Annual National Park Pass):

The National Park Pass, officially known as the “America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass,” provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States. These sites include national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, and more.

• Cost: Typically $80 but discounts are offered for veterans, seniors, 4th grade students, or those with a permanent medical disability. More details here.
• How to purchase: You can purchase a pass in person at most federal recreation sites or you can visit the USGS website.
• Busy Bee Tip: The pass covers the owner and accompanying passengers in a private vehicle. If you’re traveling with a group and will all be arriving in the same car, you’ll only need one pass.

2024 Fee-free Days

No entrance pass required on these days:

• Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week
• Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth
• Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act
• Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day
• Saturday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Getting Around in Zion National Park

Zion National Park Shuttle System:

Road Closures to Vehicles:

1. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive:
   • Private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during the shuttle season.
   • Exceptions may be made for those with lodging reservations inside the park.
2. Zion-Mount Carmel Highway:
   • This road is typically open to private vehicles but may temporarily close during adverse weather conditions.

Lodging in Zion National Park

1. Zion Lodge: The only in-park lodging. Offers hotel rooms and cabins. Advanced reservations are highly recommended.

• Busy Bee Tip: The Lodge tends to book up a year in advance so be sure to plan ahead.
• Busy Bee Tip: We preferred staying outside of the park for easier access to restaurants, shops, coffee, and other activities. The park lodge is deeper in the park and on high traffic days, it would be difficult to get out of the park for food, etc.

Springdale (Gateway Town):

• Springdale is the nearest town to the main entrance of Zion National Park and offers various accommodation options, restaurants, and shops.
• Hotels and motels range from budget to upscale options.
• Busy Bee Tip: Springdale is a GREAT option for staying near Zion. We loved being in town & being able to walk to restaurants, shops, and more. The Zion National Park Shuttle stops at or near most hotels in downtown Springdale, as well, making this a very convienent location to stay. Depending where in Springdale you stay, you could even walk into Zion National Park.

Budget Hotels:

1. Flanigan’s Inn:
   • 5 minute walk from Zion Visitor Center (Park shuttle stop)
   • Outdoor pool
   • Onsite spa
   • Free WIFI
   • On-site restaurant & bar (Spotted Dog Cafe)
2. Bumbleberry Inn:
   • 1 mile from park entrance
   • Springdale shuttle stop in front of property
   • Outdoor pool & hot tub
   • On-site bakery
   • Free breakfast & WIFI

Mid-Range Hotels:

1. Holiday Inn Express Springdale – Zion National Park Area:
   • 1.2 miles from Zion entrance & a few yards from a Springdale shuttle stop
   • Outdoor pool & hot tub
   • Fitness center
   • Free breakfast & WIFI
   • Busy Bee Tip: This is where we stayed during our trip. The location to things in Springdale and the convenience to the shuttle/park entrance was super nice! We also liked the outdoor pool with views of Zion!
2. Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites:
   • Less than 1/2 mile from Zion entrance
   • Outdoor pool & hot tub
   • Fitness center
   • Free breakfast & WIFI
3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale:
   • Less than 1 mile from Zion entrance
   • Outdoor pool & hot tub
   • Fitness Center
   • Free breakfast & WIFI
   • Rooms with views of Zion

Luxury Hotels:

1. Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton:
   • Less than 1/2 mile to park entrance
   • Upscale resort-style accommodations.
   • Riverside setting with private river access
   • 2 outdoor pools & hot tubs
   • On-site restaurant open all day
   • Fitness center
2. Cable Mountain Lodge:
   • 1/2 mile to Zion visitor center
   • Luxury suites – some with private balconies & fully equipped kitchens
   • Riverside location
   • Outdoor pool & hot tub

Camping:

• Watchman Campground: Located within Zion National Park. Reservations are highly recommended.
• South Campground: Also within Zion National Park, first-come, first-served basis.
• Private campgrounds: Near the park – Zion River Resort and Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort.

Nearby Towns:

• Hurricane: About 20 miles (approx 40 min drive) from Zion. Offers additional lodging options.
• St. George: About 40 miles (approx 1 hr drive) away. A larger city with various hotels, restaurants, and amenities.
• Virgin: About 19 miles (approx 30 min drive) from the park. A very small town with limited options, but close access to the Virgin River & Kolob Canyons.

In Zion National Park:

1. Red Rock Grill:
   • Located within Zion Lodge with views of the canyon.
   • Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
     • Breakfast is buffet only.
     • Breakfast: 6:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
       Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
       Dinner: 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
   • Currently they only accept same-day reservations.
2. Castle Dome Cafe:
   • A seasonal snack bar adjacent to the Zion Lodge Building
   • Typically closes for winter – check their website for details.
   • Serves snacks such as hot dogs, cinnamon rolls, and more
   • Coffee bar with espresso drinks & beer garden
   • Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. // Lunch: 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In Springdale

Busy Bee Tip: Springdale is literally RIGHT outside the park gates. It’s very easy to leave the park for a few hours for lunch/coffee, etc.

1. Oscar’s Cafe:
   • Fun little restaurant serving Southwestern cuisine and burgers.
   • Busy Bee Tip: We enjoyed sitting outside on the patio here! Fun place for lunch or an early dinner on a sunny day.
2. Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.:
   • Casual restaurant with a diverse menu including pizza and pasta.
   • Outdoor seating available.
   • Busy Bee Tip: This place was great to order takeout from on a long day in the park. We enjoyed ordering pizza and taking it back to our hotel to chill.
3. Meme’s Cafe: *As of January, 2024, their website says they are temporarily closed. I’m hoping this is just for the winter season, but will update when I know more!
   • Family-owned restaurant serving homemade breakfast and lunch.
   • Outdoor patio with views of Zion and friendly atmosphere.
4. Deep Creek Coffee Co.:
   • A coffee shop with a variety of beverages and light bites ideal for a quick breakfast or a coffee break.
   • Busy Bee Tip: I loved this coffee shop! We probably stopped here almost everyday on our trip, either before hiking or after. They have a nice outdoor patio with cool views of Zion & their coffee is super yummy! Of all the restaurants we tried in Springdale, this is my fav.

Zion National Park Pet Policy

• Pets are not allowed on any Zion trails, shuttle buses, wilderness areas, or public buildings.
• Your furry friend is only allowed on public roads, in parking areas, campgrounds, & picnic areas as long as they’re on a leash.

• Zion National Park may have cytotoxins in the Virgin River, which can be harmful to dogs. The park typically monitors the levels and posts updates on their website.