Zion National Park

Visiting Zion National Park: Complete Travel Guide

Utah’s first national park, Zion is famous for its red rock canyons, high plateaus, and epic hiking trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.

Overview

Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah and features a stunning combination of sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and desert landscapes carved by the Virgin River. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the United States and a favorite for hikers, climbers, and nature photographers alike. From short scenic walks to heart-pounding cliff hikes, Zion offers something for every kind of adventurer.

Why Visit Zion National Park?

• Hike bucket-list trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows
• Ride the scenic shuttle through Zion Canyon for breathtaking views
• Photograph vibrant red and pink rock formations throughout the day
• Spot desert wildlife including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and golden eagles

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Zion are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when temperatures are moderate and the park is less crowded than in peak summer. Summer can be hot but is great for hiking The Narrows. Winter is quiet and beautiful, but some trails may be icy or closed.

Entry Info & Typical Costs

• Entrance fee: $35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days)
• Annual pass: $80 for the America the Beautiful pass (covers all U.S. national parks)
• Shuttle service: Free with admission (mandatory in Zion Canyon from March to late November)
• Angels Landing permit: Required; apply via recreation.gov lottery system (~$6 to enter, $3 if selected)
• Camping: $20–$30 per night at South or Watchman Campgrounds (reserve early)
• Guided tours: Jeep tours, canyoneering, and guided hikes available starting around $80–$150 per person

How to Get There

Zion is most easily accessed via the town of Springdale, Utah, which sits right outside the main entrance to the park.

• By car: 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, 5 hours from Salt Lake City
• By air: Fly into St. George (SGU), Las Vegas (LAS), or Salt Lake City (SLC) and rent a car
• By shuttle: Springdale shuttle connects to Zion’s main entrance and Zion Canyon Shuttle

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and catch cooler morning temps
• Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection—shade is limited
• Use the Zion Shuttle to access popular trailheads during high season
• Download offline maps; cell service is limited in many areas of the park

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a reservation to enter Zion? No reservation is required to enter the park, but you’ll need a permit for Angels Landing.
• Is The Narrows open year-round? Usually, but closures can occur due to high water or flash flood risk. Check conditions before hiking.
• Can I drive my car into Zion Canyon? Only in winter. From March to November, you must use the park’s shuttle system.
• Are pets allowed? Only on the Pa’rus Trail and in campgrounds. Not permitted on other trails.