Looking for things to do in Zion National Park? Here are the top 12 activities—from scenic drives and hikes to wildlife spotting—to help you enjoy your visit.
Key Takeaways
Experience breathtaking views on the scenic Zion Canyon Drive accessible via shuttles for a hassle-free adventure!
Challenge yourself with the iconic Angels Landing hike for panoramic views that make every step worth the climb!
Enjoy a unique perspective of Zion by biking the Pa’rus Trail, perfect for all ages and skill levels!
Discover Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Embarking on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a captivating way to experience Zion National Park. This renowned drive offers stunning landscapes and breathtaking views that will leave you mesmerized. The scenic drive is accessible via shuttle buses from March to late November, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic and a more enjoyable experience for visitors. During the off-season, private vehicles are permitted, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the park’s beauty.
Starting your journey from the east entrance of Zion National Park, you can access various attractions, including the notable Checkerboard Mesa.
As you journey through the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, you’ll encounter multiple points of interest that showcase the park’s geological wonders. From towering cliffs to lush valleys, each stop along the drive offers a unique perspective of Zion’s natural beauty. Popular stops include the Canyon Junction, where the views are nothing short of spectacular, and the Lower Zion Canyon, known for its serene and picturesque landscapes.
The shuttle system is designed to make your visit as convenient as possible. With shuttles arriving every few minutes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hop on and off at various stops, allowing you to explore popular destinations such as the Zion Lodge and the Riverside Walk. This system not only reduces traffic congestion but also ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the park’s tranquility without the hassle of driving.
As you take in the scenic drive, you’ll be tempted to lace up your hiking boots and explore some of the incredible trails that Zion has to offer. From the Canyon Overlook Trail to the Pine Creek Canyon, there are numerous hiking opportunities that promise to reward you with unforgettable vistas. So, get ready to venture beyond the drive and discover the hidden treasures that await you in Zion National Park.
Hike to Angels Landing
The hike to Angels Landing offers an adrenaline rush and unparalleled views, making it a must-do adventure. This iconic trail, approximately 5.4 miles round trip, is not for the faint of heart. With a steep ascent of about 1,500 feet, this strenuous hike challenges even the most experienced hikers. However, the reward at the top is worth every step, as Angels Landing offers a panoramic view of Zion Canyon that will leave you speechless.
Safety is paramount when embarking on this hike. The trail features a series of switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles, leading up to Scout Lookout. From there, the final push to the summit involves navigating narrow ridges with sheer drop-offs on either side. Fortunately, safety chains are installed along the most exposed sections to assist hikers and provide some peace of mind. Exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings, as multiple fatalities have occurred on this trail since 2000.
Securing a permit through an online lottery system is necessary to hike Angels Landing due to high demand. The best times to tackle this trail are during the shoulder seasons, notably early spring and mid-autumn, to avoid large crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Remember to bring plenty of water, ideally 80-100 ounces, to stay hydrated during the hike. Proper preparation with adequate supplies and a good sense of balance is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Reaching the summit of Angels Landing is a testament to your determination and adventurous spirit. As you stand at the top, taking in the expansive views of Zion Canyon, you’ll understand why this hike is one of the most popular trails in the park. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking scenery make every step of the journey worthwhile.
Explore the Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a gem within Zion National Park, offering a moderate 1.0-mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of 163 feet. This trail is perfect for those looking to experience breathtaking views without committing to a strenuous hike. Starting with a series of stairs, the trail features handrails and a short plank bridge, adding a touch of adventure to your journey.
As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular birds-eye view of Pine Creek Canyon, Bridge Mountain, and other iconic landmarks. The vantage point at the end of the trail is nothing short of awe-inspiring, providing a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty. You’ll also get a glimpse of the switchback roads leading to the Zion Mount Carmel tunnel and watch vehicles traverse the tunnel through the galleries.
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot rock squirrels along the trail. However, parking can be limited, with a small lot available immediately past the exit of the tunnel. Plan accordingly to ensure you have a spot to park and enjoy this incredible hike.
Take the Zion Canyon Shuttle
Navigating Zion National Park is made incredibly convenient with the Zion Canyon Shuttle. This shuttle system is designed to manage visitor traffic and preserve the park’s natural beauty, as emphasized by the national park service. Operating daily from March to November and during the holiday season in late December, the shuttle ensures that you can explore the park without the stress of finding parking or dealing with congestion.
The shuttle buses provide access to important stops and viewpoints along Zion Canyon, making it easy to hop on and off at your leisure. With shuttles arriving every 5 to 10 minutes on the Zion Canyon Line and every 10 to 15 minutes on the Springdale Line, you’ll never have to wait long to continue your adventure. The ride from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava takes approximately 40 minutes, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive.
One of the great advantages of the shuttle system is its environmental benefits. The shuttle system helps minimize air pollution and protect Zion’s pristine landscapes by reducing the number of private vehicles in the park. Additionally, bicycles can be transported on the shuttle, allowing you to combine biking and hiking for a truly immersive experience.
Board the last shuttle well before its departure time to ensure a safe return and make the most of your visit. The shuttle system not only makes exploring Zion Canyon convenient but also enhances your overall experience by allowing you to focus on the natural wonders and wildlife that call this park home.
Speaking of wildlife, let’s delve into the fascinating creatures you can observe along the Virgin River.
Observe Wildlife Along the Virgin River
Zion National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the Virgin River providing crucial habitats for a diverse array of species. Over 200 species of birds call Zion home, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. If you plan to visit Zion National Park, as you stroll along the riverbanks, you’re likely to encounter a variety of mammals, including coyotes, deer, and small rodents, each adding to the park’s vibrant ecosystem.
The varied ecosystems along the Virgin River support not only birds and mammals but also amphibians. With over 30 species adapted to the river’s conditions, these creatures thrive in the lush environments surrounding the water. The Pa’rus Trail, which follows the Virgin River, features interpretive exhibits about local wildlife, history, and geology, providing an educational and immersive experience.
Observing wildlife along the Virgin River is a serene and rewarding experience. The Pa’rus Trail, named after the Paiute word for ‘bubbling water,’ offers a gentle walk where you can appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of Zion. As day turns to night, another awe-inspiring activity awaits: stargazing under Zion’s dark skies.
Explore the Emerald Pools
A visit to Zion National Park wouldn’t be complete without exploring the enchanting Emerald Pools. This popular 2.4-mile loop hike is located just across the road from the Zion National Park Lodge and offers a range of experiences for hikers of all levels.
The trail is divided into three sections:
The Lower Emerald Pools, which provide easy access and beautiful views.
The Middle Emerald Pools, which offer a slightly more challenging hike with stunning scenery.
The Upper Emerald Pools, which require a bit more effort but reward hikers with breathtaking vistas and serene spots to rest and take in the surroundings.
The Emerald Pools Trail is relatively short and ranges from easy to moderate in difficulty, making it accessible for most visitors. During the spring, the waterfalls along the trail can become particularly powerful due to snowmelt, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of cascading water. However, it’s important to note that the waterfalls aren’t always flowing, so timing your visit can enhance your experience.
The lush greenery and tranquil pools along the trail make for a peaceful escape from the more strenuous hikes in the park. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a moderate hike, the Emerald Pools provide a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Zion’s natural wonders. As you conclude your exploration of the pools, prepare to shift your gaze skyward for an unforgettable stargazing experience.
Enjoy the Riverside Walk
The Riverside Walk is a delightful trail that begins at the Temple of Sinawava (Stop #9) and meanders along the Virgin River for approximately 2.2 miles. This paved and relatively flat trail is suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities, making it an excellent choice for families and those looking for a leisurely stroll.
As you walk along the Riverside Walk, you’ll be treated to the serene beauty of the Virgin River, with the canyon walls providing shade and keeping the trail cool even during the hot summer months. The lush vegetation, hanging gardens, and wildflowers add bursts of color to the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of the trail.
The Riverside Walk leads to The Narrows, offering a taste of what that iconic hike would be like without getting wet or worrying about toxic cyanobacteria. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the park’s natural beauty without committing to a longer hike. The trail provides a unique perspective on the park’s stunning scenery and is a must-do for any visitor to Zion National Park.
Stargaze Under Dark Skies
Zion National Park offers a celestial experience like no other, thanks to its designation as an International Dark Sky Park in 2021. With minimal light pollution, the park provides exceptional night sky visibility, allowing you to witness the Milky Way in all its glory on moonless nights. Stargazing in Zion is a magical experience that transports you to a world beyond our own, much like the beauty found in national parks.
Guided stargazing tours are available, offering visitors the chance to learn about northern hemisphere constellations while viewing the stars through telescopes. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the night sky and its significance, enhancing your appreciation for the natural wonders above.
International Dark Sky Week, recognized in April, is a great time to visit Zion for stargazing. This event promotes awareness of the importance of preserving dark skies and offers special programs and activities. As you marvel at the expansive views of the night sky, you’ll find a sense of peace and wonder that’s truly unparalleled.
After a night under the stars, get ready to explore Zion at your own pace by biking the Pa’rus Trail.
Bike the Pa’rus Trail
For a leisurely and scenic exploration of Zion National Park, biking the Pa’rus Trail is an excellent choice. This 3.5-mile paved trail is perfect for biking, walking, and pet-friendly activities, making it a versatile option for visitors of all ages. The trail offers panoramic views of Zion’s rolling fields and orange spires, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.
Biking the Pa’rus Trail allows you to experience the beauty of Zion at your own pace. Whether you choose to rent an e-bike or bring your own, you’ll have the freedom to stop and take in the scenery whenever you please. The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for both casual bikers and seasoned cyclists.
As you ride along the Pa’rus Trail, you’ll pass by interpretive exhibits that provide insights into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. This combination of physical activity and education makes for a fulfilling and enriching experience. After a refreshing bike ride, continue your journey through Zion by driving along the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
Journey Through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
Embark on a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, a route that promises stunning vistas and a journey through history. One of the highlights of this drive is the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a 1.1-mile-long tunnel that features gallery windows providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This drive is a testament to human ingenuity and the natural beauty of Zion National Park.
Traffic control measures ensure a smooth flow of vehicles through the tunnel, allowing one direction at a time. However, it’s important to note that vehicles longer than 40 feet and taller than 13.5 feet are restricted from passing through the tunnel. This helps preserve the structural integrity of the tunnel and ensures a safe passage for all visitors.
As you drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the park’s diverse landscapes. From the towering cliffs to the serene valleys, each turn of the road reveals a new aspect of Zion’s beauty. The scenic drive also provides access to other popular hikes and points of interest, making it a gateway to further exploration.
The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is more than just a road; it’s a journey through Zion’s heart and soul. As you traverse this beautiful pass, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that make Zion National Park a treasure. Next, let’s explore one of Zion’s unique natural features: Weeping Rock.
Visit Weeping Rock
Weeping Rock is a must-visit destination in Zion National Park, offering a short yet rewarding hike. The Weeping Rock Trail is an easy 0.4-mile round-trip hike that leads to a stunning waterfall formed by groundwater seeping from the rock. This natural phenomenon creates a lush, verdant oasis that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding arid landscape.
Wildflowers and lush flora line the trail to Weeping Rock, enhancing the hiking experience. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the waterfall is at its most impressive. However, even during drier months, the sight of water trickling down the rock face is a serene and mesmerizing experience.
Weeping Rock is easily accessible and provides a peaceful retreat from the more crowded areas of the park. As you stand beneath the cascading water, you’ll feel a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
After visiting Weeping Rock, consider embarking on a unique adventure by exploring Zion on horseback.
Horseback Riding Adventures
Experience Zion National Park from a different perspective by embarking on a guided horseback riding adventure. Canyon Trail Rides offers guided excursions that allow you to explore the park’s scenic trails on horseback. These tours typically run from mid-March until October 31st, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the park’s natural beauty throughout the warmer months.
Visitors can choose between one-hour and three-hour horseback rides, each offering unique views and experiences. One of the most popular trails for horseback riding is the Sandbench Trail, which provides excellent views of the park’s stunning landscapes. Riding through Zion on horseback allows you to cover more ground than hiking, all while enjoying the serene and majestic scenery.
Horseback riding in Zion is not only a fun and unique way to explore the park but also an eco-friendly option. The guided tours ensure minimal impact on the environment, preserving the natural wonders for future generations. As you ride along the trails, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s diverse ecosystems and breathtaking vistas.
After a memorable horseback riding adventure, it’s time to venture into one of Zion’s more remote and tranquil areas: Kolob Canyons.
Explore Kolob Canyons
If you’re seeking solitude and striking red rock formations, Kolob Canyons is the perfect destination within Zion National Park. Located away from the main crowds, Kolob Canyons offers a serene and peaceful experience, allowing you to connect with nature on a deeper level. The scenic Kolob Terrace Drive leads visitors through beautiful landscapes, showcasing Zion’s diverse geological features.
One of the highlights of Kolob Canyons is the Kolob Arch Trail, a challenging 14-mile round trip that takes hikers to one of the world’s largest freestanding arches. This trail is perfect for those seeking a more strenuous and rewarding hike, as the views along the way and at the arch are truly spectacular.
Kolob Canyons is characterized by its dramatic red rock formations and expansive views, making it a photographer’s dream. The solitude and tranquility of this area provide a stark contrast to the busier sections of the park, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.
As you explore Kolob Canyons, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the diverse landscapes and natural wonders that make Zion National Park so special. Next, let’s ascend to one of the park’s most breathtaking viewpoints: Observation Point.
Drive Along Kolob Terrace Road
Kolob Terrace Road is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the northwestern part of Zion National Park, offering a journey through some of the park’s most stunning landscapes. The 21-mile drive takes approximately 1 hour without stopping, but you’ll want to take your time to fully appreciate the views.
As you drive along Kolob Terrace Road, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Kolob Canyons and the Pine Valley Mountains. One of the highlights of the drive is the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the canyons and the surrounding landscape. This is a perfect spot to stop and take in the beauty of Zion.
The drive also provides an opportunity to see the park’s unique rock formations and geological features. A stop at the Lava Point Campground offers stunning views and is a great spot for a picnic. Kolob Terrace Road is an excellent way to experience the park’s natural beauty and scenic views without committing to a longer hike.
Observe from Observation Point
Observation Point offers one of the most breathtaking views in Zion National Park. Standing at a height of 6,521 feet, this vantage point provides sightlines across much of the canyon, offering panoramic views that are truly awe-inspiring. The trail to Observation Point is considered strenuous, with an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet, making it a challenging yet rewarding hike.
The hike features sections of steep ascent combined with some level stretches, particularly in Echo Canyon, offering a mix of challenging and easier segments. The distance of the Observation Point Trail via East Mesa is 7.0 miles, providing a full day of adventure for those who undertake it. Access to Observation Point is provided via the East Rim Trail, which begins at the Weeping Rock Trailhead.
Reaching Observation Point is a testament to your hiking endurance and determination. As you stand at the top, taking in the expansive views, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and awe. The breathtaking scenery from Observation Point makes the effort worthwhile, offering a perspective of Zion Canyon that few other spots can match.
With Observation Point checked off your list, it’s time to reflect on the incredible experiences that Zion National Park has to offer. Let’s conclude with a summary of the key highlights and some practical information to help you plan your visit.
Visit Canyon Junction
Canyon Junction is a popular spot in Zion National Park, located at the intersection of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion Mount Carmel Highway. This area serves as a hub for visitors, offering a range of amenities and access to some of the park’s most iconic trails.
The Canyon Junction Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit, providing information and resources to help you plan your adventure. Here, you can speak with a park ranger who can answer questions and provide insights into the park’s natural and cultural resources.
The nearby shuttle stop at Canyon Junction offers a convenient way to get around the park without a car, allowing you to focus on the stunning scenery rather than navigating traffic. This stop is also a great spot to take in the views of the surrounding landscape and prepare for your next adventure.
From Canyon Junction, you can easily access the Emerald Pools trail, which offers a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty and is a great spot to see the park’s unique rock formations. Whether you’re taking a break or gearing up for your next hike, Canyon Junction is a perfect place to pause and appreciate the beauty of Zion National Park.
Summary
Zion National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and unforgettable experiences. From the serene beauty of the Emerald Pools to the adrenaline-pumping hike to Angels Landing, every activity promises to leave you in awe. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the convenience of the shuttle system, and the diverse wildlife along the Virgin River all contribute to making Zion a unique and captivating destination.
As you explore the park, whether by hiking, biking, or horseback riding, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its diverse landscapes and rich ecosystems. Stargazing under Zion’s dark skies and journeying through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway add to the park’s allure, providing a well-rounded and enriching experience. Zion National Park is truly a place where nature’s grandeur takes center stage, offering memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most beautiful hike in Zion?
The most beautiful hike in Zion is undoubtedly Angel’s Landing, known for its stunning views and iconic status. If you’re up for a challenge, this hike will reward you with breathtaking scenery that you won’t forget!
When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
You’ll have the best experience visiting Zion National Park in early spring or mid-autumn! The cooler temperatures and smaller crowds make it the perfect time to explore the stunning scenery!
Do I need a permit to hike Angels Landing?
Absolutely, you need a permit for Angels Landing! Make sure to grab one through the online lottery system—it’s the key to experiencing this thrilling hike!
Can I drive my private vehicle on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive?
Absolutely! You can drive your private vehicle on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive when the shuttle service is not in operation, usually outside the peak season from March to November. Enjoy the stunning views!
Are there any guided tours available for stargazing in Zion?
Absolutely! You can join guided stargazing tours in Zion National Park to explore constellations and enjoy incredible views through telescopes! It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
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