Zion National Park is an American national park located in southwestern Utah. Zion is the most popular national park in Utah and one of the three most visited national parks in the United States. After visiting this impressive park, I can understand why millions are drawn to Zion every year. The Park is enriched with red sandstone, soaring cliffs, slot canyons, the Virgin River and majestic wildlife. Zion National Park is stunning!
When To Visit Zion
Weather plays a big role in planning when to visit. I am not just talking about the crazy temperature fluctuations from the four distinct seasons but the risks that come with flash floods and heat exhaustion. Utah has a dry, desert environment and is known as one of the driest states in the country.
Winter occurs from December through February and is the least popular time period for visitors, due to the cold temperatures. Zion will see more then half of the entire year’s precipitation in these months in the form of rain, snow and ice. The park is open every day, but it is extremely common for trails and roads to be closed due inclement weather.
Spring takes place from March through May and is a pleasant yet unpredictable time to visit. The weather is warming, making it quite enjoyable in the afternoons (seventies) but still chilly in the morning and evening. Dressing in layers is advised and make sure to pack rain gear as it is not uncommon for periodic rainfall. If you can muster through some wet weather, this is a great time to visit as most trails are open (closures from ice and snow have ended) and the park has limited visitors. The only drawback I would like to mention is for those on tight schedules looking to specifically hike the narrows. The snowmelt and added rainfall commonly cause flooding which forces the park to close the narrows (as this becomes life threatening). If you are strapped on time, and this hike is a must, you may want to visit during dryer months.
Summer is the park’s peak season and occurs from June through September. The weather is hot, at times in the 100s, dry, and brings in the longest days of sunlight. While these are all wonderful factors for people who want great weather, it is important to remember the risk of heat exhaustion. Make sure to pack plenty of water! Also, I would suggest taking a break in the afternoon to spend time by the pool or walk around Springdale before returning for a sunset hike. I visited the park in mid-September near the end of summer and found the weather cooler in the mornings and in the 80s in the afternoon (still perfect for the pool). I also found the crowds not too crazy, as most kids are back in school at this point. I would definitely visit in September again!
Fall occurs from October through November and is a great option for those looking to visit the park with small crowds! The temperatures are cooler, making it great for hiking and exploring the entire day. It is possible for a snowstorm to happen; however, it tends not to accumulate this early. The only drawback comes with the shortening days; however, you don’t have to avoid the midday heat so you can make use of all the sunlight hours!
Zion Shuttle System
Making use of the park’s free shuttle system is a necessity for those looking to hike the major attractions such as the narrows, emerald pools, angels landing and the west rim. There are nine stops on the Zion Canyon Line that are clearly marked and show the trailheads at each stop. The park’s shuttle system provides exclusive access to these destinations along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and leaves from the visitor center. Each of these specified hikes cannot be reached by private vehicle as the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is limited to shuttles and road bikes.
Springdale Shuttle System
The Springdale town shuttle system is another free transit system that operates with nine stops along the Zion Park Boulevard in Springdale. Zion Park Boulevard is where you will find most of the town’s accommodations, restaurants and shopping. One of the shuttles stops is also the Zion visitor center, for those wishing to access the national park without having to drive and find parking.
Where To Stay in Springdale
Springdale is a beautiful small town located immediately outside the entrance of Zion National Park. This location is ideal for those looking to be within close proximity of the park for early entrance without having to worry about driving. Parking within Zion is free but does fill up very quickly (before 8am/9am depending upon time of year). Most accommodations can be found on Zion Park Boulevard, the main road in town leading to the park entrance.
-Holiday Inn Express Springdale – Zion
This hotel is located 1.6 miles from Zion National Park, Springdale shuttle stop #6. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub, great amenities for a bit of relaxation after a long day!
–Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
Located 0.9 miles from Zion National Park, Springdale shuttle stop #4. The rooms are newly updated, a small fitness center is onsite, a swimming pool and full breakfast in the morning. I stayed here for one night and thought it was a great location to both the park and town.
Springdale Utah Hotel – Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn
–Desert Pearl Inn
Also located 0.9 miles from Zion National Park (across the street from Best Western) I stayed at the Desert Pearl Inn for six nights and had a terrific stay. The Inn has queen rooms, king rooms, premium king rooms, and river suites (alongside the Virgin River). Each room has a variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi, tv, ceiling fan, ac, lounge area, dining area and kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, toaster, dishwasher, coffee maker, and dinnerware. I particularly loved the grounds and outdoor pool for lounging. I spent longer than most visitors do in Zion as I hiked in the morning and then spent a few hours relaxing by the pool in the afternoon. The view from the pool of the cliffs was spectacular. I will definitely stay here again!
Zion National Park Lodging Available | Desert Pearl Inn
Where To Eat in Springdale
The restaurants of Springdale are located on Zion Park Boulevard. Dining options range from casual to upscale dining. Many of the restaurants take advantage of the beautiful backdrop and have outdoor seating, making the outdoor options very popular.
Oscar’s Café is a particularly popular recommendation from locals. It is a casual, affordable café serving GIANT portions of southwestern food! Springdale shuttle stop #5.
Kings Landing Bistro was my favorite restaurant in Springdale, the dessert may have influenced this! The patio displays breathtaking views for dinner; however, it is on a first come first serve basis. We opted to dine indoors which was beautifully decorated with Zion photography. The burger is scrumptious, and the huckleberry pie ice cream is out of this world! Springdale shuttle stop #7.
Spotted Dog Café is a casual American Bistro with indoor dining and sidewalk-style café dining. I thoroughly enjoyed the menu as it offered local dishes, specifically the wild game meatloaf made from elk, buffalo and beef. I ate here twice as I enjoyed the environment, views and food of course! Springdale shuttle stop #3.
Switchback Grill & Trading Company is a fine dining steakhouse and seafood house renowned for prime cuts and the freshest fish flown in from around the world. The dining room is beautifully decorated, and service is attentive and top notch. I utterly enjoyed my filet and New York cheesecake (even if we were in Utah!) Springdale shuttle stop #6.
Zion Canyon Brew Pub is located just south of the Zion National Park entrance. If parking at the visitor center for the day to explore Zion, this is a nearby option for lunch or dinner. The brew pub is a great place to grab a casual bite to eat and try a flight of local handcrafted beers ranging from lagers to pilsners to IPAs. The brewery has indoor seating as well as a beer garden patio with live music and unbeatable views. Springdale shuttle stop #1.
Café Soleil is a casual cozy indoor/outdoor café for those looking to sit down or grab a bite to go. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the café brings a selection of coffee, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, bagels, salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas. Springdale shuttle stop #2.
Things To Do in Zion
Hike Angel’s Landing Trail a heavily trafficked 4.4-mile out and back trail rated as hard/strenuous. This trail is iconic and a “bucket list” item as it offers one of the best views in Zion!
The trail is partially paved and begins at the West Rim trail with moderately flat terrain before reaching the first set of steep switchbacks up the wall to reach Refrigerator Canyon. Once at Refrigerator Canyon, the terrain flattens and provides shade. This is a great spot to stop and catch your breath. The trail then brings you to Walter’s Wiggles, 21 steep switchbacks, to reach Scout’s Lookout. Scout’s lookout provides beautiful views of the canyon!
The last half-mile is not for the faint hearted! Hikers must navigate a steep narrow cliff-path with extreme drop-offs. The park has put in several sections of chains which are particularly helpful when crossing paths with descending hikers. If you catch the first shuttle bus of the day, you will not have to encounter hikers descending the trail while ascending. Full disclosure, I opted to continue up the West Rim and did not complete the last half-mile as my fear of heights got the best of me! However, continuing up the West Rim did allow me to see a mother and baby California Condor (currently an endangered species.) I was awe struck to see just how big these birds are up close!
As of April 1st, 2022, a permit is now required to hike the last half-mile (chain section) of Angels Landing. This new restriction is in an effort to regulate the number of hikers on the trail at one time for safety precautions.
Hike The Narrows (Bottom Up) is the most popular hike in Zion, suitable for all ages and abilities! This hike is one of the world’s best slot canyon hikes. This heavily trafficked out and back hike through Virgin River is 16 miles in length. The hike can be reached via the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop followed by a 1-mile paved hike along the Riverside Walk.
It’s best to decide ahead of time how far you plan to hike in the narrows. Remember, you will need to save enough energy to hike back! A goal should be to make it to Wall Street (around 3 miles in) which is the narrowest section of the narrows (what you see in pictures). Certain areas of the hike are more difficult than others depending upon water flow, currents and of course rock placement/size of rocks. It is important to monitor the water flow, as flooding is common and dependent upon storms and snowmelt.
I went in September and started around 10am and found the water cold, however once the sun peaked over the walls it was very comfortable. Zion outfitters located at the visitor center provides rentals for “warm weather” and “cold weather” which includes neoprene socks, canyoneering boots, hiking poles and dry pants for winter. I opted to buy neoprene socks on amazon and wore my Keen whisper sport sandals with shorts. I found these to work perfect, however if you have weak ankles or are worried about rolling an ankle, it did appear the canyoneering boots had higher support.
Do not miss doing the narrows hike! It is truly unique and amazing!!
Hike Emerald Pool Trails (Upper, Middle, Lower) are three heavily trafficked trails, 1.2-mile loop to lower, 2-mile loop to middle and 3-mile loop to upper. The different trails are rated as easy, moderate and hard/strenuous. Each hike provides views of the cliffs, the Great White Throne, and Lady Mountain until you ultimately reach the majestic waterfalls and pools. The lower loop is wheelchair and stroller friendly as the trail is paved, while the middle and upper are sandy and rocky climbs. There are limited places to catch shade along the middle and upper paths so be sure to take a break when you reach those points. Also be sure to pack plenty of drinking water!!!
Hike Watchman Trail a heavily trafficked 3-mile out and back trail rated as moderate. The trailhead is located near the Zion visitor center, across from the shuttle stop and is marked with signs. The trail gradually gains elevation and is set in a desert environment with minimal shade. The trail concludes with an amazing view of the valley below before hiking down.
Hike Canyon Overlook Trail a heavily trafficked 1-mile out and back trail rated as moderate. Unlike the other trails listed, this trail can be reached by private vehicle along route 9 after the tunnel when traveling from Springdale. The Canyon Overlook trail provides some of the best and most breathtaking views of Zion (rivaling those with Angel’s Landing). The terrain is mostly flat with very little incline; however, parts of the trail do have steep drops offs. The trail does include railings but still use caution. Upon reaching the end, you will find yourself at an impressive cliff overlook and this was by far my favorite view! We met up with a local Utah photographer, Jessie Lyn Photography for sunrise pictures and had an amazing time!! If you want amazing photos while visiting any of the Utah parks, I highly recommend Jessie as her work is stunning and she was so much fun to work with! (I hiked in a dress and sandals, the trail is suitable for all abilities).
Weeping Rock Trail (currently closed) is a heavily trafficked 0.5-mile out and back trail rated as easy. While the incline is steep, it is one of the shortest hikes in Zion with remarkable views at the end!
Things To Do Near Zion
Zion Country Off-Road Tours (outside park) is a 4-hour off-roading jeep tour exploring the back country of the Utah Mesas. Our tour guide Nicole picked us up in a bright yellow jeep for a day of adventure, ascending 1,500 feet to a spectacular lookout point at Gooseberry Mesa! Nicole was cautious yet adventurous and full of information and knowledge about the area and Utah. We stopped several times to explore the desert environment and get closer looks at the silvery blue sagebrush, prickly pear cactus, manzanita and petrified rocks. When arriving at the lookout point with 360-degree views, we had plenty of time to take photos and take in the beauty!
Shop Downtown Springdale along Zion Park Boulevard or Route 9. Here you will find unique locally owned gift shops, boutiques, art galleries, and of course rock shops! Don’t miss out on bringing home a special gift from Zion.