Zion National Park is southern Utah’s crown jewel — a 229-square-mile wilderness of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the emerald-green Virgin River carving through it all. Established in 1919, Zion draws over four million visitors annually and remains one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the American West. Whether you are planning a weekend escape from Las Vegas or a week-long outdoor adventure from St. George, this complete guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Why Visit Zion National Park?
Zion is unlike any other national park. The sheer 2,000-foot canyon walls of Navajo sandstone glow in shades of red, pink, and cream. The park offers world-class hiking from paved riverside strolls to death-defying chain-assisted scrambles. Its unique geology, carved over millions of years by the Virgin River, creates a landscape where hanging gardens cling to seeping canyon walls and California condors soar overhead.
The park spans two distinct sections: the popular Zion Canyon (the main valley accessed from Springdale) and the remote Kolob Canyons section off Interstate 15. Most visitors never see Kolob, which means fewer crowds and equally stunning scenery just 40 minutes from St. George.
Main Canyon vs. Kolob Canyons
Zion Canyon (Main Section)
This is where most visitors spend their time. The six-mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive follows the Virgin River past iconic landmarks including the Court of the Patriarchs, the Great White Throne, and the Temple of Sinawava. During shuttle season (typically March through November), private vehicles are not allowed on the scenic drive, and you must ride the free park shuttle.
Kolob Canyons
Located in the northwest corner of the park, Kolob Canyons features finger canyons of red Navajo sandstone and one of the world’s largest natural arches. The five-mile scenic drive and trailheads here see a fraction of the main canyon’s traffic. If you are staying in St. George, Kolob is actually closer than the main entrance.
When to Visit Zion
Zion is open year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
- Spring (March-May): Wildflowers, waterfalls at peak flow, pleasant hiking temperatures (60-80F). The busiest season alongside fall.
- Summer (June-August): Extreme heat (100F+), afternoon thunderstorms and flash flood risk. The Narrows opens for hiking. Arrive before 8am to beat crowds and heat.
- Fall (September-November): Ideal conditions. Cottonwoods turn gold, temperatures cool, crowds thin after October. Many consider this the best time to visit.
- Winter (December-February): Snow-capped cliffs, no shuttle required, almost no crowds. Some trails require microspikes. The most underrated season.
For the best balance of weather and crowds, aim for late September through mid-November or March through mid-April. Read our full Best Time to Visit Greater Zion guide for month-by-month detail.
Entrance Fees & Passes
Zion National Park charges the following entrance fees (valid for seven consecutive days):
- Private vehicle:
- Per person (walk-in, bicycle, motorcycle passenger):
- Motorcycle:
- Bicycle:
If you plan to visit multiple national parks, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass () pays for itself in just three visits. It covers entrance fees at all 400+ NPS sites for 12 months. You can purchase it at the Zion entrance station, online at recreation.gov, or at the visitor center. For more details, see our Permits & Passes Guide.
How to Get to Zion
From St. George, Utah
The south entrance at Springdale is just 40 minutes (46 miles) from downtown St. George via UT-9 East. This is the most popular approach and passes through the charming towns of Hurricane and Springdale. See our Getting to Greater Zion guide for turn-by-turn directions.
From Las Vegas, Nevada
Zion is approximately 2.5 hours (160 miles) from the Las Vegas Strip via I-15 North to UT-9 East. This makes Zion one of the most accessible national parks for a Las Vegas day trip or weekend getaway.
From Salt Lake City, Utah
The drive is approximately 4.5 hours (310 miles) via I-15 South. Check our Salt Lake City to St. George Road Trip Guide for scenic detour options.
By Air
The closest airport is St. George Regional Airport (SGU), served by Delta, United, and Breeze Airways. Las Vegas Harry Reid International (LAS) is the closest major hub.
Top Things to Do in Zion
Must-Do Hikes
Zion has trails for every ability level. Here are the essentials — see our full Best Hikes in Zion guide for the complete list.
- Angels Landing: The iconic 5.4-mile chain-assisted climb to a 1,488-foot summit. Now requires a lottery permit.
- The Narrows: Hike through the Virgin River in a 2,000-foot-deep slot canyon. Zion’s most unique experience.
- Observation Point: The highest overlook in Zion Canyon at 6,521 feet, offering views down onto Angels Landing.
- Canyon Overlook: A short 1-mile round-trip hike with a stunning panoramic payoff. Perfect for sunrise.
- Emerald Pools: Three tiers of pools and waterfalls on an accessible trail system.
- Riverside Walk: A paved, ADA-accessible 2.2-mile stroll along the Virgin River to the mouth of The Narrows.
Beyond Hiking
- Canyoneering: Rappel through technical slot canyons like The Subway and Keyhole Canyon.
- Rock Climbing: World-class big wall and crack climbing on sandstone monoliths.
- Photography: Capture iconic shots from the Watchman viewpoint, Court of the Patriarchs, and Canyon Overlook.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot California condors, bighorn sheep, and mule deer throughout the park.
- Scenic Drives: The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway features a mile-long tunnel and sweeping switchbacks with checkerboard mesa views.
Zion Shuttle System
During peak season (typically March through November), the Zion Canyon Shuttle is mandatory for accessing the scenic drive. The shuttle is free with park admission and runs two routes: the Springdale line (connecting town to the visitor center) and the Zion Canyon line (visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava, with nine stops along the way).
Key tips: arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid long shuttle waits, and be prepared for standing-room-only buses during midday. Read our complete Shuttle System & Parking Guide for stop-by-stop details and parking strategies.
Where to Stay Near Zion
Your base camp choice shapes your entire Zion experience:
- Springdale: The gateway town at Zion’s south entrance. Walk to the park, dozens of hotels, restaurants, and outfitters. Premium prices.
- St. George: 40 minutes away with far more hotel options, better prices, and full city amenities. The smart budget pick.
- Hurricane/La Verkin: Midway between St. George and Zion with moderate prices and easy access to both.
- Inside the Park: Watchman and South campgrounds put you steps from trailheads. Book six months ahead on recreation.gov.
- Zion Lodge: The only in-park lodging. Historic cabins and hotel rooms. Books out a year in advance.
See our full Where to Stay by Area guide for detailed neighborhood comparisons.
Essential Planning Tips
- Book permits early: Angels Landing requires a lottery permit ( application fee). Apply for the seasonal lottery months in advance or try the day-before lottery.
- Bring water: Carry at least one liter per person per hour in summer. Refill stations exist at the visitor center and select shuttle stops.
- Check conditions: Flash floods can occur with little warning, especially July through September. Check the NPS website and our Flash Flood Safety Guide before hiking in canyons.
- Pack layers: Canyon temperatures can vary 30 degrees between sun and shade. See our Greater Zion Packing List.
- Eat in Springdale: There are no restaurants inside the park besides Zion Lodge. Stock up on supplies or plan meals in Springdale.
Explore the Zion Cluster
This guide is your starting point. Dive deeper with our specialized Zion sub-guides:
- Zion First-Timer Guide — Everything you need for your first visit
- Shuttle System & Parking — Navigate the shuttle like a local
- Best Hikes in Zion — Curated trail list by difficulty
- Angels Landing — Permit lottery, trail details, safety
- The Narrows — Gear, conditions, and route options
- Observation Point — Zion’s highest overlook
- Canyon Overlook Trail — Quick hike with big views
- Emerald Pools — Three-tiered waterfall trail system
- Riverside Walk — Paved path to The Narrows entrance
- Kolob Canyons — The quiet side of Zion
- Canyoneering in Zion — Technical canyon adventures
- Rock Climbing in Zion — Big wall and crack climbing
- Camping in Zion — Campgrounds and reservations
- Wildlife & Nature — Condors, bighorn sheep, and more
- Photography Guide — Best spots and timing tips
- Zion in Winter — Snow-capped solitude
- Zion with Kids & Families — Family-friendly activities
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Zion National Park?
Plan for at least two to three days to hit the major highlights: Angels Landing, The Narrows, Canyon Overlook, and the Emerald Pools. If you want to explore Kolob Canyons or do backcountry hikes, allow four to five days. Even a single day is worthwhile if time is limited — focus on the shuttle scenic drive, Riverside Walk, and Canyon Overlook.
Is Zion National Park worth visiting?
Absolutely. Zion consistently ranks among the top national parks in America for good reason. The scale of the canyon walls, the quality of hiking trails, and the accessibility from Las Vegas and St. George make it one of the most rewarding park visits you can have. The combination of easy trails and world-class adventures means every fitness level finds something extraordinary here.
Can you drive through Zion without paying?
No. All visitors entering the park must pay the entrance fee, whether driving, walking, or cycling. However, the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway (UT-9) passes through the park and is the only road connecting the east and west sides, so through-traffic must also pay. The shuttle is free once you have paid your entrance fee.
Do you need a reservation to visit Zion?
As of 2025, Zion does not require a general reservation or timed entry permit to enter the park. However, Angels Landing does require a lottery permit, and campground reservations are highly recommended. During peak shuttle season, arriving before 9:00 AM is strongly advised to avoid parking issues.
What is the closest town to Zion National Park?
Springdale, Utah sits right at Zion’s south entrance and is the closest town. It has hotels, restaurants, gear shops, and the Springdale shuttle line into the park. St. George is 40 minutes away and offers more affordable lodging and dining with a full range of city amenities.
