What to do in Zion National Park

 by Lisa Winters, Communications Associate

Zion National Park draws millions of visitors each year. And it’s popular for good reason — its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and vibrant river make for colorful vistas around every turn. If you’re driving up from Las Vegas or touring Utah’s Mighty Five, you may only have a short time at Zion. Here’s how to make the most of your trip to Zion National Park. 

First tip: Wake up early and get ahead of the crowds. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is only accessible by free shuttle bus for most of the year (generally from March to November, plus additional winter weekends). Hop on at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. 

Go for a hike

Whether you want to stretch your legs or spend all day walking, the best way to see the park is from a trail. Here are a few favorites:

• Easy: Pa’rus Trail (3.5 miles round trip). This paved path starts at the visitor center and follows the banks of the Virgin River to the Canyon Junction shuttle stop. Listen to the babbling water, take in the sheer sandstone walls above you, and share a peaceful stroll with resident mule deer. Stop at the trailside exhibits to learn as you go. This trail is accessible for wheelchairs, pets on leashes, and bicycles.
• Moderate: Upper Emerald Pools (3 miles). From the Zion Lodge shuttle stop, cross the river, turn right, and follow a small stream that collects into cascading “pools.” A 0.6-mile paved path goes to a waterfall at the Lower Emerald Pools. Traverse sandstone ledges and scramble up to the upper pools at the base of a cliff. Find blue skies, crimson cliffs, and a lush emerald oasis. Make a 3-mile loop by heading back down the Kayenta Trail to the Grotto shuttle stop.
• Strenuous: Angels Landing (5.4 miles round trip). From the Grotto shuttle stop, cross the river and turn right. The trail follows the river then winds up switchbacks at “Walter’s Wiggles.” From there, the Angels Landing Trail traverses a narrow sandstone fin jutting 1,500 feet above the canyon floor. You’ll get your heart rate up as you navigate the chains with sheer vertical cliffs on both sides. The 360-degree views are unbeatable.

Due to crowding and safety concerns, you must have a permit to hike Angels Landing. Permits are required year-round and should be obtained one to three months prior. Learn how to enter the lottery › 

Dip your feet in the Virgin River

MARC NEIDIG, NPS

The Narrows is one of Zion’s best-known trails. Pick your way among slippery rocks (a hiking stick is helpful) and up to waist-deep waters in the lower reaches of this slot canyon. Check the weather and the flash flood potential before you head out. Start at the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop and walk along the paved Riverside Walk for a mile before the canyon narrows and the trail becomes the river itself. Your feet will get wet! 

Day hikers may go 5 miles upriver. If you want to hike the full length of the Narrows, you’ll need a backcountry permit ›

Drive the Mount Carmel Highway

The Mount Carmel Highway connects the south and east entrances of the park, winding from the canyon bottom near Springdale, through a tunnel, and across the multi-hued rock of Checkerboard Mesa. On the south side, the Virgin River gives life to leafy green cottonwood trees, scarlet monkeyflowers, and great blue herons. On the east side, sweeping undulations of sandstone give way to ponderosa pine trees. Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep hanging out on the slickrock. 

Stargaze

SARAH STIO, NPS

Watch the last rays of sunset in Zion National Park. The cliffs glow brilliant orange in the evening light before the inky darkness turns into a starry show. Your best views are where the canyon opens at the south end of the park; try the Zion Human History Museum patio or a nighttime walk on the Pa’rus Trail. Check to see if there’s a free evening ranger program offered at the Zion Lodge or Watchman Campground. 

Plan ahead: Camp at the South or Watchman campgrounds, or stay in nearby Springdale for the best park access.

Remember, you aren’t the only one drawn to this lively desert landscape. Pick a weekday and visit during the winter to share the park with fewer visitors. No matter where you go or what you do, one thing’s certain — you’ll want to come back and see more.