Editor’s Note: Hey gang! I’m so excited to introduce a new contributor to NeverSaySomedayFamily.com. Meet Jocelyn Lewis from LewisFamCoast2Coast! This mama of two and her family have visited 22 out of 50 states, and love sharing their destinations, tips and favorite products on Instagram. (Go follow them!) When our family had explored Utah earlier this year, Zion National Park was still closed due to the pandemic. Fortunately, Jocelyn and her hubby Troy had visited this popular park a few years ago — and she’s put together this awesome resource for you!
Known as the most visited of Utah’s national parks, it’s easy to see why this red rock desert oasis is popular! With over 140,000 acres (about 230 square miles) of beautiful wilderness, there is no shortage of places, trails, wildlife and adventure to discover.
A Brief History of Zion National Park
Originally protected as a national monument, Zion became an official National Park in November of 1919. Named after the Hebrew word, Zion, meaning a place of safety or refuge, the Mormon pioneers settled the canyon and surrounding areas in the 1860s. Besides the pioneers, evidence of human occupation dates back 8,000 years! Native American tribes and peoples such as the Archaic, Ancestral, Puebloans and Southern Paiutes once called this land home.
There are over 1,000 plants species, 70 mammal species, over 200 bird species, 28 reptiles species, and a handful of amphibian and fish species specific to Zion National Park and this southern Utah area. If you’re lucky, and you keep a sharp eye out, you’re sure to spot at least a few of them!
Our first encounter with the wildlife was with some Desert Bighorn Sheep, scrambling about on the red rocks just above us while we hiked the Canyon Overlook Trail! We were even lucky enough to see a baby tagging along after its mother.
Things to Know Before You Go
The peak visitor months are April through September. Crowds can surpass over 17,000 visitors PER DAY during these months. Expect more traffic, busier trails, and less site availability during this time. Plan ahead months in advance for campsite bookings and hotel reservations throughout the area.
Weather temperatures are highest in July, sometimes reaching as high as 115ºF, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. The Spring months of April and May have mild temps and low rain fall, making them ideal for being outdoors all day and tent camping.
We visited Zion NP in early May. The crowds were lower, so we didn’t feel like the trails were busy or crowded, and we enjoyed temperatures in the low 80ºsF during the day and mid 50ºsF at night. A light jacket was nice for the mornings, but shorts and t-shirts were needed in the afternoons when the sun was up.
Private vehicles and RVs can expect to pay $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, which works for all areas of the park. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles can pay $12 per person for a 7-day pass.
Helpful Hint: If you’re planning on visiting Zion NP and any of the other parks throughout Utah (Bryce Canyon, Arches, or Canyonlands), be sure to purchase an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass! It only costs $80 and covers any national park visit for the year from purchase date.
The park has two entrances, the South entrance near Springdale, UT, and the East entrance along Route 9. We entered the park via the East entrance, since we were coming from Bryce Canyon National Park. We were able to take in our first views of Zion National Park with a short hike on the Canyon Overlook Trail before driving the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
Don’t Miss Things to do in Zion National Park
Drive Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
Once you enter the park, you are allowed to drive your own vehicle along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway any time of the year, a 12-mile highway that connects the park from the south to the east entrances. Along this route you’ll experience driving through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, a 1.06 mile long, 22 feet wide and 16 feet high tunnel built between 1927-1930.
Be Aware you must have an escort for all buses, RVs, trailers, or dual wheeled trucks. The cost is $15 in addition to the park entrance fee.
While driving the Mount Carmel Highway it’s hard not to twist and turn in your seat to try and see all of the amazing formations, colors, and sights along this drive! A favorite of ours is the Great Arch.
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
There are two Visitor Centers and one museum at this park.
Zion Canyon is the more popular of the two visitor centers. Located inside the South Entrance of the park near the town of Springdale, stop here for park maps/info., Junior Ranger books, exhibits, souvenirs, and restrooms. And more often than not, you can spot White Tail Deer hanging around here, or even a Peregrine Falcon flying overhead!
Zion Human History Museum
The museum is a half mile north of the South entrance. Exhibits display the culture, history, and lifestyle of American Indians and pioneer settlers, as well as a history of the national park. Watch a video, learn more about the Zion area, and ask the Rangers any questions. Great for a quick history lesson with the kids!
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center
This second center is in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion NP, located off Interstate 15 at a separate entrance to the West. Here you can get a map of the area, use the restrooms, check out the bookstore, and get any backpacking permits you might want/need. Not quite as popular as Zion Canyon, but Kolob Canyons is worthy of visit! Far less people and just as cool to explore.
Both Visitor Centers are open year round (times varying on season), but the museum is closed November through February.
*Both visitor centers are open, but the museum is currently closed due to Covid-19.
Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
Take the five mile scenic drive or hike one of the many trails. We had the trails to ourselves the day we visited Kolob Canyons! Some of the canyon walls in this area reach up to 2,000 feet from the canyon floors. Red rock peaks surround you on all sides, and the sky line is gorgeous!
Ride the Shuttle
During the busier months of the year, personal vehicles are not allowed to drive the main byway of Zion NP. A FREE shuttle bus service, starting by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, can transport you to and from different sections/areas of the park and any of the trailheads.
Helpful Hint: Get to the park first thing in the morning to beat the crowds and be sure to snag a parking spot at the visitor center to leave your car for the day while you ride the shuttle!
Best Hikes Within Zion National Park
With over 80 miles of hiking trails, there are endless possibilities for exploration and adventure in Zion! The park ranges in elevation of 3,666 ft. (1128 m) to its highest point at 8,726 ft. (2660 m). The air is thinner and very dry in southern Utah, so if you are unaccustomed to hiking in high altitude, take it slow and give yourself plenty of water breaks and rests to catch your breath.
If you only have a few days, you can still see most of the park via hiking!
Here are some don’t miss hikes varying in all difficulties and for all ages.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Distance: 1.0 mile (out and back) | Elevation Change: 442 feet
This hike is actually before you drive through the Mount Carmel Tunnel, but after entering the park from the East entrance. A pull out parking area off the right side of the road is where you’ll find the trailhead. The trail, considered easy to moderate, starts with some stone stairs, goes over some slick rock (and yes it can be very slick, even if it’s not wet, so be aware) and through some sand, under a rocky overhang, and along a boardwalk before arriving at a breathtaking overlook of the canyon. Great for all ages, just watch your little ones on the slick rock, and a frequent spot for Bighorn Sheep to hang out up above on the ridges.
Angels Landing
Distance: 5.0 miles (out and back) | Elevation Change: 1,630 feet
This is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park. Along with the distance and elevation gain, there are steep drop offs on either side of narrow sections of trail, making this a strenuous trail.
If you have the kids with you (depending on their ages and their hiking ability), we suggest hiking as far as Scout’s Lookout before turning around. You’ll have a great hike winding up Walter’s Wiggles (21 steep switchbacks but doable!) and taking in the views from Scout’s Lookout, a great spot for a picnic lunch.
If you are without the kids and you’re feeling brave, then continue the last half mile from Scout’s Lookout across the steep and narrow ridge to Angels Landing. You’ll use anchored chains as hand rails and helps up and over rocky areas on the trail. You will have to wait for others to pass, or pass other hikers through these sections as well. It is not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights, but once you get to the top you’ll have a fantastic view of Zion Canyon from 1500 feet in the air!
Be warned that NINE people have died on this trail from falling, the last being in April of 2019. So hike Angels Landing at your own discretion.
Riverside Walk
Distance: 1.9 mile (out and back) | Elevation Change: 193 feet
This trail is great for younger kids! An easy nature walk along the Virgin River with views of the canyon walls, a waterfall, plants, animals and birds. Especially beautiful in the spring and fall, when the trees are budding and the leaves are changing. At the end of the trail you’ll find the entrance to The Narrows (another popular hike in Zion NP). You can let the kids kick off their shoes and dip in their toes here. The Riverside Walk is a nice trail to get out of the heat of the sun and enjoy the beauty of the canyon.
The Narrows
Distance: Up to 16 miles | Elevation Change: roughly 500 feet
One of the most famous hikes in Zion, this trail leads you through the Virgin River between the canyon walls. For first time hikers, and those with only a few days in the park, this hike usually includes 3-4 miles out and back. It is considered easy to moderate depending on the water flow at the time. Most children four feet or taller should have no trouble navigating the water, but wear good shoes and use a walking stick for support. Depending on the time of the year, the Narrows trail may be closed due to high water, and you should never hike the Narrows if it is raining or there is a chance of rain due to flash flooding. Check the visitor center for more information when you visit.
Weeping Rock
Distance: 0.3 mile (out and back) | Elevation Change: 78 feet
Easy and ideal for everyone, this trail takes you to where water seeps out of the sandstone and drips off of an overhang in a small waterfall. Walk behind the falls and cool off from the mist. You’ll also have stunning views from this point of The Great White Throne, one of Zion’s signature landmarks. This is also a great place for bird viewing, and also of Fall colors on the maple trees in October.
Hidden Canyon
Distance: 3.1 miles (out and back) | Elevation Change: 971 feet
You can easily add this onto the Weeping Rock trail, but it is not recommended to do with small children. The trail follows and ascends steeps switchbacks and narrow ridges. Chains are used for support on this one, similar to Angels Landing. For your effort you will be rewarded with some amazing views!
Emerald Pools
Distance: 3.0 miles (loop) | Elevation Change: 646 feet
Considered Easy to Moderate, this hike is fun for the whole family! Follow a paved trail to the Lower Pool, which is fed by a waterfall from the Middle Pool above it. Walk behind the falls for a nice cool down mist before heading up to the Middle Pool. Here you can spot frogs and tadpoles and take a break before continuing to the Upper Pool. Reaching the Upper Pool requires hiking through sand and up some uneven steps, but the effort is worth it! Pack a lunch and enjoy the views of the Upper falls and surrounding canyon walls.
Taylor Creek Trail (aka Middle Fork)
Distance: 4.9 miles (out and back) | Elevation Change: 715 feet
Located in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion NP, this trail winds along the sandy floor of the canyon, over the stream dozens of times, and wanders past left over traces of settlers. The trail starts with a steep climb up some stairs before leveling off. Peek into the historical cabins of the Larson and Fife families from the 1930s. At the end of the trail eat lunch under the shade of the magnificent Double Arch Alcove before hiking back out. Be cautious of snacks on the trail, and keep an eye out for cougars who frequent the area.
Things to Pack for Hiking Through Zion National Park
- Sunscreen is a MUST no matter what season you are visiting.
- Bug Spray, specifically for mosquitoes especially during the summer months.
- Water is SO IMPORTANT! Do not leave for a hike, ESPECIALLY during the hotter months, without sufficient amounts of water for each person in your group.
- Snacks are always a great way to boost morale, reward strong hikers, and renew energy.
- Walking Sticks or Hiking Poles are useful for navigating some of the trails that have rocks and sand along the way.
- Dramamine or other motion sickness medication if you are someone in your group is prone to car sickness. The Mount Carmel Highway is very twisty and turny with a lot of switchbacks.
Where to Stay While Visiting Zion NP
There are three campgrounds within the national park; Watchman, South, and Lava Point. Check the National Park website for reservations and make sure to book in advance!
We stayed in Springdale, just outside of the South entrance, at the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort. The resort has 133 powered RV spots, 47 tents sites, private showers, restrooms, fire pits, grills, picnic tables, a shared pavilion, a playground for the kids, and pool (shared with the Quality Inn next door). Tent sites are $49.00 a day, and RV sites with full hookups range from $59.00-$99.00 a day.
We thought the sites were a little close together and really dusty with little vegetation, BUT the campground was close to the park entrance and the hosts were very nice.
Tip: If you can, book a site along the Virgin River! We weren’t so lucky.
Bonus Suggestion:
Hit up the Springdale Candy Company for some yummy treats post hiking. And stop in at the local grocery store for some bottled strawberry and/or orange cream milk. Trust us, it’s too delicious to pass up!
Zion National Park is a gorgeous area. We highly recommend a visit if you are ever in Southern Utah!
Thanks for reading along!
–Jocelyn
