Things to do in  Zion National Park

Carved over time by the Virgin River, Zion National Park is a remarkable 148,000-acre (59,900-hectare) stretch of white, pink, and red rock formations in southern Utah’s canyon country. The state’s first national park draws hikers, birders, and nature lovers with its slot canyon walls and diversity of wildlife.

The walls of the Zion gorge narrow to just 20 feet (6 meters) wide at the Narrows, a hiking route that follows the Virgin River between Chamberlain's Ranch and the Temple of Sinawava. It’s not a trail—hikers walk right in the riverbed, which means wet feet and knee-deep crossings when water levels are high. Along the way, pass awe-inspiring red rock formations that are among the most recognizable sights of the American Southwest.

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the main artery through Zion National Park. Winding along the Virgin River, the two-lane road is lined with vista points, river access spots, trailheads, and endless photo opportunities—including all of the park’s main attractions. The 7-mile (11-kilometer) route is so popular that, during the busy season, it’s closed off to private vehicles, though still accessible by park shuttle, bicycle, or foot.

The hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park ranks among the most famous treks in the country. It’s only moderately challenging until the final half mile, when the trail becomes precipitous and the narrowness of the path—not to mention sheer drop-offs to either side—offers an additional mental challenge. Visitors who make it to the top are rewarded with spectacular views (and bragging rights).

Linked by a verdant stream, the Emerald Pools of Zion National Park are three freshwater pools that offer a picturesque contrast to the surrounding red cliffs. To access the pools, choose between three hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate; options include a short paved route and a longer, more strenuous loop. Flowing waterfalls reflected in crystalline surfaces make the Emerald Pools one of the most popular hiking areas in Zion National Park.

The Virgin River flows through the heart of Zion National Park and can be credited with carving out the magnificent Zion Canyon. So, whether it’s the spectacular views from the top of Angel’s Landing or the colorful slot canyon known as The Narrows, these national treasures would not exist without the hard work of the Virgin River.

When the shortest trail in a national park gets wide recognition, you know it’s something special. That’s the case for Zion’s Weeping Rock Trail, a .4-mile (.6-kilometer) mostly paved trek to the underside of a canyon wall that “weeps” water trapped in the cliff’s face. It changes significantly with the seasons, forming icicles in winter, small waterfalls with spring storms, and hanging gardens come summer.

Upon completion in 1930, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel was the longest tunnel in the rural US. The 1.1-mile (1.8-kilometer) tunnel serves as the unofficial entrance to the east side of Zion National Park, allowing easy passage between Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the north rim of the Grand Canyon along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway—a national historic landmark.

Towering rock formations, colorful slot canyons, and a maze of hiking trails make Zion Canyon the heart of activity in Zion National Park. The Virgin River courses through the green valley floor and painted sandstone cliffs, creating a desert oasis that draws hoards of visitors to the scenic park.

Named after the biblical figures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the sandstone cliffs known as the Court of the Patriarchs are popular among photographers, rock climbers, and early risers. A visit here doesn’t require much time on its own, but it’s an accessible vantage point for capturing the beauty of the awe-inspiring Zion National Park.

While Zion National Park is known for its strenuous hikes and outdoor adventures, the nearby Zion Canyon Hot Springs is all about relaxation and rejuvenation. The unique natural attraction lets visitors relax in dozens of mineral-rich, geothermally heated pools surrounded by desert landscapes—a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after a day on the trails or to simply unwind and enjoy the tranquility of southern Utah.

Steps from the Zion Nature Center, the Zion Human History Museum tells this 12,000-year-old story, from the tales of the Anasazi and Paiute all the way to the orchard-planting pioneers. Here, visitors get an artifact-heavy dive into what few associate with this red-rock wonderland: culture.

No one’s quite sure whether Kolob Arch is the second, fourth, or maybe sixth-longest arch in the world, but at 287 feet, it’s undoubtedly one of the most impressive. Situated in the northwestern backcountry of Zion National Park, to reach it requires a 7-mile, one-way pilgrimage through the park’s rugged red-rock wilderness—a worthwhile trek indeed.