Know Before You Go: Visiting Zion National Park

Zion National Park gets heavily crowded in summer, aka June through August. During those months, you’ll be packed into the park shuttles like sardines. Avoid the chaos by visiting in spring (April and May) or fall (September–November). If you do visit in summer, go early in the morning or later in the evening to catch the park in its gentle hours—gentler light, gentler crowds.

Insider tip: The free park shuttle starts up in mid-May and stops running around December. When it’s not running, visitors are permitted to drive through the park at their leisure—for many, that’s a tempting argument for an off-season visit.

Zion National Park, technically speaking, never closes—if you’d like to take a moonlit hike or get trekking before sunrise, that’s an option. However, the business facilities, including the visitor center and museum, run closer to business hours.

In summer, most staffed spots are open from around 8am to 8pm; hours are reduced in the off-season. During the summer, the shuttle typically runs from around 6am to 8pm; in spring and fall, it runs from roughly 7am to 7pm.

Most people visiting Zion National Park will pay $35—that’s the entrance fee for a private vehicle. Those on foot, bike, or motorcycle will pay between $20–$30. Some guided tours will cover the cost of the entrance fee.

Insider tip: Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Lands Pass. For $80, you’ll get year-long access to every NPS site (plus BLM sites, Forest Services sites, and more), as many times as you like. It’s good for you and whoever’s with you, too.

If you’re down for some serious hiking in Zion National Park, the famous view is Angels Landing—a precipitous, permit-only hike that’s dangerous if not done carefully. Otherwise, more family-friendly activities in Zion that offer incredible scenic views are the hike to Emerald Pools, wading in the water in The Narrows, and driving through the Zion–Mt. Carmel Tunnel, down the zigzagging eastern road into the depths of the canyon. It’s one of the best scenic drives in any of the national parks, bar none.

Not all national parks require tours, but Zion is a great spot to consider one. Tour guides know how to get away from the crowds and get you a more wilderness-rich experience—which is probably the experience you came for!

There are hiking tours, private sightseeing tours, adventure tours (like UTVing), and so much more. It’s a great way to go beyond the shuttle system and the popular viewpoints, making your park experience unique and truly memorable.

From strolling the Pa’Rus Trail to ascending Angels Landing, no two experiences in Zion require the same gear. But regardless of when you visit, pack layers you can take on and off, and don’t scrimp on the sunscreen. Definitely bring shoes you’re comfortable walking or hiking in, and if you’re the trekking type, bring hiking poles, a backpack, and plenty of water and snacks, too.

If you’re planning on hiking The Narrows—which is literally in the splashing Virgin River—bring shoes you’re comfortable getting wet and an extra pair of socks.

Those in need of accessible services will find them at Zion, from accessible picnic tables and restrooms to two designated accessible trails: the Pa'rus Trail and the Riverside Walk, which both offer absolutely lovely scenery. The extensive shuttle system also makes the park navigable for those with walking issues, and incredible vistas can certainly be seen from just about everywhere. That being said, most trails are deep in Mother Nature and not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and the like.

• How do I get around Zion National Park? From mid-May to December, the only way to get around the park is via shuttle—cars aren’t allowed through unless they have a special pass. Luckily, the shuttle runs constantly and goes just about everywhere. (Note: Bikes are always welcome.)

• Can I stay inside Zion National Park? The only Zion National Park accommodations inside the park (aside from camping) are offered at Zion Lodge. Coincidentally, that’s the only place to grab food, too. It’s a highly popular spot; to nab one of their 76 rooms, book well in advance. However, lodging is plentiful (and also popular) within the town of Springdale, and some of it is located not far from the park entrance.

• What are the best trails in Zion National Park? The “best trails in Zion” depend on who’s asking. The most famous—and most crowded—are The Narrows and Angels Landing (permit only); other fabulous hikes include the Watchman Trail, the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, and the Kayenta Trail, which is an alternate path to the famous Emerald Pools.