With towering red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and a mystic beauty that shifts with the light, Zion National Park captivates millions each year. Nestled in southwestern Utah, Zion is a sanctuary of rugged landscapes, ancient history, and soul-stirring adventure.

Recommended For

Adventure Seekers: Hike, canyoneer, or climb through some of the most dramatic terrain in the U.S.

History Buffs: Explore ancient Anasazi dwellings and remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps’ legacy.

Nature Lovers & Photographers: Experience changing sandstone colors and abundant wildlife across unique ecosystems.

What to Expect

  • Location: Southwestern Utah, near Springdale
  • Size: 229 square miles of canyonlands, cliffs, and high plateaus
  • Main Feature: Reddish Navajo sandstone canyon, known for its color shifts from pink to golden yellow
  • Season: Open year-round, with peak crowds from March to October

Highlights

  • The Narrows: A slot canyon hike through the Virgin River—best done with advance planning
  • Angels Landing: A strenuous climb with rewarding panoramic views
  • Par’us Trail: Zion’s only bike- and pet-friendly path, perfect for families and casual riders
  • CCC Legacy: Historic trails, paths, and campgrounds shaped by 1930s New Deal efforts

History & Culture

  • Earliest Inhabitants: Nomadic groups dating back over 8,000 years
  • Agriculture Emerged: Around 6,000 years ago, with early corn cultivation
  • Anasazi People: Built pithouses near 700 AD, blending natural shelter with ingenuity
  • Mormon Settlers: Arrived in the 19th century, growing crops on fertile canyon floors
  • Park Established: Protected as a monument in 1909; park status followed

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: From easy canyon strolls to bucket-list climbs like Angels Landing
  • Canyoneering & Climbing: Explore deep canyons and vertical walls with proper permits
  • Kayaking: Seasonal water flow makes river routes available at certain times
  • Cycling: Enjoy scenic rides on the Par’us Trail

Permits & Safety

  • Day Visits: No permit required
  • Overnight Trips: Permit required—apply up to three months in advance
  • Plan Ahead: Flash floods pose a real threat in narrow canyons

Pets in the Park

  • Allowed On: Par’us Trail only
  • Guidelines: Leash your pet, bring water, and clean up after them

Visitor Logistics

  • Annual Visitors: Over 3 million
  • Busy Season: March through October
  • Parking Tips: Arrive before 10 AM or park in Springdale and walk or shuttle in
  • Shuttle System: Mandatory during peak months; operates from Springdale and Zion Canyon

Where to Stay

  • Inside the Park: Zion Lodge and three campgrounds (South, Watchman, Lava Point)
  • Outside the Park: Springdale offers lodging, restaurants, and services with easy shuttle access

Visitor Information Centers

  • Zion Canyon Visitor Center
  • Kolob Canyons Visitor Center
  • East Zion Tourism Council
  • Zion Canyon Visitors Bureau
  • St. George & Kane County Visitor Bureaus

Visitor Tips

  • Start Early: Beat crowds and heat with a sunrise arrival
  • Prepare for Weather: Conditions change quickly—bring layers, water, and rain gear
  • Know Your Route: Use trail maps and check the forecast, especially in canyons
  • Fee Waivers: Available for educational and research groups (check with park officials)

Contact & Hours

Zion National Park
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Phone: 435-772-3256
Website: nps.gov/zion

Map

Plan Your Trip