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
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