Prepare yourself, both for the WOW factor and with the tips you’ll need for a successful trip.
You’re in luck!
In this guide, we’ll share all the things you need to know to make your visit to Zion National Park a success.
What You Need to Know for a Successful Zion National Park Visit
Impressive, imposing, intimidating, incredible are the words that swirled through my mind as I drove along the Scenic Highway through Zion National Park.
The winding, narrow road weaves its way past checkered mesas, rocky gorges, and jagged mountaintops.
The bright orange rock formations look as if they’re made from flowing lava that suddenly stopped running and solidified instantly capturing a moment in time rather than showing millions of years of slow geologic activity.
Evergreen trees and shrubbery dot the rocky landscape. Deer and mountain goats spring across the road with the same spontaneity that I’m even driving this road after putting together this last-minute road trip.
I haven’t planned for Zion’s majesty. Even after just visiting Arches, Canyonlands, and Bryce National Parks, you’ll be unprepared for how Zion’s grand introduction sweeps you off your feet and shows what it means to have reverence for nature.
Continuing on (mouth agape), I plunged into deep darkness as the road snaked through the 1.1-mile Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel carved through a seemingly impassable block of rock in what has to be a truly notable engineering feat.
Not realizing how long the tunnel was at first, I was sure our rental car was swallowed by the towers of rock and would just become another layer added onto the stunning formations.
In just the first few moments, it’s easy to see why experiencing Zion National Park ranks high on many a bucket list. And, it’s undoubtedly a must on any Utah National Parks road trip.
How do I get to Zion National Park?
The closest major airport is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas to Zion National Park is a 2 1/2-3 hour drive.
You can rent a car from all the major companies at the airport, just be sure to search on a site like Kayak because it compares prices on multiple websites at the same time. It’s a top car rental hack to finding the best deal.
If you’re already in the area visiting other Utah National Parks, Bryce National Park is about a 1 1/2 drive. Capitol Reef National Park is just under 4 hours by car. Driving from Arches or Canyonlands National Parks would take about 5 hours.
If you’re coming from Monument Valley or the Grand Canyon, plan on 4 hours of road time before arriving at Zion National Park.
Are there hotels near Zion National Park?
The gateway town of Springdale is just outside Zion’s entrance and Visitor Center. The town has several hotels, B&Bs, and inns just minutes from the National Park entrance.
I had an excellent stay at the Holiday Inn Express in Springdale. The free Zion Shuttle stopped right out front! You can also search and book Zion National Park hotels at the best rate using the search box below.
The Zion National Park Lodge is the only lodging available within the park. Several hiking trails begin at the Lodge. The horse corral across the road offers horseback riding excursions. The Zion Shuttle stops at the Lodge to transport guests throughout the park.
As one of my readers pointed out, staying at the Zion Lodge allows you to experience the tranquility of the park in the morning and evenings before and after all the day visitors have come and gone.
Reservations for the Lodge can be made up to 13 months in advance. Starting with the 1st of each month, the calendar opens for that whole month in the following year.
The Lodge books quickly. If this is where you’d most like to stay, make reservations as soon as you know your plans. Bookings can be canceled for free or modified (depending on availability) up to 2 days prior to your arrival.
Zion National Park also has 3 campgrounds. From spring to fall, the campgrounds are extremely busy. If possible, make reservations ahead of time or arrive in the morning to (hopefully) snag a spot!
Can I drive into Zion National Park?
The driving and parking situation in and around Zion National Park is extremely busy. You want to have a plan and get it right in order to make the most of your time.
The Zion National Park-Mount Carmel Scenic Highway cuts through the mountains along Route 9 between the towns of Mount Carmel and Springdale. This road is open for park visitors, as well as drivers passing through.
There are park entrance booths at either end of the highway requiring all drivers to pay the entrance fee or show a park pass. If you’re visiting multiple National Parks, consider getting the America the Beautiful Pass to save money on park entrance fees.
This is the only road visitors are allowed to drive on between March and the end of October.
While there are some small pull-offs and a few parking spaces along the Scenic Highway for photos and the few trailheads that start here, you should plan on NOT driving into the park for the day.
Instead, park along the main road in Springdale and use the free town shuttle to the Zion Visitor Center.
The earlier you arrive the better success you’ll have at finding parking in Springdale. If you’re staying at a hotel in Springdale, do not move your car. Simply walk to the nearest shuttle stop along the main road and take it to the last stop, the park entrance and visitor center.
After entering the park, board another shuttle and head into the main area of the park where private vehicles are restricted. The park shuttle makes 9 stops for popular park destinations like Angel’s Landing or the Narrows. The shuttles are efficient, easy to use, and run every few minutes.
What do I need for a day in Zion National Park?
You should prepare for as long as you plan to be out in the park.
This means bringing enough food, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any supplies needed for the day’s activities. Refill your water supply at the Visitor Centers, the Zion Lodge, and campgrounds within the park.
Zion Lodge also has a cafe serving basic breakfast and lunch options. Springdale has a supermarket, convenience stores, and cafes providing takeaway snacks and sandwiches.
Pro Tip – Planning on doing some hiking? Make sure you’re prepared on what to wear and what to bring on a hike!
How much does it cost to get into Zion National Park?
The pass for a private vehicle and its passengers costs $30 and is valid for 7 consecutive days. If you plan to visit more than 1 National Park, the America the Beautiful Pass is the best way to save money for most visitors.
You can also find out how to save money on park fees if you’re a senior, active military or have a 4th grader.
What are the best things to do in Zion National Park?
There’s no shortage of activities for all interests and age groups in the park. Some of the Zion National Park hikes are even world famous! This guide details 8 Spectacular Things to Do at Zion National Park!
For just a glimpse to get the ideas flowing for how to best spend your time in Zion, think about hiking Angels Landing or the Narrows. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Scenic Highway. Visit the Emerald Pools or watch for wildlife…just to name a few!
No matter what you decide, it’s certain your trip to Zion National Park will be unforgettable!
Are you planning a trip to Zion National Park?
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