Zion National Park, a natural wonder in Utah, welcomes visitors with its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Entering Zion requires understanding the park’s access points, fees, and permit systems. This guide provides essential information on how to enter Zion National Park, including entrance locations, admission costs, and necessary permits for specific activities.
What Are the Main Entrance Points to Zion National Park?
Zion National Park offers three primary entrance points for visitors:
- South Entrance
- Location: Near Springdale, Utah
- Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
- GPS Coordinates: 37.2023° N, 112.9833° W
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Open: 24/7 (Visitor center hours may vary)
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East Entrance
- Location: On Highway 9, near Mount Carmel, Utah
- Address: Zion National Park, East Entrance, Mount Carmel, UT 84755
- GPS Coordinates: 37.2333° N, 112.7333° W
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Open: 24/7 (Visitor center hours may vary)
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Kolob Canyons Entrance
- Location: Off Interstate 15, near Cedar City, Utah
- Address: 3752 E Kolob Canyons Rd, Cedar City, UT 84719
- GPS Coordinates: 37.4667° N, 113.1667° W
- Open: 24/7 (Visitor center hours may vary)
What Are the Admission Costs for Zion National Park?
Entering Zion National Park requires payment of an entrance fee. The current fee structure is as follows:
| Pass Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Pass | 7 days | $35 |
| Individual/Bicycle Pass | 7 days | $20 |
| Zion Annual Pass | 1 year | $70 |
| America the Beautiful Annual Pass | 1 year | $80 |
Do I Need a Permit to Enter Zion National Park?
While a general entry permit is not required for Zion National Park, certain activities within the park do require specific permits:
- Angels Landing Hike
- Permit obtained through Seasonal or Day-before Lottery
- Application fee: $6 (non-refundable)
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Additional fee if selected: $3 per person
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The Subway and The Narrows
- Permit obtained through Advance Lottery or Calendar Reservations
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Application fee: $5 (non-refundable)
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Backpacking and Technical Canyoneering
- Permits must be obtained in advance
- The person named on the permit must participate in the trip
What Is the Process for Entering Zion National Park?
Follow these steps to enter Zion National Park:
- Choose your preferred entrance (South, East, or Kolob Canyons)
- Arrive at the entrance station
- Pay the entrance fee or present a valid pass
- If you have an activity-specific permit, have it ready for inspection
- Follow park rules and regulations
- Be prepared to show your permit or pass to park rangers if requested
What Activities Require Special Permits in Zion?
Several activities in Zion National Park require special permits:
- Angels Landing Hike
- The Subway (Left Fork of North Creek)
- The Narrows
- Backpacking
- Technical Canyoneering
Ensure you obtain the necessary permits before engaging in these activities to avoid disappointment or legal issues.
How Can I Obtain Activity-Specific Permits for Zion?
To obtain activity-specific permits for Zion National Park:
- Angels Landing
- Apply through the Seasonal Lottery or Day-before Lottery
- Pay the $6 application fee
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If selected, pay an additional $3 per person
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The Subway and The Narrows
- Apply through the Advance Lottery or Calendar Reservations
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Pay the $5 non-refundable application fee
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Backpacking and Technical Canyoneering
- Apply in advance through the park’s official website
- Follow the specific instructions for each activity
What Should I Know About Park Regulations When Entering Zion?
When entering Zion National Park, be aware of the following regulations:
- Obey all posted signs and ranger instructions
- Stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems
- Do not feed or approach wildlife
- Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles
- Drones are prohibited within the park
- Campfires are only allowed in designated areas
- Pets are restricted to certain areas and must be leashed
How Can I Make the Most of My Visit When Entering Zion?
To maximize your experience when entering Zion:
- Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
- Use the park’s shuttle system during peak seasons
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection
- Check weather conditions and trail status before your visit
- Consider hiring a guide for specialized activities
- Visit the park’s visitor centers for up-to-date information and exhibits
- Participate in ranger-led programs to enhance your understanding of the park
By following these guidelines and being well-prepared, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when entering Zion National Park.
References:
1. https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm
2. https://www.canyoneeringusa.com/zion/wilderness-permits
3. https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm