Zion National Park is open 24/7, 365 days a year. While the park itself never closes, entrance fee collection hours and visitor center operations vary by season. The South, East, and Kolob Canyons entrances are always accessible, but staffed hours fluctuate. Shuttle services run from spring to fall, with adjusted schedules throughout the year. Understanding these hours is crucial for planning your visit to Zion.
What Are the General Park Access Hours?
Zion National Park maintains a 24-hour open policy throughout the year. This means:
- You can enter and exit the park at any time, day or night
- No restrictions on when you can drive through the park gates
- Overnight stays are permitted for those with proper permits or reservations
However, it’s important to note that while the park is always open, certain services and facilities have specific operating hours.
When Are the Entrance Stations Staffed?
The park has three main entrance stations:
- South Entrance
- East Entrance
- Kolob Canyons Entrance
Staffing hours at these stations vary by season:
Season | Typical Staffing Hours |
---|---|
Summer | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Spring/Fall | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Winter | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Remember:
– If the station is unstaffed when you enter, you’re still required to pay the entrance fee
– You can pay later at a visitor center or self-pay station
What Are the Visitor Center Hours?
Zion National Park has two main visitor centers:
Zion Canyon Visitor Center:
- Summer: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Fall: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Winter and Spring: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on December 25th
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center:
- Spring and Summer: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Fall and Winter: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Closed on December 25th
How Does the Shuttle Schedule Affect Park Access?
The Zion Canyon Shuttle System operates during peak seasons, affecting how visitors can access certain areas of the park:
- January 1 to March 2: No shuttle service
- March 3 to May 18: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- May 19 to September 15: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- September 16 to November 2: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- November 3 to December 1: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
During shuttle operation periods:
– Private vehicles are not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
– Visitors must use shuttles to access trailheads and viewpoints along this road
What Are the Seasonal Road Access Changes?
Zion National Park experiences some seasonal changes in road access:
- Zion Canyon Scenic Drive:
- Closed to private vehicles from mid-March to late October
-
Open to general traffic during winter months
-
Kolob Terrace Road:
- Often closed from November to May due to snow and ice
- Check park alerts for current status before planning a visit
Are There Any Special Access Rules for Specific Areas?
Yes, there are some special access rules to be aware of:
- Zion Lodge Access:
- Guests staying at Zion Lodge can drive to the lodge year-round
-
Must show reservation confirmation at checkpoints during shuttle season
-
Trailhead Access:
- During shuttle season, most trailheads along Zion Canyon Road are only accessible by shuttle
-
Visitors can also walk or bike to these trailheads
-
Backcountry Access:
- Requires separate permits
- Some areas may have restricted access during certain seasons
What Should Visitors Know About After-Hours Entry?
For those entering the park after staffed hours:
- You can still enter the park
- Must pay the entrance fee at the earliest opportunity
- Self-pay stations are available at some locations
- Keep your receipt as proof of payment
How Do Holidays Affect Park Hours?
Most park facilities maintain regular hours on holidays, with a few exceptions:
- Visitor centers are closed on December 25th
- Shuttle schedules may be adjusted on major holidays
- Entrance stations may have extended hours during peak holiday periods
Always check the official Zion National Park website for the most up-to-date information on holiday hours and potential closures.
By understanding Zion National Park’s entrance hours and access rules, visitors can better plan their trip and make the most of their time in this stunning natural wonder. Remember to always check current conditions and alerts before your visit, as weather and other factors can lead to unexpected changes in park operations.
References:
1. Opening times : r/ZionNationalPark – Reddit
2. Is Zion Open Year-Round? Weather, Hours, and Closures
3. Zion National Park Hours & Opening / Closing Date – AllTrips