Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse ecosystems. This comprehensive guide provides essential information for visitors planning a trip to Zion, including details on hiking trails, camping regulations, entrance fees, and guided tours. With its stunning landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities, Zion National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
What Are the Must-Know Details About Zion National Park?
What Hiking Trails Are Available in Zion National Park?
Zion National Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails catering to various skill levels and interests:
Easy Hikes
- Emerald Pools Trail:
- Length: 1.2 to 2.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Elevation: Highest point at 4,450 feet above sea level
-
Features: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools
-
Riverside Walk:
- Length: 1.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Accessibility: First half wheelchair accessible
-
Elevation: Highest point at 5,640 feet above sea level
-
Pa’rus Trail:
- Length: 3.5 miles out-and-back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Accessibility: Paved and wheelchair accessible
- Features: Open to dogs on-leash and cyclists
Moderate Hikes
- East Rim Trail:
- Length: 7.8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Elevation: Reaches 6,370 feet above sea level
-
Canyon Overlook Trail:
- Length: 1 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Features: Inspiring overlook of lower Zion Canyon
-
Watchman Trail:
- Length: 2.7 miles out-and-back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Overhanging cliffs and stratified rock layers
Strenuous Hikes
- Angels Landing Trail:
- Length: 5.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Elevation: Highest point at 5,790 feet above sea level
-
Note: Permit required starting April 1, 2022
-
Observation Point Trail:
- Length: 6.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
-
Elevation gain: 2,270 feet
-
The Narrows:
- Length: 9.6 miles round trip (day hike)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Features: Wading through the Virgin River
Technical Canyoneering
- Orderville Canyon:
- Length: 12.3 miles
- Difficulty: Technical
- Requirements: Zion backcountry permit and specialized skills
What Are the Visitor Center Hours?
The Zion National Park Visitor Center operates year-round with varying hours:
| Season | Hours |
|---|---|
| Peak Season (March to October) | 8 AM to 7 PM |
| Off-Peak Season (November to February) | 8 AM to 5 PM |
Note: Hours may be adjusted during extreme weather conditions or park events.
What Are the Camping Regulations in Zion National Park?
Permitted Sites
Zion National Park offers three campgrounds:
- Watchman Campground:
- Open year-round
-
Reservations through recreation.gov
-
Lava Point Campground:
- Open from May to October
-
First-come, first-served basis
-
South Campground:
- Open from March to October
- Reservations through recreation.gov
Maximum Stay Limits
- March to October: 14 days
- November to February: 30 days
Fire Restrictions
- Fires allowed only in designated campsites
- Must be fully extinguished when unattended
- Fire restrictions may be in place during high fire danger periods
What Are the Entrance Fees for Zion National Park?
| Pass Type | Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Private Vehicle | $35 | 7 days |
| Individual/Bicycle | $20 | 7 days |
| Motorcycle | $30 | 7 days |
| Annual Pass | $70 | 1 year |
| America the Beautiful Annual Pass | $80 | 1 year (all federal recreational lands) |
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards, and checks
What Guided Tours Are Available in Zion National Park?
Types of Tours
- Hiking Tours:
- Range from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips
-
Cost: $50 to $200+ per person for day hikes, $500+ for multi-day trips
-
Canyoneering Tours:
- Full-day or multi-day technical trips
-
Cost: $150 to $500+ per person
-
Ranger Programs:
- Free or low-cost programs led by park rangers
- Include nature walks, talks, and campfire programs
How to Book
- Through authorized tour operators:
- Zion Rock Guides
- Zion Adventure Company
- Zion Canyon Field Institute
- Check with the park’s visitor center for recommendations and ranger-led programs
References:
- https://www.risingkranchtrailrides.com/zion-canyon-trails.html
- https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/zion-canyon-trail-descriptions.htm
- https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/zion/outdoor-experiences