Introduction
Magical Zion National Park! There is a force here, an energy that will capture your heart entirely and sends me into grateful trembles upon entering the narrow valley of Zion- in towering red walls. While you may be short on time to hike the ample trails of Zion National Park, simply driving past the Temple of Sinawava for an hour is just as worth it. Visiting is also made easy at Zion. Zion, because the main canyon is so tiny that you can see most of it in a single day. But the backcountry of Zion is extensive and you could dedicate weeks here just wandering all the trails.
Where is Zion National Park?
Zion is in the southwest corner of Utah, just an hour from St George and two and a half hours from Las Vegas.
Somehow, however, the desert in which it resides makes this hard to believe and I will admit that I was quite sceptical the first time I ever arrived at Zion. Hell, I was in the town of Hurricane 1/2 hour from Zion and thought to myself what is all the hoopla about? It’s kinda dry and plain. To be honest, I am not that big a fan of the desert ecosystem, but even if I were, I would still feel somewhat shortchanged. It is the coloration of contrasting greens valley with soft blue lined honeysuckle water backed by bands, (from lighter to darker), white and pink striped rocks that make this dream looking scene Zion.
Zion National Park Weather
- Summer (June-August):
Temperatures: In the Canyons, above 100°F lows in the lower elevations only to near a cooler 70°F.
Variations: Lower at higher elevations; Colder temperatures.
Conditions: Hot/dry, high desert environment; sporadic thunderstorms.
- Winter (December-February):
Temperatures: Low temperature range from 30°F to 60°F (-1°C to 15°).
Variations: Snow at higher elevations; more mild in the canyon.
Conditions: Canyon- few days before storm, Snow at the higher elevations.
- Spring and Fall (March – May, September – November)
Temperature: Range: 40F to 80F
Conditions: Nice weather that makes for good hiking
- Monsoon Season (July-September):
Characteristics: Non-severe thunderstorm, possible flash flood
Caution: Warning: Slot canyons and washes are flash flood areas; know the weather forecast before going.
Beginners Tips for Visiting Zion National Park
It costs 20 dollars per person to enter (or 35 per vehicle) and that pass is good for re-entrance into Zion throughout a stretch of seven consecutive days.
Is it a good deal- heck yeah, as the pass gets you and your family into all of the national parks for an entire year! You can buy yours in the entrance or you could do it online. Oh, and if you are military or a senior the pass is even free!
Hiking Inside Zion National Park
We’ve done nearly all the hikes in Zion Canyon as well as in nearby Kolob Canyon. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top hikes.
Top 10 hiking in Zion National Park
- Angel’s Landing
- Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
- height: 1,488 feet
- Difficulty: hard
- The Narrows
- Distance: 16 miles
- height: Minimal
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard
- Observation Point
- Distance: 8 miles
- height: 2,148 feet
- Difficulty: hard
- The Subway
- Distance: 9 miles
- height: 400 feet
- Difficulty: hard
- Hidden Canyon
- Distance: 2.4 miles
- height: 850 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Angels Landing via West Rim Trail
- Distance: 16 miles
- height: 4,469 feet
- Difficulty: hard
- Canyon Overlook Trail
- Distance: 1 mile
- height: 163 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Emerald Pools Trail
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- height: 69 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Weeping Rock Trail
- Distance: 0.4 miles
- height: 98 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pa’rus Trail
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- height: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
A One Day Itinerary
Single day itinerary: you have 2 options
This means you can go at your own pace and do all the short walks, breaking halfway for lunch or a snack at the Zion Lodge. In the busier summer months, my advice would be to go early (there is a park shuttle) and travel north to south through the canyon — do Riverside Walk first then end with Watchman if you can.
Bad news, epic hikers — you are unfortunately going to have to pick and choose between one (or two) truly incredible adventures. The Subway and The Narrows are each full day outings.
Where to Stay in zion national park
Hey there! Zion National Park Trip Planning Excellent choice! Where Zion is this fairytale country of tall red cliffs, water-carved canyons and beautiful panoramas. Sure, but deciding on where to stay could be tricky. No sweat, as usual I got you! From schmancy lodges with all the amenities to sleeping under the stars in tents, Zion will not disappoint. We’re now going to explore the best places for those good nights of sleep on this wonder in heaven and earth.
Conclusion:
Your wrapped up Zion National Park adventure? So, without further ado, here are the best ways to connect the dots after you’ve been off gallivanting around this magical place. The awe inspiring hikes of Angels Landing and The Narrows to the tranquil beauty that is the Emerald Pools, to the jaw-dropping viewpoints from Observation Point—Zion has a way of leaving every moment permanently inscribed in your brain. Do not miss the sunset at Canyon Overlook — you will never forget those colours. Keep in mind that whether you hiked the advice trails or simply took in the views all of Zion has a touch of magic. With that in mind, here are your memories: Picture perfect and long lasting, we hope! If you have any more questions or need further tips then I am here for a reason so ask me!
FAQs
Q: What distinguishes Zion National Park from other places?
With its breathtaking red rock high desert and lush Virgin River valley, Zion has a rich diversity of life that includes over 900 unique species making it a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and those simply seeking peace in nature.
Q:When to visit Zion National Park?
Spring and fall are the optimal times to visit Zion; you’ll dodge sweltering heat, as well as thicker crowds. Nonetheless as each season has its character, very much a case of the old saying different strokes for different folks.
Q:What are the top few things to do in Zion?
Must-see attractions include the Angel’s Landing hike, Zion Canyon and its Emerald Pools plus the Narrows hike up through the Virgin River.
Q: Any tips for a hike in Zion?
Absolutely! Be sure to carry ample water, wear sturdy hiking shoes and reference local trail conditions. A second—you should also be getting a jump on your day to avoid the masses and heat of midday.
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