In Southern Utah, you’ll find a mystical place of towering red sandstone cliffs, deep emerald pools, fragrant forests and sagebrush, all under a deep blue sky. Zion National Park covers 229 square miles of absolutely stunning scenery that’s teeming with life.
The landscape of Zion National Park is like a fairytale landscape of creamy pink and red sandstone castles, crossed by pure, running streams and dramatic waterfalls. You’ll want to take pictures of almost everything here. Prepare yourself, because your eyes will be dazzled by all of the amazing natural beauty.
History of Zion
The Zion Canyon has seen human occupation for at least 8,000 years, when small bands of hunter-gatherers took advantage of the rich abundance of natural resources. The Anasazi built permanent farming communities here 2,000 years ago. When these people faded into the past, the Southern Paiute resumed hunting, gathering and planting crops of corn, squash, and sunflowers.
Spanish missionaries made their way into Kolob Canyon on October 13, 1776. They were among the first Europeans to discover and visit the park. In 1825, fur trapper Jedediah Smith explored the streams and canyons, and finally, In 1847, Mormon farmers became the first people of European descent to permanently settle the region.
The floor of Zion Canyon was settled by farmer Isaac Behunin and his family in 1863. Behunin is the one who named Zion Canyon, after the idyllic, peaceful place mentioned in the Bible.
Getting to Zion National Park from Vegas
Just 165 miles and three hours away from the neon lights of Las Vegas is the serene landscape of Zion National Park.
All you need to do is get onto I-15 and drive north. You’ll pass through the cities of Mesquite NV, Beaver Dam AZ, and St. George UT. Get off at Exit 16 to Utah State Highway 9 toward Hurricane/Zion National Park.
Keep right at the fork and merge onto State Highway 9 E/UT-9 E/W State St. Drive 12 miles, turn right onto UT-9 E/W 500 N. and follow UT-9 to the gate of the park.
The pass for one week is $35 per vehicle. This will allow you to come and go from the park for 7-days. You may intend to simply go on a day trip, but the allure of Zion may keep you there for days and days.
Once you’re in the park, you’ll need to park your car and take the shuttle bus to see Zion. The park sees more than 6 million visitors a year, and in order to preserve this unique habitat, private vehicles are not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You can also hop aboard the shuttle in the nearby town of Springdale. The shuttles are free, and run frequently throughout the day.
When to Visit Zion National Park
The park is open year-round but the mild weather from March through October makes spring, summer and early fall the most popular times to visit for most people. Be aware, however, the temperatures here can be close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. While the winters here are cold and snowy, the park is less crowded, and the brightly colored canyons pop in contrast to the white snow.
Pets at Zion National Park
Sadly, it’s best to leave your dog at home; pets are not permitted to hike with you in the backcountry, on the shuttles, in public buildings, or on most of the trails. However, service animals are allowed on all of the trails and shuttles, so plan accordingly.
Accommodations at Zion National Park
Zion National Park has three campgrounds, but campsites are usually reserved months in advance. The campgrounds have water, but no electricity. Also, the summer temperatures are close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and rarely dip below 65 degrees at night, so staying cool while camping in the summer is a challenge.
The Zion Lodge is the only lodging within the park; the rustic Lodge has cabins built of native red sandstone, nestled under the cottonwoods. You can also dine on the patio of the Castle Dome Cafe here.
There are also lots of accommodations in the nearby town of Springdale, as well as in and around St. George. Be sure to plan ahead, everyone wants to visit Zion, especially in the summer.
Exploring the Glory of Zion
While you’ll likely be on a shuttle bus, there are plenty of opportunities to hop off and explore. The shuttle makes nine stops within the park, where you can hop off, and hit one of the many hiking trails to truly experience this amazing, primal landscape. Let’s start with the easy hikes, and work our way up to the most difficult.
Easy Hikes at Zion National Park
Archeology Trail
The Archeology Trail short trail begins near the Park Visitor Center and ends on top a hill less than ½ a mile away. On top of the hill is an archeological site with the foundation of an ancient Puebloan structure. Next, visit the Zion Human History Museum to see the artifacts found at this site.
Pa’rus Trail
The Pa’rus Trail also begins at the visitor center; this paved, flat trail follows the Virgin River to the South Campground. As you stroll this easy, sunny trail, you’ll be stunned by the majestic red rocks, contrasted against the deep blue sky and the sagebrush below.
Lower Emerald Pool
This trail begins near the Zion Lodge. The trail is one mile long, and takes you to a high vantage point, where splashing waterfalls tumble down the red rocks. The shimmering pools and the lush vegetation are captivating. The hike is easy enough to take children along.
The Grotto Trail
You can pick up this trail at the Zion Lodge or the Grotto shuttle stop. It’s almost completely flat, making this 1-mile trail a wonderfully pleasant and relaxing stroll. The path leads along the Virgin River, through pretty meadows, and under the imposing red cliffs. The Grotto is a picnic area, so pack a lunch to take with you.
Weeping Rock Trail
At less than ½ a mile, this paved and sometimes steep climb takes you to one of Zion’s most iconic places. Weeping Rock is a watery alcove carved out by the river, and surrounded by lush vegetation. If there’s a rainstorm, the “weeping” waters can turn into a full-fledged waterfall!
The Riverside Walk
This one-mile paved trail is a shady walk along the lovely Virgin River through narrow canyon walls. The air is fresh and clean here, and you’ll likely spot wildlife along the way. It’s truly like walking in paradise!
Moderate Hikes
Watchman Trail
This 2.7-mile trail leads to a spectacular view of Watchman Peak, as well as the valley below. Along the way, you can city the city of Springdale in the distance. There are some tough parts, and there is no shade, so go early in the morning.
Sand Bench Trail
The reason why this trail is a bit of a challenge is much of it is composed of fine, red sand, as well as some boulders to climb over. But the views are incredible; you’ll be able to see of the Court of the Patriarchs as well as The Sentinel.
Upper Emerald Pool
The hike up past the Lower Emerald Pool Trail gets more strenuous, but also more rewarding. Once you reach the top, you’ll be surrounded on three sides by steep, red cliffs. Water seeps out of the sides on these stunning cliffs, filling a placid pool beneath.
Strenuous Hikes
Angel’s Landing
This is one of the most popular and iconic hikes in Zion. This hike starts near the Grotto, and goes up for nearly 5 ½ miles. In fact, the final climb involves scaling a narrow ridge that is high above the valley. There are sections of chain-assisted rock scrambling, but the reward is breathtaking views; it’s as if you’ve landed on top of heaven.
Hidden Canyon Trail
Located near the Weeping Rock shuttle stop, this hike involves a lot of hills, climbing through a narrow rock canyon with a meandering stream. There are some sandy spots and sections with guide chains. However, once you get to the end, the scenery of red rocks, water and pine are truly legendary.
Observation Point via the East Rim
This is one of the longest, and most comprehensive hiking trails through this primal and mystical landscape. This 8-mile trail is paved, but don’t underestimate it; it will zig-zag you up into Echo Canyon, where you can look down and see Angels Landing far below.
The Narrows
This is a challenging slot canyon hike that’s breathtaking in its beauty. What makes this hike a challenge is you must hike through the Virgin River, and the water depth will vary from ankle deep to waist deep so dress to get wet. The further upstream you go, the more breathtaking the views are. This hike isn’t without danger; The Narrows is closed during the spring due to the melting snow flooding into the river. Likewise, at any time of year, you must be aware of the potential for flash floods. Finally, you need a permit to hike the Narrows top-down.
Whether you want to simply relax and enjoy the fresh desert air and the stunning scenery of Zion, or crave an athletic challenge, Zion National Park will surely leave you with a lifetime of memories.
