Ultimate Zion National Park Travel Guide: Hikes, Tips, & Where to Stay

Zion National Park is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States. Located in southern Utah, this stunning park is home to towering red cliffs, winding slot canyons, and breathtaking vistas that make it a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and luxury travelers alike.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day hiking adventure, this Zion travel guide covers everything you need to know, from the best hikes and photo spots to where to stay for a luxurious desert escape.

View of Zion from the Bridge at the Watchman

Getting to Zion National Park

Location: Springdale, Utah

Nearest airport: Las Vegas (LAS) – 2.5 hours or St. George Regional Airport (SGU) – 1 hour

Park entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)

Best time to visit: March–May & September–November (milder temps and fewer crowds)

If you’re coming from Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, the drive is nothing short of scenic. Many travelers pair a visit to Zion with other nearby parks like Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon for an unforgettable Southwest road trip.

Check out these blogs for some Trip Inspo/ Stops along the way

Best Views in the Valley of Fire Blog

Vegas Road Trip Blog

When to Visit Zion National Park

There is no bad season to enjoy Zion National Park as each brings its own unique features and perks. 

Summer- the most crowded but the best time to do one of the most popular likes, the narrows, a canyon hike through the Virgin River. This water can be very cold other times of the year. 

Spring / Fall - best time for milder temperatures and colors which are perfect if you plan to do a lot of camping or long hikes. Great for hikes like Angels Landing.

Winter - the least popular time to come makes this a bonus plus catching the contrasting snowfall colors on the rocks is quite a sight to see.

Start of the Narrows Hike

WHERE TO STAY IN ZION NATIONAL PARK 

The park's main entrance, is just steps away from many great hotels in Springdale, Utah.

Hotels in Zion National Park

Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton - Steps from the park entrance. A luxury resort and you can earn or use Hilton points for booking!

SpringHill Suites by Marriott is a very comfortable and nice hotel. Close to the park entrance and has a great outdoor pool perfect after a long day of hiking and exploring. Part of the Marriott portfolio so you can earn or use points for free rooms!

Zion National Park Lodge (the only hotel inside the park)

Unique Accomodations near Zion National Park

St. George, Utah is About an hour west, and a great base for exploring Southwest Utah.

Undercanvas: Luxury glamping near Zion (outside the park)

AutoCamp Zion - Upscale airstreams and cabins along the Virgin River. Owned by Hilton so you can use Hilton points to book a stay!

Camping Spots in Zion National Park

Watchman Campground

South Campground

Lava Point Campground

BLM Free Campgrounds: Available a short drive from the parkNote: Campsites require advance permits and reservations.

PRO TIP - book lodging at least 3-6+ months in advance, and even up to a year out if you are trying to get best rates or book with points. Accomodations for spring and fall will book up!

Top Things to Do in Zion National Park

1. Hike Angels Landing (If You Dare)

One of the most famous hikes in the world, Angels Landing is not for the faint of heart. This strenuous 5.4-mile trail climbs nearly 1,500 feet and includes a narrow ridge with drop-offs on both sides. A permit is now required for the second half of the hike (the chain section) , so plan ahead. You can sometimes get last minute permits the day of or day before but you will need to be flexible. Even if you do not get a permit, the first half is still a great hike and offers beautiful views.

Pro tip: For an equally stunning and less terrifying alternative, try Scout Lookout.

2. Explore The Narrows

Imagine hiking through a slot canyon with towering red walls and a river running through it. That’s The Narrows. You’ll be walking in water for much of the hike, so rent gear (boots + dry pants) from outfitters in Springdale. Always check weather as this area is prone to very dangerous flash flooding.

3. Catch the Sunrise or Stay for Sunset at Canyon Overlook

One of the most accessible yet dramatic viewpoints, Canyon Overlook is a short 1-mile roundtrip hike with massive reward. It’s the perfect sunrise spot if you don’t want to start your morning with a long trek.

Pro Tip - get here very early because parking is VERY limited

Photo Tip - great spot for long exposure with the cars below after the sun sets!

4. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

This scenic drive takes you through the iconic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and offers panoramic views of slickrock and towering formations. Pull off at the overlooks for breathtaking photos.

5. Rent an E BIKE & drive the valley floor

E Bikes are fun and you don't have to rely on the shuttle busses. You can even get a heard start if you're looking to hike and catch a sunrise view.

Best Photo Spots in Zion

• Angels Landing (from Scout Lookout)

• The Narrows (midway through the canyon)

• Canyon Overlook at Sunset

• Emerald Pools Trail

• The Watchman Trail Head

TIPS for Zion National Park

If you are planning to the Narrows hike, be sure to bring a pole and water shoes. This trek can be much easier if you have the right equipment. You can rent them at nearby stores outside the park entrance as well.

Water Shoes (protect your toes and give you grip for the hike): https://amzn.to/37dKB9E

Hiking Poles for the narrows and any hike: https://amzn.to/31iEahL

If you are staying outside the park or driving in for a day trip, be sure to get to the entrance early as parking is very limited in the spring/summer seasons. 

If you are driving from Las Vegas, be sure to keep in mind the time difference as you may get to the park an hour later than you anticipated. 

THINGS TO BRING To Zion National Park

Water Shoes: https://amzn.to/37dKB9E

Hiking Poles: https://amzn.to/31iEahL

Go Pro : https://amzn.to/46L0Qda (waterproof and durable!)

**Best way to capture content is a head mounted go pro

Overall Impressions of Zion National Park

Zion National Park offers a rare mix of dramatic scenery, world-class hiking, and peaceful escapes for every type of traveler. Whether you’re chasing high-adrenaline adventures or luxury glamping under the stars, Zion delivers an unforgettable experience.