solo travel zion national park

12 Amazing Things to Do in Zion National Park

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: June 18, 2023

Zion is an incredible national park in Utah – home to staggering exposed cliffs, tunnels made of rock, and jaw-dropping views. The word Zion is ancient Hebrew for a place of peace and refuge, and the rust-colored canyons and towering mountains in Zion National Park are certainly that.

The park’s landscape was carved over millions of years by water, ice, and wind. There are more than 146,000 acres worth of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and clear rivers within its boundaries.

The attractions at Zion National Park provide something for everyone. From views that photographers have only conjured up in their dreams to strenuous hikes that will challenge even the most experienced hikers and countless family-friendly activities including short easy hikes at Zion .

Here are 12 things to do in Zion National Park for an epic trip to Utah!

Things to Do in Zion National Park

1. hike the narrows.

True to its name, The Narrows is the narrowest section of the Zion National Park. At points there are walls of up to a thousand-feet tall on either side. This is a Zion must see site!

You can access this area of the national park with a little stroll along the paved Riverside Walk from the Temple of Sinawava. The path to The Narrows is less than a mile long and wheelchair accessible.

If you want to explore more of the gorge then you’ll have to wade through the river that passes through The Narrows.

Bring water shoes (or rent them at Zion) or prepare to get your feet wet!

Hiking through The Narrows at Zion is a big Utah bucket list item

2. Angel’s Landing

If you’re scared of heights, then Angels Landing is definitely not for you! You will never see me on this hiking trail :)

The trail up the mountain formation winds up the side of some of the highest and slimmest rock formations in the park, leading you along a narrow trail on the side of the mountain.

At its highest point, Angel’s Landing is 1,500 feet above the floor of the canyon – the views from up here are unbeatable.

To get to the top you’ll follow the West Rim Trail which starts at the Grotto Trailhead and takes some 3-6 hours to hike.

Angel’s Landing is a strenuous hike, so make sure you are physically prepared for it. And new in 2022 you need to acquire a permit to hike Angel’s Landing .

Angels Landing is one of the most popular trails at Zion Park

3. Canyon Overlook Trail

Into hiking but not up for any of the more extreme routes? The Canyon Overlook Trail is great for less experienced hikers and first-time visitors!

It runs through the Upper East Canyon and offers spectacular views of the canyon that extends into the distance.

Marvel at the smooth red rocks that have been carved into wave-like shapes over thousands of years, and the deep gorge below.

The hike to Canyon Overlook takes just thirty minutes to an hour and the difficulty rating for this hike is moderate.

It’s a super popular hike at Zion but parking spots open up regularly since it’s a short hike.

Beautiful views await you at Canyon View Trail one of Zion’s best attractions

4. Zion Mount Carmel Highway

Would you rather explore the park from the comfort of your vehicle than by foot? Then come and check out the Zion Mount Carmel Highway.

This 10-mile-long scenic drive leads you along a red asphalt road that takes you from Zion’s main canyon to Mount Carmel.

You’ll pass through the famous Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel which was built in the 1920s and has windows on either side so you can enjoy the best scenic views even from inside the tunnel!

Bear in mind that if you’re driving a big RV you’ll need to arrange for the traffic to be stopped on the other side, the tunnel is narrow.

5. Zion National Park Lodge

The Zion Lodge is the only lodging available in the park itself.

The rustic accommodation blends into the landscape and offers you a comfortable place to rest after a long day trekking in the mountains.

There’s a range of accommodation types to choose from, varying from traditional wooden cabins with log fires to hotel rooms with private porches.

The lodge may not fit within a backpacker’s budget, but it’s well-worth a stay if you can afford it! The location is unbeatable.

If you want to stay in Zion National Park then Zion Park Lodge is the best location

6. Weeping Rock

What else should you see at Zion? Weeping Rock is easy to get to and stunning – the perfect combination for families and less avid hikers.

The bowl-shaped alcove that visitors come to see has water running off it. You can stand on the path below the bowl’s edge and watch the water slowly trickle before you without even getting wet!

To get there you’ll just need to take a short 10-minute walk from the Weeping Rock Trailhead, so if you’re exploring the park with little ones this is a great family adventure.

The trailhead is practically next door to the 7th stop of the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

7. Emerald Pool Trail

The Emerald Pool Trail takes you to the Emerald Pools, a collection of little pools that are formed in dips in the canyon’s rocks and are fed by a stream of crystal clear water.

The best time to visit is between March and November when the weather is good and the pools are full.

How long the trail takes depends on which pools you want to visit. It’s just a 1.2 mile round-trip to the Lower Pool.

You don’t have to go much further, just 0.8 miles overall, to get to the Middle Pools. If you want to see the Lower, Middle, and Upper pools it’s a 2.5 mile round trip.

Emerald Pool trail is a short easy hike you shouldn’t miss at Zion

8. Observation Point Trail

This trail is for the more serious hikers at Zion. Observation Point trail is an 8 mile long hike that climbs 2,300 feet up to a stunning viewpoint.

The effort is worth the reward, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. Feel like you could walk more? Then start at the East Rim Trailhead and take on the 20 mile round-trip!

From the top, you’ll be met with stunning views over the best canyons in Zion National Park as well as the Angels Landing mountains.

Bring your camera, you won’t want to forget these views anytime soon.

9. Kolob Canyons

Kolob Canyons is a less touristy and barely explored area of Zion National Park.

It’s the best spot in Zion for those who want to escape the crowds and explore the rocky and rust-colored canyons in solitude.

The canyons stand at 6,000 feet and are usually a fair bit cooler than the Zion Canyon which is 2,000 feet lower down – if you don’t like the heat then this is your happy place at Zion.

Take the scenic drive then catch the views at Timber Creek Overlook – a short easy hike with spectacular views!

More than 20 miles worth of trails wind through the Kolob’s finger canyons and the La Verkin Creek’s wide gorge, so pack your backpack and come on an adventure in the Kolob Canyons.

Get more info about hiking Taylor Creek Trail in Kolob Canyons.

To escape the crowds head over to Kolob Canyons for beautiful views and hiking trails

10. Pa’rus Trail

This modern and easy trail was named from the Paiute word meaning “bubbling water”.

Pa’rus is a wide asphalt trail that is wheelchair accessible and simple to navigate. It runs along the Virgin River to the Canyon Junction in the Zion Canyon.

Other perks of the Pa’rus Trail? It’s the only trail open to cyclists and furry pets! Keep a lookout for mule deer, they’re always close by.

Pa’rus Trail is paved – walk or cycle from Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Canyon Junction

11. Ranger-led Activities

Looking for something fun to do at Zion with kids? Check out the ranger-led programs.

Even if you’re on your own at Zion, maybe you want to get to know Zion National Park accompanied by an expert, then go on one (or lots!) of the ranger-led activities.

They have something stimulating and adventurous on offer for every age group, so if you’re coming as a family or a big group you’re sure to find something for everyone.

They run bus tours that stop at the park’s most popular attractions, guided hikes to some of the more remote regions of Zion, a storytellers program aimed at little ones, and intriguing nature and wildlife talks.

12. Camping at Zion

There’s so much to do and see in Zion National Park that you’ll likely want to make it a multiple-day trip, and camping will only make it more of an adventure!

There are three campgrounds in the park:

• Watchman Campground in Zion Canyon
• South Campground
• The Lava Point Campground

The last two close in winter but camping at Watchman is open year-round.

Get there early, the campsites fill up quickly, and pitch up your tent. Explore during the day and spend the evening cooking on a BBQ and looking up at the stars.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Zion

With a variety activities to do at Zion there’s always something fun and adventurous available or relaxing and meditative to suit everyone’s needs. From spectacular hikes to scenic viewpoints and jaw-dropping panoramic views you’ll have an amazing time at this most visited Utah national park.

More Utah Travel Adventures

With a total of five national parks in Utah you’ll want to come back and explore more of the Beehive state.

1-Day Itinerary Bryce National Park

5 Easy Hikes at Zion National Park

25 Best Things to Do in Cedar City Utah

Solo Trip to Capitol Reef National Park

Visit Cedar Breaks National Monument

1-Day Itinerary Arches National Park

Sunrise Hike to Delicate Arch

Solo Travel in Zion National Park: My Top Tips

Table of Contents

Thinking about solo travel in Zion National Park, Utah? It’s only a 6 hour drive from Los Angeles, so for me, this trip was an absolute must. I went at the very start of November, fortunately before temps dropped way too low. It was a bit nerve-wracking to go on my first hiking trip alone, but I was seeking an insightful and reflective experience and thought I might find that surrounded by nature.

I wanted to journal, self-reflect on the year behind me, and look within for answers to questions I was seeking about the direction I was headed in my life. A hiking trip to Zion was the right fit.

If you’re thinking of heading out on your own solo journey through Zion National Park, I have a few recommendations for you!

Stay in Springdale, UT

Springdale is the closest town right outside the park. It’s a small, charming town with essentially one street running through it that leads up to the park entrance. If you’re doing solo travel in Zion National Park, I recommend staying in Springdale because it makes everything easy.

You can take a free shuttle from one of the stops in Springdale to and from the park. Staying a town away from Springdale might be cheaper, but you’ll need to drive and find parking to go to restaurants and such.

I was in the mindset of convenience for this trip, so I booked an Airbnb at an amazing location. This tiny home was so small , but it had everything I needed in an amazing location. It also felt very safe and comfortable , honestly like a little sanctuary surrounded by amazing views of the mountains.

It was pricey at $650 for 3 nights, but at the time it was so worth it and so needed. Plus, I had very few expenses outside of accommodation and gas.

If you like to camp, there are 3 campgrounds in Zion National Park. Watchman Campground is open all year, South Campground is closed in the winter, and the Lava Point Campground is about a 1-hour drive away. I’d go with Watchman, but book 3-4 months or more in advance.

Decide which trails to take as a solo traveler in Zion

You’ll want to start your day early if you’re looking to hike to get the most of the daylight. Start at the visitors’ center , where you can ask a park ranger as many questions as you like, and pick up a map.

Angels Landing

I honestly wasn’t planning on doing Angels Landing, the famous hiking trail Zion National Park is known for. But I ended up doing it…. and I’m so glad I did!

In my case, it coincidentally turned out that a friend of mine happened to be passing through Zion at the same time as me! She was doing the hike the following morning with a group of friends and invited me to join. I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to rise to the occasion, even though I never dreamed of doing this hike on my trip.

And I’m so glad I did. At a challenging difficulty level, Angels Landing is recommended for experienced hikers. But even as someone with about “average” fitness, I managed to do the hike!

The drop offs are pretty terrifying, to be honest. You’ll be gripping onto a chain for dear life across some parts of the trail. When it’s cold, you’ll want gloves for your hands because the chains are freezing.

But would I do it again? Yes, probably! The feeling of accomplishment at the end was so, SO worth it.

The Narrows

Another popular trail in Zion. This trail involves hiking through the Virgin River, which is subject to flash floods, so you’ll have to check weather conditions before setting out. Towering walls on each side of this trail make for a stunning display of rock textures and colors. You must bring dry pants and poles, or rent supplies at Zion Outfitter .

I didn’t hike The Narrows because I didn’t want to rent water gear and have another early morning after Angel’s Landing, tbh. I just wasn’t feeling another strenuous hike (I was pretty sore from Angels Landing the day prior), this one completely on my own. But many people do it, if the weather conditions allow!

The Riverside Walk of Zion National Park

Also known as The Gateway to The Narrows, the Riverside Walk is considered one of the most scenic, family-friendly hikes of the entire park. It’s also wheelchair accessible. At 2.2 miles, it’s an easy, paved trail that leads up to the Narrows.

Sunlight streams magically through the canyon rocks here, and you can get an up-close view of the water. Even though I wasn’t ready to take on The Narrows, I loved seeing the excitement of fellow hikers either starting or returning from the trek.

Hop off the shuttle at Temple of Sinawava to enjoy this leisurely hike.

Pa’rus Trail

Another paved trail, this beautiful nature walk can be taken right at sunset for incredible views. Good for easy, flat walking to absorb nature and listen to the sounds of the wilderness surrounding you.

I took this one and actually got caught out there alone when the sun went down, immersed in immediate darkness. It was pretty scary…. because who knows what kind of wildlife is out there?! Or worse, other humans!

Fortunately, as my luck would have it, I bumped into a wonderful couple from Canada and they were kind enough to walk with me back to the bus stop. They felt like my adopted parents for 15 minutes! SO sweet.

Consider a Group Tour

Let’s say you’re flying in and out of Las Vegas, and aren’t able to rent a car, but are absolutely dying to see Zion National Park. I feel you!

The best option for you is to take a group tour. I love the tours by GetYourGuide – always reliable, fun, and super informative. I’ve often made friends on the group tours I’ve gone on as a solo traveler, which is one of the reasons I love tours.

This tour by GetYourGuide looks really incredible. I love how it’s limited to just 12 participants, which means you get the most bang for your buck and personalized attention. This tour includes hiking Angel’s Landing. For me, hiking with other people was essential and helped me feel so much more at ease! So if you’re like me, I suggest booking this tour! More details on that, below:

If you do have a car, you might want to opt for this Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour instead. It’s a sure way to get acclimated to your surroundings in a short amount of time – perfect for your first day arriving. This way, you can spend the rest of your trip actually enjoying yourself and prioritize what you want to see and do, instead of figuring out directions and having severe FOMO!

More details below:

Consider the seasons, weather, and sunset time for solo travel in Zion

As I mentioned above, be conscious of time. In the summer, you’ll likely have longer, hotter days (up to 100°F), but the park will be more crowded in the warmer months. That’s why I loved going in early November, before snowfall yet with fewer people in the park.

Some campgrounds are closed in winter, so be sure to check the park’s official website for current conditions and closures.

Eateries Inside & Out Zion National Park

Food! Let’s not forget one of the most important parts of any trip. Inside the park, I loved sipping down a beer and looking at the incredible view at Castle Dome Café , a small snack bar adjacent to Zion Lodge.

In Springdale, I came back almost every night for a meal at Casa de Amigos , where they really treat you like a friend! I loved the food so much the first night that I returned two more times during my short stay. Cheap and good eats, plus I loved the margarita.

For solo travel in Zion National Park, Casa de Amigos is a great spot that won’t give you a side-eye for eating alone.

And there you have it! My full guide to solo travel in Zion National Park. Any questions? Please leave a comment, or send me a DM on Instagram !

Don’t forget to get travel insurance before you head out on. your trip. I use WorldNomads for every trip I take, at home or abroad. Get your free quote here:

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Jen is the founder of Jen on the Run. Based in Los Angeles, she's frequently on the run around the world. She started this blog aiming to inspire you to expand and transform through travel. Whether it's a solo trip or an escape with friends, Jen's here to guide you, one exciting step at a time!

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The Essential Zion National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Zion with this Zion National Park travel guide, with info on Zion’s campgrounds, must-do trails, permits, park shuttle & more.

Zion National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in Southern Utah and for a good reason. Narrow slot canyons, red and white sandstone formations, 3,000-foot vertical walls, and the Virgin River make the main canyon of Zion National Park a spectacular place to explore.

When planning a trip to Zion National Park, it is easy to get overwhelmed with questions. Where are the best hiking trails? How does the Park shuttle work? Do I need a permit? Where can I camp? In this Zion National Park Travel Guide, I answer all of these questions and break down everything you need to know for an amazing trip.

Ready for adventure? Start planning your trip to Zion with this Zion National Park Travel Guide!

Important Reminder: As it goes in all of the destinations we share, please practice  good trail etiquette  and remember to  Leave No Trace . This means packing out all of your garbage (including toilet paper) and following the established rules.   In the desert, this also means   learning how to protect cryptobiotic soil  and how it has a huge impact on our ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

While Zion National Park can be visited year-round, temperatures are most pleasant in the months of April, May, early June, October, and November.

Summertime is very hot and busy, but it is a nice time to hike in the Virgin River in the Zion Narrows . Make sure you bring hiking sun protection and wear appropriate clothing for hiking in the desert .

Late July through September is considered flash flood season . If you are visiting Zion National Park during this time, pay close attention to the forecast and do not hike in any narrow canyons (including the Narrows hike) if rain is predicted.

Winter can also be a great time to visit Zion National Park . Crowds are fewer and the top of the canyon looks especially beautiful with a light dusting of snow, although trail access is more limited in icy conditions. If you plan to visit Zion in the winter, be sure to check out our guide to cold weather layering .

How to Get to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in Southern Utah around a 2 1/2 hour drive from Las Vegas and a 7 hour drive from Los Angeles. It’s a great destination as part of a larger Utah road trip itinerary or can be a standalone destination in itself.

If you’re looking to fly in for a visit to the park, the nearest airport with commercial flights is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. From there you’ll want to rent a car for your trip as there isn’t easy public transportation to the park from there.

Zion National Park Layout

Zion National Park has two main regions. The main Zion Canyon , which should be on any first-timers itinerary and is the focus of this blog post, is most easily accessed via SR-9 which connects to the I-15 just north of St. George, Utah. The SR-9 runs directly into the Park’s South Entrance which is immediately past the small town of Springdale.

As soon as you enter the Park through the South Entrance, the Visitors Center will be on your right. The Visitors Center is worth a quick stop to pick up a map and get your bearings. The Park employees at the Visitors Center can also inform you of water availability on the trails, which is important to know before if you are heading out on any overnight hikes.

The other region of Zion National Park is the Kolob Canyon area . This area is located in the northern end of the Park and is accessed directly from I-15 (Exit 40 near Cedar City, Utah). The Kolob region offers a little more solitude, big peaks, and the second-largest natural arch in the world.

If you want to visit both parts of Zion, keep in mind that these two areas of the park are not connected by a direct road running through the park.

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Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Zion national park camping.

There are two drive-in campgrounds in the main Zion Canyon and they are less than 1/2 a mile from the Visitors Center at the entrance of the park. Sites are $20 for tent camping or $30 for a site with an electric hookup. All sites have picnic tables, a fire pit, and access to potable water, bathrooms, and trash containers. No showers are available at the campsites.

Reservations are highly recommended. If you can’t get a spot, there are many dispersed camping options just outside the Park.

Zion’s Watchman Campground

Zion National Park’s Watchman Campground is directly behind the Visitors Center and has a total of 190 tent and electric sites that are available year-round. Reservations are required from March through November and can be made online . Reservations are accepted 6 months in advance and fill up quickly, so as soon as you have your trip dates, you should immediately make a reservation. Regulations and a map of Watchman campground can be found here.

If you’re visiting Zion National Park in the winter, Watchman Campground has first-come, first-served campsites available from the end of November through February.

Best campsites : While I found all of the Watchman Campground sites to be decent, the best campsites based on views, space, and/or shade are located on the outside of the D loop from D19 through D35. I really loved D21. C1-10 were also nice but had little shade. Typically, I would be drawn to the Walk-in Tent Sites, but these felt cramped and had absolutely no shade, so I would not recommend the Walk-In sites.

Zion’s South Campground

Zion National Park’s South Campground is just north of the Visitors Center on the main road and has a total of 117 non-electric sites. The campground is open from March through October and sites are only available through reservations up to 14 days in advance. A map and regulations for the South Campground can be found here .

Best campsites : The campsites along the road are a bit noisier than the rest of the sites. The best sites are the ones along the Virgin River and Pa’rus Trail. These include 58-63, 68, 71, 72, 74, 77, 78, 80, 82, and 125-128.

The Zion National Park Lodge is the only in-Park lodging in Zion. It’s open year-round and accommodations include historic cabins, hotel rooms, and suites, all with private porches or balconies to take in the majestic views.

There’s also a restaurant on-site and the Park shuttle (see below) services the lodge multiple times a day so you can make the most of your stay in the Park. Prices start at $220/night.

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Other Zion National Park Lodging Options

Zion canyon campground & rv resort.

If both campgrounds in the Park are full, another option is Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort in Springdale. While a bit pricier (starting $59/night), this campground has showers unlike the campgrounds in the Park. The sites next to the river are nice, although these are an additional $20/night.

Zion Trailer Rentals

If you prefer RV camping over sleeping in a tent ,  Zion Trailer Rentals will deliver and set up an RV travel trailer to any campground in the Zion NP area. They book up fast as most campsites for RVs are reserved up to 6 months in advance during peak season.

If camping isn’t your thing or it’s simply too hot, there are several hotels in Springdale including a few with swimming pools. For a higher budget ($200-350/night), check out the Desert Pearl Inn , Cliffrose Lodge and Gardens , or the Hampton Inn . For lower budgets ($100-$200), try the Zion Park Motel or Holiday Inn Express .

Zion National Park Permits and Fees

All visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of $35 per vehicle. The entrance pass is good for 7 days. If you are planning to stay longer or visiting other National Parks in the next year and you would like to save money on Park admission , then you might consider purchasing an Interagency Annual Pass . This pass costs $80 and waives entrance fees to all lands owned by the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Forest Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service for one year.

Permits are not needed for most day hikes within Zion Canyon. Permits are only needed for overnight backpacking and wilderness camping, the top-down Narrows hike , Angel’s Landing (permit info below), or a day hike in the Subway. If you are planning on backpacking in Zion, all of the information regarding permits and reservations can be found here .

Zion National Park Shuttle

Zion canyon shuttle.

Generally, from early March through November, cars are not permitted to drive in the Park along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Luckily, the Zion Canyon shuttle operated by the Park Service is free, fast, and easy, and you do not need to reserve shuttle tickets. The shuttle drops off at all major trailheads in the park and it’s very easy to use.

If you visit the Park during shuttle season, the windows in the bus are huge, so you can enjoy the scenery while listening to the audio narrator tell you all the geology and history of sites you’ll pass in the Canyon. If you visit outside the shuttle season, you can still listen to the shuttle narration in your own vehicle by downloading it here .

The Park shuttle departs from the Visitors Center every 6-10 minutes and makes stops throughout the Park. Just jump off wherever you feel like exploring. When you are ready to move on, just wait at a stop and catch a shuttle going in the direction of your next stop. There are stops at all of the major hiking trails, and all the stops are clearly marked on the Park map provided at the Visitors Center.

Shuttle start and end times vary depending on the season, so be sure to check when the last shuttle of the day is before you head out on a hike. If you miss it, it’s a long walk out!

Springdale Shuttle

If you are staying in Springdale or there is no available parking at the Visitors Center, there is also a free shuttle from town to the Vistors Center where you can then catch the Zion Canyon shuttle.

Amenities Near Zion National Park

If you forget something at home, there is no need to worry. You can get pretty much whatever you need in Springdale which is right down the road from the Zion National Park entrance. Keep in mind that goods in Springdale are going to be more expensive than at home.

• Groceries, firewood, and ice can be purchased at The Canyon Market or at Sol Foods . The Canyon Market also has some camp kitchen supplies if you forget any cooking necessities.
• Liquor, beer, and wine can be purchased at the Switchback Liquor Store . It’s a state-run liquor store, so it’s closed on Sundays, but the plus side is that they sell full strength (>3.2%) beer if you’re into that.
• Cafe Soleil is an awesome, funky cafe with local art for sale. They have free wifi, friendly staff, and delicious coffee. The food also looked amazing. I highly recommend the dirty soy chai latte (chai with a shot of espresso)

What to Do in Zion National Park

Below are a few of my favorite outdoor adventures and things to do in Zion National Park that I consider a must if you have the time.

1. Climb Angel’s Landing

Shuttle Stop: The Grotto Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet Difficulty: Strenuous Permit required? Yes

Angel’s Landing is the most famous trail in Zion National Park and it isn’t for the faint of heart. That said, anyone who is in decent physical shape and can handle a series of uphill switchbacks can do it (although probably not recommended for those with a fear of heights…unless you want to conquer those fears).

Everyone who wants to hike Angel’s Landing will need a permit . Permits are available via a lottery system two months in advance. Find more information about the Angel’s Landing permit process and apply for your permit on the Zion National Park’s website .

The first 2 miles of the Angel’s Landing hike are paved and well-traveled. We saw families even with small children on this section of the trail. The ascent is fairly steep but there are plenty of places to rest along the way where you can take in the views of the Canyon and the Virgin River below.

After hiking up a series of steep and short switchbacks called Walter’s Wiggles, you reach Scout’s Lookout. At Scout’s lookout, you get a really nice view of the summit and can see down the length of the Canyon. This is a good point to decide whether you are in a condition to continue. Past this point, the trail becomes very exposed as you climb up the spine of the mountain that is less than 5 feet wide in some places. Hiking this section is a thrilling and dizzying experience that requires slow, deliberate steps while making use of the chains and guard rails that have been installed by the Park Service.

After scrambling up 500 vertical feet, you reach the summit where you are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Canyon.

Tips for Hiking Angel’s Landing:

• This trail can get very crowded and the chains can get backed up during the middle of the day. To avoid the crowds, do this hike very early in the morning or the late afternoon which also happens to be the best times of day for photography due to the position of the sun.
• If at any point you become uncomfortable, stop, take a deep breath, and turn around if that’s the right move for you. It is nothing to be embarrassed about.
• You need two free hands. Make sure you have a backpack for your camera, water bottle, and other belongings.

2. Hike to Observation Point

Note: The Observation Point via East Rim Trail (below) is currently closed due to a major rockfall. Check the official National Park Service Zion trail description page for updates. You can currently access Observation Point by hiking the Observation Point via East Mesa Trail .

Shuttle Stop: Big Bend Length: 8 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 2,150 feet Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

While longer with greater elevation gain, you may find that Observation Point is a less strenuous hike than Angel’s Landing. It is also less crowded and was my favorite day hike we did in the Canyon. The trail starts with a series of switchbacks leading up from the Canyon floor. At the top of these switchbacks, the trail turns east into a steep slot canyon providing relief from the sun.

Once you exit the slot canyon, the trail continues to climb around the backside of the mountain overlooking an expansive area called Echo Canyon. This section of the trail provides new topography and different vegetation than what is experienced in the main Canyon and the drop-offs begin to get steeper.

You keep ascending and with one mile to go, the trail wraps back around providing sweeping views of Zion Canyon. During this section, you are on the edge of a vertical drop off with nothing between you and the Canyon floor. Luckily the trail is wide and solid rock, so as long as you watch your footing, there is nothing to worry about.

Eventually, as you reach the Canyon rim, the trail evens off, and the plateau jets out to Observation Point. From here, you tower above Angel’s Landing and have wide-open views of the Valley floor and both the East and West Canyon rims. For more photos, see my blog post: The Epic Hike to Observation Point .

3. Hike The Zion Narrows

Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava Length: 2.2 miles + Elevation Gain: 60 feet Difficulty: Depends on how far you go…

The hike to the Zion Narrows from the bottom up begins with an easy paved walkway called the Riverside Walk at the very end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Due to its accessibility, you will encounter lots of families, so don’t expect solitude. However, it’s a nice stroll along the Virgin River if you have some time to kill.

Beyond the end of the paved trail is the mouth of the Narrows, which is a 16-mile slot canyon with soaring walls, springs, and sandstone grottos. Hiking the entire Narrows requires a fair amount of logistical planning, but if you are feeling adventurous and have some tennis shoes, you can keep walking upriver as far as you like to do some exploring. Just keep an eye on the time and check the weather before heading upstream. If rain is in the forecast do not proceed.

If you have more time, you can also backpack the Zion Narrows . To this day, it’s one of my favorite backpacking trips in Southern Utah.

Note: The Narrows has been temporarily closed in the past due to high levels of cyanobacteria in the Virgin River. Be sure to check the Zion National Park website for updates before heading on your trip or check with the Visitor’s center upon arrival for the latest information.

4. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

From the Canyon Junction to the East Entrance, the section of the SR-9 road is called the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever done with endless places to pull off and explore.

While there are not many marked trails in this area, the bountiful slick rock makes for some easy hiking. Unless you are planning on venturing far from the road, you probably don’t need to plan in advance. Just keep an eye on your surroundings and make sure you always know how to get back to the road.

If you are feeling really adventurous and want to do some deeper exploring, photographer Joe Braun has a section on his website devoted to hiking in Zion’s Upper East Canyon that is worth a read. We stopped at Checkerboard Mesa Canyon and spent a few hours tromping around in complete solitude.

Additional Zion National Park Resources

The book and map below provide information that can complement this Zion Travel Guide. I purchased both of these before my trip and found them very useful for planning.

• Hiking from Here to WOW: Utah Canyon Country – This is a fantastic hiking book by Kathy and Craig Copeland. They cover a bunch of hikes in Zion and the surrounding area, including Angel’s Landing and Observation Point. They do an excellent job of describing the hikes, and I would recommend this book to anyone planning to spend significant time in Southern Utah.

• Zion National Park Map from National Geographic – This map gives a very good lay of the land and is more detailed than the map provided by the Park Service. It shows all of the shuttle stops, major hikes, backcountry campsites, and possible water sources on the trails.

What are your favorite things to do in Zion National Park? Do you have any additional tips to add to this travel guide for planning a visit? Leave a comment below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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61 Comments

I am planning a trip to Zion for this spring (end of March/early April). When you visited last April, were most of the trails hike-able? Was snow ever a problem?

It varies from year to year, but when I went last April all of the trails were clear. If there is snow, it will likely only be at the top of the canyon and at higher altitudes. In that case, you could stick to trails at lower elevations. I’d recommend checking out this page to get a better idea of the weather. Let me know if you have any other questions! http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/weather-and-climate.htm

Hey Kristen, sawadii kha!

I am researching a trip Zion and came across your post via another blog. Thanks for the super helpful tips and accessible approach.

Were the narrows super awesome? Any other day hikes you recommend?

The Narrows were really amazing. I’d recommend doing it from the top down. You’ll get to see some of the more isolated parts of the Park and encounter less people. The Subway is also a really cool day hike. You need a permit, but it’s totally worth the effort. Let me know if you have other questions. Thanks!

I really appreciate this article…thanks for providing such great information in one place! I live in Utah and have grown up travelling to the Parks, but I’m still amazed at the beauty of Zion every time I visit. I’m excited to follow along on your adventures!

Thanks so much for the comment and glad you found the post helpful! Zion is so amazing…every time it gets better. I also Love your Utah hiking post too! As a new Utah transplant, I’m going to have to check some of these out. Thanks – Kristen

I’m planning on leaving L.A. around 7 pm and getting there around 2 am.. What do I do if I’m waiting for a spot at the south campground? Is there any overnight parking that I can park and wait till morning to find a open campsite?

There is a ton of BLM land surrounding the park where you can camp for free and no reservation is needed. Here is a map that shows all the BLM areas around the park: http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/upload/BLM_Camping_South.pdf Have fun!

Hey Kristen, I am so excited that Linda showed me your blog!! I have had a trip to Zion planned for months now and this would have been so helpful when I was starting, but it is still really helpful now! We are all going to take a trip over there labor day weekend from Thursday to Monday. We are camping the Narrows Saturday night, and from your blog post it looks like Angel’s Landing and Observation Point would be really good day hikes for maybe Thursday and Friday. Do you have any suggestions for other fun little day hikes or things to see to get the most out of our first Zion trip? Thanks so much!

Hey Monique! Great to hear from you. You should definitely do Angel’s Landing. I would suggest doing that first before the holiday crowds show up and do it as early or late in the day as possible when it will be less busy. If you do it early in the day, you can continue hiking up that trail towards the West Rim. Observation Point is also awesome and the view is even better than Angel’s Landing in my opinion. You can also do a side trip to Hidden Canyon from that trail if you have extra time. As for other stuff, the drive up Highway 12 to the other end of the park is very cool and there are a zillion places you can pull off and hike around. Hope that is helpful! Have a blast and hopefully I can connect with you and Linda soon. -Kristen

If you had a choice between doing the Zion Narrows Top Down Route or doing Angels Landing and Observation Point, which would you suggest? I only have one day there so all 3 are impossible.

In warmer months, like May – August, I would say the Narrows. It’s really something special. In colder months, the Narrows would still be nice, but you’d need a dry suit, so you need to think about whether or not you want to hike that far in a dry suit. You also need a permit for the narrows even as a day hike, while Angel’s Landing and Observation Point don’t require a permit. So that is also something to consider.

I am planning a trip to Zion and your posts have been incredibly helpful. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much Paul! Have fun out there.

Hello, I am planning to visit Zion in the second week of June of this year. I would like to take my family through the narrows. I have my beautiful wife, and a 3 and 1 year old girls. Would you say that this is a good hike for them for the day? Also, where is a good place to park the car? I know that there is a shuttle, but knowing of a good spot for parking the car would be great advice. Also, would doing the subway be a bad idea with children? thank you for sharing your pictures and information. Very helpful information. Spot on.

Hey Timothy –

I’m not sure the Narrows is appropriate for kids that young…The current is slow but can still be powerful and I think it might be difficult for kids that young to manage. What you could do is take the Riverside trail from the road end to the mouth of the narrows and then make a decision then. You don’t need a permit to hike it from the bottom. The Subway is a pretty difficult day hike so I also don’t think that would be a good option.

Parking is by the visitors center or in town. Hope that’s helpful.

Cheers, Kristen

Awesome blog post! Really helpful information!

We are two photographers and also wrote a blogpost about Zion NP: http://www.travelingwolf.com/blog/2016/5/19/zion-np

Stay awesome!

Thanks for the info. Just boked my trip for November.

Hi Kristen! My husband and I are planning a 2 week camping trip to the national parks in Utah and Arizona the last week of April-May for our honeymoon. How much time would you say that we should plan to spend in Zion? Thank you!

Sounds like a great trip! I’d give yourself at least 3 days in Zion. That will give you time to do the Narrows, Observation Point, and Angel’s Landing, which I think are the main highlights.

Hi Kristin Thanks for all the information here. We are planning a backpacking trip this fall in Zion but cannot find a map of the backcountry campsites. Any idea where I can find them? Thanks

I have this Nat Geo map: http://amzn.to/2nr4sYl and it has all of the Zion backcountry campsites shown

Hi Kristin! First thank you for sharing all this great information. I am planning a Zion, Escalante and, if time, Bryce trip with a 10′ vintage trailer attached to a 4WD truck. Do all of the camping spots you mention allow a tiny trailer? (heck, its smaller than some people’s tents LOL) I am also older and I think some of the advice you gave concerning safety and doability for kids might just help me as well! I fancy myself a tough old lady, but the altitude and heat will certainly put a limit on what I can do. How is the heat normally in early June? Thanks!!

Sounds like you are going to have an awesome trip Kathy! You should be great to go with your trailer and truck. Check out this information from the NPS for more details, https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/campgrounds-in-zion.htm , The heat definitely can be warming up in June but luckily you are going early June and just remember if you are able to do any higher elevation hikes that will help with the heat.

Thanks Kristin for a great blog and tourist guide. I plan on visiting Zion for 2 days. I am in fairly good physical condition, so the different hikes you have highlighted here shouldn’t be too much of a challenge. How would you recommend I arrange my itinerary. I assume I would take the shuttle each day to the different trail start points? Any advice would be greatly appreciated Thanks Graham

Graham, that is awesome to hear you are heading to Zion. I would definitely check the weather conditions when you get there and then make decisions based on the weather. The Narrows has recently been closed so that could adjust your itinerary. Also keep in mind to be aware of the day you hike the Narrows as it is highly likely your shoes will need a day or two to dry out fully! Have an awesome adventure! -Kim

Any advise for hikes with kids? I’ll be in Zion in a month with my 5 year old and 9 year old. I’d love to do angels landing and observation point but I think it’s more than they can handle

Emily that is so exciting to hear you are going to be in Zion. Angels Landing and Observation Point are definitely a bit tough on kids. I would definitely recommend the paved walk along the narrows and exploring the narrows a little bit–the really nice thing about the narrows is that you can go as far as you want and then turn back. Weeping Rock and Emerald Pools trail are two other great trails for kids.

Hi Kristen,

I found your blog a few months back and I love how easy you make it to explore such beautiful places! I’ve googled and Googled like crazy but I always come back to your blog cause it makes more sense! My boyfriend and I will be visiting Zion at the end of July (weather permitting) and we only have a day there. After reading your blog I am assuming that the Narrow would be best for us to try just to get some views in but we are also considering camping overnight as well. I have only camped once in my adult life, plenty as a kid, and my boyfriend hasn’t at all haha. While I know we can figure it all out, do you recommend that this is good place for new camper to stay a night? Also are there any campsite there are right near or on the water? Thanks so much!!

I’ve done a bit more research on the Narrows and we’re not sure that we want to hike in the water without having a shower to head back to before we drive back home to Phoenix afterward, any recommendations on quick walks for drives so we can see the park as best as possible?

The Watchman Trail and Angel’s Landing would be alternatives. However, most likely in the Narrows you won’t be more than knee deep depending on how far you go up.

The campgrounds in the Park have clean bathrooms, safe drinking water, and easy access to all of the sites in the park. You’ll need to arrive early in the morning to try to snag one of the first come first serve sites though, since they go fast. The campgrounds in the park are located right on the Virgin River. There are also privately owned campgrounds in town if the park ones are full. Have fun!

Hey Kristen, Some friends and I are planning a last minute trip to Zion and I am trying to figure out what I need to do. We are big into adventures and just want to do a couple days of backpacking and camping in the wilderness. Do we have to stay at a campground or can we just take off hiking and set up camp when we get tired or find a good spot?

Hello, Larry, thanks for reaching out. Have you checked out the Zion National Park website yet? Here is the link for more information on backpacking there: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm . You can make reservations at backcountry campsites up to 3 months in advance and you do need to plan ahead as you will need to get a wilderness permit as well. If you are unable to get a permit last minute for everybody in your group there are still incredible big adventures in the park.

Your blog post has been so helpful! I am planning literally a last minute trip to Zion for this coming weekend! Planning to leave CO early Friday AM (leave Zion Tuesday AM) but of course won’t arrive until later Friday evening, so do you know of any places I could car camp for the night as I’m sure most spots will be taken. I am fond of dispersed camping and plan to head to REI in the AM to pick up the Zion map you mentioned! Also, I have found some open days for Sunday or Monday night I believe in the narrows from top down with availability, but I was just wondering how that works (hike with my entire pack from top down and spend the night at whichever place I found an opening for, spend the night and then finish the hike out the next day? Are all of the campsites listed on the reservation website within the narrows or do I need to stay in the narrows campsites for the top down?) Is it super strenuous from top down having a full pack with gear, tent, etc? Thanks so much!

Hey Meleah, so sorry we didn’t get back to you in time before your trip! We hope you had a great adventure in Zion.

My husband and I will be going early in October. What trails do you recommend? Are the Narrows an option at this time of the year?

Hi, Rosie! Thanks for stopping by. So great to hear you are heading to Zion. Our favorite hikes in Zion are Observation Point ( https://bearfoottheory.com/zion-national-park-observation-point-hike/ ), Emerald Pools, Angels Landing & the Narrows. The Narrows are open in November but the water temperature is definitely dropping so just make sure you are prepared–remember you can always rent gear in town for hiking the Narrows.

Hi Kristen, Love your blog! Are guided hikes in Zion recommend? Or will we easily and safely be able to navigate on our own? Thanks in advance!

Hello Shayna, you can easily navigate hikes on your own in Zion. Make sure to stop in at the Visitor Center and talk with the Rangers if you need any additional suggestions or support–they are great!

Hi Kristen! Thank you so much for this amazing and informative site. We are planning a trip to Zion in either April/May or October. I’ve seen a few things online about the tent caterpillar infestation at the campgrounds in April/May, which can apparently make things unpleasant, because they rain down from the trees and cover tables, tents, and any other surface. Did you have any problem with tent caterpillars while you were there? Thanks so much!

Hi! Thank you so much for all the great info! I love reading your posts. I am so excited about an upcoming hiking trip to Zion in April. We are coming from Texas and are planning to stay in Kanab. We will be hiking for 3 days and hope to hike Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point and see what else we might be able to get in. When driving in, can we park at canyon junction to get on the shuttle for the day, or will we need to go on to park at the visitors center? Thanks!

Hi Jennifer sounds like you have an amazing trip planned! There is VERY limited parking at Canyon Junction, I would plan to park at the visitor’s center–the shuttle system is really good in Zion.

Thanks! Do you have a favorite place for watching sunrise or sunset?

Just curious. My family collects National Park Junior Ranger items, and I was wondering, if in your travels you have collected any Jr. Ranger badges and patches? And if you have, do you have any extras for sale or trade? It is a hobby we do as a family; travel to National Parks and do the Junior Ranger program collecting Junior Ranger items. Pat

Hello Pat! Thanks so much for reaching out! My nieces love completing & earning their Jr. Ranger badges as well! We do not have any extras for sale/trade but we wish you best of luck in visiting all the parks.

Hi Kristen, Thanks for an amazing site with a lot of helpful information! I’m planning for a solo trip to Utah (from Sweden!) at the end of August and Zion will be my first stop. I’m planning for 3 days, and consider for the longer day hike observation point or west rim trail. Which one do you recommend? How about getting to the trail head för west rim trail? I’m a bit nervous about hiking alone, but your site gives a lot of courage 🙂 Thanks!

The West Rim is best done as an overnight backpacking trip and requires a shuttle. So since you are traveling alone, I’d recommend Observation Point. There will be a ton of other people on the trail, so you won’t feel all by yourself. Do note that the Observation Point trail is currently closed due to rockfall. Hopefully it will be open by August.

Hi Kristen: my husband and I are trying to figure out a good hiking trip September/October this year…I have always wanted to see Zion/Bryce area but my husband has his sights set on Mt. Shasta. We live in Southern California and will drive where ever it is we go too. We will stay in a hotel/lodge – we have no camping gear and honestly it scares the heck out of me to stay in a tent…We are avid hikers…any advice you can give would be appreciated!

Hi Valerie! September/October is a great time for a hiking trip because crowds disperse after Labor Day weekend and the weather is still nice. Shasta, Zion, and Bryce are all good options. Mt Shasta is a large mountain that requires more serious mountaineering to summit, but the area surrounding Mt Shasta has plenty of hiking trails, lakes, and waterfalls. From my limited experience in the Shasta area, things are more spread out so you’ll likely need to do a bit of research to determine where you want to base yourself and where you want to hike. Zion is gorgeous and is one of my favorite national parks next to Yosemite. What’s nice about Zion is that there’s a lodge directly in the park (Zion National Park Lodge) so you can stay right in the park surrounded by beautiful scenery and access plenty of hiking trails from there. Bryce can be done as a day trip (2 hrs one way) from Zion, or I imagine there are lodging options in that area as well although I’m not directly familiar. I’d recommend doing a little more research on both locations (Shasta and Zion) and to look up photos of both regions so you and your husband can get an idea of what you prefer. Have a wonderful trip!

Thank you for explaining that some of the best times to visit Zion National Park are in the Fall around October and November. My wife and I love to go hiking. We hate the heat though so it would be nice to go explore the park this Fall if COVID-19 hasn’t closed it down.

Thanks for reading, happy hiking!

Hi, my husband and I will be in Vegas the first weekend in October and we are planning to spend a day in Zion. Do you think the water will be too cold to hike the Narrows? We would be going from the bottom up and probably only going about 4 miles in. Since that would be 8 miles round trip, I just can’t physically go any further than that.

Hi Sherri – Zion Outfitters has average water temps by month .

Update. Tickets are no longer needed for the Zion Shuttle. Once you have entered the park paying the fee or using a park pass, you can board any shuttle for free without needing tickets.

Hi Barb, thanks for letting us know! We just updated the post to reflect this 🙂

Awesome guide! We loved our time in Zion last year and want to go back. We hired a local guide company to try canyoneering for the first time and it was a blast! Check these guys out if you’re thinking of trying it: https://allwaysadventure.com/canyoneering-adventures-in-east-zion/

Hi Chad, thanks for the recommendation!

Hello Kirsten, Is Zion National Park Lodge ideal place to stay and use it as a base for 5 days exploring Utah’s mighty fives?

It’s about a 5 hour drive (one-way) from Zion to Arches National Park, so you wouldn’t be able to do that in a day. Realistically, you’d probably only be able to visit Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef if you decide to base yourself at the Zion National Park Lodge.

3/16/24. A article update is needed. Please note that the Las Vegas airport has changed its name from McCaren to Harry Reid International Airport. A ceremony was held December 15, 2021.

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An Expert Guide to Zion National Park

By Emily Pennington

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Zion National Park has remained a thing of road trip lore for over a century, partially due to its proximity to hubs like Las Vegas , Salt Lake City , and Los Angeles —but also for its enormous fins of Navajo sandstone that rise up from the Virgin River like rust-red skyscrapers. Originally protected as  Mukuntuweap National Monument by President Taft in 1909 (named for the Paiute word that roughly translates to “straight canyon”), the area was re-designated by Congress as Zion National Park in 1919.

These days, Zion routinely makes it into the top five  most-visited parks in the entire National Park System. As often happens with photogenic destinations, Zion can feel a bit overrun by iPhone-wielding crowds, particularly within its iconic, 15-mile-long main canyon. Still, the park has a few secret spots up its sleeve, if you’d prefer to avoid the throngs, plus dozens of outstanding lodging options, complete with dreamy red rock vistas, so you can stick around long enough to explore every nook and cranny.

Whether its your first timing visiting or your fifth, consider this your complete guide to Zion National Park—including when to go, where to stay, what to do, and more. 

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Hikers in Zion National Park

The best time to visit Zion National Park

Zion is an outstanding shoulder-season park, meaning that it’s at its best in spring and fall, when temperatures are cooler, crowds are thinner, wildflowers are blooming (in spring), and most of the region’s best trails and climbing routes are accessible. As with any remote, mountainous area, be sure to check the weather before venturing into high-altitude zones during shoulder season, as snow can accumulate well into April and early-season storms are possible in October and November.

Beyond that, summer is when most visitors flock to Zion National Park. That’s hardly surprising, as kids are out of school, upper elevation trails are snow-free, and it’s an excellent time to take off on a week-long  road trip around Utah’s many  natural wonders . However, summer temperatures in the main canyon typically hover around 100 degrees, and flash floods during the monsoon months (July to September) can make hiking The Narrows, a very popular trek through the thinnest stretch of Zion Canyon, impossible.

Winter is the quietest season in Zion, and a great time to visit if you’re seeking solitude or hoping to motor onto Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (a free shuttle is required March through November) and snap a few photos of its famous vermilion escarpments while they're dusted with fresh white powder.

How to get to Zion National Park

The closest major airport to Zion National Park is Harry Reid International in Las Vegas, which will put you 167 miles from its main entrance. There’s also a small regional airport in St. George, Utah, with limited flights operated by Delta, American, and United, which drop you just 47 miles from the park. Either way, most visitors will rent a car to make up the remaining miles and allow for flexibility when exploring Zion’s different areas, accommodations, and restaurants. As such, it’s common to tackle a few national parks (like Bryce Canyon and  Grand Canyon ), or even some of Utah’s best state parks,  in one larger road-trip-style escape.

Zion National Park's free shuttles

The Narrows

Things to do in Zion National Park

Hikes and backpacking routes.

Apart from simply seeing the canyon in person, hiking and backpacking are the main draw at Zion. Famous trails like the adrenaline-inducing Angels Landing now require a  timed entry permit to hike (which can be avoided by booking a  guided day hike ), but there are plenty of other scenic paths through brilliant orange rock formations that any visitor can hop on at will. The  Canyon Overlook Trail , on the park’s east side, is a low-mileage, high-reward hike with phenomenal views and photo ops along its easy one-mile stretch. If you’re looking to crunch out big miles and escape the main canyon masses, an overnight or day jaunt along the  La Verkin Creek Trail should be first on your list.

Scenic drives

Private vehicles are only allowed along the iconic  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from December through February (a  free shuttle is required during other months), but there’s a wealth of alternative scenic drives through the scrubby pinyon pines and striated cliffs that the area is so famous for. Just east of Zion’s main canyon, road trippers can wind around  Highway 9 to Mt. Carmel Junction, passing striking tangerine plateaus and the unique, crosshatched texture of hulking Checkerboard Mesa. You’ll find another postcard-inspiring view an hour north from Springdale, along the less-traveled road through  Kolob Canyons , which is known for epic hiking trails and brilliant red crags, sans crowds.

With private vehicle access to Zion Canyon prohibited spring through fall (creating a safe and car-free scenic route), many visitors opt to  bike into the park , and a bevy of friendly Zion bike rental shops have sprouted up nearby to help with growing demand.  Zion Cycles and  Zion Peddler rent road bikes and eBikes in the town of Springdale, but if you’re seeking an in-park rental, the historic  Zion Lodge has you covered. Just remember: Bikes are allowed on park roadways, but not on any paths—except for the paved Pa’rus Trail.

Guided excursions

Not everyone wants to set off into the desert wilderness on their own, and because of Zion’s high popularity there are dozens of standout guided tours and  day hikes designed with adventurous travelers in mind.

By Olivia Morelli

By Tony Perrottet

By Jahnavi Bhatt

By Federica Bocco

Equestrians of all ability levels can embark on day trips through Zion’s towering sandstone pinnacles with  Canyon Trail Rides , a local business that’s been guiding visitors for over 50 years. Adrenaline junkies hoping to get up-close-and-personal with the park’s rock formations won’t want to miss an expert-led day of climbing or canyoneering with  Zion Rock & Mountain Guides .

Solo travelers seeking company, or anyone with more than just a couple days in the area, should check out Wildland Trekking’s  basecamp and  inn-based hiking tours , both of which include daily meals and a trek through the steep canyon walls of  The Narrows .

A LaFave luxury rentals at Zion National Park

Where to stay in and around Zion National Park

Whether you’re seeking something  ultra-luxe ,  'gram-worthy , or simply a budget-friendly camping option inside the park, there’s no shortage of great places to hit the hay when your day of exploring Zion is done. Below we cover some of the highlights, though you can find our comprehensive guide on where to stay in Zion National Park here.  

With 176 sites (including RV-friendly spots with electric hookups), flush toilets, and year-round access, the  Watchman Campground is Zion’s largest and best public campground. As such, it often books up months in advance, particularly on weekends and during summer months. Nearby  South Campground is an excellent plan B for car campers looking to sleep inside the park boundaries from spring through autumn.

If you don’t mind a longer drive to and from the park each morning (sunset views included),  Land Beyond Zion offers well-spaced, amenity-rich camping and glamping sites from founder Shanti Hodges, the woman entrepreneur behind  Hike It Baby .

Hotels and rentals

Seeking the best in-park lodging? Head to the historic  Zion Lodge . Completed in 1925, this charming hotel and cabin complex was designed by famed national park architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood and is set amongst the sky-high canyon walls and serpentine river bends that have drawn people to the park for decades.

If a vintage, albeit rustic lodge isn’t for you—some of us just need a full kitchen and luxe linens— La Fave’s well-appointed villas and suites will have you relaxing in style. To book an entire house,  The Ross in nearby Hurricane has a lavish soaking tub and mountain-modern décor.

Emily Pennington is the author of Feral: Losing Myself and Finding My Way in America's National Parks (February 1, 2023).

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8 Things to Know Before Your First Solo National Park Trip

Thinking of exploring a national park by yourself? An experienced solo traveler — and NPCA staff member — offers pro tips to make the most of your park visit.  

NPCA staffer Abbey Robertson on Angels Landing in Zion National Park. 

As an independent person with a penchant for doing things just because someone tells me I can’t, going to national parks by myself has been one of the greatest experiences in my life, offering me solitude as I appreciate the wonders of our natural world.

That said, solo traveling to some of America’s most remote places has also taught me that you don’t have to be highly independent to challenge yourself to try something new and enjoy it.

From Crater Lake to Death Valley, Canyonlands to Channel Islands, I’ve spent the last five years exploring national parks solo. Here’s what I’ve learned — and appreciated — through my time alone in the outdoors.

1. No one else knows it’s your first time.

It’s easy to get in your own head when you’re setting up camp on your own, and I definitely wondered at first if my neighbors were judging me.

NPCA staffer Abbey Robertson at Redwood National Park. 

I quickly learned that way more people are exploring by themselves than I first thought — and they’re pretty welcoming.

On my first trip to Zion, on my way up to Angels Landing I met a widow in her 70s who quickly became my buddy. Along the way, a man in his 30s joined our delegation (he was there for a bachelor party but no one else in his group had wanted to make the hike).

We distracted each other from thinking about just how high up we were, and at the top took plenty of photos to document the day.

2. National parks really are the great equalizer.

Two backpackers on Myrtle Falls Trail in Mount Rainer National Park.

You automatically have something in common with everyone you meet on the trail: You love spending time in parks. I’ve met so many people I probably wouldn’t have had reason to talk to if we’d met under different circumstances, people with life experiences and political beliefs far different from my own. Yet we formed meaningful, albeit temporary, community with each other.

I had people bring me meals or invite me to their campfire when they saw me alone at my campsite — and how often will you talk to retirees you aren’t related to or join a group of strangers for an impromptu jam session? These conversations are always special to me, and honestly probably wouldn’t have ever happened if I had a group of friends with me.

3. You don’t need quite as much gear as you think.

Camping gear. 

I started out as a long-distance backpacker prepared for every situation — from summiting Mt. Whitney to casual group hikes with friends and family. It seemed obvious that I would just use my backpacking gear when I started going to parks, but I quickly found out that the ultralight gear I used when hiking 15-mile days often didn’t suit my needs while I was at a campsite — it was too light. I wanted a balance between the minimalism of backpacking and bringing excessive equipment with me.

Fancy cooking gear and complicated gadgets can be fun and interesting to use, but I’ve found staples — like a good cast iron pan and a classic Nalgene bottle — beat out the more expensive stuff almost every time. Fewer pieces and moving parts always means your gear is sturdier and less likely to break or fail when you need it. That’s not to say gear will always solve your problems or hold up to the test — even the best tent won’t make sleeping out in 50 mph winds at Death Valley cozy (that’s when you sleep in your car!). Which brings me to my next piece of advice…

4. Do your research.

Know your park and know your resources. 

There’s a reason “do your research” appears on most trip planning listicles. Every national park is really its own little ecosystem with ebbs and flows in conditions throughout the seasons. A few minutes of research would’ve saved me from planning that Death Valley trip for April, the windiest month in the park.

A Visitor’s Guide to National Park Reservations

Arches, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, Shenandoah, Yosemite are among those addressing the long-term challenges of overcrowding with smart solutions to visitor use management.

Besides doing your best to avoid floods, blizzards, wildfires and gale force winds, when you’re traveling by yourself, it’s even more important to know where your resources are. You might not have cell service in many parks, so saving offline maps with bookmarked grocery stores, gas stations and visitor centers can save you a lot of trouble.

Always have a backup plan so you don’t have to compromise your own safety if anything changes unexpectedly. Whether it’s pouring rain the night you planned to sleep under the stars or if someone is paying you unwanted attention at your campsite, it’s a lot easier to leave if you know where you can go.

5. Test your equipment.

Death Valley at sunset. 

Please don’t pitch your tent for the first time in a national park. Practice setting up your campsite in your backyard, test run your meals in your kitchen, and check that the batteries in your headlamp have been replaced since your family camping trip in 2006.

Break in your boots well before your departure date — and make sure they’re appropriate for the trails you’re interested in. You might not need hiking boots as rugged as you think, or you might need stronger traction if a trail is muddier or snowier than originally planned. At the end of the day, you need to know you can rely on your equipment and be ready to think on your (properly outfitted) feet.

6. Safety first — your loved ones will appreciate it.

A woman holds a satellite communication device.

A satellite communication device, such as the Garmin InReach I use, is indispensable. It will run you $300-700, but I’ll never travel solo without one. It has an SOS feature that can help get emergency services to you within a few hours in a worst-case scenario. I’ve luckily never had to use the SOS feature, but I have used one of its other communication options: You can send preset or custom messages to friends or family, even when you don’t have cell coverage.

This brings great peace of mind so I can tell my parents I’ll text when I get to my campsite, and that they should hear from me by 2 p.m. — and while my plans have a habit of changing, this bit of technology helps my family sleep a little easier.

7. Pick the right park at the right time.

Night falls over the Cape Royal Trail at the North Rim of Grand Canyon.

Zion was the perfect park for my first solo trip — you can be back in town pretty quickly, and there are tons of people around so you never feel truly alone. That was a comfortable first experience for me, and as I’ve grown more confident, I’ve started looking for more remote experiences.

When I went to Grand Canyon in November (with snow on the ground!) I didn’t see another person for two or three days. If that kind of seclusion doesn’t appeal to you, look at going a little closer to peak season. It really just depends what you’re looking for — there’s no right or wrong experience.

8. No one is keeping score.

Boots with flowers.

If you feel lonely or unsafe, no one is keeping track of how many hours you spent by yourself. Leave! Go walk around a grocery store, take yourself for coffee at a diner, head home if you’re feeling ready.

You don’t win anything by sleeping in a tent by yourself for the sake of it. You’re the one who gets to decide how to have a good time.

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About the author

As the senior manager of internal communications, Abbey serves as creative content producer and dedicated resource to staff to ensure NPCA's work, mission and impact are communicated clearly and concisely to all audiences.

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The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Zion National Park

Have you ever considered taking a solo trip to Zion National Park? With its breathtaking landscapes and wide range of activities, Zion offers a unique opportunity for adventure-loving solo travelers.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your ultimate solo trip to Zion National Park.

Why Zion National Park?

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse wildlife, this park offers a range of activities for nature lovers.

Solo travelers can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, camping, and photography. Zion also boasts a range of trails suitable for all fitness levels, making it a perfect destination for solo travelers of any experience level.

Preparing for Your Solo Trip

Before embarking on a solo trip to Zion, it’s important to make some preparations to ensure a safe and smooth experience.

Firstly, consider your travel arrangements. Whether you’re flying or driving, plan to arrive at Zion National Park before sunset. This will give you time to orient yourself with the park and get settled in before the nightfall.

Additionally, pack appropriately for your trip. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a lightweight backpack, and plenty of water. Consider downloading a map of the park or purchasing a guidebook to help plan your itinerary.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options available in and around Zion National Park. Solo travelers can choose to stay in one of the park’s campgrounds, book a room in a nearby hotel or motel, or find a vacation rental close to the park.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty, camping is your best option. There are four campsites located within Zion National Park which offer a range of amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms.

Exploring Zion National Park Solo

Solo travelers can enjoy a range of activities throughout Zion National Park. Whether you’re looking to hike through the Narrows or climb to the top of Observation Point, there’s something for everyone.

One popular destination for solo travelers is Angels Landing. This trail takes you along a narrow ridge with drop-offs on either side, offering stunning views of the park’s landscape. While not for the faint of heart, this hike is a unique and thrilling experience.

Another great option is hiking through the Virgin River Narrows. This trail takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, with the river acting as your guide. Wading through the river and navigating the rocks can be challenging, but the beauty of the canyon makes it well worth it.

Staying Safe While Solo

While solo travel can be a rewarding and enriching experience, it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe trip. Always inform someone of your travel plans, including your itinerary and expected return time.

Additionally, be aware of the weather conditions and carry appropriate gear. The weather in Zion can be unpredictable, with scattered thunderstorms and temperatures that can range from freezing in the winter to scorching in the summer.

Zion National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for solo travelers. With its breathtaking landscapes and wide range of activities, Zion is a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers.

By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, solo travelers can experience the beauty of Zion National Park in a safe and enjoyable way. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

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Braving It to Zion: Solo Female Travel

Some of the most daring females on earth have walked the wilderness of this planet alone. Badasses like Jeanne Baret , Nellie Bly, and Lady Hestor Stanhope inspire even the most unlikely travelers. Never did I think I would join in on the perils of those who experienced solo female travel before me—until my trip to Zion National Park. 

It all started in Nevada with what was supposed to be a trip with a friend. After our first night linking up in Vegas, our weekend plan fell apart to the likes of gambling, strangers, and other debauchery. It was clear at this point that I could either go home or show up at Zion alone. While it seemed daring, the latter option was more my style. 

Zion, I’m on my way. 

A double shot latte and a rental car were the life-saving forces I needed to drive after a sleepless night in Vegas. I was still in disbelief that I was about to camp alone. I laughed aloud at the absurdity of the whole idea. But before I made it to Zion for the night, there was a detour calling my name: Valley of Fire State Park . 

Valley of Fire State Park 🔥

Driving through this park in September was a dream. Fiery-colored rocks and tan mountains filled the entire landscape around me. The weather was as crisp and cool as a summer day in Los Angeles. I drove my car around the park for as long as I could, exploring every twist and turn that caught my attention. 

Still sleep-deprived, I knew it was time to journey onward to my final destination for the day: Zion. My campsite was an hour away from the park itself where you could really feel isolated and connect with nature. To my advantage, I had picked the hidden gem of all the campsites: Zion Luxury Camping. With a few hours left to drive—I hauled ass. 

I stopped by the safest-looking gas station along the way to pick up some essentials: goober grape , rainbow color flames , and booze. It was time to get primitive. I rolled into the campsite right at dusk *whew* 😅 where I frantically panned the scenery for campsite #11. BINGO. The luxury yurt came equipped with a bed and a fire pit outside. 

I was in nature heaven. 

As quickly as I passed out, morning came. The first look outside of my tent was a scene right out of National Geographic. I couldn’t believe how seamless the mountain looked standing right there, only several hundred yards away. To the right of the mountain was a vast stretch of the open road that led to Zion. 

Zion Luxury Camping ⛺

Time to hit the road! I blasted my music , speeding into the valleys and mountains that gave way to Zion. I couldn’t believe I was finally here, standing on 229 miles of pure sandstone towering over 8,000 feet high. While waiting in line for the shuttle, I met this adventurous young couple from Germany and other nomadic families.

The ride on the shuttle was a rollercoaster. We dipped through shallow valleys, then rose up to meet the mountain tops in the distance. Everything felt so alive on this hot and sunny day. Most people on the bus were silent from the look of wonder in their eyes. I couldn’t contain my excitement from the scenery that was revealing itself. 

Zion National Park 📍

The moment of all moments happened when I made it to one of the world’s most famous hikes, the Narrows . You could barely see the sky with striking sandstone walls over 2,000 feet tall. This was the narrowest part of Zion’s canyon altogether. If you continued hiking through the Narrows for the rest of the day, you could make it to the overnight campsite. 

Full disclosure: the Narrows trail is 16-miles-long in total. 

Did I hike the entire thing? I wish. I hiked for about six hours and absolutely didn’t want to leave. If an overnight camping adventure in Zion is your thing, I’d recommend getting one of the park’s overnight passes . It was time to exit this beast they called Zion National Park. I didn’t leave until sunset, experiencing every last minute that I could. 

Looking back at the park, there was something I couldn’t put into words. I knew because I was experiencing Zion alone, I was more in the moment than I could have ever been. It was captivating. While there were points of this trip where it would have been fun to have someone join me, I wouldn’t have traded this solo experience for anything else.

Based on my travel experience , here are tips for solo female travelers out there: 

Tips for Solo Female Travelers:

• #1: Double-check the ratings and safety of your campsite or Airbnb 
• #2: Be mindful when chatting with strangers 
• #3: Let people know where you are; share your location and details with loved ones 
• #4: Stock up on necessities before finding your campsite or Airbnb
• #5: Be choosy about which gas stations you visit
• #6 Goober Grape and rainbow color flames are essential for survival 
• #7 Enjoy the scenery!

I proved to Mother Nature and the world that I was primitive material. Ok, luxury primitive material maybe 🤔 but dammit, I survived the wilderness! While I realize there’s no badge for this, I want to share my experience as a way to inspire yours. This doesn’t only apply to female travelers, this goes for anyone looking to experience solo travel. 

Let’s be honest, now your inner nomad is ready to be released into the wild. Maybe a solo trip was never in the cards for you…until this moment. Even if it’s a weekend camping trip outside of your city limits, THIS could be your time. So why not embrace the solo adventure?

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Very good post. Highly informative for travellers who want to visit Zion National Park. Nicely written. Keep up the good work.

Thanks Cedric! Appreciate you stopping by to support us 🙂

Nice post! Did you do the dangerous hike that has the chains to hold on to?

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Middle Journey

Solo travel, angel’s landing and the one thing i learned solo hiking zion national park.

June 14, 2022

I hiked Angel’s Landing, which is the most strenuous trail in Zion National Park in Utah, after deciding not to, but accidentally stumbling upon it and thinking, “Oh hell, why not.” Which is how I do most things in life.

Angel’s Landing is 5.4 miles long, with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet with long cliffside drop-offs. It is not for the faint of heart. However, “Rim Trail” led to the Angel’s Landing trail and with a few hours to kill, I hiked it until I got to Angel’s Landing and just kept going.

Rim Trail starts as a flat and easy path along the rim, but not far along the incline, it becomes noticeably steeper. At one point, I made a left turn and around the bend was the rock face. I knew then that I was on Angel’s Landing trail. Up ahead, I saw other hikers, zig-zagging switchbacks along the edge of the mountain high above me.

I didn’t want to do the entire trail, but figured I would keep going until I got tired, and then I’d turn around. I noticed in the distance the first summit, which other hikers had told me about. They said it flattens out at the midpoint before going up again. I figured I might aim for that as my ultimate goal. However, I wasn’t opposed to stopping sooner.

So I kept going, leaning forward onto the sloping trail, fighting gravity and the extra 30 pounds I carry around because I love pastries.

Angel’s Landing Trail

It was late in the day for this hike. It was 5:30 pm and they say it takes four hours to get up and back down. The last shuttle from the canyon leaves at 8:15. If you’re not on it, there’s an eight-mile walk back to your vehicle in the darkness.

There weren’t many other people heading up the trail at that point, but several groups were coming down. None of them looked particularly pleased with themselves for having achieved this challenging hike. They just looked grateful to be done. The few I chatted with said things like, “Just glad to be coming back down.” Or “The view is nice, but it’s tough.” It wasn’t exactly inspiring, but I wasn’t going to the top, so it didn’t disturb me.

I kept going, sure and steady, frequently stopping for a minute to let my heart rate slow and wipe the sweat from my brow. It was 104 degrees in the canyon.

Ascent to Angel’s Landing

The trail, though loosely paved with foot grips, was steep enough to sled down. I began to doubt my ability to make it to the midpoint. Plus, my fear of falling was starting to get the better of me. With each switchback, I went higher up the mountain. Some of the drops off at the precarious edge were a bit too close for my comfort.

Finally, I met a cliff face I did not want to pass three-quarters of the way up. It edged out around a corner I could not see past and had about a 750-foot drop over the edge. My breath caught. I was afraid.

Why You Shouldn’t Try Angel’s Landing

The signs and information about the trail admonish anyone who is not physically fit not to attempt it. They further show graphics of people falling off the mountain and encourage you not to try it if you are afraid of heights. If that doesn’t deter you, they also post the “how many days since we’ve had an accident” signs you see in factories and warehouses where they’ve scratched out the number each time it goes higher. It showed that 13 people had died attempting this trail.

It didn’t say where precisely they had died and you would presume it was at the top where I heard chains were used as handholds. But it could have been at the switchback ledge I was now facing, couldn’t it?

Giving Up on a Tough Hike

I turned around and was a few steps away when I realized I’d turned around out of fear instead of tiredness. I said I’d stop when I got tired, not when I got afraid. I sat on a boulder, took my water bottle out of my backpack and looked out at the majestic canyon view.

In Zion, the rock is such a bright red-orange that it glows when the sun hits it. It’s the view that makes it so famous and causes people from around the world to travel to it.

I was so high up that you wouldn’t even be able to see my body if I fell to the ground. A small lizard crawled near me. I watched it grip the rock and climb around unafraid.

How to Conquer Fear

There is only one way to conquer fear. That is to face it. I’ve faced my fear of falling many times and it gets easier each time, even if it never really leaves. It’s surprising to me how many times I still run into it, this fear that waits, quite literally, around corners for my approach so it can make a coward of me. But I am no coward.

I stood and hiked around the corner and kept going. It wasn’t nearly as daunting as my mind had made it.

Trail Part II

Eventually, I made it to a flat terrain in between two rock faces about 40-feet wide. That went for some way to the other side of the mountain. There again, I was greeted by another series of switchbacks heading straight up.

It’s always at this point in the hike where I start to think, “We’ll I’ve come this far. It can’t be much further now, may as well keep going.” But it is always much further than I think it is.

I trudged up and up and up, stopping to catch my breath many times until, finally, it flattened out to what looked like a sandy beach with spectacular views. A bit further on, the trail continues. The sight of it stopped me in my tracks.

Chains on Angel’s Landing

I’d known that there were trail chains you could hold on to, but not that you must hold on to them. Nobody in their right mind would have called it a “trail” if it weren’t for the telltale chains showing you the way. From my perspective, it looked more like climbing than hiking at that point. Several people were holding the chains, appearing to struggle mightily for a foothold above a 1,200-foot drop.

Since it was an out-and-back trail, the people coming down had to maneuver around the people going up, while only one side could hold the chains at a time.

“Nope.” I must have said out loud.

“Agree,” a woman next to me said. “I tried that first part here that you can see and slid back down on my rear end. It goes on like that for a while. It didn’t look like the view would be much better.”

Another couple nearby heard us talking and joined in. They’d done the entire thing.

“The juice is not worth the squeeze,” the man said.

Angel’s Landing

I had never planned on hiking this far, so I didn’t need convincing. I’d far surpassed what I set to do, having never intended to attempt Angel’s Landing at all.

I was tired and it was late. I would feel rushed and nervous. That was not a good combination. So, I took a picture and turned around to head back down.

Because you know the people who don’t die on Angel’s Landing? The smart ones. The ones who know their strengths and weaknesses. The ones who know how to limit themselves and when to stop instead of pushing too far.

Descending from Angel’s Landing Trail

The way down was a different challenge entirely. Gravity wants to push you down the mountain and I realized the bumps in the pavement that I crossed on the way up were actually speed bumps to slow you on the way down.

I asked a tween girl nearby to take a picture of me.

“Did you do this entire thing yourself?” she asked.

“Wow. That’s mental toughness,” she said.

She took the picture and she and her brother walked alongside me for a while. Their family was further behind on the trail. They asked me questions as we walked about being scared and why I was alone. I gave them simple answers, but later I thought it was not so simple.

Mental Toughness

It didn’t occur to me that hiking a trail alone requires “mental toughness,” but it does—especially a trail like Angel’s Landing. Doing anything alone requires guts. Even something as simple as eating alone in a restaurant.

But it’s like hiking a difficult trail. You do it one step at a time and each step builds on the one before. Eventually, you realize you’ve done it.

Doing things alone requires mental toughness because you don’t have anyone to depend on for help, advice, or encouragement. Hell, you don’t even have anyone to call your family if you happen to fall off the side of the mountain. Maybe nobody will even know. Being alone, you must be ok with that.

You must be your own voice of doubt and encouragement. You’ll have to trust your own judgment. You must know when to turn around on the trail and when to forge ahead in the face of nonsensical fear. This goes for far more than just hiking.

Not Finishing a Trail

Not finishing Angel’s Landing was a tough choice once I was up there. It took the same mental toughness that it took to get to that point. I don’t like to quit if I think I can do something. I think I could have done it. But thinking I can and knowing I can are two different things.

Being solo, you must be twice as strong in all aspects. I must always know beyond a doubt what I can and cannot do. I must know myself completely. How many people can say that they know themselves that well? Until you’ve done hard things alone, you cannot.

It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

Visit Zion National Park in Utah on State Route 9 in Springdale .

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More about Rene Cizio

Rene Cizio is a solo female traveler, writer, author and photographer. Find her on Instagram @renecizio

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Learn more about Zion National Park

• Zion National Park -Solo Travel Tips
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U.S. National Parks for Solo Travelers: The Grand Canyon to Zion

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

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Discover the natural beauty and enduring spirit of the American Southwest on this National Parks tour for solo travelers.

From valley vineyards to scenic hiking trails, this active solo trip will show you that you don’t need to go far to experience a lot. Each day displays a new destination—and with it, new landscapes swathed in dusty oranges, sherbet pinks, and gemstone greens. You’ll set off on this group tour made for solo travelers to discover places like Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon—and find that there’s a lot to love in your own backyard.

Your tour package includes

• 8 nights in a private room at handpicked hotels
• 8 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 wine tasting

Included highlights

• Montezuma Castle National Monument
• Verde Valley wine tasting
• The Grand Canyon
• Lake Powell
• Zion National Park

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Welcome to Arizona! Settle into your hotel. Then, gather with your Tour Director and fellow group members at a mixer before enjoying a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Start your exploration of the Southwest by journeying into the landscapes of Arizona.

• Stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument to view cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people around the 11th century. Nestled into limestone cliffs, the rooms resemble a high-rise apartment complex. Interestingly, despite its name, the monument has no connection to the Aztec emperor Montezuma, but was rather misattributed by early European settlers.
• Visit a vineyard along the Verde Valley Wine Trail, an area known for producing flavorful red wines, including zinfandels, syrahs, and merlots. Sample some signature sips during an included wine tasting and lunch.
• Make photo stops at the whimsical red rock formations surrounding the town of Sedona, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte.
• Continue to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for your first glimpse at the legendary fissure. Take a moment to admire its colorful rock walls at sunset and feel the anticipation build for the awe-inspiring spectacle that awaits tomorrow.

After arriving at the South Rim, set out on a scenic hike to Shoshone Point guided by your Tour Director, who’ll illuminate the geological wonders and natural splendor of the landscape.   

• Marvel at towering rock formations that bear witness to millions of years of geological evolution, their striated layers revealing the passage of time in hues of red, orange, and ochre.  
• Walk along a trail through a ponderosa pine forest and end on a plateau to take in panoramic vistas that stretch to the horizon. Sigh as the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon unfolds endlessly before you. 

To fully appreciate the enormity of the Grand Canyon—it’s not just a name after all—add an optional helicopter tour to your itinerary and take to the skies for an electrifying perspective. Prefer to explore the Grand Canyon on terra firma? Use your free afternoon to hike along the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point, where a steep descent along the canyon walls is punctuated by ancient rock formations and a view of the snaking Colorado River.  

Later, meet back up with your Tour Director for a guided sunset hike. As the sun descends below the horizon, it bathes the canyon walls in a warm, golden light. When it fades, the canyon takes on a mystical quality, with the silhouettes of rugged cliffs and spires standing in stark contrast against the darkening sky.  

Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride

From $259 per person

Begin your day with a stop at the Cameron Trading Post, a historic outpost that has served travelers and locals alike for more than a century. Browse a curated selection of Navajo artwork, jewelry, and crafts, and learn about the time-honored traditions of the artisans who created them.   

Continue to Lake Powell and enjoy a free evening or add an Upper Antelope Canyon adventure to your growing camera roll. As sunlight filters down between these towering sandstone walls in the heart of Navajo Nation, ethereal beams of light illuminate the canyon’s smooth walls, creating an ever-changing pattern of light and shadow.  

Upper Antelope Canyon & Navajo Nation

From $135 per person

If you’re up for a thrill with a side of Monument Valley vistas, join today’s optional Jeep ride and rumble through the park where iconic rock formations like Mexican Hat, Three Sisters, and Elephant Butte capture imaginations with their playful shapes.

If you’d rather spend your free day on your own, the calm, clear waters of Lake Powell are the perfect setting for paddleboarding or kayaking.

Tonight, head to the Navajo-owned Red Heritage center for an evening filled with authentic Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming, and singing, all served with a traditional dinner.

Monument Valley Jeep Ride

From $159 per person

Make your way through southwestern Utah to tour the surreal landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park. Long before the arrival of European settlers, Indigenous people inhabited the area; the Paiute tribe had a deep connection to the lands that now constitute the park. The Paiute referred to Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos—huge rock pinnacles—as “Legend People,” believing them to be ancient beings transformed by Coyote, a prominent figure in their mythology.   

• Enjoy a guided exploration of the park by bus and on foot. You’ll learn about its unique formations, sculpted over millions of years through the process of erosion. The park sits atop the Paunsaugunt Plateau, where the forces of wind, water, and ice gradually carved out the intricate maze of canyons, fins, and spires that we see today.    
• Feast your eyes as you get up close and personal with Bryce Canyon’s iconic rock formations. Watch as arches, bridges, and spires made of pink limestone and sandstone change with the shifting light in a bewitching display of color and contrast.  
• Keep your camera ready as you encounter the park’s famous inhabitants—the hoodoos. These whimsical rock formations, shaped like totems and towers, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.   

Continue to your hotel near Zion National Park and enjoy a free evening to rest and unwind. 

Continue your scenic journey through this rough-hewn portion of the Southwest as you reach Zion National Park. Here—at the intersection of the Great Basin, the Colorado Plateau, and the Mojave Desert—the earth’s rich tapestry flashes hues of yellow and orange as deeply eroded sedimentary rocks rise majestically into the azure sky.   

• Delve into the history of Zion National Park, named by 19th-century Mormon settlers who were awestruck by its otherworldly beauty and reminded of their heavenly city.  
• Experience the park from a unique vantage point aboard an open-air tram, where a local guide will unravel the park’s geological wonders, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural heritage.   
• Enjoy the sway of winding roads and watch as each bend reveals a new panorama of sandstone monoliths, green valleys, and waterfalls. You may also spot one of the park’s many sheep, goats, and deer.   
• Join your Tour Director for a walk along the paved Pa’rus Trail, which offers views of the colorful scenery and babbling rivers. 
• Enjoy free time to continue exploring the park on foot: Hike the Lower Emerald Pool Trail for a short but rewarding outing; take the Riverside Walk to follow the Virgin River; or tackle the more challenging Watchman Trail for a view of Watchman Peak’s soaring rocky spire. 

Stop in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s first state park, before continuing to Las Vegas. Here, fiery red sandstone outcroppings surround petrified trees and 2,000-year-old petroglyphs. As the road stretches ahead of you, look for rock formations swirling in shades of white, yellow, pink, and grey.  

As the desert scenery gives way to the bright lights of the big city, join your Tour Director on an evening walk along the Las Vegas Strip. You’ll see the area’s bright neon lights, iconic hotels, and famous casinos before heading to a local restaurant for a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay in Las Vegas for gaming under glittering neon lights or relaxing in this desert oasis.

Add a trip to the Hoover Dam to your itinerary for a close-up look at the massive engineering marvel, completed at the height of the Great Depression in 1935.  

If you’ve opted to stay in town, the Las Vegas Strip’s glittering four-mile stretch is at your disposal. Unpack your swimsuit for a splashy day at one of Vegas’ pool parties or enjoy one of the city’s unique—and climate-controlled—museums and experiences. Indoor skydiving, anyone? 

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

From $85 per person

While gaming and glitzy hotels are a perennial draw for visitors to Las Vegas, the city is also home to innovative restaurants and culinary experiences. For a taste of the Vegas food scene, join the optional food tour for celebrity chef-inspired snacks and sips.  

Prefer to spend the day exploring the Las Vegas Strip on your own? Catch a show, opt for some retail therapy in some of the Strip’s designer boutiques, or head downtown to “Old Vegas” to explore vibrant street art and the local restaurant scene.  

This evening, raise a glass and toast to your trip with a farewell drink.

Food of Las Vegas Walking Tour

From $185 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

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Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

Loved the trip, well paced and nice accommodations, Carrie , our tour director, was very engaging and helpful. No problem making connections with many other participants, had a great time! Might have enjoyed a bit more free time to explore and/or hike in early part of week.

Colleen, thank you for your review. We appreciate ...

The beauty & scale of what you see cannot be accurately photographed. It’s hard to describe then as well. The pacing is good, I do wish we could have stayed longer at the Grand Canyon & Zion but it can’t be helped. Our director was Carrie, she was a jewel. Every day began with a song on the bus, c...

I chose this tour as it covered many of the places in the area I had been hoping to get to. Lots of miles on the bus but plenty of stops/ breaks between each main tour stop to keep it interesting. I had a great time !

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This comfortable hotel is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Nearby you’ll fi...

This comfortable hotel is located just 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance. Guests enjoy the indoor swimming pool, a full breakfas...

This convenient hotel is located in Page overlooking Glen Canyon. Guests enjoy the pool, fitness center, on-site gift shop. Nearby you’ll find the Lak...

This rustic, lodge-style hotel is located in Springdale, Utah next to Zion National Park. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and laundry facilities....

This massive hotel is located right off of the Las Vegas Strip. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and convenient location. Nearby y...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• U.S. citizens need valid government-issued identification for air travel within the United States. If you plan to use a state-issued ID or driver's license on or after May 7, 2025, it will need to meet Real ID requirements. Real ID compliant versions of these IDs will have either a yellow or black star, white star inside a yellow or black circle, or a white star inside a bear in the top righthand corner. Please visit dhs.gov for more information.
• In order to enter the United States, Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code SW6.
• You will walk for at least at least 2.5 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including paved trails and dirt paths, with some hills. Some activities will take place at high altitudes.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Depending on local weather conditions, seasons, and trail closures, the activities and sequence of your included walks may change.
• Shoshone Point – 2.1 miles / 1–1.5 hours. An easy hike along a trail that’s considered a hidden-gem and offers incredible views of the Grand Canyon.
• Par’rus Trail – 3.5 miles / 2.5 hours. A leisurely walk through Zion National Park along a mostly flat and completely paved trail.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Phoenix, Arizona and depart from Las Vegas, Nevada. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• Light hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are recommended for the uneven terrain.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• Please be aware that you will be traveling to altitudes as high as 6,000 feet above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
• During the summer months, take proper care with sun exposure and heat.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• The cuisine of the American southwest combines influences from Spanish colonial settlers, Mexican staples, and Native American traditions. Expect dishes spiced with chile peppers, like enchiladas, tacos, and chili con carne .
• All of North America operates on 110-120 volts and uses Type A or B plugs with two flat pins or two flat pins and one round pin, respectively.
• The majority of the hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• All states visited on this tour are on Mountain Time (MT), which is two hours behind Eastern Time (ET). Please note that Arizona does not observe daylight saving time and is on Pacific Time (PT) from March through October.
• When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 10am on tour.
• You will use the U.S. dollar on this tour.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your purchases for fraudulent charges.
• Many banks and businesses now primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

Solo Female Travel in Zion National Park

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Is Zion National Park worth visiting?

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Group travel experience

Me and my friend car camped inside the park and had the best weekend. Super clean and safe campground. We drove to zion from LA- took about 7/8 hours each way. We hiked the narrows and angels landing. We ate right outside the park at the zion pub both nights and it was amazing. There is also a cute coffee shop across the street that we loved. I posted some vlogs on tiktok if anyone is interested 😊

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9 of the Best National Parks to Visit Solo

02/11/2021 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Solo travel is made that much better in natural places. The combination of the freedom of being solo along with the healing properties of time spent in nature is, at least for me, like pressing the ‘reset’ button.

For some it may seem intimidating to visit a National Park alone. However, taking the leap and deciding to go by yourself just might be the best way to enjoy everything these places have to offer. Here’s a list of the best National Parks to visit solo:

Table of Contents

9. Zion, Utah

Zion National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the country and Utah’s first! Given its popularity, you’re likely to run into plenty of hikers, which is enough to ease anyone’s nerves who might be hesitant about taking on such a big park solo.

Almost all of the hikes at Zion are suitable for those hiking alone. If you’re nervous about the famous Angel’s Landing, with its dangerous rock ledges and steep cliffs, get the view from even higher up at Observation Point .

The park’s free shuttles make it easier to travel between each location and could even be a good place to meet other travelers. You can also check out any of their ranger-led activities for more ideas on how to spend your time there.

Read more about our favorite parks in Utah here.

8. Yosemite, California

Another hugely popular National Park, Yosemite is a bucket-list destination for anyone looking to get outdoors in the USA. Whether you’re looking to use up the last of your vacation days at the end of the year or planning to take a summer trip, this national treasure makes for a great solo adventure.

At any time of the year, you’re sure to cross paths with other visitors due to the popularity of the park. There are also plenty of shorter hikes like Mirror Lake and The Mist Trail in case the longer treks are intimidating.

You can also hop on one of the park’s bus tours to take the pressure off of trying to explore on your own or check out one of their ranger and nature programs to learn more about the park’s culture and history.

7. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Located along the Appalachian Trail, The Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited National Park in the United States, making it a great choice for solo visitors because it’s likely you’ll cross paths with other people as you hike.

The trails are well travelled and monitored, with plenty of resources available to make your trip planning a bit easier. Because of its popularity and high traffic, the park is fairly well built up and offers plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as guided tours, cycling and wildlife watching.

6. Acadia, Maine

Acadia National Park is popular enough to ensure you’ll run into other hikers–ranking in the top-10 most visited National Parks in the USA–but challenging enough to be exciting to do alone.

Known as the crowned jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, the park boasts some killer ocean views along with winding forest trails and even a few islands . One island in particular, Bar Island, is only accessible during low tide when you can cross the gravel path.

It is recommended that travelers stick to high season if traversing the trails alone, as winter can be treacherous there.

5. Badlands, South Dakota

This stunning National Park is known for its rich fossil beds and unique wildlife. The length of the trails and proximity to the highway is what makes Badlands National Park ideal for solo travelers. The vast majority of the trails are under 3 miles (the longest is 10 miles) and never stray more than a half a mile from the nearest road. While the trails may be short, they are still full of exciting views and glimpses of wildlife and fossils.

The park also has two options for camping–backwoods in the wilderness, or at either of the Badlands campgrounds. This really is the best of both worlds for solo travelers as there is an option to be as isolated or social as one would like.

4. Hot Springs, Arkansas

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hot Springs National Park (@hotspringsohwegotit)

For those solo travelers who aren’t quite ready to take the leap of exploring one of the bigger National Parks in the USA, Hot Springs is the perfect place to get your feet wet–literally.

Hot Springs is one of the smallest National Park in the United States, making it a great intro to solo travel. So small, in fact, that you could visit all of its main attractions in one day. Even more, the attractions tend to be geared towards solo visitors, with both ranger guided and self-guided tours!

3. Great Basin, Nevada

While most of the other parks on this list are ideal for solo travelers because of their high foot traffic, Great Basin National Park offers something different, in case you want your solo adventure to truly be solo.

Great Basin is known for being quite underpopulated, despite its beauty and availability of activities, so you’re not likely to run into other hikers on the trails. Known for its incredible stargazing , the park is part of the International Dark-Sky Association and there are plenty of opportunities to get out at night to see the stars.

If you want to balance your solo stargazing with some guided activities, check out the Lehman Cave ranger-led tours to learn more about the cave’s history, ecology and geology.

Read our Great Basin National Park 2-day itinerary here.

2. Mesa Verde, Colorado

While not as focused on hiking and more geared towards archaeological sites and history, Mesa Verde National Park is a great destination to travel to alone due to its popular ranger guided tours.

Make sure to plan your trip for late spring to early fall in order to see the incredibly preserved cliff dwellings at the park. There are several different types of tours to choose from where you can meet other travelers: ranger assisted cliff dwelling tours, backcountry hikes, and special tours.

Not only is there plenty to see at the park itself, but the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum is a must-stop for anyone wanting a more in-depth history lesson on the surrounding archaeological sites.

1. Petrified Forest, Arizona

There truly is nowhere in the world quite like the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Famous for its petroglyphs and for having the largest collection of petrified wood in the world, it’s a marvel.

The park is fairly small in size and the trails max at 3 miles long which is ideal for a quick solo trip. The Crystal Forest and Giant Logs trails are both under a mile, but with lots to see on either one.

There are also plenty of guided activities to choose from, making it possible for solo travelers to get out in nature and backcountry hike safely.

Getting out into nature at any one of these stunning National Parks is not only accessible to solo travelers, but ideal in so many ways. No travel companion? No problem! Don’t let the fear of going it alone stop you from having the solo trip of your dreams!

The Best Solo Road Trips

About emily becker.

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride

• Animals and equipment
• Food and water
• Sinclair Gas Station, 15 E State St, Orderville, UT 84758, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Must be under 220lbs
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• kaa_glez 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful canyon! Andi and Kez were awesome!! Andi was so supportive, she really made me feel comfortable and safe always asking if we were ok, Kez so was fun and kind. They are so awesome! They made this experience worthwhile, thank you. 🙌 Read more Written May 23, 2024
• T1640ZQsteveg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Mountaintop sunset Mike Smith was terrific! Saw both an amazing sunset and full moon rise from the top of a private mountain. Dress warm! It’s cold at 8100 feet! Read more Written May 23, 2024
• macfred123 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles I'd do it again in a minute Friendly Guide, Knowledgeable of area. Solo experience while husband went on 4 hour hike. Customized tour to allow for personal knee problems. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• nicolehL8564CE 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Absolutely Perfect My husband and I were in town for our first marriage anniversary and thought the White Sands Sunset Horseback Ride would be a perfect way to leave Zion. It was better than we could have imagined. We met with our guide Amy at the gas station and were told we were the only two that booked, so I was immediately excited. I was paired with a red roan named Mac who turned his head to check on me every time we stopped. My partner was on a palomino name Ladue, whose tongue was charmingly out the entire time. Amy was a lovely character, told us hilarious stories, and gave us a lot of great info about the landscape. We stopped at the peak of the mountain for a sunset view before heading down, seeing a few members of local wildlife on our way. Cannot recommend East Zion Adventures and the horseback rides enough. Hope you’re lucky enough to get Amy as your guide! Read more Written May 23, 2024
• ahN3009UG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience with spectacular guides. (With 8-year-old child) This trip was incredible, the guides (Andi and Kez) were fantastic guides! They were helpful, knowledgeable and incredibly patient. My child was nervous about the repels and both of them were sure to walk her through it, and encourage her to be successful. Both of us loved it. The trip started with an ATV ride (our first, and was super fun), then a short but steep hike. On the hike, both Andi and Kez did not push us to go fast, and encouraged breaks. Andi even told my child to step in her footprints to make it easier. After that we started the repelling, I felt very safe in their hands and had a blast. The views were spectacular, anyone who can should see slot canyons in Utah- I highly recommend doing it through East Zion Adventures, but even if you have to do it in another way. These canyons allowed for different ways to move through and had some of the most breathtaking views with the sun. We went with a group that included a single man in his thirties and a family with 3 sons in their 20’s- all of us felt challenged and had a blast. I have a younger child, as soon as she is old enough- we will be back and will do it again, I will recommend this to anyone and everyone I can. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• roma h 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best bit of our trip to Utah. Eric was a fantastic guide and we managed to keep away from other people! Plus he recommended Archie’s for lunch which was great. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• Z5860KUsofiat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great views and knowledgeable staff! He was incredible! Super knowledgeable and a great driver! I cannot wait to go on a similar tour next year! The pictures turned out beautiful. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• genam910 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Grateful for the wonderfully helpful staff and experience! All four of the young ladies that answered the phone and help my friends and I plan our trip to Zion NP and Zion Ponderosa Ranch were amazingly helpful and patient with our many questions! We had never been there and knew very little about the area. I am speaking of McKensie, Kinley, Amber and Lindsey. They were all very knowledgeable in area and great at helping guide us in the direction of activities we would enjoy at your ranch. It was an incredible trip full of wonderful memories that we will cherish...thank you! The past couple years it has seemed to me that customer service is a thing of the past, but not with any of your employees that we had the pleasure of interacting with. That includes our jeep and UTV drivers, our horseback guides, your front desk staff and your phone customer service ladies. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• barryrK8405LT 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Great Trip The ride to the slot canyons is pretty bumpy but slot canyons were spectacular. There were only a few other visitors in the canyons so we had a wonderful experience. Our guide, Brian, was terrific. Using our cell, he took some fabulous photos of us inside the slot canyon. Now we know how to use the 'pano'! Read more Written May 23, 2024
• I7990CGamyl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Great Fun This was an awesome experience and so much fun. Staff was friendly and great. So thankful we did this trip. Our guide Lauren was so much fun and friendly. Would highly recommend. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• Explorer63518130517 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! Paige and Megan were absolutely wonderful. They went above and beyond! Would definitely try another tour if they were our guides!! Read more Written May 23, 2024
• kimgJ2894CJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles No Sunset horseback ride Sadie & Parker were very friendly and professional. We all enjoyed the ride though we would have liked to have seen more of the sunset.After all it was a sunset ride… . Read more Written May 22, 2024
• Getaway527220 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good family fun! Really enjoyed the jeep ride. 2 hours was the perfect mount of time. Our guide Brian was very friendly, knowledgeable, and great with kids. Read more Written May 22, 2024
• 358killians 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nire than just shooting guns We really enjoyed our SWAT activity with Marv. Marv explained everything very clearly, had patience with us and was a very kind guy. The gun range was great! Wide open spaces, beautiful nature and a fun offroad ride. We recommend booking this activity with Marv, It's a gun range experience like no other! Read more Written May 22, 2024
• Y1844QEjennyc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly Recommend Adventure! This experience was amazing. Andi and Kez were absolutely fantastic guides. The inside of the slot canyon was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I was very nervous about the rappelling, but our whole family really enjoyed it. Highly recommend this adventure! Read more Written May 21, 2024

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride provided by East Zion Adventures

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Last updated: February 14, 2024

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Zion National Park 1 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767

435-772-3256 If you have questions, please email [email protected]. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.

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Heading to Zion National Park for Memorial Day? Expect long lines, large crowds and possible entrance closures

SPRINGDALE, Utah ( ABC4 ) — Last year, close to 100,000 people visited Zion National Park over Memorial Day weekend. This year, large crowds are again expected at Utah’s busiest national park.

“Pack your patience,” Jonathan Shafer, the park’s spokesperson said in a news release. “We want you to enjoy your visit, and we want to be realistic about what to expect.”

READ NEXT: Hot springs resort with 53 pools slated to open next year near Zion National Park

Those planning a Memorial Day trip to the southern Utah park should brace for the following: long lines at entrance stations, visitor centers, restrooms, and trailheads; long waits for shuttles; and intermittent closures at the east and south entrances.

“We may temporarily limit vehicle entry to reduce crowding and traffic congestion,” Shafer said, noting that the park’s pedestrian and bicycle entrance will remain open throughout the weekend.

As for those hoping to hike the popular Angels Landing trail, know that hikers need to apply for a permit the day before. Everyone who hikes the trail needs to have a permit, and they’re advised to arrive early so as not to miss their start time.

Hikers throughout the park are also urged to drink plenty of water. Average daytime temperatures in the southwest desert reach the upper 80s in late May. People could suffer health emergencies if they don’t stay hydrated.

Last Memorial Day weekend, Zion had more than 96,000 visitors, park officials said in the news release. That’s more people than many national parks see in an entire year. Zion is the third most popular national park in the country, surpassed only by Grand Canyon National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.

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Solo climber found dead after fall from Denali, highest mountain peak in North America

A solo climber was found dead Monday on Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America.

Mountaineering rangers from Denali National Park and Preserve found the climber at 17,000 feet of elevation on the mountain's West Buttress route after being contacted by a family member that had not heard from the climber for several days, according to a release from the park.

The climber had previously been regularly checking in with family via an InReach communication device during their attempted solo climb of Denali.

Rangers patrolling the upper mountain found the climber's empty tent at the top of the 16,200-foot ridge, and determined through interviews that the climber was last seen by another climbing team moving from the 17,200-foot plateau to the Denali Pass at 18,200 feet of elevation on May 15.

Rangers at the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station were able to collect satellite location data from the climber and found their probable location at 17,000 feet of elevation, data that had not changed since May 16, which the park said suggested a fall from the Denali pass took place that day.

A mountaineering patrol at the 17,200 feet in elevation camp found the climber on Monday, after weather on the upper mountain cleared, and confirmed the climber was dead. The climber's body was secured in place and returned to high camp, and the park said recovery efforts will be "attempted when weather conditions allow."

Denali National Park and Preserve said the climber's identity will be released once family has been notified.

From Acadia to Zion: What travelers should know about each of America's national parks

Where is Denali?

Denali National Park and Preserve is located in Denali Park, Alaska, more than 230 miles north of Anchorage. The park received just under 500,000 visitors in 2023, according to data from the National Park Service .

How tall is Denali?

Denali, also called Mount McKinley, measures 20,310 feet at its peak, making it the tallest mountain in North America.

How many people are climbing Denali?

Denali's climbing season typically begins in early May and ends in early July, according to Denali National Park and Preserve. There are currently 352 climbers on Denali's West Buttress route, the majority of whom are on a much lower part of the mountain.

At least 14 climbers have died in falls along the West Buttress route since 1980, including this week's death.

A Utah ski resort company took over Zion National Park’s concessions. Here’s what it means for visitors.

St. George • Concessions at the state’s most-visited national park will soon be run by a Utah resort company.

The National Park Service has awarded a 10-year contract to Destination Zion Lodge, LLC, a subsidiary of Park City-based POWDR , to operate Zion National Park’s lodging, retail and food and beverage services beginning in 2025. POWDR is replacing Xanterra Parks and Resorts, Inc. , which is headquartered in Denver and has operated the park’s concessions since 1972.

“Zion Lodge has welcomed visitors for almost a century, and we appreciate the service its operators have provided to thousands of visitors during that time,” Zion Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh told The Salt Lake Tribune via email. “Looking forward, we will continue to work with our new concessioner so that the Lodge contributes to our mission to conserve Zion now and forever.”

POWDR’s selection comes after a competitive bid process that began in September 2023, according to park officials. The NPS examined each applicant’s bid and awarded the contract to the company that scored the highest. Other than the length of the contract, neither park officials nor POWDR have disclosed any further details of the deal.

Expanding national park portfolio

While it is new to the national park concessions business, POWDR has been a recreational mainstay in North America for nearly three decades. It was founded in 1994 by John Cumming, an investor with his father Ian in the Mountain Hardwear clothing company. POWDR currently owns several ski and other resorts, including Snowbird and Woodward Park City in Utah and Copper Mountain in Colorado.

In January, POWDR officials took over management of concessions and lodging at California’s Stovepipe Wells Village in Death Valley National Park , and are excited about expanding the company’s footprint in America’s national parks

“We are honored and excited to have been selected as the new concessioner for Zion National Park,” Justin Sibley, CEO of POWDR, said in a prepared statement. “As a Utah-based company with deep roots in the outdoors, we understand the importance of preserving and protecting these incredible natural spaces while providing exceptional experiences for visitors.”

POWDR’s plans for Zion include upgrading the park’s lodging facilities, expanding its food and beverage choices and introducing educational programs that will help visitors better connect with the area’s geology, environment and cultural history. It also aims to hire a full-time environmental manager to help reduce the park’s environmental footprint.

Increasing sustainability, reducing footprint

Stacey Hutchinson, POWDR’s vice president of communications and government affairs, said the company will undertake several sustainability initiatives, including installing more hydration stations where visitors can refill reusable water bottles, reducing food waste, banning Styrofoam products and choosing more durable materials and equipment.

In addition, she continued, the company will maximize recycling for its operations and guests, operate only electric vehicles in Zion, bolster the number of electric vehicle charging options for visitors and encourage and expand bicycle use.

“We’ll also look to improve the living conditions for our employees, including expanded high-speed internet, upgraded rooms/bedding, improved common areas, and revitalizing the gym area, laundry facilities and meals,” Hutchinson said.

Xanterra will continue to operate concessions at Zion National Park until POWDR takes over on Jan. 1, 2025. As part of that transition, POWDR plans to retain the park’s existing concessions workers. Its staffing model also enables its employees to work at different company properties throughout the year, thus helping them secure year-round — rather than just seasonal — employment.

Zion, Utah’s top tourist draw, generated $947 million per year in overall economic output in 2021. It now attracts nearly 5 million visitors per year, a twofold increase since 2000 .

“Zion is a true national treasure,” Sibley said, “and we are committed to being responsible stewards of this remarkable landscape.”