National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS/Shane Carte
Zion National Park
Follow the paths where people have walked for thousands of years. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience the tall, stretching walls of a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present-day adventures.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
4.4 mi · 1,488 ft gain · out & back
Zion's most famous hike ascending Walter's Wiggles and a narrow ridge with chains and 1,000-foot drop-offs. Permit required.
Starts at: The Grotto
10 mi · 200 ft gain · out & back
Iconic river hike wading through the Virgin River in a slot canyon with 1,000-foot walls only 20-30 feet wide.
Starts at: Temple of Sinawava
1 mi · 154 ft gain · out & back
Short trail with sandstone steps and handrails to views of the Towers of the Virgin and Zion Canyon.
Starts at: East side of Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel
6.8 mi · 300 ft gain · out & back
Through ponderosa and pinyon-juniper forest to Zion's highest viewpoint at 6,508 feet with commanding canyon views.
Starts at: East Mesa Trailhead
Upcoming Events
Embark on a journey through the wonders of Zion Canyon! Hike alongside a ranger on the moderate Watchman Trail and immerse yourself in the beautiful resources Zion has to offer. Along the way you may explore topics of geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more. This program requires free, advance, in-person-only registration at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center information desk. Make sure to reserve your spot up to 3 days in advance. Sign-ups are limited to 6 people per individual group. You may not reserve more than 6 spots per group per day. You’ll ascend an elevation change of 368 ft (112 m) on a rocky, uneven trail with moderate drop-offs along the way. The overlook at the end offers expansive views of lower Zion Canyon with high drop-offs and no guard rails. For accessibility information, visit our Trail Access Information page.
Museum Patio Ranger Program
Sit back and relax while enjoying a short ranger talk on the shaded back patio of the Zion Human History Museum! In these programs, you will explore the resources that make Zion special. Topics may include geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more. No two programs are quite the same! Accessibility information: This program takes place outdoors on a shaded patio. Wooden benches are available for seating, as well as space for mobility devices. Rangers at the visitor center are available for any questions. You can also visit our Accessibility page for more information.
Ride with a Ranger
All aboard! Step right up and board the iconic Zion Shuttle for a 2-hour, ranger-led bus ride with special stops along the way! Programs vary day-to-day but may include geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more. This program requires free, advance, in-person-only registration at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center information desk. Make sure to reserve your spot up to 72 hours in advance. Sign-ups are limited to 8 people per individual group. You may not reserve more than 8 spots per group per day. These shuttles are wheelchair-accessible, though the lift has a combined weight limit of 600 lbs and cannot accommodate chairs larger than 45" long or 25" wide. For more information, speak with a ranger at the visitor center.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: January, February, November
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Zion is known for a wide range of weather conditions. Temperatures vary with changes in elevation and day/night temperatures may differ by over 30°F. In summer, temperatures in Zion National Park often exceed 100°F/38°C. Zion experiences monsoons from mid-July into September that result in an increased risk of flash floods. Always be aware of the threat of storms and lightning and be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Winters are generally mild.