Located in the high plateaus of Utah, Zion is arguably the state’s best-known and most visited national park. And with good reason: its towering rock formations and deep, narrow canyons are incredibly impressive and seem to come from another planet.

Zion National Park boasts some of the most beautiful and spectacular hiking trails in the country, with over 250 kilometres winding through the park. It’s also an ideal destination for a road trip through the USA. In my Zion National Park guide, I’ll tell you all highlights which you absolutely can’t miss during your stay. Of course, I’ll also share useful tips on how to explore this wild and remote paradise at your own pace.

Note: Are you planning a road trip through the south-west of the USA? Be sure to check out my full guide with all the national parks in Utah!

How got the Zion National Park created?

Zion National Park owes its unique formations to its geological history: millions of years ago, a shift in the Earth’s crust pushed huge boulders upwards. Downstream streams carved their way into the rock and carried sediment and stones downstream. Slowly but steadily, this formed the vast canyon, which continues to be shaped by the force of the Virgin River.

When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?

Spring and autumn offer ideal temperatures for unforgettable hikes in Zion National Park, and the natural scenery is particularly stunning. What’s more, visitor numbers are still manageable.

In summer, it’s much busier and it can get extremely hot.

Although Zion National Park is open during the winter, temperatures are very cool, especially at night.

How many days should you plan for Zion National Park?

Allow at least two days to discover all the highlights. You might even want to take an extra day to really immerse yourself in the stunning landscape and explore the areas outside Zion Canyon.

We were only there for one day (from early morning until sunset), but we hiked non-stop – a total of 25 kilometres / 15.5 miles – which is of course not the best choice for everyone.

Where to stay in Zion National Park:

YES you can sleep INSIDE the National Park and experience the evening beauty and sunrise magic of Zion when most visitors are gone! The Zion Lodge is an historic rustic lodge which just adds to the charm.

ATTENTION: The lodge is in high demand (especially between spring – autumn) so make sure to book a room way in advance (booking availability opens up 13 months in advance)

Alternative stays near Zion National Park:

1️⃣ MY FAVORITE: Under Canvas Zion – the most romantic stay in Zion: sleep in a cozy  clamping tent (with a real bed!) under the starry sky, roasting marshmallows by the fire and watch the sunset & sunrise in Zion National Park!
→ Check availability

2️⃣ Red Cliffs Lodge Zion – a charming & new Lodge with stunning views and ideally located in Springdale, just a few steps away from the Zion National Park shuttle bus.
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3️⃣ Zion Villa True North – Traveling with friends & family? This rustic villa, near the park entrance, for up to 12 guests feels like a movie setting surrounded by the dramatic landscape! … and it’s an incredible deal if you share the rate as group!
→ Check availability

Getting there & shuttle transport – what’s the best way to get around in Zion National Park?

Arrival by car:

From Las Vegas, it takes about 2.5 hours by car.

Shuttle Service inside the National Park:

Compared to other national parks, some of which can be explored entirely by car, Zion is a hiking destination. This means that between spring and autumn, you are not allowed to use your own car in Zion Canyon due to the high number of visitors. It is advisable to park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre early in the morning and use the free shuttle from there to various stops in the canyon. Please note: It can be difficult to find a parking space at the Visitor Centre in the morning and at midday, so it’s worth arriving early in the morning. Alternatively, you’ll need to park your car in the town of Springdale, just outside the entrance to the national park, and take the bus into the park from there.

Shuttle Schedule:

• First bus from Visitor Center: 7 am
• Last bus from Visitor Center: 6 pm (7 pm betwenn May 17th – September 12th)
• First bus from Springdale: 8 am

Important tips for your visit to Zion National Park:

• Always take plenty of water with you on the trails. Most bus stops have water stations where you can top up your water bottle for free.
• Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are essential! Zion is a high-altitude desert at around 1,200-2,000 metres, and the sunshine is very intense.
• Don’t just stay in Zion Canyon, which is unfortunately what most visitors do during their stay. This is only a small part of the national park and there is so much more to discover. Additionally, the areas outside the main canyon are significantly less crowded.
• During the monsoon season (mid-July to September), there can be violent thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, leading to dangerous flash floods in the narrow canyons. During this time, be sure to check the current weather conditions before setting off on your hikes in Zion National Park!

A must-do in Zion National Park: a breathtaking drive along the Zion Mount Carmel Highway

The Zion Mount Carmel Highway runs for 10 miles / 16 kilometres from the Visitor Centre up to the mesa at the eastern entrance to Zion National Park. The 2,033 m / 6.670 ft high mesa is a table mountain and forms the upper part of the canyon. It’s hard to believe that this region was once a sand dune, some 200 million years ago.

You can drive your own car here. The drive is breathtaking in both directions, as you enjoy unique views of the distinctive rocky landscape – for us, one of the most impressive roads we have ever driven on.

The most beautiful hikes in Zion National Park for all levels of difficulty

Emerald Pool Trail

The Emerald Pools are like a little oasis in Zion National Park. They are formed by waterfalls cascading down the steep rock faces. There are three emerald-green pools in total (Lower Pool, Middle Pool and Upper Pool), which can be explored on the Emerald Pool Trail. This Zion National Park hiking trail also offers you stunning views of the canyon.

I particularly liked the Lower Pool. The water dripped over a rock ledge under which we were walking – it’s like a dream world. The Middle Pool and Upper Pool aren’t must-sees but are also very beautiful.

Key information:

• Circular route: 1.6 km / 2.2 miles
• Level: moderate
• Shuttle stop: Zion Lodge

Weeping Rock

This very short trail leads to hanging gardens. They thrive in the mist and humid climate right next to the waterfalls and are particularly beautiful to look at. It feels as though you’re looking out from a balcony, with a magnificent panoramic view over the canyon.

Key details:

• Round trip: 600 m / 0.4 miles
• Level: Easy
• Shuttle stop: Weeping Rock

Riverside Walk

This easy, straight path runs alongside the North Fork Virgin River. The walk ends at the narrowing canyon through which the river continues to flow. Find out how to continue from there in the next trail tip.

Key details:

• Round trip: 3.5 km / 2.2 miles
• Level: Easy
• Shuttle stop: Temple of Sinawava

The Narrows

If you want to continue your hike at the end of the Riverwalk, a unique experience awaits you, as the path now leads into the canyon, which is just 6 metres / 19 ft wide. The rock faces on either side, rising up to 600 metres / 2000 ft high, appear even more awe-inspiring. What makes it special: you’ll be walking in the riverbed of the North Fork Virgin River. As this hike in Zion National Park is VERY popular, many people take the first shuttle early in the morning. I would therefore recommend going at midday or in the afternoon. At midday, the sun shines into the canyon, and it’s less busy in the afternoon.

Please note: You are guaranteed to get soaking wet, in some places up to your hips. The water is ice cold even in summer, so don’t underestimate the temperature. The rocks are also slippery and make the riverbed uneven. You absolutely must wear sturdy hiking boots (ideally waterproof) and use walking poles. You can also hire this equipment in Springdale, just outside the national park.

Key information:

• Round trip: maximum 15.1 km / 9.4 miles (but you can simply walk as far into the canyon as you like and then turn back)
• Level: Strenuous
• Shuttle stop: Temple of Sinawava

Angels Landing

In the heart of Zion’s main canyon, one of the world’s most extreme hiking trails leads up to Angels Landing – a rock formation rising around 450 metres / 1,500 ft from the canyon floor. The path was carved into the rock in 1926. It is, of course, also one of the most popular hiking trails in Zion National Park.

Warning: Some sections are merely a narrow ridge over the precipice, with only chains to hold on to. You should therefore not be afraid of heights. Wear sturdy footwear and sun protection.

An official permit is absolutely essential! 50% of tickets are sold two months in advance and the other 50% one day in advance (until 3.00 pm local time). The selection is random. You must choose a time slot in advance – morning, midday or afternoon. I would recommend the afternoon, as it is less crowded and your chances of getting a ticket are better.

→ You can apply for your permit here

Key details:

• Round trip: 8.5 km / 5.4 miles
• Level: Strenuous
• Shuttle stop: The Grotto

View from Observation Point of the narrow Angels Landing footpath

Observation Point

As soon as I reached the top, I knew straight away: I’d found my FAVOURITE viewpoint in Zion. This breathtaking view is well worth the effort! We were there in the afternoon and had the place almost to ourselves. Don’t miss out on this panoramic view of the entire canyon under any circumstances.

There are two ways to reach Observation Point:

1. Hike up from the canyon – beautiful, but very strenuous (and often closed due to the risk of falling rocks)
2. Leave the national park via the East Entrance on the Mesa (the edge of the canyon) and drive to Zion Ponderosa Ranch. The national park begins again there. There is a car park at the end of the unpaved road. To reach it, however, you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Alternatively, you can park at the ranch and walk to the start of the trail.

Key information:

• Round trip: 11 km / 6.8 miles
• Level: moderate
• Shuttle stop: For option 1: Weeping Rock; for option 2: no shuttle, but a drive

Canyon Overlook

One of the best hikes in all of Zion National Park is the Canyon Overlook. It overlooks the canyon from an elevated vantage point facing west, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset bathe the rocks in orange light. But even during the day, the view is breathtaking.

Although the trail is very short, you should still allow enough time and be prepared for a bit of climbing.

Key information:

• Round trip: 1,6 km / 1 mile
• Level: moderate
• Shuttle stop: None. Canyon Overlook is accessible by car via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. The trail begins right after the tunnel, and you can park along the roadside.

Must Do Activities in Zion National Park:

… the horseback riding tour is my personal favorite!

Hiking in Zion National Park – my summary

For me, Zion National Park is undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural wonders on Earth. Although we were unfortunately only here for a single day, I thoroughly enjoyed it, surrounded by wild nature with gigantic rock formations and breathtaking views – an absolute paradise, and not just for hiking enthusiasts.

I hope my Zion National Park guide, packed with all the essential tips and the best hikes, helps you plan your own personalised tour and makes your stay an unforgettable experience.

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Join me on an unforgettable road trip through the stunning landscapes of Utah’s National Parks and otherworldly landscapes, where adventures await at every corner. This journey will take you to all five of Utah’s magnificent national parks, each offering its own unique charm and breathtaking vistas but I will also share other hidden gems with you, which can’t be missed during your road trip through Utah.

How Many Days are Ideal for a Road Trip Through Utah?

To fully experience the highlights of Utah, I recommend dedicating at least five to seven days. This timeframe allows you to visit all five national parks – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion – and also explore some lesser-known hidden gems.

When is the best time for your Road Trip?

The best time for your road trip through Utah depends on your preferences and travel plans. Spring and fall are the most popular choices as the weather is mild, and the landscapes bloom with wildflowers or display vibrant autumn colors. Additionally the national parks will be less crowded compared to the summer months.

What is the best Start and End Point for your Utah road trip?

For your road trip through Utah, the cities of Salt Lake City or Las Vegas serve as ideal start and end points. Both cities offer excellent international flight connections. We personally chose Las Vegas as we combined our road trip with some relaxation in Vegas and additional  stops in Arizona.

Is it worth getting the US National Park Annual Pass?

YES! The Annual Pass costs you 80$ and is valid for 12 months and for all US National Parks. It not only covers the buyer but a maximum of three additional adults traveling in the same vehicle as you! Plus you can transfer the pass to another person as it can be signed by two main owners! It definitely saves you a lot of money, especially if you’re planning to visit additional Nations Parks than the ones in Utah. You can purchase the Annual Pass at most Federal Recreation Sites, mostly at the National Park entrance stations or → online.

The best things to see on you Utah Road Trip – Utah’s National Parks & Other Highlights

Monument Valley

Coming from Arizona, our first stop on this epic Utah road trip has been Monument Valley, located on the border between Utah and Arizona within the Navajo Nation territory. It is exclusively maintained by the Navajo people. Even today there are still around 100 of them, still living in Monument valley. This iconic park has been the scene for numerous movies, especially classic Westerns. Don’t miss the famous viewpoint named after renowned actor and director John Ford – John Ford’s Point.

A visit of 1,5 – 3 hours gives you enough time to explore Monument valley, as not all parts are open to public and you can go everywhere by car.

Remember that Monument Valley is a desert, so prepare for the heat with temperatures often exceeding 30 or 40 degrees Celsius in the summer. Also keep in mind that Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so be mindful of the one hour time difference if you’re traveling during the summer months. Your phone will always jump back and forth between both time zones, as the park is located directly on the border of Utah and Arizona.

Since Monument Valley is not a National Park you can’t use your Annual Pass but have to pay an entrance fee of 8$ per person.

Bonus Tips:

For an amazing view, head to the Monument Valley Overlook just outside to take a photo with the backdrop of the world famous ‚Forest Gump‘ scene. If you have time, you should also plan a short stop at the Valley of the Gods. The rock formations reminded me of the ones in Monument Valley. But in the Valley of the Gods it is possible to camp, you don’t have to pay and entrance fee and you can fly your drone.

Canyonlands National Park – A rugged Landscape

Canyonlands National Park is a must-visit destination on your road trip through Utah.  famous for its rugged landscape created by erosion over thousands and thousands of years. With its vast canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers, Canyonlands National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

This vast park is divided into four different sections. If your time is limited and you only want to experience the highlights, focus on the “Island in the Sky”. This huge mesa sits over 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain, offering panoramic views that stretch for miles. You can either hike or reach all view points by car. Here are my favorite ones which you simply can’t miss during your visit:

• Mesa Arch: This iconic arch is perched on the edge of a cliff and frames a spectacular view of the surrounding canyons and rock formations. It’s a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise when the golden light illuminates the arch and creates a magical atmosphere.
• Grand View Point
• Green River View Point: My favorite view point! If you stand in front of the main view point and hike a few minutes to the right (having the valley on your left side) you will find the most insane spot, overlooking the Green River.
• Shafer Trail Lookout 

Bonus Tip:

The Dead Horse Point State Park is a small but beautiful park at a cliffside offering a stunning view over the Colorado River which formed a spectacular landscape. It is especially magical during sunset!

Arches National Park – Nature’s Masterpiece

Arches National Park, is a true masterpiece of nature with over 2,000 natural stone arches, balancing rocks, and fascinating sandstone formations. Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch are iconic highlights that shouldn’t be missed. If you’re into night photography, Arches National Park is your place to be! During a clear nicht you can capture a million stars with the stunning foreground of the natural arches.

Capitol Reef National Park –  a Hidden Gem on your Road Trip through Utah

Capitol Reef National Park may be the least visited of Utah’s national parks, but it is an absolute gem waiting to be discovered. Here, you’ll encounter the Waterpocket Fold, a stunning warp in the Earth’s crust, and colorful slot canyons like Cassidy Arch Trail.

You can explore most of the park by car and drive on sandy roads through the canyons which is only possible in the US if you ask me! Also take a look at the historic petroglyphs which can be found along the road.

Bonus Tip:

Visit the colorful Bentonite Hills, where sediments of various colors have created stunning hills. They are a stunning scene for photos. There are various ‚bentonite hills‘ nearby the Capitol Reef National Park but only one location has low hills which allow you to climb up on them. We had a hard time finding the right ones so I shared the exact coordinates via the map above with you!

The best time to come here is during blue hour (either before sunrise or after sunset) BUT if you had trouble finding this spot (like us ) then an ND Filter for your drone will help you capturing the colors. We shot with ND 256 & it really worked well to filter the heavy midday sun.

If you come here please remember to LEAVE NO TRACE. The Bentonite Hills are located in the middle of nowhere with no trash cans nearby. So PLEASE take everything you brought with you before leaving. Remember to bring plenty of water – especially during a sunny day. Also don’t come here during or shortly after heavy rain falls AND always with a sturdy vehicle which is suitable for off road tracks. You’ll need to drive off road for quite a while.

Bryce Canyon National Park – Castles of the Hoodoos

Our next destination is the fascinating Bryce Canyon National Park, a mesmerizing wonderland of unique rock formations known as hoodoos. These hoodoos resemble intricate sandcastles standing proudly on the canyon floor. Marvel at the stunning orange and red hues of the rock spires and the beautiful interplay of light and shadows. For the best experience, explore the park from various viewpoints along the rim or hike down into the heart of the hoodoos on the Navajo Loop Trail and Queen’s Garden Trail.

During our trip here in April, huge parts of the park were still closed due to (melting) snow masses. Yes you heard that right! During spring visits you may most likely still encounter snow in Bryce Canyon. But white makes a great contrast in photos against the orange of the rocks. 

The best view places we were able to visit were:

• Mossy Cave Trail: a short and easy hike with great sights
• Bryce Point & Sunset Point: for stunning views over the hoodoos, both accessible by car

Zion National Park – Nature’s Masterpiece

Even though Zion is considered the most breathtaking National Park in Utah we unfortunately had to skip it during our road trip due to lack of time. But definitely add it on your own Utah road trip itinerary!  With soaring red cliffs, lush greenery, and the Virgin River meandering through the canyon, Zion is a paradise for nature lovers alike. Hiking is the best way to immerse yourself in Zion’s splendor, with iconic trails like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows providing unforgettable adventures. For more secluded hiking experience, try the Subway Trail!

We will definitely visit the Zion National Park during our next road trip through Utah!

Our road trip through Utah has been one of my favorite adventures! Each National Park holds its own unique magic and will make you feel like stepping on a different planet – you definitely have to include them all in your Utah Road Trip Itinerary!

Read next:

→ The best things to do on The Big Island, Hawaii

→ One day at Joshua Tree National Park

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