Here you'll follow the path where ancient Native Americans walked and can wonder at the giant sandstone cliffs above you of reds, pinks, oranges, and browns that break into the bright blue sky. In Zion you can experience wilderness atop peaks and in slot canyons. The unique multitude of plants and animals here will also enchant you as you absorb some of the rich history of the past and be excited about your upcoming adventures here!
Current Park Alerts
Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
Zion National Park is open every day of the year.
Entrance Fees
- $35 – Entrance - Private Vehicle
- $30 – Entrance - Motorcycle
- $20 – Entrance - Snowmobile
- $20 – Entrance - Per Person
- $100 – Nonresident
Weather
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 (16°C). 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.
Things to Do
La Verkin Creek Trail to Kolob Arch
The La Verkin Creek Trail to the Kolob Arch allows hikers outstanding opportunities for solitude in a primitive area of Zion Wilderness. The trail begins at Lee Pass with stunning views of the Kolob Canyons as it crosses Timber Creek and continues to descend toward La Verkin Creek. After seven miles a spur trail leads hikers to a viewpoint where they can see the Kolob Arch.
Upper Emerald Pools Trail
Upper Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate, 1 mile (1.6 km) trail that can be accessed via the Kayenta Trail, Lower Emerald Pools Trail, or Middle Emerald Pools Trail. Climb up stone steps to a sandy path that leads through pinyon-juniper woodlands to the base of towering canyon walls which boast majestic, seasonal waterfalls. The trail ends at the sandy shore of Upper Emerald Pool. No swimming.
Sand Bench
The Sand Bench Trail travels atop the remains of an ancient rockfall. This trail leads hikers along the Virgin River and then ascends a landslide that dammed the Virgin River 8,000 years ago and created a lake that extended to Angels Landing. This trail is a commercial horse trail from March to October, and it receives little shade in the hot, summer sun. Winter travel is possible, but watch for patches of ice.
Lower Emerald Pool Trail
Lower Emerald Pool trail is a rough, paved trail that leads through pinyon-juniper woodland to the Lower Emerald Pool and ephemeral waterfalls.The pools are fragile and an essential water source for wildlife. Do not go into the water. Connects to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta Trail. Avoid cliff edges. Swimming is not permitted. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
Middle Emerald Pools Trail
Middle Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate hike along an unpaved sandstone ledge above the Lower Emerald Pool Trail. The initial ascent is quite steep, bringing you to expansive views of main Zion Canyon below. Further along the trail, tucked into the red sandstone of the mountain, enjoy the shade and flora of pinyon-juniper woodlands. The trail then descends to emerald-colored pools of water above the small ephemeral waterfalls of Lower Emerald Pool Trail.
Angels Landing
Reservation requiredOn and after April 1, 2022 hikers continuing to Angels Landing from Scout Lookout are required to have a permit, obtained on recreation.gov.
Getting There
Address: Zion National Park Springdale UT 84767
Zion National Park's South Entrance and administrative offices are located near Springdale, Utah. This area, called Zion Canyon, is where most campsites and popular hikes are located. Zion Canyon can also be accessed through the park's East Entrance, which is west of Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah. Once inside the park, Zion Canyon can be explored via the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. For most of the year, the scenic drive is only open to shuttle busses. Board shuttles at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Watchman Campground
184 sites · $35/night
Watchman Campground is located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, ¼ mile away from the South Entrance in Springdale, Utah. Tent, RV, and group campsites a…
South Campground
124 sites · $35/night
South Campground is located between the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Zion Nature Center, ½ mile from the South Entrance in Springdale, Utah. Campsites are ty…
Lava Point Campground
6 sites · $25/night
Lava Point Campground is open as weather allows, typically from May through September. Situated at 7890 feet above sea level, the campground can be reached via…
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Zion National Park?
The entrance fee for Zion National Park is $35. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.
Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Zion National Park?
Some entry windows or activities at Zion National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.
When is Zion National Park open?
Zion National Park is open every day of the year.
What are the best things to do in Zion National Park?
Popular things to do in Zion National Park include La Verkin Creek Trail to Kolob Arch, Upper Emerald Pools Trail, Sand Bench, Lower Emerald Pool Trail. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Zion National Park?
Yes — Zion National Park has 3 campgrounds, including Watchman Campground, South Campground, Lava Point Campground. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.